Gradings

GFC hold gradings on a regular basis, normally every three months. The gradings are designed to show an all round ability and knowledge of Thai Boxing. We believe it is very important to grade for several reasons.

The syllabus and the method of marking are designed so that, in order to pass a grade, you must have not just one or two techniques that you can do very well, but an all round ability. In addition to the punches, elbows, knees and kicks, you must also be able to show a knowledge of how to use Muay Thai techniques, be able to perform the Ram Muay Thai (ritual dance) well, show self defence and in later grades, show footwork, clinchwork, traditional Muay Thai techniques, advanced techniques and demonstration techniques. All grades require some theory examination, the first ones showing just a knowledge of the rules and fighters rules of our gym, moving to the later ones where you will be tested on teaching, coaching in the ring, and the theory behind our system.

Gradings are an excellent way to test your all round ability, not just the techniques that can be used in competition. We also believe that is very important for us to continue to teach the all round style of Muay Thai, not just concentrating on having a handful of really good "ring techniques". Gradings make sure that the instructors teach as wide a range as possible.

The early grades concentrate on basics and we have found that by instilling strong basics from the start and testing them at an early time prevents students from getting into bad habits that would be difficult to get out of later.

A very small percentage of students will compete, there will be plenty of students who will be good enough to compete, but for one reason or another they won't. There will be students who just do not want to compete. Gradings are a great way for students to test themselves and gives students a target to aim for in their training.

There are ten grades ranging from white to Red and we hope to list our full grading syllabus for all the grades on this page soon.