If you're anything like me, there was a time you felt silly shadow boxing.  Maybe you still do. Muay Thai is about inflicting damage and having an effect... Lashing out in mid-air feels, well, lame! But, I eventually realised how I could best use shadow boxing to do much more than just get my heart rate up and make me feel self conscious! Are you (still) wasting your shadow boxing? If you’re not making the most of your Muay Thai shadow boxing, you’re leaving a critical part of your training untapped. Shadow boxing isn’t just about warming up or working through your techniques—it's your ch ..read more

If you’re an orthodox fighter who’s never drilled in a southpaw stance, you’re leaving yourself open to attack—and trust me, that’s a vulnerability you can’t afford in the ring. Whether you’re throwing a punch, missing a strike, or just stepping off-line, sooner or later, you’ll find yourself in that unfamiliar stance. In that split second, you have two options: scramble to get back or confidently launch an attack. In this episode, I’ll show you why mastering the southpaw stance—whether you’re naturally orthodox or vice versa—can be the difference between getting outmaneuvered or taking contro ..read more

When it comes to calisthenics vs weight training, which is better for fighters? In today’s episode, we’re exploring both. Calisthenics offers great benefits for mastering body control, stability, and movement patterns, making it ideal for fighters just starting out or focusing on form. But sometimes, even your body weight can be too much. When it comes to long-term athletic progress, free weights can take your training to the next level. Discover the part both calisthenics and weight training play in your fighter development... Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/09/1 ..read more

Damien Trainor's method for drilling combos forms a foundation of his Muay Thai coaching. Muay Thai combos are more than just technique—they’re about flow and adaptability. In this video, Damien Trainor breaks down how to turn simple drills into seamless combinations that work in real fights. Whether you're training or preparing for a fight, this video will help you get there. Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/09/06/muay-thai-combos-damien-trainor ..read more

In the world of Muay Thai, success isn’t something handed out freely; it’s earned through countless unseen battles. Even those at the top of the game haven’t had it easy. Overcoming struggles – paying your dues – is part of the journey for everyone. Kevin Ross, a seasoned fighter, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to rise to the top. Kevin Ross on the Reality of Success in Muay Thai: Paying Your Dues Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/08/30/paying-your-dues-even-the-best-fight-unseen-battles-kevin-ross ..read more

Sound corrected version!! Many fighters and coaches misunderstand just how much Muay Thai training is really needed to achieve the best performance possible. ***Apologies for having to re-upload this episode! I completely messed up the audio with the background music on the original... Doh! A huge thanks to everyone who provided feedback—it really helps me improve these episodes.*** Generally, Thais don’t understand how to program progressive training. They throw everyone into largely the same regimen, regardless if they’re beginners or seasoned pros.⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣And those that can’t keep up, or bec ..read more

In part 4, scientific skills training for fighters is enhanced with deliberate play! We discuss a continuum from deliberate practice – where skill training is structured and effortful, to deliberate play – where skill training is creative and enjoyable. And how there's a need for both! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Power of Play! 00:19 Deliberate Practice vs Deliberate Play 00:41 Using a Practice to Play Continuum 01:09 Deliberate Play on a Heavy Bag 01:29 Unleashing "Creativity" 01:54 A Playful Mindset is a Growth Mindset Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/08/02/scientific-ski ..read more

In this second part, we continue to apply scientific skills training for fighters to fast-track Muay Thai skill development… We explore how to best practice new skills in a training session, to ensure you not only: Acquire skills quickly, cleanly, and retain them long-term, but also… Retain skills in a way that carries over into practical, real-world use in the chaotic fight environment! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Practice One New Skill Among Multiple Retained Skills 00:37 Practice Variations Of That New Skill 01:28 All Skills Have 3 Features That Remain The Same 03:04 Building Good ..read more

In this first episode, we begin looking at how scientific skills training for fighters can accelerate your Muay Thai skill development by answering two fundamental questions: What’s the quickest way to learn a new Muay Thai skill with the highest quality? What’s the best way to practice so you don’t lose that skill? As a fighter, you might not like the answer… But, there’s a wealth of scientific research on motor skill development, and if you practically apply the findings to your training, you’ll go further, faster! Here, in part 1 we get that ball rolling… TIMESTAMPS 0 ..read more

Coaching for your first fight can make or break your competitive Muay Thai aspirations – whether you're sharpening up with non-decision bouts or aiming for titles someday. World-class Muay Thai coach Damien Trainor shares his philosophy on introducing students to competition. He emphasises the importance of getting to know your fighter and, crucially, helping fighters understand themselves. More Muay Thai enthusiasts than ever are taking tentative steps into the ring to further their development. There's immense value in testing your limits this way. If stepping into the ring to face an unfami ..read more