About
The Old School Way
Old School Muay Thai was founded in 2004 by Kru James Hines, the first student of Canada’s Thai champion, Ajahn Suchart. Old School is one of the original Muay Thai gyms in Toronto and stays true to its roots by delivering no frills, high quality, traditional Muay Thai training to students.
Beginners and experienced Muay Thai athletes are welcomed into a friendly environment and supported by skilled instructors.
Our members have the added benefit of knowing their fees support our community program for systemically-disadvantaged youth and newcomers.
What to Expect
Our classes are designed to offer you a complete workout while learning and practicing traditional Muay Thai techniques using shadow boxing, bag work and body weight conditioning.
As any of our students can attest, the therapeutic benefits of punching and kicking out a day’s frustration are immediately evident to anyone who has enjoyed one of our classes.
We welcome all levels of student, and will meet you where you are. Whether your goal is fitness or to get fight-ready, there are classes that will support your journey, and a community of caring instructors and students to provide encouragement.
First class?
Come dressed ready to sweat in athletic shorts and shirt. Bring a bottle of water.
If you have these items on hand — a skipping rope, hand wraps and bag gloves — it is helpful.
If you don’t, no problem. We have equipment on sale at the gym.
Kru James Hines
Kru James (aka Kru Big Bird) was introduced to Muay Thai as the first Canadian student of Ajarn Suchart, who brought the art to Canada from Thailand in the 1990s.
As Muay Thai gained popularity, Kru James competed in some of the first North American matches and travelled to Thailand multiple times to train with some of the most lauded champions. ultimately completed in the World Championship.
Also an experienced personal trainer, Kru James works with his skilled instructors to design effective, traditional lessons focused on fitness, injury prevention, and well-being. He and his team can guide you through your own personal wellness journey.
Old School Muay Thai also has a strong track record of supporting those interested in competing at all levels, from Muay Thai Ontario-sanctioned fights to International competitions.
Kru James Hines
In 2006, James was awarded the distinguished title of “Kru” (instructor) by respected Muay Thai Ajahn (Master) Suchart and the Thai ambassador to Canada. He has played an instrumental role in the establishment of Muay Thai as a respected sport in Canada.
James has been trained by some of the most established and experienced Muay Thai competitors in the world in Thailand and Canada, and has himself represented Canada in North American and World Amateur competitions in the USA and Thailand. He is sparring partner to world champion Clifton Brown; the training they did together was instrumental in securing the win against Manson Gibson for the North American Light Heavy Weight Championship in 2003.
James combines a decade of experience as a personal trainer and respected coach with his Muay Thai expertise. He established Muay Thai Training Centres, Inc, a not-for-profit division of Old School Muay Thai in support of Toronto’s at-risk youth through access to Muay Thai training.
Zayan Rafeek
Zayan joined Old School Muay Thai in the early days through the youth program and, 8 years later, is an experienced fighter and mentor. With 3 demos and 2 fights, he regularly helps members sharpen skills and achieve their fitness goals.
Zayan still gives back to the youth program in the afternoons, and teaches Thursday evening classes.
OSMT has knowledgeable and passionate instructors who truly care about powerful and beautiful Muay Thai. The community of students is very diverse, welcoming, and tight-knit, which really helps keep you motivated. The vibe is very positive and will push you to improve your level of fitness and technical ability, regardless of your experience.
· David