MEET OUR TRAINERS
Different trainers have different fighting styles, which is reflected in how and what they teach. We encourage you to take the opportunity to take each trainer's class to learn some of their preferred techniques and tricks.
KRU PONG - OWNER/FOUNDER
Born in the Songkhla Province in southern Thailand, Pong started training Muay Thai when he was just 7 years old. He went on to have 70 fights before naturally transitioning into a trainer at the young age of 18. In 2018 he was scouted by Sinbi Muay Thai, Phuket to join the top team of 30 trainers and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the youngest head trainers. ​ Pong is a Muay Khao (clinch and knee fighter). Clinching is a key aspect of Muay Thai that sets it apart from other striking martial arts. This style is rarely found outside of Thailand which makes him a widely sought after trainer for PTs.  ​Pong is a natural born teacher. He is patient and funny which makes learning an enjoyable experience where you can't wait for the next class. Whether you're a complete beginner or an aspiring fighter, Kru Pong has the unique skill to bring out the best in you, both in and out of the ring. Pong knows how to challenge students and adapt the pace of training to suit different abilities and fitness levels. He combines technical instruction with humor, making every class both educational and enjoyable. His knack for breaking down complex techniques into simple, easy-to-understand steps ensures that beginners feel comfortable and confident. Known for his eye for detail. His eyes don't miss a move. He will see your flaws and fix your technique so you can perfect your form. For Amateur Fighters: When it comes to the more serious athletes, Kru Pong shifts gears to push his fighters to new heights. Known for his tough love approach, he challenges amateur fighters to go beyond their limits, pushing them past mental barriers they didn’t know existed. His coaching style becomes more intense and focused, with an emphasis on building mental toughness, discipline, and peak physical performance. He holds his fighters to high standards, not just in terms of technique, but also in mindset, encouraging them to embrace the grind and unlock their full potential. He is unwavering in his belief that growth happens when you push yourself when you start to feel tired and he is always there to guide and support you through those tough moments. From the tropical island of Phuket, Kru Pong brings his enthusiastic and loud demeanour making his classes fun and full of energy with never a dull moment. Can you think of a better environment to learn?
COACH MICHAEL
FIGHT RECORD: 16 Fights 11 W 5 L 7 KO
Training: 16 years
Coaching 6 years
Style: Muay Sok (elbow fighter)
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Michael has trained Muay Thai for more than half his life. It’s a passion that’s seen him up and move to Thailand, where he lived, trained and fought professionally for two years.
Now back at home in Sydney, he’s taking everything he learned about devastating elbows and fighting smart and formatting it into hour-long lessons at Maneema.
His skill level has been recognised by several Australian and Thai-run gyms who have brought him in to help train and develop their students. That experience across several gyms allows him to understand the nuisances of Muay Thai and the who’s who of the local scene.
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He brings his big presence, voice and to the Maneema team and has a wealth of knowledge he is excited to impart onto our members. Michael is known for his sneaky Muay Thai tricks.
Classes:
Monday: 6pm - all levels
COACH TIM
FIGHT RECORD:
Training:
Style: Muay Femur (technical)
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Martial art runs long in the family for Tim. Training since he was 14 years old, his love of Muay Thai deepened with each training session. Fuelled by a relentless drive to not just master Muay Thai but to share it with others.
Tim dedicated his career to personal training, focusing on helping fighters prepare for fights and training safely, free from injury.
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His classes are known for their energy and precision, making every session an enjoyable journey of skill-building. Eager to elevate himself and his students, Tim is continually advancing his own training to provide the best learning experience for all.
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When he is not teaching our classes, you will see him in the fighters class encouraging and pushing our amateur fighters to push past their mental threshold and giving advice on how to train safely without injury.
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Tim will be teaching classes until February 2025 where he will embark on his next journey opening his own gym. Make sure you don't miss his classes!
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Classes:
Tuesday: 5pm - all levels
Thursday: 5pm - all levels