Phoenix Muay Thai Boxing has been around since 2001, offering lessons and training for all ages. It built a strong reputation as a family-friendly gym, well-known for teaching kids the art and discipline of the Thai martial art.

On most days, you’ll see children taking part in beginner group classes and learning the ropes in a supportive environment. However, this experience isn’t just for the young tots—adults also train here regularly.

We like the welcoming vibe of Phoenix. Even if it were our first time here, we felt no sense of elitism or intimidation, thanks to the approachable instructors.

Aside from that, the gym has everything one needs to get started. We also appreciate its cleanliness—clearly run by people who know what they’re doing.

That said, members are required to wear the official club uniform and gear. This reflects a serious training approach, but surely adds to the membership costs.

Great training spot for kids and adults

“Been going to Phoenix Muay Thai for over 10 years, the best place for Self Defence, stamina and fitness. Always made to feel welcome and part of the Family. Learned so much, excellent for adults and children. My son has now started training at Phoenix and he loves the classes teaching him self defense, discipline and manners. Nowhere better🙏🏾👍🏽 thanks Kru RIck Lewis you have taught us both so much.”

Barry Fish, Google Review

Highly recommended for the training and vibe

“Joining Phoenix Thai Boxing has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my mental and physical wellbeing.

The training has helped me build confidence, manage stress, and improve my fitness massively. What makes it even better is the family-friendly environment, everyone is supportive, and there’s a real sense of community.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to push yourself further, there is nothing else like it, I highly recommend Phoenix Thai Boxing! 🥊💪👨‍👩‍👧‍👦”

Andrew Bevan, Google Review

If you’re after the OG of Mancunian Muay Thai gyms, then Master A’s is definitely worth a look. 

It’s run by the namesake Master A (a.k.a. Mr Sommapat Sitiwatjana), a true lifelong athlete. He started practicing Muay Thai at age 12 and also has taekwondo and skiing skills—that kind of dedication says plenty about the standard of training here. 

The gym atmosphere is solid and the training is serious, but with a genuine heart. You just need to come as you are, no uniforms needed.

Another perk of this gym being already established is its fair and flexible memberships. One can pay for a month’s worth of lessons or on a per-class basis.

On the flip side, some might find minor inconveniences in Master A’s gym. It seems to be a bit on the small side and could do with the presence of a regular in-house custodian—the latter easily sorted.

Training with care and respect

“Marvelous gym and really great community of people who are always willing to help people progress regardless of their skill level. Beginners will be made to feel welcome and will be encouraged to progress at their own pace.

Master A really takes care of his pupils and devotes his time to improving their individual weaknesses. He will teach you from the very beginning with absolute respect and only expects you to show him the same respect in return.

Go along and say “hello” if you fancy checking the place out. Master A is always happy to let people come and watch.”

Alasdair Smith, Google Review

Cream of the crop for Thai boxing

“The best Thai boxing school in all of Manchester, if not the U.K; I trained here from the age of five until I was about seventeen before moving away to London. The lessons I learned here always stuck with me.

If you want a serious teacher, and are serious about Muay Thai, then come here. Dedicate yourself to it.”

J Jackson (Rikku), Google Review

Like its competitors, Salford Striking Academy has Muay Thai classes for both kids and adults. From the moment we walked in, its friendly staff have already made a powerful impression, but what stood out overall is the impressive structure and pacing of the training.

As beginners, we truly appreciate how trainers adapt the drills here to learners’ current level—the coaches are also keen in adjusting the intensity of training. The gym’s vibe feels well-controlled and non-chaotic, which makes us want to come back.

Even in our very first Muay Thai session here at the Salford Striking Academy, we felt no pressure to keep up with those who’ve been doing Muay Thai for years.

Another plus is the lack of any mandatory uniform—as long as you wear comfy clothes that’s safe for you and other people, then you’re good. If you have the budget, you can join the gym’s occasional group buy for uniforms for an added cost.

Top-notch lessons and organisation

“An extremely well run combat gym with some of the best coaches in the country.

They cater for all levels even in busy classes. Everyone is there to help each other and is community focussed we all have a good laugh too.

Each session i feel like a new person after!”

Danny Adams, Google Review

Amazing results, even for absolute beginners

“Superb gym coupled with excellent trainers. Heavily influenced by Boxing and Muay Thai the trainers ensure that you get the best from your time there with them. I lost over a stone in weight in my first month there but my body transformation was even more notable. They see your level and adapt the training so you progressively get better after each session. . Check out the Facebook and Instagram pictures to see their amazing results .”

Scott Thompson, Google Review

Looking for something very accessible and in the heart of the city centre? Athena Muay Thai ticks that box.

Led by coach Aaron Laing and his over 15 years of experience in the sport, Athena offer private and group sessions for all skill levels. However, it only caters to adults, as far as we know.

What makes Athena stand out is the setup—it isn’t a typical membership-based gym. One pays per session instead, which might ring alarm bells for instability, but is a good choice for those who don’t want to be tied down to a monthly contract.

The gym itself is in a warehouse, but all the equipment you’ll need is already provided, which is a big plus. No need for uniforms either.

The only downside is the limited schedule. Athena’s training days only occur twice a week, with drills done on Wednesdays and sparring sessions on Mondays.

Fantastic for beginners and advanced classes

“Really enjoyable muay thai class suitable for both beginners and more advanced people.

The instructor tailors the sessions for everyone and knows his stuff, everyone’s super friendly and make you feel comfortable!”

Adam KDeane, Google Review

Accessible and clean Muay Thai spot

“Group classes are great and there are also private classes. The place is easy to get to, clean and airy.

I highly recommend it :)”

Ana Morimoto, Google Review

If you’re aiming to be a professional Muay Thai fighter, then T.K.O. Gym in Fallowfield should be high up your list of places to train at. It’s led by Remassy Omoboye, a world-class coach, once ranked #5 by the Muay Thai World Boxing Council (WBC).

T.K.O itself is fairly new—established in 2023—and welcomes both kids and adults, starting from five years old. It offers group classes and one-to-one training, tailored to a wide range of needs and goals, in a space with equipment still in great shape.

We’re chuffed to find the trainers as skilled, respectful, and genuinely supportive. Coach Remassy is known for being considerate and hands-on in guiding students in the proper Muay Thai techniques.

What really amazed us about this gym is its inclusivity. It’s open to training people with disabilities, pairing them with trainers who know how to adapt the sessions accordingly.

Gem of a gym

“Fantastic, technically top notch gym.

Rem and Shah are unbelievably great at teaching and tweaking your form. Very welcoming and humbling gym. Will return as soon as I’m in town again. Don’t miss this gem🙏”

Scott Fletcher, Google Review

Top-notch venue for learning Muay Thai

“Brilliant place to learn Muay Thai. Top tier all the way”

Tommy Benjamin, Google Review