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Phoenix is remarkable. The difference is in the quality of the members; coaches; the programs; and the facilities. A prestigious member only club that is more than just a gym, martial art club or fitness centre.

Phoenix has a vision and a way of life that is contagious and addictive.

www.phoenixgym.com.au

MUAY THAIKICKBOXING

PHOENIX

aDULT CURRICULUM & HANDBOOK

© PHOENIX COMBAT SPORTS PROGRAM 2017This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may

be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from Anthony Manning.

‘100% TESTED ON HUMANS’®

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INCLUDES:

• Welcome to Phoenix

• The Phoenix Combat Sports Philosophy

• Overview of Phoenix Combat Sports

• Overview of Muay Thai

• What Phoenix is not

• An overview of the training program for adults

• An outline of the adults curriculum

• Grading and testing requirements for all levels

Action cures fear

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WELCOME TO pHOENIXAt Phoenix, we aim to assist you in achieving your goals by providing an excellent program; coaches; training partners; and a world class facility. Your goals may be to develop fitness; learn self defence; compete; lose weight; or just to enjoy some stress relief. Simply by joining and turning up you have made the first, and oftenthe hardest, step.

Rest assured, you have joined a team and are now a part of a long-standing and proven club. We will all work collectively to ensure you have a good experience. You should feel welcome to approach a staff member or coach at any time if you have questions or concerns. Just remember, we are here to assist you along your journey.

Enjoy your training and good luck!

The only losers are those that don’t try!

6 7Rules and regulations• Safety is paramount. Look after yourself and others.

• Be responsible for your own administration. Read the conditions of membership and other relevant documentation provided.

• Arrive early for class so you can start on time. No warm up, no train. You must get the COACH’s (or the assistant coach’s) permission before joining in if you are running late or coming from a previous class. No exceptions!

• No jewellery (including piercings) is to be worn in any combat sports classes. No adornments of any material are allowed.

• No hats or head–dresses are to be worn in any classes.

• Wash your hands before and after every class.

• Always start a class in clean clothing with a clean body. If you are doing 2 classes in a row, you are expected to change your clothes for the second class.

• Wear appropriate clothing suitable for the class.

• Use suitable approved equipment for all classes. GET IT CHECKED!

• Use a towel for every class.

• No one is to train if they are under the influence of alcohol.

• No one is welcome to join the club if they take recreational or performance enhancing drugs.

• No offensive clothing is to be worn.

• No offensive language is allowed inside the club.

• Respect every member for their training efforts.

• Phoenix has the right to refuse or cancel membership for any breach of the rules and regulations.

• Fingernails and toenails are required to be kept smooth and short.

• No leaving a class unless the coach is advised.

• All knowledge received is for self-defence; protection of others; or for the competition arena only.

• Once the class has started, there is no unnecessary talking.

• If you earn an income teaching/coaching/instructing anything like or similar to the classes conducted at Phoenix you must declare any conflict of interest. This covers the Fitness Industry and any Martial Art or Combat Sport.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REFER TO THE COMPLETE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF PHOENIX COMBAT SPORTS CLUB

When the going gets though. The tough Get going

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PHILOSOPHY OF PHOENIX COMBAT SPORTS• NEVER be a victim.

• Have the diligence to work hard to develop your mind and body.

• Have the self-discipline to aim for goals and the persistence to achieve them.

• Have the wisdom to use your skills only for self-defence and the protection of others.

• Have the self-belief to keep a positive focus in all situations and the flexibility to adapt for positive outcomes.

• Have the courage to take full responsibility for your actions.

• Have the confidence and strength of character to stand up for what you believe in and the wisdom to question everything.

• Be honest with yourself and others.

• Understand that compassion is a strength.

• Have the patience to enjoy life’s rewards and never take anything for granted.

• Take pride in your achievements and stand tall in the face of all challenges.

• Be proud of everything you earn and never expect to be given anything without effort and hard work.

• Never be afraid to learn new information as this can change your view of something.

OVERVIEW OFPHOENIXCOMBAT SPORTS

by Head Coach, Anthony Manning

Phoenix Combat Sports, Martial Arts and Fitness, follows a comprehensive program of physical and mental development. It incorporates an extensive range of fighting and self-defence styles and is taught in a realistic and modern way whilst preserving traditional values and martial arts concepts.

The training is used as a medium for self-development and often contributes to success in all aspects of our students’ lives. The strength and positivity of a person's attitude; considerate thinking; internal health; and physical condition are all important aspects of life and this is what training at Phoenix will assist in developing. Everyone at Phoenix trains to increase happiness in their life through a satisfying; challenging; stress relieving; and engaging training program.

The foundation of Phoenix Muay Thai Kickboxing is modern effective teaching methods and a philosophy to train ‘what works’. It focuses on real fighting skills in the tradition of martial arts but without the current trend to be flashy/ artistic/ memory based and/or non-contact – That is, unrealistic. Most martial arts today, especially commercialised Western systems (with Asian names), are more art than martial. They don’t train for the real demands of combat or self-defence.

Martial arts are an unregulated industry. Nowadays, anyone can teach martial arts and often ‘anyone’ does. True martial arts should be founded on ‘martial’ skill; honour; sacrifice; and diligence. Phoenix endeavours to incorporate the essence of true martial arts with the most effective, realistic, and non-traditional teaching methods. This, in turn, delivers integrity in all training.

The Phoenix Training System is formulated to integrate the best physical training with effective martial techniques. As a result, this produces a complete system that is flexible and embraces advances in physical and fighting science. Our objective with the Phoenix Training System is simplicity. That is, to have a realistic martial art program that is not over-complicated with information and theory. It is relevant to our demographic and is presented through our teaching system of teaching what works and is applicable to our students.

Furthermore, the Phoenix Training Systems have been tried and tested and have evolved in order to stay effective. Tested in competition; tested in self-defence; tested in training and operations in hostile environments; and tested in the health and fitness of all members.

As a medium for testing skills, the sporting arena differs from the real world. However, in our society it is the preferred medium for practicing application. It is critical that we ensure that nothing we do contributes to violence in society. Kickboxing enables participants to test themselves against someone else who is fit, healthy, trained and ready, thus making the challenge real. Defending yourself for real on the streets is not a regular or likely situation for most people. Through training at Phoenix, members develop a confidence, a healthy life style and an awareness that dramatically reduces the chance of them ever being a victim. The physical skills are only the last resort, but if tested, they work. Most Martial Arts never test or practice their skills outside their own gym and never know if what they do works, in either the sporting arena, or in the real world.

On a personal level, I chose Muay Thai Kickboxing as a sport to be the medium in which I would ‘test’ and practice skills I had learned elsewhere. In addition to Muay Thai Kickboxing, I have extensively practiced other martial aspects from a professional security and military prospective. This included teaching hostile-environment training in the most dangerous places in the world, and operating in dangerous environments where modern weapon systems and military training make hand-to-hand skills redundant. It is through these experiences that I am able to utilise certain skills and apply them to Phoenix training through a deep understanding of emotional reaction to fear and conflict, and how people cope when they are threatened.

Most people start at Phoenix for fitness but soon realise that fitness is only a small part of what we do and what they love. It is a massive benefit but only a bi-product of training at Phoenix. Muay Thai Kickboxing at Phoenix is the real deal and our developmental program will allow you to reach your goals whatever they may be.

Life is about how many times you can get up and keep going

Muay Thai (spelt as “Muaythai” by the World Muay Thai Federation WMC) is the national sport of Thailand and the most effective striking system in the world. Muay Thai is a combat sport that uses stand-up striking along with various clinching techniques and

takedowns. It is a physical and mental discipline which is known as “the art of eight limbs” due to the combined use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Muay Thai became widespread internationally in the twentieth century, when practitioners defeated notable

practitioners of other martial arts. Today, Muay Thai is the most dominant striking art in the world and the foundation of striking sports including kickboxing and K-1. It gained recent prominence in the growth of MMA as the main striking art practiced by all

MMA competitors.

Muay Thai is based around competitive fighting and everything taught is constantly tested in real fights between well-trained athletes. It is practical and simple to learn, however requires demanding fitness and a hard training regime

of conditioning; body toughness; and mental strength to excel at. It is fantastic fitness when trained at any level. Sadly this is why many aspects of Muay Thai have been stolen by the fitness industry, copied and watered-down

in an attempt to allow everyday people to experience and gain the benefits without competing or training true martial techniques. Muay Thai at Phoenix is the best workout you can get but with the added benefit of being

founded on a real fighting system.

Muay Thai is perfect for self-defence as it is simple, instantly applicable and the basic techniques are easy to retain. Using realistic techniques based completely on contact training, it also trains you to

deal with high pressure situations.

In 2016, Muay Thai was accepted into the IOC (International Olympic Committee) as an Olympic Sport. In Australia, the peak body for Muay Thai is Muay Thai Australia (MTA)

which is endorsed by the Australian Sports Commission and the AIS. The MTA is also affiliated with the international governing bodies of Muay Thai – the World Muay Thai

Council (WMC) and the International Federation of Muay Thai (IFMA). Any other organisation established to conduct competitions in Australia IS NOT done under

the recognition of any of these bodies. It is important to note that clubs not associated with the MTA are not authorised or endorsed to coach or train

people in authentic Muay Thai.

AN OVERVIEW OF MUAY THAI

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Phoenix is not a modern franchise of martial arts or a fitness industry tokenised product, a place for ego’s

and macho development or your movie watching video game playing wanna be super hero black belt wearing ninja

movie star kung fu master certificate giving 12 year old black belt wearing mind melding death touch using money taking

fancy kicking one punch doing, bought the shorts got the tap out shirt did a two week course in Thailand, meet a Gracie did a

seminar with Bruce Lee, got a black belt in three styles trained in the backyard with the secret klingon special forces who cloned Krav

Maga with Spetnez after visiting an army base in a CIA t’shirt, first time released to the public course and have a friend who is a world champ

who taught me in the backyard after receiving his 18th dan from a 27 year old master who once won a non contact forms demonstration world

championship held in Queanbeyan, against a guy from Greece (who has lived in Charnwood for 12 years), come to train in your gym for the benefit

of everyone already there so I can just join into any class and jump straight into competing as a professional because I memorised every word of Monkey

Magic and own every issue of Black Belt magazine since Karate was invented and I actually believe that doing non contact martial arts in a pyjama outfit and

winning a competition at point sparring makes me a martial artist and as tough as the karate kid and although I am a nerd I can be like Darth Vader and Harry Potter

because they started out as nerds but did a Jedi course in fighting magic and I can measure the quality of a martial Art school by the amount of black belt wearing unfit

people teaching the classes to copy each other and perform memorised movements in choreographed scenes because if I ever get the chance to audition for an extra in karate

Kid 12 I will have a shot because I have 14 certificate’s and payed to grade every month to finish my black belt course in 12 months and signed up 24 other gullible people to my Amway

Kmart karate system that sounded more authentic when we count in Korean, have Japanese characters and a fancy name that I got from the local Chinese restaurant waiting for my noodles

reading the I-Ching to add a philosophy degree to my deadly fighting skills type of person, who has visited the Shaolin Temple and learnt the true forgotten art by osmosis and believe that all my

potent chi power will save my life in a real fight because I read the encyclopaedia of martial arts and have UFC on play station, so I know what to do in every fight and as I comment: about it on facebook

and sports blitz I must be an expert and are not phased by the fact that my only experience with anything resembling contacts sport is the contact I have with myself.

At Phoenix, you can learn Muay Thai in a safe and professional facility with expert coaches all of which have extensive competition and

training experience. These coaches are accomplished fighters who have followed a very strict developmental system and applied this knowledge

in a competition arena. This allows them to truly understand how to train you to be the best you can be. What you do with their guidance/ teachings

is up to you.

Phoenix has a small, but serious, Fight Team. This step is only for those that choose to compete and are generally intermediate graded members and above.

95% of people at Phoenix never compete but if they wanted to, they could. More importantly, if they had to (for self-defence) Phoenix training would enable them to

fight and stand up for themselves. At Phoenix, our developmental program will build you from an everyday person into an extraordinary person as you get fitter and tougher

with skills that work. Phoenix will teach you the basics and the character required to progress from beginner class to intermediate and sparring classes.

At Phoenix, you can be proud you are learning the real thing from experienced people. There are no fitness industry certifications to be a Kickboxing/Muay Thai coach so don’t be fooled

by fitness instructors who pretend that they teach kickboxing, boxing, or MMA. We will teach you authentic Muay Thai via a fun and safe system that will include the realities of learning to

hit and get hit with the exciting and emotional aspects of learning to push yourself and deal with physical and mental challenges that are integral to life.

People join Phoenix to get fit and learn self-defence but they stay because of the great workouts; the results; the fun they have training, and ultimately, the people and sense of community/ family that

can’t be found anywhere else.

Life is like walking up a downward escalator

THE VISION OF PHOENIX AS IN 1996‘100% TESTED ON HUMANS’®Phoenix Gym training is different. We do not fit neatly into either the Fitness or the Martial Art Industries. Unlike some commercial clubs/ gyms, we don’t view the people who walk through our doors as customers. They are our members/ students/ training partners and friends. This is what sets us apart. We deal with real people and get real results with real training. We also push our members to work outside their comfort zones – We train hard!

Phoenix trains ‘old school’ effective fitness exercises that have been validated through the latest scientific research. Our result-driven system proves they work. We are not a trend and there is no techno and no lycra. We do what we say we do and it works. We don’t bow to anyone. We respect people for who they are, what they do, and what they have achieved.

All our memberships are partnerships between our members and the coaches. If you want to reach your goals, you have to put in the effort required and earn them. At Phoenix, we want you to succeed – trust your coaches, do as they say and you will achieve your goals. Leave your excuses and ego at the door. It is not about looking good/ image/ uniforms/ levels/ belts/ or untested theories. It is about being PROUD; taking on challenges; and achieving something for yourself. It is about being a participant in life and not a spectator.

Traditionally, boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling gyms trained fighters – people that fight to live, to eat, and to have honour. The training was tough and result driven. What worked was absorbed regardless of how it looked or how much fun it was. Over time, these exercises have been refined, better understood, and researched. Coaching and delivery standards have also improved. At Phoenix, we teach effective techniques via modern and less traditional methods, but the core stays the same – you have to train hard!

Boxing, kickboxing and wrestling are still some of the toughest sports in the world. Combined with REAL ‘Martial’ Arts, they are extraordinary methods for developing both physical performance and character. The difference now is that anyone can give them a go. You can try the fitness industry for a comparatively watered-down, soft and abbreviated version. Or you can try most other Martial Art gyms and see what has been lost and modified into safe, politically correct, rote learned, ego- and movie-driven stylistic versions. Or you can try PHOENIX! We believe in the honour; the tradition; the results; and the truth of ‘martial’ arts but we combine this with the best of modern sport science and advances in safe exercise principles.

In a world of few real challenges, and with most things being politically correct/ safe/ soft/ image-driven, people need an outlet – a personal test. They want character/ spirit/ something real. They want to be somebody more than their mediocre world allows. They want to be different. They do not want to accept what is given to them by mainstream media and information sources.

Combat sports are about self-respect; self-development; and personal pride. At Phoenix we understand this. We live it and can share it with you. The challenge never stops.

We can get anyone fitter, faster, stronger and tougher. Our Martial Arts, fitness, strength, and conditioning training is functional, practical, fun and hard. It is driven by our history of being a result-based, sports-focused, success-orientated training gym. We give our members challenging and interesting activities to engage them and they include intellectual and personal challenges to develop them. Over time we increase the intensity, load, and challenges, but the same demanding and successful principles remain.

For members, Phoenix is more than a gym. It is an integral part of their lives. It is an essential part of who they are.

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PHOENIX GYM IS A SPECIALTY GYMWE TEACH PHOENIX MUAYTHAI

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MUAY THAI

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TRAININGELEMENTS OF PHOENIXMUAY THAI

SKILL & APPLICATION

• STRIKES

• DEFENCES

• MOVEMENT AND REACTIONS

• RHYTHM AND TIMING

• COMPOSURE

• RANGE – (EYE GAP)

• ADAPTATION AND DECISION MAKING

FITNESS & CONDITIONING

TACTICS & STRATEGY

PSYCHOLOGICALPREPARATION &

CHARACTERDEVELOPMENT

• STAMINA AND ENDURANCE

• SPEED AND EXPLOSIVENESS

• FLEXIBILITY AND BALANCE

• STRENGTH AND POWER

• BODY CONDITIONING AND RESILIENCE

• USE OF ENERGY SYSTEMS AND ADAPTABILITY

• CONFIDENCE, DETERMINATION, AND WILLPOWER

• MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COURAGE

• AWARENESS, CONCENTRATION AND ALERTNESS

• POSITIVE THINKING AND VISUALISATION

• HUMILITY, HONOUR AND INTEGRITY

PERSISTANCE, DILIGENCE AND COMMITMENT TO TRAININGPERSONAL GOAL SETTING AND TEAMWORK

PAIN IS TEMPORARY – PRIDE LASTS FOREVER

• AGRESSION AND DETERMINATION

• KNOWLEDGE OF THE SPORT – RULES OR NO RULES

• KNOWLEDGE OF YOUR STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

• READING AND CONTROLLING YOUR OPPONENT

• RINGCRAFT AND AWARENESS

• CREATIVITY AND DECEPTION

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ONE LOCATION AND GREAT COACHESWe do not apologise for only having one club in one location. If you live locally you can rest assured, you are lucky to have one of Australia’s leading and most respected combat sports clubs near you. We have people travel from all over Canberra; Australia; and even the world; to train at Phoenix. By having one location, we can deliver the highest standards of training and the best facility in Australia.

COACHESPhoenix coaches are experts in what they deliver. Each coach is committed to your development and is led by the head coach who has more than 20 years’ full-time coaching experience. Another point of difference with Phoenix is that the owner and head coach is in the gym training everyday; leading by example. He is not a stranger who visits only for formalities and gradings.

All Phoenix coaches have extensive experience and, only once they have proven they can do what they teach, are they selected as coaches. They are fit, positive role models and senior students at Phoenix who lead by example. Our coaches have extensive competition and life experience and are here to pass on their knowledge. They also train every day and are constantly progressing themselves. Please read ‘COACH PROFILES’ on our website for more information.

MUAY THAI KICKBOXINGIS A CONTACT SPORTMuay Thai is a contact sport as all Martial Arts should be. At Phoenix you learn to defend yourself and are trained in counter-fighting or attacking using striking and grappling skills. Our highest priority is the safety of students. All Phoenix training is supervised and controlled to limit the possibility of injury. We take the utmost care to ensure training, partner work and sparring is done in a controlled and responsible manner. All students are taught to control their techniques and respect their training partners. It is, however, important to recognize that there is an implied risk in any contact sport. Any person participating in a class conducted by Phoenix does so at their own risk. Physical activity carries inherent risks that cannot be totally eliminated. Your development will be greatly assisted by training regularly but also by ensuring that you have the appropriate protective equipment for your level.

Students are taught when and where it is appropriate to use their fighting skills. All self-defence skills are for use only if necessary. One of the main aims of our teaching is to develop self-belief in all students so they grow up with a confident and positive attitude. Students are trained to never be a victim.

It is an expectation of all Phoenix students to participate in the spirit of our training and discipline both in classes and outside the gym. If anyone is involved in a violence related incident, we will be required to review the situation to determine if any rules of conduct were broken and consider possible actions in regards to further training.

When training at Phoenix, you will be challenged both mentally and physically. Our classes may not always seem ‘fun’ and at times you may find drills to be difficult. However, persistence and confronting these training challenges will build strength of character and allow you to overcome them and move onto greater achievements and greater challenges.

We do our very best to give feedback to all students as often as possible but it can be difficult to spend enough time with everyone. If you are interested in further feedback, please don’t hesitate to approach a coach at any time. You can also call or make an appointment to discuss any issue as it is easier to discuss matters outside of class times.

Dreams are the stuff of which reality is made

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COMPETITION EXPERIENCEA small number of our students choose to challenge themselves further through competition. Those students make up our fight team. Training to compete requires substantial time and effort. Only the most committed and capable are up to the standard of competition. This is why less than 5% of our members fight. Muay Thai competitions are full-contact and everything is about intent and effective striking. Competition fighting can be extremely dangerous if you are not prepared – but through hard work and training, Phoenix fighters are always prepared. By keeping our standards high, we have produced multiple national and international champions over the years. We are also respected internationally for the level of athlete we produce.

The training system at Phoenix is a live, results-based system – we adapt as we compete. We then test what we train via our competition team and ultimately prove that it works.

It is important to note that we will not ask anyone to compete. Students must approach us to express their interest. All interested parties must then complete a fitness and skill test to secure a place on the team. Few members elect to compete but those that do show substantial improvements in their day-to-day training. We believe this to be because competition attracts results-driven people who will work relentlessly with focus on the goal in front of them. The test of competition brings out the best in people. Win or lose, they are better for it because of the training and the goal-focused approach.

The members that compete show confidence in all aspects of their life. The dedication required to be successful at Muay Thai translates to any pursuit they put their mind to.

If you are interested in competing, please speak with a coach about what is required.

UNIFORMSAdult classes do not a have a uniform but there is a dress code. Appropriate Muay Thai shorts and a singlet or t-shirt is preferable. Graded badges should be sewn securely on Muay Thai shorts.

DISCIPLINEAll training at Phoenix is structured and disciplined. Classes are formal. No one leaves, has a drink without permission or stops and starts as they feel like it. Classes follow a team-work approach where everyone is expected to participate at the same time and with the same amount of effort. No one talks during instructions and everyone behaves with respect and consideration of others.

SOME CULTURAL ASPECTS THAT AFFECT THEPHOENIX SYSTEM• Constant evaluation and improvement of training and

coaching methods.

• Every merit is well earned through hard training.

• We choose to teach practical application over theory

• Character development and mental strength are highly valued.

• Identify the importance of team work and a loyalty to each other as no success is alone.

• Weak-hearted excuse driven people or bullies are not welcome.

• Developing confidence through achievement, not arrogance

• That you can change people’s lives for the better through our training and character development.

• That we contribute to people’s health with honest lives that include not smoking, not getting drunk with responsible and tolerant behaviour towards others.

• That taking illicit drugs of any kind, selling, promoting, or having anything to do with people that do, is not tolerated. Phoenix has a zero-drug culture and one incident life bans.

• To never contribute to violence in society is paramount. This means to become aware of people who resort to violence and the behaviour of people outside the gym is important to Phoenix.

• That application capability outweighs the look of something.

• To train with an empty cup and always strive to improve yourself.

• That we coach the best we can, but follow a system. Students have great instructors that coach the same concepts, principles, and techniques to everyone. It is essential a student doesn’t get different messages from each coach or outside sources.

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PHOENIX GENERAL CLASS FORMATShadow sparringShadow sparring is practiced in every class. Students are expected to shadow spar every time a drill is finished. This is the default method used to show the coach that they are finished the previous drill. Shadow sparring continues until all students are finished or the coach stops the drill. It is also done at the end of every class for about 2 minutes to practice what was learnt in the class.

INTRODUCTIONThe coach advises what the class will involve.

ConditioningCardio fitness; endurance; strength; speed; power; and conditioning exercises are incorporated into this part of the class to improve students’ functional fitness for combat sports and martial arts. Conditioning activities may be skill-based – that is, revolve around the skills taught, but at an increased rate or intensity – or they may be standard body-weight exercises such as push-ups; sit-ups; lunges; squats etc. Conditioning activities may be done in a group, circuit format or with partners. After the skill work portion of the class is completed, all classes include a focus on conditioning and fitness at the end, however, conditioning is also included throughout the class in spikes to develop physical thresholds of students and increase the training load in bursts.

Skill practice and revisionSkill training is conducted as a group with the coach out the front to teach and demonstrate the physical movements required for the sport. Basic skills taught in previous classes are revised while new skills are introduced and practiced.

Line Up To finish the class, students line up in order of experience and graded levels. The Coach provides a summary and some general feedback. They also give notifications of upcoming events and thank everyone for their efforts.

WARM UPEach class starts with a warm up. It is intended to get students moving and ready for the action/demands of the class. The major muscles groups are warmed up during this time and the heart rate is lifted to a good working level. The warm-up may include a game; skipping; running; moving in place and/or rotations. This is then followed by stretching and some light free-body strength work plus exercises to switch on elements like balance; speed; reactions; and flexibility. The warm up should create a positive atmosphere for training and the class.

Cool down, stretch out The final few minutes of each class involves cool down exercises and stretches. This is intended to bring the heart rate back to normal and to work out the toxins built up during the physical work of the class. Shadow sparring is done for revision of the class before stretching.

Partner work The main segment of each class is conducted with partners. Partner work involves practicing with a partner in an interactive fashion the skills taught at the start of the class. Glove work, shields and partner stimuli/cues are used in this part of the class to simulate reality in a controlled learning environment. Partner work includes the training of Phoenix elements including fitness and conditioning; balance; stamina; flexibility; reactions; speed; and power. Basic skills are always covered to ensure the development of a solid foundation and excellence of application.

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All beginner and general classes are designed to develop and enhance students’ basic skills and fitness. These classes revolve around developing fundamental’s including the skills, fitness and physical attributes required for the sport. The Phoenix curriculum, created by the head coach, is the govern-ing document from which the training programs are drawn. Every single class at Phoenix is planned to develop students in accordance with the skills and fitness detailed for each level of the curriculum. The curriculum and training programs provide a base from which coaches plan every class to ensure constant improvement through the repetition of basics, while also keeping learning fun, challenging and mentally stim-ulating. Fitness is also included in every class and is based principally on cardio output, free body work and developing the physical attributes required for the sport.

OVERVIEWOF THE PHOENIX COMBAT SPORTSADULT TRAINING PROGRAM

Pain is just weakness leaving the body

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Phoenix members often enjoy training in beginner and general classes for many years. Even though the level of classes attended stays the same, due to the variety of drills taught, they are still constantly challenged physically and mentally. For those members that wish to set goals and grade in the system, the beginner classes provide a solid foundation for all skills and fitness. Beginner and general classes are important for all levels as they practice the foundations required for the sport whilst still providing a great workout. To grade to higher levels the beginner classes are essential as they develop through repetition, the fitness and physical and mental attributes required at Level 1.

Every class is planned based in accordance with the weekly training program which is drawn from the monthly training cycle. The monthly training cycle covers all the basics of the system. One month is far too short to practice the skills learnt, so the program repeats the cycle with the same basics, but with a different emphasis to ensure that the learning process develops from familiarization to competence, and that every student has a depth of skill. Each class focuses on 3-4 skills, repeats and practices previously taught skills, and adapt the application of the skills, while varying the focus and emphasis. The monthly cycle is repeated with the same weekly focus, revision and practice in varying situations and developed learning of each skill. The monthly program takes at least 4 months to cycle through as the coaches extract each class plan from it in order not to overwhelm or over-teach students. By the end of the 4 months the coaches evaluate each student’s development and determine any gaps in learning and incorporate these into the next 4-month program. Gaps are often due to students not training regularly enough and missing lessons in the cycle. The repetition of the cycle ensures that over time everything will be covered often enough so that students only training 2 times a week still develop quality skills based on solid foundations. A student who trains regularly (3 times a week) will learn all the basics of the system and develop the required fitness to participate fully in each class.

The training cycle is designed so that after 4 months of training (3 times through the cycle) a student has been exposed to basics of the system. They have been taught all the basics required for Level 1 of the system and only need time developing their skills and fitness to develop intermediate skills. Missing classes or weeks will result in students missing important aspects of the development of their basics, but after time the cycle is repeated in principle every month, so a student will, after regular training for six months, be exposed to all aspect of the basics of the system.

The Phoenix training cycle is designed to have a specific emphasis each week so that after one month a student has a solid exposure to a range of beginner skills. Phoenix Combat Sports basics are taught in a functional, effective, and dynamic way. The training cycle provides students with the right amount of time to master a range of basic techniques in a logical fashion and the opportunity to re-visit and practice them in each 4-5-week cycle. With consistent training, commitment, and hard work, students can develop all techniques, attributes, fitness and applicable skills to grade to Level 1.

Beginner classes incorporate effective and realistic techniques as well as functional and challenging fitness activities. The beginner classes produce real results in all students who train regularly and work hard, trying each class to improve and building habits of consistency and diligence to attend and train regularly. As fitness develops, a student’s ability to perform skills improves and a balance between fitness and ability develops to a functional level of competence. It usually takes a generally fit person, with average coordination, 4 months of regular training to start to look like they know what they doing and be fit and conditioned enough for their skills to be effective. To develop to a sufficiently competent level to grade to Level 1 will take between 6 months and two years depending on the person, their routine, the diligence, and their fitness.

Many members do not set grading as a goal and enjoy their training in beginner and general classes for many years. These members get very good and very fit at their basics and can step up whenever they wish or change their goals. Phoenix encourages spending as much time in beginner classes as you can and always maintaining contact with them to develop excellent basics. When grading to advanced levels, beginner classes are still required to keep learning and developing basics. If a member chooses not to grade they will never get bored in beginner and general classes and will constantly get fitter, faster, stronger, and tougher. Many people choose to do general and beginner classes as their fitness training; sometimes combined with a strength program, as cross training for another sport, or just for fun. There is no pressure to grade and for your regular fitness workout there is no better training than our beginner classes. Every beginner can rest assured that they are learning from a complete and effective system.

For members who wish to develop constantly, the grading system provides a mechanism for setting goals and benchmarks for achievement, and reignites the learning process and fun of training while constantly pushing pre-conceived effort levels and comfort zones.

4 types of classes:

All you can do is decide what to do with the time that has been given you

Beginner class

Beginner ‘skill and fitness’ classes to learn the basics of the curriculum.

Development to Leavel 1 Class (aka TTFU). This class is required before grading to Level 1. You must be graded to TTFU to attend. This class focuses mostly on learning defences and prepares students for the wide range of Level 1-and-above classes and sparring.

Level 1 class

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Graded class

Graded classes – Intermediate and advanced classes for people graded Level 1-and-above. These classes focus mainly on teaching and practicing the skills required to grade to a higher level.

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Workout classes – Designed to practice skills with a focus on conditioning. These include: Fighting Fit; bag workouts; and Thai pad classes.

workout class

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Gradings occur when people are ready to move to the next level. We grade people predominately at seminars but also occasionally in routine classes. Seminars are conducted a few times a year to spend longer focusing

on a topic. Seminars are practical training sessions that go for 2-3 hours and allow us time to delve deeper into the techniques, the system, and the training concepts. Seminars separate the more enthusiastic students from the casual visitors and allow coaches to focus better on the students looking to progress. Seminars can be the final step for grading and attending them demonstrates a student’s desire to progress.

None of the levels are time-based. ‘How long’ is intangible, as it depends on many factors. Factors assessed include; ability, aptitude, attendance at training, effort at training, skill development, fitness level and factors of fitness including sport specific requirements, team work, loyalty and coachability.

GRADINGS & TESTINGFOR LEVELS IN THE SYSTEM

Talent is only the ability to work really hardfor something

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INTERMEDIATE LEVELS AND ABOVEFrom Level 1 upwards the training is increasingly harder and the skill and fitness level required increases exponentially. This requires students to train regularly and not expect to grade for at least a year or more. Advanced levels for each level means you have the skills required for that level but not the experience. Many skills learnt in the early stages are the same however progression moves from performing the skills without pressure to increasing demands on application of skill, pressure based training, harder physical conditioning.

Level 2 requires application of basic techniques in sparring with partners of the same level and the ability to cope with people of more advanced levels. Level 3 is advanced and a level a student has proven they can perform under pressure,

have advanced technique and fitness with a smooth and clear ability to perform in sparring with control. Level 4 is the level for senior students who have surpassed the standards of Level 3 for a period usually exceeding 24 months and has competition experience. Level 5 is outstanding achievement at Level 4, competition excellence and an obvious development of the sport within the club via mentoring, coaching and representation. Level 6 is the Master Level for continued growth and excellence at Level 5 for many years with a demonstrated excellence at expanding a knowledge and skill base of the Phoenix System.

Fitness demands are higher at each level and there is an expectation for the higher levels to be able to execute correct technique in all fitness activities, as well as demonstrate intent and attributes such as speed, power, stamina, courage, and determination in all activities. The system moves from being able to perform without pressure to being able to perform under pressure, and from steady group fitness to demanding individual sport-specific fitness.

PARTNER TRAININGWe make every effort to partner people by suitability of age, size gender and ability. This is not always simple and requires flexibility. Odd numbers in class and other factors may require people to work alone on the bag or be moved between programs as required for appropriate partner work. There are no fitness adjustments for gender and everyone is trained to the same standards and expectations.

LIFESTYLEDiligence is an extremely important quality that we aim to instill in all students. Training twice a week for 2 years is better than 6 times a week for a month. The best way to get the most out of the training is to make it a lifestyle activity. Persistence over many years – keeping a regular schedule in your life regardless of what else you do, or sports you play – is how results are achieved. Phoenix is the best stress release you can get.

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We encourage

healthy eating

and regular exercise as

a part of the program.

We have a Phoenix dietician

if anyone would like

further educationon dieting and

healthy eating.We also

provide personal training

and extra trainingas required.

GRADED LEVELS ARETTFU – This level is a recognition of the effort you have put in as a beginner and that you are now ready to do classes at a development to Level 1 level. TTFU means you have the basic competencies of Level 1 but need some time focusing on developing the defensive aspects of your training, increasing the partner work aspects of your training, and learning how to apply your basics to the point that you are ready for Level 1.

Level 1 – Level 1 is the first step and the base for all future training. It is as much about having the basics under control as demonstrating the habits and diligence required to progress to the senior levels. Level 1 recognises your effort and ability to grasp the basics of Muay Thai and Kickboxing. To achieve Level 1, you must have demonstrated commitment to training on a regular basis plus a willingness to learn and improve. You must have the ability to perform the required basics in attack and defence situations and the fitness to power through a beginner class.

It is important to note that Level 1 is based on ability and attitude and not on how long you’ve been a member. If you train 3 times a week for 6 months and work at improving and listen to the Coaches, you could set a goal to grade within 6-9 months. Level 1 students are ready to participate in graded classes and can start to follow the path of true Muay Thai and Kickboxing by practicing a variety of classes including Thai Pad work; sparring; and Level 1 classes.

Level 1 at Phoenix means your basics, fitness and ability are at a standard to do an intermediate class at any Muay Thai or kickboxing gym anywhere in the world!

Level 2 – Intermediate Level. Level 2 is your reward for consistently demonstrating good training habits and ability to perform at an intermediate level. Level 2 recognises your effort and ability to apply the basics you have learnt on a consistent basis in varying scenarios across a range of intermediate classes. A Level 2 student has the conscious competence to practice offensive and defensive scenarios in a controlled environment.

To achieve Level 2, you must demonstrate your ability to perform the basics in intermediate classes for approximately 12 months. The test is your ability to consistently participate in sparring classes and work with a variety of people and abilities to prove you can apply what you have learnt and that you are fit enough to power through Level 1 classes. To achieve Level 2, you must demonstrate that you are mentally tough enough to persist in sparring classes over a period of many months. This is a competency based level and requires diligence, physical effort, and mental stamina to achieve.

Level 3 – Advanced Level. A Level 3 student can practice his or her skills in an open environment with limited controls. They can perform basics at a level of unconscious competence in non-structured scenarios against non-cooperative opponents with intensity and intent from both parties. Level 3 is your reward for years of commitment and dedication built on a consistent ability to perform at an advanced level. Level 3 recognises your effort and ability to apply basic, intermediate, and advanced skills on a consistent basis over many years.

To achieve Level 3, you must demonstrate your ability to perform in advanced classes for as long as it takes to earn the recognition of being advanced. The test is your ability to consistently participate in serious ‘fight club’ sparring classes for an extended period. You can hold your own with other advanced students as well work with beginner students. To achieve Level 3, you must demonstrate that you are mentally tough enough to never give up and have a proven record of accomplishment. Level 3 students are advanced enough to understand they still have a lot to learn.

We only attend to what we have the desire to attend to. Without desire there is no goal and no action.

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Level 4 – Senior. A Level 4 student has performed at an advanced level for years and is a positive role model to themselves, their peers, and the club. A Level 4 student ‘owns’ their technique and has integrated the benefits of training into their life and other achievements. A Level 4 student has demonstrated their ability outside of the gym in competition and can train anywhere in the world at an advanced level proudly representing themselves and Phoenix. Level 4 is above Muay Thai and requires Level 1 in grappling and ability to perform against varying styles and situations including MMA experience.

To be Level 4, a student has unconscious competence ability under pressure with all stand-up striking basics, and can adapt to a variety of attacking styles and situations. A student has the composure to utilise tactics and strategies to enhance the applicability of their style. A student has developed his or her own style based on concepts and self-awareness. A Level 4 student has the fitness and conditioning to handle the demands of regular training in an open environment, as well as the required athletic ability, humility, and proven repetitive mental toughness.

Level 5 – Phoenix Advanced. 5 people have graded to this level in 20 years. These students are International champions; Australian Champions; and people who have consistently demonstrated the highest standards of diligence; mental toughness; humility; loyalty and a high level of enthusiasm towards facing the hardest challenges in Combat Sports and life. They are leaders in their field and an inspiration to others in and outside the club.

A Level 5 student has unconscious competence ability under pressure with all stand-up striking basics, stand-up grappling, ground fighting (grappling) and the transition between ranges. The student has a distinct style that he or she ‘owns’ at a subconscious level, and can perform effectively under pressure against an uncooperative opponent with intent to harm. Level 5 students have set themselves apart from all other students by their ability and conduct in training and life.

Level 6 – One can only achieve Level 6 by maintaining the Level 5 ability for multiple years and improving the Phoenix System for the benefit of the club and the future. Contributing through years of dedication and developing the standards of the Phoenix System to ensure it remains world class and progresses.

When at first you don’t succeed.Do what your coach told you to do in the first place.

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CONC

LUSI

ON

The Phoenix Muay Thai system has been developed over 20 years of training, fighting, coaching and is 100% Tested on Humans. Phoenix aims to have constant and never ending improvement built into the system by evaluating results, methods, satisfaction, and the rewards of training.

The Phoenix training system enables everyone to train for satisfaction in every class, for happiness, for stress release, for a sport and fitness activity. To set goals for one class and enjoy just being here or to set goals over time to be a world champion. What you do with the resources available to you and the lessons you learn is up to you. The system of grading runs parallel with regular training and enjoyment so if you do not want to grade or you achieve a level you are comfortable with, and proud of – stay there. Grading is NOT the focus of the program, it is a reward system for your progression and development and a challenge to drive you further.

If you come regularly and enjoy yourself, then you are benefiting from being in a positive and challenging environment. The physical and mental benefits of regular training may not be immediately apparent and may take many years to be appreciated. A grading system and development program allows for an activity to have a long-life span and be an integral part of your life. The fundamental goal is to develop a positive character regardless of the level achieved by every member. For Phoenix, we want to contribute to the success of members lives by providing valuable life lessons and a center line to your life. Something everyone needs in good times, and bad. A place to train, to get away from the stress of your life and to have an outlet for your energy, aggression and stress is important. The social aspects of working hard with like minded people is also a massive positive.

Phoenix Combat Sports program is a comprehensive program of physical and mental development. It aims to provide students with multi-level challenges and ongoing opportunities for self-improvement. It is a way of life and regardless of the time you spend here, the lessons will have an impact on your life forever.

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Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes

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02 6241 2402info@phoenixgym.com.auwww.phoenixgym.com.au