Muay Thai Amsterdam

The names that come up again and again are Mejiro Gym and Vos Gym in the city, with Mike's Gym a short trip outside, around 15km, and world famous for the fighters it produces. Other respected options include Sityodtong Amsterdam, home of ONE champion Regian Eersel, and Gym Royale. Just outside the city you will also hear about Bonjasky Academy in Almere, run by K1 legend Remy Bonjasky.

Amsterdam is world famous for Dutch-style and K1 kickboxing rather than traditional Thai muay thai, so most gyms lean that way. If you specifically want traditional, Thai-style muay thai, smaller gyms such as Leth's Gym are known for a more classic approach, including lighter, technique focused sparring.

Yes, Dutch gyms have a real reputation for heavy sparring, and Amsterdam is the heart of it. Some well known gyms, Mike's Gym in particular, are known for very hard, fight like sparring. It is worth knowing this going in and asking a gym about their sparring culture, since intensity varies a lot between gyms and even between days.

Yes, but choose your gym carefully. The city's hard sparring reputation is mostly about its high level fight gyms, and many gyms still run beginner friendly classes where you control the intensity. Look for a gym with a clear beginners class and a lighter, technique first sparring style, and remember you do not have to spar hard to take part.

Generally yes. Several gyms welcome drop ins, and emailing ahead is the norm to check class times and rates. Vos Gym, for example, is known as easy to just drop into. A short message to the gym before you visit is the safest way to confirm a spot.

For serious training, often yes. Mike's Gym sits around 15km out and is world famous for the fighters it produces, and Bonjasky Academy in Almere, around 30km, is run by a three time K1 world champion. If you are chasing high level striking rather than convenience, they are worth considering.

There are dedicated fight gear shops in the city, including one on Albert Cuypstraat in De Pijp. Prices in the Netherlands are not especially cheap by international standards, so if you are visiting from abroad it is worth comparing before you buy.