THE FOUNDATION OF CALMNESS UNDER FIRE

Sparring in Muay Thai can be intense, especially when the pressure is on.

One of the biggest challenges is staying relaxed and not letting the heat of the moment tighten you up. But relaxation isn’t just about staying calm—it’s about being able to flow, react efficiently, and keep your energy for the long haul.

Through the years of sparring and competing at a high level, I’ve learned that a relaxed fighter is a dangerous one. Here’s how you can make it work for you.

Breath control is the first thing you’ll want to master.

When you’re in the ring, the natural inclination is to breathe shallowly, especially if you’re feeling tense or trying to overpower your opponent. Instead, focus on steady, deep breaths, especially with every strike and movement.

This not only keeps your mind calm, but it also helps maintain your energy level for longer. For example, every time I threw a kick, I made sure to exhale with it, which allowed me to throw harder...