Judith is a member of The Cellar Gym’s Muay Thai fight team. She is currently preparing to compete at the upcoming 2018 TBA Classic Muay Thai Tournament in Des Moines, Iowa. There are 800 registered competitors for this event making it the biggest Muay Thai tournament in North America!

1. What is your weight class and current record?

Weight class 153-159. Record 2-1.

2. How long have you been training Muay Thai?

2.5 years

3. Have you ever competed at TBA before? If so, what has been your experience?

Yes, it was a great experience! Made me love the sport even more.

4. How does a tournament differ from an ordinary fight?

I’ve only done tournaments so I can’t really compare. I like having teammates that are competing as well.

5. Why did you choose to get into Muay Thai?

I chose to get into it because I like to challenge myself and go out of my comfort zone, Muay Thai was definitely out of my comfort zone.

6. Why did you choose to get into fighting?

I chose to get into fighting because I wanted to test my skills and techniques against others who trained in the same sport as me.

7. Is fighting the same or different than you expected it to be?

Compared to swimming and running, fighting is definitely different, you have to learn to quickly adjust in the moment and that uses both mental and physical energy.

8. What was your first fight like? If you have never fought before… what are you most looking forward to?

My first fight was nerve wrecking! Being 5’5″ and going against a 6’1 girl was not ideal but I still had fun… Afterwards!

9. How have you grown since your first fight to now?

I think that I have grown tremendously! Especially not quitting after losing my first fight. Shows that I truly love the sport.

10. What would you say has been the biggest benefit to fighting?

I have gained more confidence not only in fighting but in life as well.

11. What is your favorite part of getting ready for a fight? What is your favorite part of the actual fight?

Getting ready: Feeling the nervous excitement in the air with my teammates. During the fight: the respect the opponents show each other before and after the fight.

12. What is your least favorite part of getting ready for a fight? What is your least favorite part of the actual fight?

Getting ready: Not being able eat all the tasty foods. During the fight: getting punched in the face. I know it happens but it’s still not fun.

13. What does a typical “fight camp” look like for you?

Waking up early in the morning to go to strength and conditioning with Ben Locken and doing extra workouts to shed the pounds.

14. What does a typical “fight diet” look like for you?

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15. How does it feel to fight alongside so many teammates?

It makes it easier because you’re not in it alone.

16. How have your teammates and coaches helped you through this camp?

They have been very positive and encouraging which makes you keep going.

17. What advice would you offer to someone who aspires to fight one day?

Do it! You’ll be glad you did!