Intro to MMA Retreat
A 6-day training and wellness experience for women ready to explore mixed martial arts in a safe and empowering space.
the journey begins here
Discover MMA in a Supportive Space
Introducing our 6-day Intro to MMA Retreat designed specifically for women ready to step into something new. As a female-led community, we understand how important it is to feel supported, safe, and seen, especially when exploring MMA for the first time.
This retreat is the perfect bridge for women with some combat sports experience who want to transition into mixed martial arts. With a carefully put together schedule, you’ll train across striking, grappling, and wrestling fundamentals alongside a group of like-minded women.
But it’s more than just training. You’ll also explore the beauty of Thailand with local experiences, from night markets and Thai food to moments of connection through community outreach at a local children’s orphanage. The week strikes a powerful balance of challenge and restoration, action and reflection.
This is your space to grow, connect, and be introduced to MMA in a way that feels empowering from the very start.
What You’ll Learn
Train Across the Core Disciplines of MMA
Over the course of six days, you’ll develop a strong foundation in:
Striking fundamentals
Learn the core mechanics of punches, kicks, and footwork to build confidence in your stand-up game.
Wrestling and takedowns
Understand how to close the distance, control your opponent, and take the fight to the ground.
Grappling and submissions
Explore the art of ground control, BJJ and submissions, including positioning, escapes, and chokes.
MMA-specific drills
Put it all together with drills that connect striking, wrestling, and grappling in a real fight flow.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Your 6-day retreat includes a curated mix of training, recovery, and adventure designed to challenge, inspire, and restore you:
Kickboxing for MMA
Jiu-Jitsu
Wrestling
Positional Drills & Sparring
Sunset Muay Thai on the Beach
Hot Bikram Yoga
Orphanage visit
Yona Floating Beach Club
Daily morning run with Kaz
Night Market & Authentic Thai Food
Women's Empowerment Workshop
What’s Included in the MMA Retreat
Accommodation & Meals
- 6 nights at Arinara Resort (luxury, beachside, including daily breakfast)
- Lunches at Ringside Café (BangTao Gym)
- Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant
Training & Recovery
- Daily MMA classes (striking, grappling, wrestling)
- Morning runs with Kaz (incl. Big Buddha run & transfers)
- Ice bath sessions with facilitator
- Hot Bikram Yoga class
- Combat Collective Beach Games
- 15% discount at the BangTao retail store
Experiences
- Visit to Elephant Sanctuary (includes transfers)
- Orphanage visit with Muay Thai session + lunch (includes transfers)
- Yona Beach Club day access + transfers
Important Info:
Flights, travel insurance, and airport transfers are not included.
Dinners are not included unless stated above.
Guests must make their own arrangements to arrive and check in at Arinara Resort.
Here’s what a week of growth, training, and connection really looks like
MMA Retreat Schedule
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Where you'll train
About Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA
Our retreats take place at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA, a globally respected training facility on Phuket’s west coast. It’s a space where fighters and first-timers train side by side.
From your very first session, you’ll feel welcomed, supported, and challenged in a safe environment. Sessions are structured, the energy is real, and the coaches bring decades of experience to the mats. Beyond Muay Thai, you’ll have access to a fully equipped strength & conditioning zone, recovery tools, and a crew that wants to see you win—on and off the mats
You’ll train in a purpose-built space with structured sessions, expert coaching, and access to strength & conditioning areas, recovery facilities, and more.
The best of the best
Meet your Trainers
At Combat Collective we pride ourselves in working with the world’s best coaches and for this MMA retreat, it is no exception. We have the incredible Hickman brothers, George and Frank, Jiu Jitsu black belt Alex Schild and Founder of Bangtao and expert strength and conditioning coach Woody. Between them, they have coached some of the best fighters in the world, from the UFC, PFL, and now YOU!
George Hickman
Head MMA Coach
Frank Hickman
Head Wrestling Coach
Brad "Quake" Riddell
Head Kickboxing Coach
Alex Schild
Head BJJ Coach
Andrew Wood
Head S&C Coach
Jada Ketley
Muay Thai & MMA Coach
Life long memories
Collective Voices
"Eye opening, liberating and truly inspiring."
"An honour to share a retreat with women from all walks of life to come together to better ourselves."
"Life is too short to miss out on amazing opportunities like this."
"Nothing we did was easy or light but it all felt like exactly where I was supposed to be."
"Combat Collective made me feel safe, like I was a part of something great- your family away from home."
"Values of Combat Collective are those that you will take with you into day to day life."
"I learnt there is so much more to life than what I have been doing, and to step out of my comfort zone as much as I can."
"So excited for the future of all new friendships made, this trip was the best thing I have ever done for myself."
Rest. Recover. Recharge.
ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION
Your stay is at the 4 star Arinara Beach Resort, a stylish and serene hotel just 50 meters from the gym and steps from the sand. With beach access, a pool, in-house dining, and wellness facilities, it’s the perfect place to reset after a full day of training.
Choose from private or shared rooms—all within walking distance to Bangtao Muay Thai, local cafes, and everything you’ll need to feel at home in Phuket.
Got questions? We’ve got you.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to the things people ask us most.
Is this for beginners?
Yes! Our retreats are beginner-friendly. Sessions are designed to meet all levels with personal coaching and guidance.
Do I have to be super fit?
Nope. Come as you are. The goal is growth—not perfection.
What’s not included?
Flights to/from Phuket
Travel insurance (required)
Lunch and some dinners
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. Monthly payments and 3-part plans are available. Full payment must be made one week before the retreat starts.
What’s your refund policy?
Deposits are non-refundable. Please read our full terms and conditions at checkout.
