A new student—still green, just starting out—was shadowboxing before class. One of the top fighters in the gym walked over. A Kru in the making. Fast. Precise. Dangerous. Everyone knew who he was. Everyone respected him.
He introduced himself. Asked the beginner how training was going. The beginner was surprised—and fired up. This was one of the best in the gym. He seized the moment.
“How do you get that good?” he asked.
The fighter didn’t smile. Didn’t joke. Just answered straight.
“I’ve been training a long time. And I only take private lessons.”
The beginner froze. Private lessons? That must cost a ton. But maybe that’s what it takes. This guy was sharp—fluid on pads, powerful on the bag, deadly in the ring.
But before the beginner could even respond, the fighter added:
“No matter how many people are in the class, act like it’s just you and Kru. Every correction—‘hands up,’ ‘step back,’ ‘turn your hip’—assume it’s for you. Every single word. Own it. Drill it. Make it yours.”
“Scan yourself. Fix it. Then fix it again. That’s how you improve. From now on—every class is private.”
And then he brought his hands together and bowed , turned, and walked away.
That’s the mindset. It’s not about money. It’s not about attention. It’s about ownership. Humility. Presence. Precision.
The best advice for a nak muay just starting out? Build trust with your Kru. Show up with intent. And every time you train—only take private lessons
