Coach Dan's approach to training at Muay Boran is truly commendable, as he places a strong emphasis on prioritizing techniques and skills. From day one, he instills in us the importance of mastering the fundamentals, ensuring a solid foundation upon which we can build more advanced techniques.
Under Coach Dan's guidance, every class is thoughtfully structured, focusing on different aspects of Muay Thai. He breaks down complex techniques into manageable steps, making it accessible for practitioners of all levels. Coach Dan is patient and dedicated, ensuring that each student receives individual attention and corrections to refine their techniques.
One of the aspects I appreciate the most is that Coach Dan never rushes the learning process. He understands that true proficiency in Muay Thai takes time and practice. Instead of merely going through the motions, he encourages us to pay attention to details, body mechanics, and proper execution of each technique.
He fosters a positive learning environment where we feel comfortable trying new techniques, knowing that he will provide constructive feedback to help us improve.
I am incredibly grateful for Coach Dan's dedication to prioritizing techniques and skills in our training. I am honored to be a part of his classes at Muay Boran.
~Kristian S (Google)
Been wanting to write this review for some time now but have been struggling to put into words how amazing Kru Dan and Coach Chad are. I am a C student at best but they never treat me that way. They give attention to each student in their class, willingly spending extra time before & after class to provide additional instruction to anyone who wants to learn. They have an overall respect, love and appreciation for the art and culture behind Muay Boran and it shows in how they teach and how they continue to learn themselves. Truly wish I had started down this path earlier but am incredibly appreciative that I was able to find this school and these two amazing people/instructors. Huge thank you to Kru Dan and coach Chad.
~Keith G (Yelp)
Great coach! First time going to this gym, very welcoming :) practiced a lot of basic techniques and form which is always great!!
~Phoebe L (Google)
What an amazing experience. I did a drop in while visiting Hawaii, and all I can say is Kru Dan is phenomenal at explaining and breaking down defense strategies and combos. I would definitely come back when I visit Hawaii again!
~Ashley B (Google)
Best Muay Thai coaches I’ve ever had the pleasure training with!
~Justin O (Google)
I was in Hawaii for a week and got to train for two days. Very traditional Muay Thai, perfect technique and an excellent team. If you are in Honolulu, check them out!
~Danielle O (Google)
I absolutely enjoyed my Muay Thai training class at Muay Boran Hawaii. The instructor was very knowledgeable and provided great instruction. I would highly recommend this class to anyone looking to learn.
~Wesley N (Google)
I thoroughly enjoyed my session here!! Quality instructions provided & demonstrated. Suitable for all levels!! When back in Hawaii I’ll be back.
~Tim D (Google)
Some Muay Thai coaches might be good fighters, but don’t have the right methodology to teach.
Dan is an excellent teacher, kind, dedicated, fun and very respectful. I definitely recommend Muay Boran. Mahalo nui!
~Annelise P (Google)
Great coach and supportive community, classes are suitable for all levels.
I have been going to Muay Boran for a year now, they host 2 classes every Tuesday and Thursday for Level 1 & 2 at 6:15 pm and 7:30 pm.
You can do drop in classes, membership fee for 2 classes a week ($110) or 4 classes a week ($150)*
*Price as of writing this review
Coach Dan and Coach Chad are very helpful and gives great instructions, making the class easy to follow regardless of your level.
~Amalina A (Google)
I was an overseas traveller and did 2 sessions of both Muay Thai and Muay Boran …. Fantastic classes, lead instructor has exceptional knowledge of the traditional Thai style … atmosphere was awesome, great bunch of people and very welcoming … I highly recommend this training location for people wanting to learn this great style
~Rob N (Google)
Awesome coaches and great people. This place will make you a great pad holder and spar partner. If you are looking for light sparring, play sparring, or hard sparring this place has all the mix. With an authentic thai vibe and thai teaching, Muay Boran will open up the Muay Thai journey and make you fall in love with what Muay Thai is all about.
~Burke A (Google)
Dan & Chad are two great local guys who have been avid Muay Thai / Muay Boran practitioners for many years.
They have experienced Thai culture first hand, often traveling to Thailand to learn and share with students here in O’ahu. You can see that they take pride in their roles as Krus.
Here in the west, many Muay Thai classes can be misleading. Muay Boran Hawaii is not an American style “Mcdojo” where you are awarded prajiets or any kind of ranking system - the reward is hard work and consistency that Dan and Chad will nudge you toward if you are willing.
Be forewarned, this class is not for the weak, YOU WILL BE PUSHED TO YOUR LIMITS! But this is the Thai way. It is not meant to be easy.
If you are looking to become the next Buakaw, Saenchai, or John Wayne Parr - Dan and Chad are the likely duo to lead you there!
Highly recommended,
5 out of 5 OOH WEEs!!! 👍
~Josiah D (Google)
I trained with Coach Dan and Coach Chad for a little over a year. When I started with them, I was just looking for a hobby. When I moved, I left with increased confidence, a great community, a new skill set, and a healthier mindset. If you’re looking for a welcoming place to learn and appreciate the art of Muay Thai, this is the place for you.
~Rachel K (Google)
Muay Boran Hawaii is a great martial arts program that reinforces the fundamentals of Maui Thai and slowly introduces the more nuanced aspects of the martial art. Additionally, they include sparring so what you learn can be put into practice.
The classes are fun, engaging and well structured. Dan and Chad are fantastic instructors. If you're looking to learn a martial art, get a good workout or maybe just pick up a hobby it's a great investment. Went to the classes for years before I moved, and I can't recommend it enough.
~Chris D (Google)
I met Coach Dan in 2013 and I’ve taken classes with him ever since. He’s one of the nicest guys you will meet and a bada$$ at Muay Thai! I travel a lot for work so I can’t go to normal classes like before, but whenever I’m back on the islands and I’m free, I always hit up coach Dan for a few classes. You really learn a lot in a one hour session. You can even take private lessons with one or two or three other students. Highly recommended for beginners and/or experienced fighters!
~David C (Google)
Legit Muay Thai. Kru Dan and Chad are great coaches. Skilled, patient, and friendly. The workouts are tough but fun. Good for both newcomers and fighters looking to sharpen their skills. I trained here for over 2 years. 🤙🏽
~Manny G (Google)
My son has learned so much & has gained more than just skills in Muay Thai! Mahalo Kru Dan & team.
~Keala S (Google)
Solid training by a first class team!!! Always working to advance in skills and knowledge. Always fun!
~Kamana S (Google)
~Phyllis T (Google)
Been training for a few months and this was one of the best classes I've had would highly recommend, also great coach great assistant coach 👊awesome demonstrations good one on one.
~Kendall B (Google)
Good and true Muay Thai school (not just a fitness club), Kru Dan is an excellent teacher for all levels of fighters whether you're just starting off or already have experience.
~Brandon P (Google)
Due to Covid, I took private instruction outside from Kru Dan with our masks on. After my second session, I can vouch for his knowledge and teaching method. Goes at your pace/abilities and makes sure you have clear understanding of each technique. Overall chill and patient teacher. Mahalo
~Francis K (Google)
Solid training by a first class team!!!
~Kamana S (Google)
Coach Dan is a really great instructor. He is very knowledgeable about Muy Thai! So if you're looking for an awesome Muy Thai instructor on the island go check him out!!!
~Elaine V (Yelp)
One of the best one on one training experiences I've ever had; every technique and reasoning was explained at my level and he was able to speed up or slow down our progress based on my performance and understanding. I've trained in several styles over the years with many people and Dan is nothing less than exceptional. We were visiting O'ahu for a few weeks and Dan was quick to respond to our inquiry and fit me in for a few sessions. Not only was he professional, well informed and articulate, he was also a really cool guy to talk to and easy to relate and even helped us with good suggestions on sightseeing some of the better parts of the island.
If your visiting or living on O'ahu, go to Muay Boran Hawaii. I highly recommend Kru Dan and Muay Boran Hawaii for people at all levels.
~Alex O (Yelp)
Just going to say up front that this is going to be a rave review. Figure full disclosure as I love this school, my teachers, and my classmates.
Checklist:
1. Patient, knowledgeable instructor- check
2. Accessible teaching style even for beginners- check
3. Fun class and classmates- definitely a check
4. Useful way to not only stay or get in shape while learning valuable skills- double check
5. Able to fit in as a new member or as someone new to the art- big check
Don't hesitate to give them a try. I'm so happy I did
~Trisha L (Yelp)
This is real muaythai. Not domesticated, not for the feint of heart.
~Arnold S (Google)
Five stars. Kru Dan is a great teacher. Very encouraging and patient. Hard work but lots of fun. Good workouts to get back in shape. I'm turning 59 this year, my whole body is hurting but I'm having the time of my life. Overall a great experience.
~Richard L (Yelp)
I was able to train with Dan in Oahu and it was literally the best experience that I have had in quite some time. A group of us were able to book a number of private lessons with Dan where he came over and gave us a group lesson. There were three families with adults and youths and Dan knew how to get our attention, warm us up and get us working out. Let me tell you everyone loved it! After the family lesson a few of us stayed for "round 2" and we kept going. Dan worked us out to the max! We learned a lot and went away educated, stronger and very happy.
If you want the best workout and instructor on the island. Run.....don't walk and book and appointment with Dan.
~Joe B (Yelp)
I am so glad I started private lessons and UFC classes with Coach Dan. He is very patient and an excellent teacher. He breaks down every move step by step and explains its importance. If you are looking to learn Muay Thai, Muay Boran, and Self Defense Coach Dan is the person to call.
~Jason T (Yelp)
I got to train with Dan for a week. Was amazing, he knows how to read your level and keep pushing you slightly beyond in the perfect way. Can't wait to come back to Oahu and train with him again.
~Adbur C (Yelp)
Kru Dan is a very humble and patient teacher. He emphasizes on form and technique, than the power will follow. I am sometimes overwhelmed by all the combinations but eventually I catch on because I am still a beginner.
This is not just a class but also a journey. Learning Muay Thai, Muay Boran and even some of the culture of Thailand where this deadly art came and evolved from. If your are interested in Muay Thai this is your calling!!
~Arnold S (Yelp)
I met Coach Dan at UFC Gym back when it opened in 2012. Previous to joining this gym I had done basic kickboxing classes and boxing classes at other places, but it was always with heavy bags and mainly just to get a good sweat.
What I found in Coach Dan's style of training is how much there is to learn in Muay Thai. He's very good and breaking things down and working on your technique to prevent you from getting hurt and also make your strikes matter. I've learned so many different things, worked on so many different techniques and most importantly had so much fun doing so. If you've ever been interested in Muay Thai and are just starting out, I'd highly recommend taking the leap with Coach Dan. He's very patient and a phenomenal teacher that will work with you.... and besides, why would you run when you could have fun hitting and kicking things :)
~Lindsey C (Yelp)
I have dabbled in many martial arts over a span of 20 years. To say I'm picky is kind of an understatement, lol. Easily ranked among my top 2 favorite instructors, Kru Dan is everything one could hope in a martial arts instructor. Humble & patient without a trace of ego that we see so much of in the martial arts community (ie. "my style is better than yours"). His lessons are well structured and each class is always a fun workout!
Kru Dan teaches both the sport of Muay Thai and the art of Muay Boran, the predecessor of Muay Thai. You can expect to learn the Thai terminology that goes along with the movements. He does give handouts so you can remember the words. While Kru Dan never rushes you, I would suggest you do your part and do your homework & practice if you want to progress, lol.
If you want to know more about Muay Thai beyond the sport, then definitely give Muay Boran Hawaii a chance.
~Bernard C (Yelp)
I met Coach Dan through the UFC Gym where he teaches Muay Thai, and I first heard about Muay Boran ("Ancient Boxing") through him. Muay Boran is the combatives (battlefield) predecessor to today's sport of Muay Thai.
I have had the privilege of training under more than sixteen martial arts teachers, including three Muay Thai instructors, an 8th degree Judo red belt, and a 10th degree Karate black belt. Out of that crowded field, Dan is easily one of the best martial arts teachers I have ever had. He is friendly, easy-going, and insightful. While many martial artists and sport fighters have an ego, Dan is humble. Most martial arts instructors like to present their system having answers to any combat situation, but Dan regularly acknowledges Muay Boran's strengths and weaknesses. Dan has an excellent understanding of the application of Muay Boran's techniques as well as the attributes a fighter must develop to use the art to its full potential, including timing and situational awareness.
Where appropriate, Dan easily switches between Muay Boran and Muay Thai noting what works better in the ring and what works better outside the ring. I am interested in martial arts in general, and when I ask questions about Muay Boran's history, the cultural setting, and how it interacts with weapons and armor, Dan generally has good answers or references.
We have just finished Level One where we learned the basics of footwork, strikes (punch, elbows, knees, kicks, and thrust kicks) and several defenses, including some counters, throws, and limb destruction. I am looking forward to Level Two where more advanced combinations and counters await.
If I had any complaints or concerns with the class, I would say a lot of information is packed into relatively little time, and without practicing at home, I doubt I would have had enough repetitions to remember the material or execute it properly. Luckily, Dan provided handouts that helped me practice at home.
In conclusion, the Level One Muay Boran course was one of the best experiences I have had in the martial arts, and I would encourage anyone with an interest in martial arts to try it out.
~Ty T (Yelp)
I wasn't planning on working out everyday while on a short trip to Honolulu. However, plans changed and I decided to look into Muay Thai training. I come across Kru Dan's website and learned that he had an impressive background in Muay Thai training. I've been training at gyms across the country for the past four years and he is one of the few people that has a great appreciation for Muay Thai and passion for the sport! I wanted to take one of his group classes to see if I liked his style before setting up a one on one training session with him. Luckily for me, he made time to train with me the night before I left. In the short time I was able to train with him, he gave me a lot of pointers and things to help me work on. I feel like I accomplished a lot in the short time I got to work with him and will schedule training times ahead of time for my next vacation here!
~Jaime M (Yelp)
There have been few trainers in my experience who can effectively teach, condition, and practician technique to the degree of thoroughness held by Coach Dan. If you are a cerebral learner, then Coach Dan will give you the tools you need to better yourself.
~Ray W (Facebook)
Had the opportunity to attend Dan's seminar at Portland State, and I enjoyed the experience a lot. A great instructor and very knowledgeable in Muay Boran. I've gained a deeper understanding of the ancient art, and am excited to continue leaning more about it. Its been a good weekend!
~Steven N (Facebook)
Had a lifetime opportunity to learn and soak in the knowledge and beauty of Muay Boran with Kru Dan. A very passionate teacher that shows great respect to the art and history behind it. As a person of Thai roots(Esan Thai), I felt a deeper understanding of what Muay Boran really means to me, and it was all thanks to Dan. Kap Kun Kap!
~Dylan L (Facebook)
Before this vacation trip I hadn't even heard of Muay Thai Boran (Ancient Muay Thai) before. Thank to Kru Dan (kru = teacher). Growing up I never trained in any kind of contact sports before. A couple years ago I started to train Muay Thai and I really enjoy it very much.
On this trip I didn't really want to train because I'm on vacation and I just want to relax. But I was browsing on yelp on my first day in Honolulu for places to eat, activities to do and I ran across Muay Thai Boran so I bookmarked it and let the navigator lead me to Iolani Palace and I was very puzzled I thought the gym is in the palace or under the palace. The GPS kept confirming that I've arrived, I saw nothing but the palace and the parking meters. I called and try to find out about this confusion but no one answers. On my way home Kru Dan called and we straighten everything out so we agreed to meet and I can observe his class.
After I went to observe his class I decided to give it a try because it's something that I'd never seen before. The movement, the technique is different but yet similar and it's very intriguing. And the way Kru Dan broke down the technique and explain to me and makes it simple enough for me to understand was great. He told me the back stories of all the technique and the movement was awesome. I've learned so much in a very short period of time.
I'm very thankful to Kru Dan that he helps me to understand and remember my own culture and tradition that I didn't know before or I forgot. I will try my best to remember and practice all the techniques and movement he taught me so I won't let this form of martial art disappears.
~Chew L. (Yelp)
Coach Dan is a great / avid practitioner of Muay Thai. I have trained with him in the past, and will more than likely continue training with him in the future. Dan doesn't carry that "tough guy" mentality that a lot of coaches seem to have, which is really cool. The greatest thing is that he takes time to answer any questions I've had regarding Muay Thai, outside of sessions. That is something which should be emphasized in any customer service scenario. Communication. Dan is pretty flexible with his scheduling, I've met with him on weekends, due to my work schedule on weekdays. Let's be real here, who really enjoys working on weekends? I know I don't. Kru Dan also has quite a bit of experience under his belt, training Muay Thai for about 15 years. He travels to and from Thailand as well. Overall, if you're interested in learning a striking art, getting some cardio in, or just looking to try something new, yeah definitely train with this guy right here!
~Josiah D. (Yelp)
When I was 13, I saw Ong Bak: The Thai Warrior and I was mesmerized by the movements and stunts performed by Tony Jaa. I've always wanted to learn this specific ancient style, but there was no one on the island that taught this. Eight years later, I saw on Facebook that Kru Dan Kaetsu was holding classes for Muay Boran, so I had saved up as much money as I could to do a crash course on the art. I have taken on a duty to spread this beautiful art to Oregon where I currently live.
Kru Dan is a great instructor and is very knowledgable in the ancient style of Thai combat. He is very thorough when discussing techniques and drills. It is very rare to find someone who can teach this style in Hawaii with a welcoming approach to learning. You want to take your striking game and self-defense arsenal to the next level, then take this course!
~ Kaiwi A. (Yelp)
I have always wanted to learn Muay Boran ever since I have watched Ong Bak. Learning Muay Boran I from Kru Dan was an enlightening experience that help change the way I express myself through Martial Arts. Kru Dan helps to go over several techniques and application. My favorite technique is the Luci Bodia, where as the fighter climbs his opponent, hip then knee, and finishes him off with elbow to the top of head just like in Ong Bak. There are many new weapon to add into your arsenal that can prove both devastating and even lethal.
Kru Dan is an amazing and an inspirational teacher. I have seen how he care about each student individually. If you have a busy schedule, he tries his best to make things work and that you get the attention you deserve. And on top of that, he visits Thailand to train every year if his demanding schedule would allow it. My technique has really improved over the span of taking his class.
(I thought that this was worth mentioning:
I have seen Kru Dan kick a steel reinforced pillar with only thin padding -
and cracked open a coconut with his elbow.)
To top it all off, I became culturally immersed with Muay Boran. Not only are you training your fists, elbows, knees, kicks, footwork, but you also train your minds. Kru Dan presents a class atmosphere that gave me goosebumps. The name of the moves, drilling, and basic greetings are done in Thai with english translation of course so it helps you to remember. He imparts the Wai Kru and the ceremony which help to deepen my respect and understanding for all Muay Thai and Muay Boran artists.
Muay Boran I was amazing, and I am looking forward to Muay Boran II.
Thank you Kru Dan for everything!
~Andy P. (Facebook)
"Muay Thai Boran" was originally a combat martial art, but came to be practiced as a sport as well. I have been fascinated by this ancient skill as far back as I can remember...
When I found out that the UFC Gym Hawaii was offering classes, I jumped right on it! Starting with the small group classes and followed up with private sessions coached by "Dan Kaetsu".
Coach Dan is awesome! Truly committed to his practice, he taught me not only the moves but also the confidence and passion for the art. I've learned the technique from kicks, elbows and knee strikes to everything that makes "Muay Thai Boran" the most feared art EVER!
Classes were fun and at the same time a GREAT WORKOUT!!!
~Claudia T (Yelp)