​Elite Sports is a brand you may have come across frequently if you have searched for fitness gear on Amazon. Primarily if you are searching products in the combat sports or martial arts category. What probably makes them stand out the most when searching is the product's affordability. I know that’s what immediately caught my attention.
​

• ​Boxing Mitts https://amzn.to/3wDJomf
• Thai Kicking Pads https://amzn.to/2Reano5

I’ve used many brands of boxing mitts and Thai pads over the past 12 years of my martial arts journey. I’ve come to find some reasonably priced products that are of good quality and long lasting. There are also products that I’ve spent a bit more money on and I was very disappointed since they didn’t last.
 
When it comes to combat sports training or martial arts, affordability is usually a consumers first choice, yet you do not want to sacrifice quality.  Quality is very important when your intention is to strike surfaces hard and often. Durability is a must when you are rough on equipment which is a necessity in martial arts training. This is why I decided to try Elite Sports’ Boxing Mitts and Thai Pads to see how they performed for the money.

​In regard to the design, they are clean and minimal. They aren’t overly produced as far as too much padding or any extras that may be unnecessary. The visual design is simplistic and subtle which I like. The boxing mitts and Thai pads are sleek and simple.

Build quality rating is typical compared to average mitts. The mitts do not have the appearance as cheaply made, but not an over exuberance of quality with regard to materials and padding. The straps are bit thin, at first, I was worried they might rip, but they have not after using them for a few weeks and probably will last a while with regular use. The foam inside isn’t made of poor quality, more expensive brands will use “EVA foam”, however Elite has added foam for additional shock absorption, according to their website.  It feels like a brick of foam in the Thai pads, but upon impact it is nice and does not feel like there is cause for concern. The pads feel comfortable to strike.
 
Due to the simple construction and materials of both the Elite Sports boxing mitts and Thai pads they are extremely light. I really enjoyed this while working with my faster students. One thing I really liked were the handles on the Thai kicking pads. They were strong and firm. Oddly enough it’s my favorite part of the pads besides the weight of them. I own a few pairs of expensive Hayabusa Thai pads which have amazing striking padding, but Hayabusa has the most absolute worst handles I’ve ever felt on Thai pads and I truly dislike them.

​It is hard to say at this time, however I will continue to use the pads & mitts with my students in my Martial Arts gym and I will update this post if I have any negative issues.  I have been using them for a couple weeks, but I use them throughout all of my Muay Thai classes several times a day all week long and so far, so good

​Lastly, let’s discuss price. This is where the Elite product stand out. Next to a couple other brands on the market, they could be considered the most affordable with regard to these two types of items. Generally, I’ve paid within the range of $40 - $150 for boxing mitts and the Elite brand is less than any of those. For Thai pads, I’ve purchased in the range of $80 - $300 for various brands and Elite is less than those as well.

​ If you are a beginner, utilizing striking for fitness, or are a trainer using these for your beginner clients then these products are a good buy because they are very affordable and functional. It’s all you need when starting out. As a striking coach and instructor, I do have more expensive brands that cost much more and are built heavier and thicker with leather and so on, but that is because I have advanced strikers and fighters that I train, I need to protect myself and them.
 
 
I hope this was helpful and if you are starting out or looking to train at home with some friends or clients and do not want to spend too much money on equipment, I highly recommend the Elite boxing mitts and Muay Thai kicking pads.

https://www.elitesports.com/
https://www.borntough.com/ 
https://www.elitesports.com/collections/muay-thai-pads
https://www.elitesports.com/products/elite-sports-black-black-muay-thai-kick-pad
https://www.elitesports.com/collections/muay-thai-mitts
https://www.elitesports.com/products/elite-sports-essential-curved-black-silver-muay-thai-punching-mitts
 

It can be a little overwhelming when you decide to begin a Martial Arts journey. Learning Muay Thai should be a fun and rewarding experience. Personal training for Muay Thai can be beneficial for beginners and advanced students. Personal sessions for Muay Thai or generally 30-45 minutes depending on your goals.
 
As a beginner you can learn the strikes and proper form without feeling overwhelmed by other students around. Learning the proper stance, guard and basic techniques are important. Your trainer will be able to correct any mistakes and provide drills for you to practice.

​Intermediate or advanced students can enhance their current training by focusing on specific techniques. You can focus on pad work, clinching, conditioning and stamina overall. You can also benefit from personal sessions if you are preparing for another level of training. Not all advanced students of Muay Thai are fighters. You can have a love for Martial Arts and training Muay Thai without getting into the ring.
 
Regardless of your fitness goals, Muay Thai is an excellent source for an intense workout. You can lose weight, gain strength and increase your stamina training Muay Thai. It is important that you are consistent with your training. Three to four times a week is the minimum for training Muay Thai to have an impact and see results.
 
If you have any personal or physical limitations which requires additional guidance and assistance, a personal trainer can help you. Trainers can modify your form to ensure your technique is optimal. Proper form is important to ensure you do not injure yourself. It is difficult during a class setting to provide this type of one-on-one vigilance. Receiving proper guidance will give you more confidence while you begin or continue your Muay Thai journey.
 
A trainer can provide encouragement and accountability. Your trainer will find your limits and help push and motivate you during your sessions. Discuss your goals with your trainer so they are aware of what you wish to gain from your Muay Thai sessions.
 
You can lose weight training Muay Thai. Muay Thai is an intense workout. The art of 8 limbs engages your entire body.  Learning how to kick, punch, throw elbows properly will incorporate an array of body movements to help you burn fat. Your trainer will know based on your current fitness level how hard they need to push you. They are knowledgeable about nutrition and won’t convince you to participate in any diet fads.
 
Communication with your trainer is a priority. You will want to be sure your goals are clearly discussed. If your goals change based on how you are progressing with your training, be sure to advise your trainer.
 
Lose weight, improve technique, learn basics, increase stamina and love the art of Muay Thai.

Contact us today to discuss personal training sessions for Muay Thai. 
 
 
 
 

One thing I’ve learned from being a child, raising my kids, and teaching kids is...keep them active! You have to keep your kids active and let them be physical. These days, there are so many screens to keep children occupied that fitness activities can suffer.
 
Children are our future. We need to teach them well; give them the tools they need to succeed and encourage them to flourish.

Primarily, fitness is good for their overall health. It also teaches them balance and coordination while their bodies are growing and changing. What’s now also being touted are its benefits in reducing future symptoms of anxiety and depression.
 
When putting your child in sports or martial arts the benefits extend to their mental growth and the establishment of habits that will give them strength in the future. They learn to be on a team, they learn to work hard to achieve goals, they learn to be competitive, they learn to be disciplined and to be respectful, they learn humility, and they learn passion and drive.
 
In these physical activities, nothing is given, all must be earned, and kids learn to set goals and work hard to earn the things they truly want.
 
Kids need to be active they need to be physical. Find something physical for your children to do. It’s more important than you probably ever thought.
 
Lastly, on this note, find the right environment for your child. There are toxic people who should not be in a position of influence so be sure you are feeling the vibe of potential schools or teams’ you vet for your child. 

They are not just the future of our world...they are your future, your greatest achievement. Always remember that.

You can bring your child to Rad Muay Thai in Aurora, Colorado and attend a free Muay Thai Martial Arts class. It's a great way to decide if you feel comfortable with them training with us and you can visit the facility and ask Kru Rad any questions or concerns you may have. Contact us today to schedule your session.