Muay Thai is Thailand's national sport and one of the most complete striking systems in the world, using fists, elbows, knees and shins — which is why it is known as the art of eight limbs. At Ippon Sports Academy our Muay Thai program is led by Coach Fernanda Araujo, a professional MMA and boxing competitor who has trained in martial arts since the age of three. Classes build genuine striking skill alongside serious conditioning, and complete beginners are welcome from the first session.
Muay Thai is Thailand's national sport and one of the most complete striking systems in the world, using fists, elbows, knees and shins — which is why it is known as the art of eight limbs. At Ippon Sports Academy our Muay Thai program is led by Coach Fernanda Araujo, a professional MMA and boxing competitor who has trained in martial arts since the age of three. Classes build genuine striking skill alongside serious conditioning, and complete beginners are welcome from the first session.
Punches, elbows, knees and kicks, plus the clinch that ties them together. Muay Thai gives you an answer at every distance instead of one favourite tool.
Rounds on the pads are the most honest cardio there is. Students notice their wind, their legs and their core changing within the first few weeks.
Coach Fernanda Araujo has competed professionally in MMA and boxing and has been training since she was three. You are learning striking from someone who has done it under the lights.
Technique first, then controlled pad and partner work. You build the habit of staying calm and thinking clearly when something is coming at you.
No egos and no hazing. Everyone drills with everyone, and the people who have been here longest are the ones who help newcomers most.
World Championships, Pan American Championships, Brazilian Nationals, and American Nationals title holder in both Gi and No-Gi. Holds a degree in Physical Education from Methodist University in Brazil. Former amateur MMA fighter turned passionate coach dedicated to developing the next generation of martial artists.
Professional fighter with deep expertise across striking and grappling. Black belts in both Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. Competed professionally in MMA and boxing. Training in martial arts since age 3, Fernanda brings a lifetime of competitive experience and teaching passion to every session.
| Day | Time | Class | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 4:30–5:30 PM | Muay Thai Kids | Charlestown YMCA |
None at all. Every class starts with fundamentals — stance, guard and footwork — and our coaches break each technique down step by step. Most people are hitting pads in their first session.
Comfortable athletic clothing is all you need for your first class. Once you decide to keep training we will point you towards gloves, wraps and shin guards so you buy the right gear rather than the most expensive.
Not unless you want to. The core of the program is technique, pad work and controlled partner drills. Any sparring is optional, supervised and kept light — it is a place to practise, not to prove anything.
Yes. Muay Thai Kids runs on Wednesday afternoons at the Charlestown YMCA and is built around age-appropriate striking, coordination and discipline. See the schedule below for current times.
Your first class is free. No experience necessary — you will be hitting pads on day one.
No experience needed · All ages 2.5+ · Want a free class first? Email us