Kids Martial Arts Classes in Phuket: A Parent's Complete Guide (2026)

I get asked about this a lot by parents living in Phuket or those just visiting for a few weeks. If you are looking for a way to keep your kids active that isn't just another afternoon at the beach or the mall, martial arts is easily one of the best things you can do for them here. We are in the birthplace of Muay Thai, after all, and the training culture for children in Phuket is actually quite special.

I’ve put together this quick guide to help you figure out which style fits your kid, where to find the best schools, and what you should expect to pay.

Why put your kids in martial arts here?

Phuket is unique because it combines authentic Thai instruction with a very international crowd. Your kids won't just be learning how to kick; they will be training alongside children from all over the world. It is a fantastic way for them to pick up some Thai discipline and respect while making friends from different cultures. Plus, it gets them away from their iPads for an hour or two, which I think every parent can appreciate.

The different styles available

Muay Thai

This is the most popular choice by far. Most gyms start kids around age 5 or 6. These classes are usually high energy and focus on basic movements and coordination rather than heavy contact. It is usually the one kids have the most fun with because it feels more like a sport and less like a chore.

Taekwondo

If your child likes structure and wants to work toward earning different colored belts, Taekwondo is a solid option. It focuses a lot on flexibility and kicks. There are a couple of great spots in Chalong that specialize in this.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

BJJ is all about grappling on the mat with no striking involved. I like to think of it as high-speed chess for kids. It is great for building problem-solving skills and persistence, and it is a popular choice for parents who are a bit nervous about their kids getting hit.

Gyms I recommend checking out

Tiger Muay Thai & MMA

Tiger is the big name in Chalong. It can get quite busy, but their kids' program is massive and very professionally run. It is probably the best place if your child wants to be part of a large, international group of students.

Sumalee Boxing Gym

Located on the east side of the island, Sumalee is a bit more of a boutique camp. It feels much more personal and quiet compared to the bigger gyms. If your child is a little shy or needs more individual attention, this is where I would send them.

AKA Thailand

Based in Rawai, AKA has a really strong curriculum for kids that covers Muay Thai, BJJ, and even wrestling. The facilities are top-notch and the atmosphere is very welcoming for families.

Sinbi Muay Thai

Sinbi is a long-time favorite for expats living in the south. The trainers here have a lot of experience working with local and visiting children, and they are incredibly patient with the younger ones.

Chanrit Muay Thai Gym

This is a great spot if you want a friendly, non-intimidating environment. They are known for being very encouraging, which makes it perfect for kids who are a bit nervous about trying martial arts for the first time.

KEEN GYM TAEKWONDO

If you are looking for Taekwondo, this is the main spot in Chalong. It is located inside Lotus Chaofa and it is air-conditioned, which is a total lifesaver during the hotter months.

What you need to bring

Don't worry about buying a full kit right away. Most gyms will let you borrow gloves or gear for the first few sessions to see if your kid actually likes it. Just make sure they have comfortable workout clothes, a bottle of water, and a small towel because they will definitely be sweating.

How much it costs

Prices can vary quite a bit depending on the gym and whether you are buying a single class or a monthly pass. Here is a rough idea of what you will likely pay:

Ready to get them started? You can use our gym finder to see which schools are closest to where you are staying. I have mapped most of them out there for you.