Post: #101

(11-24-2012 10:35 PM)Beyond Borders Wrote:  In professional Burmese boxing matches, which still go on in villages throughout the country, fighters that get knocked out are revived and asked if they want to continue the fight. I've read it's not uncommon for a guy to be knocked out three times and still come back to win.

That, my friend, is tough.

Of course, most of us first-worlders would never have what it takes to compete with that kind of tenacity, but it says a lot for the strength of the people and the ferocity of their martial art. I'm sure even light training under someone there would be awesome.

On another note, the country of Burma itself is such a fascinating place to me. I can't wait to do some exploring there now that's they're opening their arms to foreigners again. A truly untapped corner of Asia. Surely a poosy paradise as well.

My only concern at the moment is poor internet connection, as I work online.

Yeah, I read about that. They also allow headbutts and throws from the clinch. From what I've read and seen though it does look like they have less technique and strategy to their fighting style than Muay Thai because they have to go for power so they can get the knockout(s).

Fortunately, I don't think any of us here need to fight at that level out of necessity. I doubt those guys do that purely for fun

But I agree, Burma seems like an interesting place.

Post: #102

Found an article on StickmanBangkok by a guy who had some training experience from more Thai-oriented camps. Thought some of you mma guys might be interested.

"I have trained in the poor camps of rural Thailand and also in the more upmarket places. For me the absolute best experience I have had was in a camp in a remote village about 5 bus-hours north-east of Bangkok. In that village are no foreigners to meet except the ones that got lost on their way to Chiang Mai or from another road. Most Thai-boxing camps of that kind are relatively reluctant to take on foreign trainees, only in special cases where you can prove that you can conform totally to the training system, and most of all an ability to learn the Thai language. The best way to get into such a camp is if a Thai friend who can make contact and introduce you, even if you can speak Thai already. Then once your friend has asked them for permission all you can do is hope they’ll let you to train there. In my case I had to do some shadow boxing and reaction tests which included blocking to see if its worth it for them
to take me on."

http://www.stickmanbangkok.com/Reader/reader1116.html

Beyond All Seas

"The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe.
To be your own man is a hard business. If you try it, you'll be lonely often, and sometimes
frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself." - Kipling

Post: #103

Scotian: you still training?

Overall experience good? Getting ripped?

I am in Chang mai in a few days. Might enroll in a gym myself.

Post: #104

Heading to Thailand in February to train for a couple months. Never been to Thailand before. But prefer cities with the laid back vibe rather than the crazy party every night vibe. So Chiang Mai?