Moreno Muay Thai Academy stands out as a premier martial arts facility, dedicated to providing quality instruction and fostering a supportive environment for students of all ages. The academy's focus extends beyond just physical training, emphasizing discipline, respect, and self-confidence.
Expert Instruction and Leadership
Arjan Carlos Moreno
Arjan Carlos Moreno is a highly respected figure in the Muay Thai community. He began Muay Thai training in 1993 and joined Cheetah Muay Thai Academy in 1996. He continued studying his art by living and training at the International Muay Thai School in Bangkok, Thailand. He has trained amateur and professional Muay Thai and MMA champions from central to northern California and in North Texas.
In June of 2011, he achieved Arjan, the master level for dedication to instruction and ability to teach Muay Thai by Master Cheetah. He earned the title of Kru in 1999 and in 2009 received a recognition award for his dedication to quality instruction and commitment to his students. Arjan Carlos is the youngest American ever to earn master level and is the official Midwest representative for Master Cheetah and the Cheetah Muay Thai Academy.
Instinct Coaches
The academy boasts a team of dedicated and experienced coaches:
- Manuel “Manny” Molina - Head Coach: Coach Manny has trained athletes and fighters since 2010. Manny continues to develop his fighting and coaching abilities by training with highly regarded combat sports figures such as Kirian Fitzgibbons, Superbon, Damien Alamos, Tiffany Van Soest, Sugar Sean O’Mally, Supergirl, Superdad, and more. He spent six years fighting in amateur Muay Thai and Sports Kickboxing circuits before coaching full-time. His exposure to other disciplines like Mixed Martial Arts and Boxing expanded his mindset on training that inspired him to open Instinct Muay Thai.
- Josh Martinez - Strength, Conditioning, and Kids’ Coach: In 2018 he began his Muay Thai journey with Coach Manny. Coach Josh began his martial arts journey practicing Karate under Hanchi Salvadora and Sensei Leo Tapanas in 2005. Since then he has competed in multiple fights and continues to develop his skill set with the team. He competed in Forms and Point Sparring over the years. Josh specializes strength, conditioning, and technical training for kids and adults alike.
- Coach Jonathan: He’s developed his skill set competing in the local circuit in Point Competitions and IKF (International Kickboxing Federation). Coach Jonathan began his Muay Thai Career in 2020 where he practiced under Coach Amalia Heineman and Coach Manuel Molina. He enjoys gaining a deep insight into different techniques and their application on opponents with different styles. Known for his fun and high energy classes, Coach Jon’s time in the Army has influenced his coaching style on the mat. He takes a very disciplined approach towards Muay Thai, specializing in technical breakdowns for both adult and kids.
- Coach Nat: She has experience in exhibition matches and her personality and perspective brings something unique to the table. Coach Nat has been training with Coach Manny and the team for the better part of half a decade. She represents one of the many strong women leaders who train here at Instinct Muay Thai.
Muay Thai Training 101: Full Beginner's Class
Programs and Facilities
Mash Gym is Metro Detroit’s Premier Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA and Fitness Center. Mash offers a wide variety of classes and training: everything from Kids’ and Adult MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing and Muay Thai, to Boot Camps and Bag Classes. We are centrally located on 8 Mile Road between M5 and Telegraph.
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The facility features an enormous space with over 10,000 sq. ft. on two levels. There’s 3,500 sq. ft. of mats, a 2,500 sq. ft. weight room a dedicated dry sauna, plus a separate cardio area featuring treadmills, stationary bikes and a full range of fitness equipment. Outside features a full size parking lot with a running track in back.
Youth Program: Building Life Skills Through Muay Thai
Moreno Muay Thai Academy offers a specialized youth program designed for children ages 8-12. This program focuses on:
- Discipline
- Self-defense skills
- Confidence
While your child learns self-defense, they’re actually developing crucial life skills that will serve them forever:
- Leadership Skills: Take turns leading warm-ups and helping newer students
- Goal Setting: Work through our belt system with clear, achievable milestones
- Respect & Discipline: Learn to bow, listen, and follow instructions
- Problem Solving: Think strategically during technique drills
- Social Skills: Make friends with kids who share positive values
Muay Thai has helped kids become more helpful at home, more focused at school, and more confident in social situations.
A Typical Class Experience
Every class is carefully designed to keep kids engaged while building skills:
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- Warm ups
- Technical breakdowns
- Partner drills
- Bag work
- Strength and conditioning
- Games and stretching
No previous experience needed. We teach everything from the ground up in a supportive, encouraging environment.
Benefits of the Youth Program:
- Confidence to take on new challenges
- Focus to excel outside of the gym
- Deeply rooted friendships
- Discipline to achieve their goals
Addressing Common Concerns
The academy understands that parents may have questions about enrolling their children in Muay Thai. Here are some common concerns and their answers:
- “Is it safe for my child?” Absolutely. Safety is our #1 priority. We maintain a healthy instructor-to-student ratio, use protective equipment, and focus on control and technique.
- “Will it make my child aggressive?” The opposite. Muay Thai teaches respect, self-control, and discipline. Children learn to walk away from confrontation with confidence.
- “My child isn’t athletic…” Perfect! Our students don’t need athletic ability to be awesome. We build skills progressively, celebrate small wins, and ensure every child succeeds at their own pace. No child is left behind.
- “How much time commitment?” Flexible schedule. Classes run 5 times per week for 60 minutes. Most kids see results with just 2 classes weekly. We offer multiple time slots so you can make the program work for your family.
What Parents Are Saying
The academy has received numerous positive reviews from parents who have seen significant improvements in their children's behavior, fitness, and confidence.
Here are a few testimonials:
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- Javier Moreno: We’ve had such a great experience with this Muay Thai school! The coaches work hard to keep the kids engaged, and you can really feel the energy and passion they bring to every class. They’ve created an environment that’s focused not just on proper technique and discipline, but also on making it genuinely fun.
- Desiree Mauriz: Incredible experience for young martial artists! The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and create a fun, safe environment for kids to learn. The classes focus on discipline, respect, and self-confidence, which has positively impacted my daughter’s behavior both at home and school. We’ve seen significant improvements in her physical fitness, coordination, and focus. The gym offers a great balance of technique training and conditioning, keeping the classes engaging and challenging. Highly recommend for any parent looking to introduce their child to martial arts!
- Genifer Agasa: Hands down, the best decision we made for our boys (11 & 12)! They transitioned from Taekwondo to Muay Thai wanting more boxing, and the coaches have been incredible-patient, knowledgeable, and so encouraging. In just a short time, they’ve learned so much and gained confidence in their skills. The training is intense but fun, keeping them excited for every class. If you want top-notch coaches and fast progress, this is the place to be!
Getting Started
Moreno Muay Thai Academy is located in Kendall, FL, minutes away from the Miami Dade College Kendall Campus, and Country Walk.
Your Child’s Transformation Starts Here:
Trial class available • No experience needed • All equipment provided
Sign up today to schedule your child’s trial class and experience the positive impact of Muay Thai firsthand.