Iron Shins

By Jairus P

This is what you hear every day at Team Reys Muay Thai Gym.

Brandon Siu, a local in San Jose, has always been interested in fitness and martial arts. He discovered Muay Thai after an event that threatened his life, and was immediately drawn to Muay Thai and its unique blend of strikes, clinching, and grappling techniques.

He is determined to improve his skills and began training at a local gym, where he was introduced to the sport's rich culture and history. The more he trained, the more he realized that Muay Thai was a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, not just a physical pursuit.

Brandon: “Muay Thai has influenced my life in many different ways, one being it has taught me to how to become more disciplined and know when something is needed for you to take action as well as knowing how to maintain focus on things around you and your surroundings overall.”

He has made remarkable progress in his Muay Thai journey with the help of his trainers and fellow students. Brandon's commitment to Muay Thai has also inspired others in the community to participate. Many people have sought his advice and training, and he has always been eager to share his knowledge and experience.

He is an inspiration to all those around him as he continues to hone his skills and strive for excellence in Muay Thai, reminding us that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a love for the sport.

Brandon: “Whenever I’m partners with someone in the gym, I usually always try my best to push them and encourage them to finish the round in their best ability by just verbally communicating to them and telling them that they’re almost done, and that they are doing great and that they got this and things like that really do help people push themselves through, knowing that there’s someone right next to them supporting them and encouraging them to keep going.”

Brandon met a 16-year-old student from a nearby high school named Yerba Buena High School. His name Jairus Pelayo. I have found a new love for Muay Thai fighting skills. I have only been training for a short while, but my coach and teammates have already praised me for my passion for the game and outstanding skill set.

According to asianjournalusa.com, Muay Thai, commonly referred to as Thai boxing, is a fighting sport with Thai origins that uses punches, elbows, knees, and shins in addition to gripping and sweeping tactics. To be successful in the ring, one must possess a combination of physical preparedness, concentration, and technical skill.

After viewing several videos online and learning how Muay Thai may benefit my health and self-defense skills, I became fascinated with the sport. I enrolled in a neighborhood gym, the same one Brandon goes to that provides Muay Thai sessions. I started training twice weekly, and over time, developed my strength, endurance, and coordination.

Learning the skills and remembering the sequences were initially difficult, but I said to myself that I appreciate the feeling of pushing myself and observing not just my physical improvement but mentally as well.

I also like the group's friendship and the mutual respect we have for one another as fighters.

Muay Thai has taught me to become more disciplined, focused, and confident. I feel more energized and motivated to do things outside the gym, like studying, working, and helping others. It's a great way to stay healthy and happy.

For the Warrior Times, this is Jairus Pelayo.