About the Academy

The Thut Ti Lethwei Curriculum

Under the visionary leadership of Saya Win Zin Oo, a distinguished advisory team was assembled to advance the Thut Ti Lethwei Global mission. This team comprises seasoned professionals with expertise in instructional development, teaching, martial arts programming, exercise science, management, media, and medicine. Together, they collaborated to analyze and refine Saya Win’s Thut Ti Lethwei system, creating a structured curriculum and training program aimed at delivering a comprehensive, foundational learning experience in Thut Ti Lethwei.

The Thut Ti Lethwei Global curriculum is grounded in proven pedagogical principles, scientific methodologies, and best practices in teaching and coaching. A central focus is the preparation of high-caliber Thut Ti Lethwei instructors who can represent, teach, and promote the art with excellence, integrity, and cultural authenticity. The curriculum is designed to equip learners with a thorough understanding of the technical, tactical, strategic, and cultural aspects of Thut Ti Lethwei.

The program employs a blended learning model, integrating both online and in-person components to optimize educational outcomes. Research demonstrates that hybrid learning approaches often yield superior results compared to traditional methods, particularly when learners are empowered to control their pace. To ensure mastery, Instructor Candidates engage in three core components of the Thut Ti Lethwei Global curriculum:

  1. Online-based Instruction – Comprehensive modules delivered virtually foundational learning.
  2. Virtual and/or In-person Classes and Workshops – Interactive sessions for hands-on training and skill refinement.
  3. Mentorship – Personalized guidance from authorized Thut Ti Lethwei Global instructors.

In addition to the structured curriculum, Thut Ti Lethwei Global offers diverse opportunities for further learning. These include online and in-person seminars, workshops, and specialized classes conducted by Thut Ti Lethwei Global and its network of affiliated instructors, schools, and clubs. These supplementary programs are open to Instructor Candidates, students, and individuals eager to deepen their understanding and practice of Thut Ti Lethwei.

Designed to provide motivated individuals with the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills required for recognition as a highly competent and 222respected Lethwei Instructor, the Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy offers a comprehensive foundation for its three-part blended instructorship program. This program combines online education, in-person training, and personalized mentorship to ensure a well-rounded and immersive learning experience.

Participants will master the core techniques and movements essential to Thut Ti Lethwei, including the mechanics of headbutts, bare-fist punches, kicks, knees, elbows, clinching, and defensive maneuvers. Emphasis will be placed on refining precision, efficiency, and effectiveness, enabling practitioners to maximize power, speed, and accuracy while minimizing the risk of injury. This rigorous approach ensures that instructors are equipped to uphold the art’s traditions and elevate its global standards.

The Thut Ti Lethwei Academy

Techniques

The distinct skills and movements that define Thut Ti Lethwei include a wide array of strikes and defensive maneuvers. These encompass the mechanics of executing headbutts, bare-fist punches, kicks, knees, elbows, and clinching techniques. Training focuses on refining precision, efficiency, and effectiveness in each individual technique to maximize power, speed, and accuracy. Additionally, emphasis is placed on minimizing the risk of injury through proper form, timing, and body mechanics, ensuring that practitioners can perform these techniques safely and sustainably in both practice and competition.

Tactics

While techniques focus on the “how” of fighting, tactics delve into the “when” and “why.” Techniques form the foundational skill set of Thut Ti Lethwei, providing the tools and methods necessary for combat. Tactics, on the other hand, determine how these techniques are applied to achieve success in a fight. Both are indispensable elements of mastery in Lethwei. Tactics encompass the strategies, methods, and plans employed to outmaneuver and overcome an opponent. They involve skillful manipulation of timing, precise distance management, and psychological control to gain the upper hand. In Thut Ti Lethwei, tactics transform raw technical ability into a cohesive and dynamic approach, enabling fighters to adapt, exploit weaknesses, and secure victory.

Culture

Lethwei is deeply woven into Myanmar’s cultural heritage and historical legacy, serving as both a symbol of resilience and a source of immense national pride. For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei is far more than a combat sport or fighting art—it embodies their national identity, traditions, and way of life. While techniques represent the “how” and tactics reflect the “when” and “why,” it is the cultural traditions of Lethwei that form its heart and soul. To effectively teach Thut Ti Lethwei, instructor candidates must not only master the physical and strategic aspects but also develop a profound appreciation and understanding of the cultural essence that defines this revered martial art

Knowledge

For instructor candidates aiming to effectively and comprehensively teach Thut Ti Lethwei, a deep understanding and appreciation of these traditions is indispensable. Embracing and cultivating these cultural elements ensures that the art remains authentic and connected to its origins. To teach Thut Ti Lethwei effectively, one must delve into its history, master its scientific principles as well as understand and apply proven training and teaching methodologies. Only by integrating these facets can instructors fully convey the richness and depth of this amazin fighting art and combat sport.

About
Saya Win Zin Oo

About
Thut Ti Lethwei

About the
Thut Ti Lethwei Club

About
Thut Ti Lethwei Global

Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy Disclaimer

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About Saya Win Zin oo?

One of Myanmar’s most distinguished Lethwei Saya (teachers), Win Zin Oo is a revered coach, instructor, mentor, and trainer. Renowned for his wisdom, humility, and kindness, Saya Win is the founder and senior coach of the esteemed Thut Ti Lethwei Club in Yangon, Myanmar. A professional Lethwei coach since 1982, he transformed his home into the Thut Ti Lethwei Club—Thut Ti meaning “courage”—and has dedicated over four decades to preserving and advancing the art of Lethwei. Fighters and enthusiasts alike have passed through its doors, drawn by Saya Win’s profound expertise and inclusive teaching philosophy.

Saya Win’s journey into Lethwei began with his grandfather, a farmer and amateur Lethwei practitioner, from whom he inherited the fundamentals of the sport. His understanding was further refined under the guidance of legendary teachers, including Saya Aung Gyi, Saya Moe Gyoe, Saya Duang Ni, and Saya Maung Nyunt. These influences shaped Saya Win into a master practitioner and teacher who emphasizes both technical precision and the deeper philosophies of Lethwei.

A pivotal figure in modern Lethwei history, Saya Win was instrumental in introducing Lethwei to the international stage. He was the first coach to showcase this ancient martial art in countries such as Australia and Japan, creating opportunities for his fighters to compete globally. His efforts have been central to promoting Lethwei as a respected discipline beyond Myanmar’s borders.

In recognition of his contributions, Saya Win was appointed Joint Secretary of the Myanmar Lethwei Federation in 1994 and later ascended to Vice President in 2007. In this role, he serves as the federation’s primary technical advisor, shaping standards for training and competition nationwide.

Saya Win’s expertise has been featured in global media, including the Netflix martial arts documentary series Fightworld, where he was the focus of the episode “Myanmar: Crossroads.” His work has also appeared in numerous articles and documentaries, cementing his status as the preeminent ambassador of Lethwei. Known for his ability to collaborate across cultures, Saya Win has earned widespread admiration for his deep knowledge, experience, and approachable demeanor.

Over his illustrious career, Saya Win has mentored countless champions at the local, national, and international levels. Notable fighters include Saw Gaw Mu Doe, Lone Chaw, Maung Maung Gyi, and Moe Pa Lae. Beyond fighters, Saya Win has also nurtured a generation of elite coaches, such as Moe Pa Lae, Kyaw Soe, and Saw Thae Aung, who have gone on to lead prominent Lethwei clubs across Myanmar.

Under his guidance, the Thut Ti Lethwei Club has become a model for modern Lethwei gyms, combining competitive training with opportunities for health, fitness, and personal enrichment. Many successful gym owners and promoters, including those behind Phoenix and Balance gyms, trace their roots back to Thut Ti’s philosophy and practices.

In addition to his work in martial arts, Saya Win has made significant contributions to disaster management and humanitarian efforts. He has worked with prominent organizations like World Vision, Save the Children, the Pacific Disaster Center, and UNICEF, earning accolades for his expertise in disaster risk reduction and emergency management.

Saya Win’s academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, an MBA (with a capstone thesis on applying business models to Lethwei), and an International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance. He also completed a Fellowship in Southeast Asia Development Management, further showcasing his commitment to both professional and personal growth.

For Saya Win, Lethwei is more than a combat sport; it is a pathway for personal development and cultural preservation. At Thut Ti Lethwei Club, he has tailored his teaching to meet diverse needs—whether training fighters for the ring, sharing the art for fitness and personal growth, or fostering an appreciation for Myanmar’s cultural heritage. His unwavering dedication has ensured that Lethwei thrives as a martial art and cultural treasure, inspiring practitioners worldwide to embrace its spirit of courage and resilience.

About Thut Ti Lethwei

Thut Ti Lethwei is a distinctive approach to Lethwei, meticulously developed and refined by Saya Win Zin Oo over four decades of teaching and coaching in Myanmar. While the traditional goal of Lethwei training has often been the preparation of competitive fighters, Thut Ti Lethwei offers a broader and more holistic vision.

This philosophy emphasizes Lethwei not only as a combat sport but also as a martial art, a method for enhancing physical fitness, and a cultural treasure steeped in history, traditions, and practices. Thut Ti Lethwei aspires to honor and preserve the essence of Lethwei, celebrating its rich heritage while promoting its diverse and inclusive aspects.

A key principle of Thut Ti Lethwei is its focus on fostering a positive and balanced relationship with the art. It seeks to avoid the pitfalls of excessive commercialism and fame-driven motivations that often accompany the professionalization of combat sports, including the modern-day commercialization of Lethwei.

Rather than positioning itself as the definitive or exclusive approach to Lethwei, Thut Ti Lethwei provides one valuable perspective for learning, teaching, and practicing the art. It acknowledges and respects the many diverse philosophies and approaches to Lethwei training, contributing to the broader understanding and appreciation of this ancient martial tradition.

 

About the Thut Ti Lethwei Club

Behind a discreet red gate in a serene neighborhood of Yangon lies the renowned Thut Ti Lethwei Club. Established over 40 years ago by Saya Win Zin Oo, this club has become a cornerstone of Myanmar’s martial arts heritage. Transforming his home into a hub for Lethwei—a traditional Burmese martial art—Saya Win has welcomed generations of champions, fighters, and students seeking rigorous training and personal growth.

The Thut Ti Lethwei Club stands as a beacon for martial arts enthusiasts, fitness seekers, and cultural aficionados from Myanmar and beyond. It is the premier destination for those drawn to the art of Lethwei, offering not just physical preparation for combat but also lessons in discipline, humility, and resilience.

“Anyone who is interested can experience Lethwei here,” Saya Win explains. “It’s not just about building a strong body or mastering tough techniques—it’s also about cultivating a gentle mind and a kind heart.”

Today, travelers from across the globe continue to visit the Thut Ti Lethwei Club, drawn by its reputation as an authentic and transformative training ground for one of Myanmar’s most cherished traditions.

About Thut Ti Lethwei Global

Thut Ti Lethwei Global was founded to honor and preserve the enduring Lethwei legacy of Saya Win Zin Oo. Dedicated to promoting this traditional martial art, Thut Ti Lethwei Global provides a comprehensive, systematic, and strategic framework for learning, teaching, training, and advancing Thut Ti Lethwei worldwide.

At the core of its mission, Thut Ti Lethwei Global has developed an extensive curriculum, diverse training opportunities, and a state-of-the-art online Lethwei academy. These components form an integrated program designed to impart the essential skills, techniques, strategies, and cultural traditions intrinsic to the practice and instruction of Thut Ti Lethwei.

A key focus of Thut Ti Lethwei Global is the preparation of exceptional instructors. Through its Instructor Preparation Program, the organization equips aspiring teachers with the tools to represent, teach, and propagate Thut Ti Lethwei with the utmost excellence and integrity.

This program adopts a holistic and strategic approach to instructor development, emphasizing both the technical and cultural aspects of Lethwei. Graduates of the Instructor Preparation Program emerge as skilled practitioners and dedicated ambassadors of Thut Ti Lethwei, ensuring the art form thrives for future generations.

What is Lethwei?

Myanmar Traditional Boxing, or Lethwei, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most aggressive and powerful martial arts. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Lethwei is a distinctive form of Southeast Asian combat also known as the “Art of 9 Limbs.” This name reflects its use of a wide array of techniques, including headbutts, bare-fist punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinches, throws, traps, and chokes.

Unlike other Southeast Asian martial arts such as Muay Thai in Thailand, Kun Khmer (Pradal Serey) in Cambodia, or Muay Lao in Laos, Lethwei’s unique approach incorporates an exceptionally broad arsenal of techniques. Its bare-knuckle fighting style and allowance of headbutts set it apart, creating a dynamic and raw combat sport with fewer restrictions. This uninhibited rule set enables Lethwei fighters to utilize strategies and tactics unavailable in other martial arts traditions, offering greater freedom of expression while also increasing the physical risks involved.

The absence of gloves and inclusion of headbutting amplify both the impact and the danger of Lethwei. Fighters can cause significant damage through techniques like trapping, choking, and throwing—maneuvers often banned in other combat sports. The sport’s defining characteristics—its range of techniques, the distance at which they are executed, and the choice of impact areas—underscore the distinctiveness of Lethwei.

For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei is far more than just a combat sport; it is a vital aspect of the nation’s cultural heritage and a profound source of pride. Rooted in Myanmar’s history, Lethwei symbolizes resilience, strength, and the enduring spirit of its people. As such, it holds a special place in the national identity and continues to be cherished as a living tradition that connects modern Myanmar to its ancient past.

Lethwei is often misunderstood by outsiders. Some incorrectly label it as “Thai Boxing with headbutts” or attempt to promote modified versions of the art that dilute its authenticity. These interpretations fail to grasp the essence of Lethwei, which is deeply entwined with the history, culture, and people of Myanmar.

Authentic Lethwei is practiced in many gyms and clubs across Myanmar, each with its own unique approach to training and technique. Despite these variations, all share a common foundation rooted in the official rules and traditions of the sport. Practitioners and enthusiasts should remain vigilant against the spread of “pseudo-Lethwei,” which misrepresents the true spirit of this martial art.

Lethwei’s unrestrained nature and profound cultural significance distinguish it as one of the most unique and respected fighting arts in the world. For those who seek to understand its essence, Lethwei offers not just a lesson in combat but a deeper connection to the soul of Myanmar.