Welcome to KruFit
Indiana’s Premier Muay Thai and Martial Arts Gym!
We are excited to have you join our community and embark on a transformative journey through Muay Thai.
This guide will help you gain a better understanding of the art of Muay Thai
Our coaches & classes at KruFit and all the basics you’ll be learning in your first 30 days of training at KruFit. We want to help you to make the most of your experience and set a strong foundation for your martial arts journey with us at KruFit.
History of the Art & Sport of Muay Thai
Muay Thai, known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” originated in ancient Thailand over a thousand years ago as a practical combat skill for Thai warriors. It evolved from “Muay Boran” (ancient boxing), utilizing the entire body as a weapon with strikes from fists, elbows, knees, and shins. During the reign of King Prachao Sua in the late 17th century, Muay Thai gained royal patronage, solidifying its place as a national sport and a critical component of military training and civilian physical conditioning.
In the early 20th century, Muay Thai underwent significant modernization with the introduction of Western boxing gloves, standardized rings, and formal rules to ensure fighter safety and fair play.
Today, Muay Thai is a globally recognized sport and martial art, having just recently gained recognition by the International Olympic Committee for participation in the 2028 Olympics. Muay Thai is celebrated for its effectiveness, rich cultural heritage, and unique rituals like the “Wai Kru Ram Muay,” which honors teachers and ancestors. At KruFit, we honor the rich history and tradition of Muay Thai by offering authentic training that fosters physical prowess, respect, discipline, and perseverance.
An introduction to Thai terms and customs that you’ll see in the gym
Wai (ไหว้)
Definition: The “Wai” is a traditional Thai greeting and gesture of respect. It involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like position and bowing your head slightly.
Cultural Tradition: The Wai reflects the deep cultural traditions embedded in Thai culture, emphasizing humility, respect, and gratitude. You will see Thai people often wai to one another.
Significance in Muay Thai: Respect: In Muay Thai, the Wai is used to show respect to your trainers, training partners, opponents, and the sport itself.
Training Etiquette: In a Muay Thai gym, students often Wai to one another and/or to their Kru/Coach to pay respect. You may even see someone Wai before stepping on to the mat and training or when walking into the gym.
Kru (ครู)
Definition: “Kru” translates to “teacher” or “instructor” in Thai.
Cultural Tradition: The term “Kru” signifies a position of respect and honor to teachers- this includes school teachers as well as muay thai teachers among other teachers within Thai culture. Individuals are taught to show great respect to their teachers/Kru as a mark of appreciation for their guidance and expertise.
Significance in Muay Thai: A Kru in Muay Thai is not just a trainer but also a teacher & mentor who imparts the knowledge & skills they have acquired over many years as well as the values of the sport to their students.
Training Etiquette: In an American Muay Thai gym, it is acceptable for students to call their instructors either Coach or Kru; Kru being the highest form of respect. If you were training in Thailand, or if your instructor were of Thai descent, you’d certainly refer to them as Kru.
Khap (ครับ) / Kha (ค่ะ)
Definition: “Khap” (used by males) and “Kha” (used by females) are polite particles used at the end of sentences in Thai to show politeness and respect.
Cultural Tradition: These polite particles are part of everyday Thai language and culture, reinforcing the importance of respect and courteous behavior in Thai culture. You may also people greet one another with “Sawasdee”
(สวัสดีค่ะ) preceding Kha or Khap, which means “Hello.”
Significance in Muay Thai: Politeness and Respect: Using “Khap” or “Kha” in communication with trainers, training partners, and others in the gym is a way to show respect and maintain politeness.
Training Etiquette: In a Muay Thai gym, students often use “Khap” or “Kha” when responding to instructions from their Kru to show respect and acknowledgement.
Meet your KruFit Coaches
Jamie Bradley
Jon Aimone
Rene Briseno
Jess Rauch
Seneca Smith
Rick Strezihar
John Emard
Tristan Baxter
The KruFit Progression Guide
Our progression guide contains everything you need to know about our classes to get you from your first day to ring ready. Click learn more to copy the guide, and then watch the videos below to supplement your training!
Introduction to the Techniques
At KruFit, we believe in personal growth through the discipline and art of Muay Thai
Your first 30 days are just the beginning of a journey that will challenge you physically and mentally, help you build confidence, and transform your life. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to Start?
Schedule your free trial class today and take the first step towards becoming a stronger, more confident you.
