Lotus Thai Boxing (LTB) is the second Muay Thai school I've attended in my journey to become a better martial artist. And if you go to the Facebook page for my first school (Kaizen MMA), you can find my in-depth review there. I hope you'll notice that I take my training very seriously! It is a big investment and I hope my review can help you make the decision best for you.
I joined LTB after ~7 months of training, and now have ~15 months of experience. I just had my first amateur fight under the amazing tutelage of Kru (Thai for "Coach/Teacher") Carlos Lopez, but I still have vivid memories of being a complete and clueless beginner.
Here are the factors I consider when it comes to a gym/fight school:
CONVENIENCE OF TIME/LOCATION--
LTB has an amazing location right in the mall right across from GMU Fairfax. While it doesn't have multiple locations like some of the bigger schools in the area, it's centrality to the region more than makes up for it, especially for the small-family feel I'll talk about later.
It's also surrounded by a bunch of amenities, such as grocery stores, dry-cleaning, fast food/bars/restaurants, and a movie theatre, so it's perfect if you're always on-the-go and you want to cross off some errands along the way.
Classes are Tue/Thurs @ 7:30PM, and Sat @ 1:00PM. I find these times are pretty standard and reasonable for work hours and commutes, but I understand that getting out of Arlington/DC can be tough. The good news is that advanced classes continue until 9:00-9:30PM, and all skill-levels are welcome to use the gym. You'll always find someone willing to stay after and drill some extra reps. Even on off-days.
In addition, LTB is an affiliate with Disciple MMA, and so we're also offered additional cross-training at their facilities out in Herndon.
QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION, CLASS SIZE, and CULTURE--
One thing that differentiates LTB from most other NoVA schools is the style, structure, and culture of classes. While we are by no means exclusive in our training techniques, but we do have an affinity for traditional Thai-style instruction. There's a strong focus on understanding and practicing the traditions that make Muay Thai special. As someone who's trained a couple of sessions in Thailand, it definitely feels like a class out of Thailand.
Classes are based on hard work and having fun - Kru Lopez runs class with such high-energy and positivity, sometimes you forget just how grueling the exercises can be...and they are grueling...and rewarding. I guarantee you will be in the best shape of your life, and will be surrounded by a supportive team to get you there.
In addition, Kru Lopez is one of the premiere fighters on the East Coast (and North America), and also surrounded by an equally amazing network of coaches and fighters. Top professional fighters regularly roll through the gym to cross-train, and as an amateur it's amazing to be in the presence of such talents.
That said, I can't stress enough that while LTB is a FIGHT SCHOOL (We strive to maintain an active and killer fight team), there is something there for EVERYONE. We have people of all shapes and walks of life, and the culture is extremely welcoming. I'll personally vouch for that. Some schools are too beginner-focused, or too advanced-focus. Some are both, leaving no space for intermediate students. But LTB covers all bases, the fight-mentality is extremely motivating, and ultimately it's what you want to make of it.
LTB is still growing, and at the time of this review classes are just starting to get a little bit crowded (a good problem to have) as beginners and advanced train together. This will probably change in the future, but I have full faith that you won't lose out on the personal-attention that comes with having larger classes. There are plenty of coaches and advanced students that are more than willing to step-in.
PRICE--
Price is tough, since personally speaking it's hard for me to put a value on good instruction and environment. For some people having lockers and showers is important. For folks like me it's just a roof and fun people. LTB is very reasonably-priced for the area, and by my estimates a bit cheaper than average. Where it's competitive is where it lacks in facilities (being a new school), it makes up for in terms of expertise and culture.
Highly recommended, and if you see me in class please don't hesitate to say hi!
-Stephen read more