Part of the guide: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Norfolk: the complete guide
Union Thai is a martial arts gym in Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth. It sits just over the border from Lowestoft, and the A12 links the two towns. If you live near Lowestoft and you want proper coaching in Muay Thai, MMA or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it is worth a look.
This page is for Lowestoft readers. It explains what we teach, who we teach it to and how to try us without a big commitment.
Where is Union Thai in relation to Lowestoft?
We are in Gorleston-on-Sea, which is part of Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. Lowestoft is the nearest large town to the south, in Suffolk. The A12 runs between them.
Check your own route and journey time before you set off. Find our address and details on the contact page.
What can I train at Union Thai?
We teach three disciplines under one roof. They are Muay Thai, MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
- Muay Thai, the stand-up striking sport from Thailand
- MMA, which mixes striking, wrestling and ground work
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the ground grappling art built on leverage
Kids have their own classes. Adults can train all three. The monthly membership covers all disciplines, so you can mix them.
Who coaches at Union Thai?
The 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, Tye Riches and Brett Semtex coach too. Read about all of them on the coaches page. If you want faster progress, you can also book a 1-to-1 session with the coaches.
Can I try one class before I commit?
Yes. Pay as you go is a single session with no commitment.
It suits a first visit. It also suits a trip from Lowestoft, because you can see if the journey works for you. Look at the timetable and pick a session that fits your day. Then check the memberships page for the options.
Should I pick Muay Thai, MMA or BJJ first?
Pick the one that sounds most fun. There is no wrong answer.
Muay Thai is stand-up striking and a very good workout. BJJ is ground grappling and it rewards patience. MMA mixes striking, wrestling and ground work. If you are not sure, try two. The monthly membership covers all disciplines. For a longer comparison, read MMA or Muay Thai: which should you choose?.
What if I have never trained before?
You are who we expect. All levels are welcome. You do not need to be fit and you do not need experience.
Tell the coach it is your first time. They will look after you. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water. Ask us about loan kit for your first session. Do not buy anything before you have tried a class.
What about people coming from other parts of Norfolk and Suffolk?
People travel to a gym for good coaching and a good room. We are on the east coast, so Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea and Lowestoft are the closest towns. The A47 also comes into Great Yarmouth from Norwich.
Plan your journey before your first visit. If a long trip feels like too much for a weekly class, ask us what sessions might suit you.
What should I expect on my first visit from Lowestoft?
Expect a friendly welcome and a clear plan for the session. Tell the coach where you have come from and that it is your first time.
Leave a little extra time for the journey, so you arrive calm and not rushed. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water.
How do I get started?
Pick a class. Book a session. Turn up. If you have a question first, use the contact page.
For more on choosing a gym, read how to choose a martial arts gym in Norfolk. For a full guide to a discipline, try our complete BJJ guide.
