Part of the guide: MMA in Great Yarmouth: the complete guide
Union Thai is a martial arts gym in Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth. We teach Muay Thai, MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This page explains what you can train, who it is for and how to get started if you live in Gorleston or nearby.
What martial arts can I train in Gorleston-on-Sea?
At Union Thai you can train Muay Thai, MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Kids have their own classes too.
Muay Thai is stand-up striking. MMA mixes striking, wrestling and ground work. BJJ is ground grappling built on leverage. Each one has its own class page, and the timetable shows the weekly sessions.
Who are the classes for?
Everyone. All levels are welcome. You can be a complete beginner, a fitness seeker or an experienced fighter.
Some people come to get fit. Some want a hobby. Some want to compete. You do not need to be fit to start. You get fit by training.
Who will coach me?
Our head coach and owner is Marcos Lopes. He has over 40 years of experience in Muay Thai. He also coaches BJJ, boxing and MMA.
Joao Lopes has 15 years of experience in boxing and kickboxing. Tye Riches is a K1 and Muay Thai champion with 17 knockouts. Brett Semtex is a pro wrestler and a multi-title K1 champion. Meet the team on the coaches page.
What is the community like?
Union Thai is a community gym. People train together week after week and push each other on.
A good gym is more than a room with mats. It is a place where you know the faces and where people want you to do well. That is the culture we aim for. The best way to judge is to come and see it for yourself.
How do I try a class in Gorleston?
Book a single session on pay as you go. There is no commitment.
Choose a class on the timetable. Tell the coach it is your first time. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water. We can lend gloves for your first session if you try Muay Thai.
What does it cost?
There are three ways to pay. A monthly membership, session packs or pay as you go.
We do not list prices in this guide, because they can change. The memberships page has the current options. The monthly membership covers all disciplines.
Can I train near the seafront and fit it round work?
Many people fit training around work and family. The timetable has evening sessions and a Saturday morning session. Check it to see what suits you.
Twice a week is a good start. Come more as you get comfortable.
What is a first visit like?
Short and simple. You arrive, meet the coach and join the session. The coach looks after you.
You will not be thrown in at the deep end. Beginners start with the basics. You go at your own pace. Afterwards you can decide whether it is for you. Many people book a second session before they have left the building.
Why train close to home?
A gym close to home is a gym you actually go to. That matters more than any single feature.
If the journey is short, you are more likely to go on a tired Tuesday. Regular practice is what makes you better. Union Thai is a local gym, with a local community around it, in Gorleston-on-Sea.
Where do I go next?
If you like the idea of MMA, read our complete MMA guide. If you want to start with striking, read Muay Thai for beginners: your first session.
If you have a question first, use the contact page.


