about burning spirits

from thailand to philadelphia

Burning Spirits Muay Thai was founded to share our passion for authentic Muay Thai. Our mission is to teach Muay Thai the way it was passed down to us — a skill-based martial art built on discipline, respect, and tradition. Every class follows a structured curriculum that blends technique, conditioning, and culture, helping students progress step by step from beginner to advanced.

Our Head Coach Derek Kenney has been training since 2003 and traveling to Thailand annually since 2010, learning directly from the legendary Sityodtong camp and other top gyms. With over 20 years of experience, he has coached complete beginners to amateur and professional fighters in Muay Thai and MMA.

At Burning Spirits, you’ll train hard, build real skill, and become part of a supportive community that pushes each other.

Muay Thai & conditioning programs in philadelphia. Spots are limited. Get started today.

I recently started training at burning spirit Muay Thai and I’m having so much fun. The coaches are amazing they guide you through every technique and take the time to explain everything well. If you are thinking of giving it a shot you should 100 percent do it. The environment it’s friendly and full of great aura.
I had a great experience at Burning Spirits Muay Thai! The gym has an amazing vibe—clean, welcoming, and full of positive energy. What really stood out to me was the traditional Muay Thai feel of the training. Derek, the owner, brings authentic experience from Thailand, and it shows in the way he teaches and runs the gym. He’s incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and made me feel right at home. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, this is a great place to train. I’m definitely coming back! Highly recommend.
I’ve been a member of Burning Spirits since November 2024. Derek and his other coaches create a positive atmosphere where practitioners of all skill levels feel welcome. There is a built in sense of camaraderie. Every class I take I learn more about what I’m capable of and where I can improve. Whether you’re a seasoned boxer or new to martial arts, Burning Spirits has a spot for you.
I’ve been training here since October and it’s been such an awesome experience. Coach Derek and the team are fantastic instructors and it’s a very clean, welcoming environment. Feels like a community. Can’t get enough, highly recommend. Great tunes too. Shoutout to Coach Derek for creating an awesome space. Grateful I found it.
SIGN UP ASAP if you’re looking to improve your athleticism, discipline and health. I ditched only focusing on powerlifting to improve my health and mobility. I now feel explosive, dynamic as an athlete and comfortable with the idea of self defense situations. I came across the gym on a walk in the neighborhood and had a great first impression of the facilities and coaches. Clean, friendly, professional vibes and well maintained facility. After chatting with coach Derek, I took home a handout with information and looked into all of the details before scheduling my intro program. I’ve been now going to this gym for 5 weeks and I’m hooked. The vibes are great, there’s a wonderful balance between community, fun and serious training, and the facilities and coaches are incredible. Shout out to coach Derek for building something special in the fishtown / east Kensington community. If you’re someone who is thinking about checking it out, definitely do it and get ready for a big positive change in your life.

Get Info About Our Intro Program

Fill out this form, and we'll send you info about our Intro Program — 3 Foundations classes + boxing gloves. You’ll learn real Muay Thai, build strength, and train with a team that shows up, works hard, and supports one another.

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