A typical day starts early. Morning training runs around two hours, usually from 06:30, and covers skipping, shadow boxing, pad work with a trainer and bag rounds. Afternoon training starts around 16:00 and adds clinch work and conditioning. Between sessions guests eat, sleep and recover, which is most of what a training camp week actually consists of.

The camp trains people at very different levels. Beginners are taught stance, footwork and the basic strikes before they are put in the ring for sparring. Guests who already fight do more rounds, more clinch and more conditioning. Trainers are Thai and have fought professionally; several have competed at Rajadamnern and Lumpinee stadiums.

The camp itself is a working gym, not a resort with a ring attached. It has been operating in Chalong for over 30 years and is known for producing fighters who compete in Thailand and abroad. That means the atmosphere is functional: concrete, bags, a ring, fans, and people who are there to train.

Chalong sits on the sheltered east side of Phuket, about 15 minutes from Chalong Pier and around 40 minutes from Phuket International Airport. Kata and Karon beaches are a short ride south, and there are cafes, shops and restaurants within walking distance of the camp.

What separates this from a fitness holiday with a Muay Thai class bolted on is the volume and the coaching. You get two sessions a day with trainers whose job is Muay Thai, not a single weekly taster class.

What's included

- On-site accommodation at the camp - Two Muay Thai training sessions a day, six days a week - Access to the camp pool - Wifi in accommodation and communal areas

What's not included

- Flights to Phuket - Airport transfers - Meals, unless stated otherwise by the camp - Travel insurance - Personal expenses - Equipment such as gloves and shin guards