Kru Ruben is a respected figure in the world of Muay Thai, known for his dedication to preserving the traditional methods of the art while adapting to the needs of modern fighters. His school, Caparica Muay Thai, stands out not just for its high-level techniques, but also for its commitment to physical and mental discipline. In this article, we explore Kru Ruben’s philosophy, training methods, and his journey in Muay Thai.
Traditional Foundations: A Method That Honors the Past
Kru Ruben’s approach to Muay Thai is rooted in tradition. In Portugal, where his school is located, few practitioners follow the classical rituals of Wai Kru or Muay Boran. However, Ruben is committed to preserving these techniques. He emphasizes the importance of Muay Boran, a traditional style of Muay Thai that is deeply connected to its historical roots.
According to Kru Ruben, Muay Boran is more than just a fighting technique; it’s a way of life. The stances, hand positions, and movements differ from modern Muay Thai. Fighters must develop a deep understanding of their opponent, using reading techniques to predict and counter movements. This knowledge, combined with techniques like knee strikes, creates a complete fighter capable of not just surviving in a match but mastering it.
Training Hard, Training Smart
Ruben’s training philosophy is clear: quality over quantity. Unlike the typical 45-minute workouts seen in many gyms, Kru Ruben believes in the power of longer, more intense training sessions. While kids’ sessions are one hour, adults train for an hour and a half. Given the school’s proximity to the beach, Kru Ruben combines indoor and outdoor training, ensuring that his students are exposed to various challenges to build both physical and mental endurance.
His training is demanding, yet designed to build well-rounded fighters. For instance, when focusing on boxing and elbow strikes, Ruben starts with techniques using plastrons (protective shields). After applying the technique, students move to the punching bag to refine their skills. The final portion of the workout focuses on abdominal exercises, followed by a calming Wai Kru session to help students wind down.
Ruben is also deeply involved in the training process. He doesn’t just instruct; he participates in nearly every session alongside his students, setting an example with his commitment and work ethic. “I don’t just tell my students to do it—I do it with them,” says Kru Ruben.
The Legacy of Muay Thai
When asked about his dream for his students, Ruben’s response is ambitious yet grounded. His goal is to see his students rank among the top 10 in the world. While he acknowledges the challenges, he believes in the potential of his school to become one of the best in Europe. More than personal accolades, Kru Ruben aims to leave a legacy of knowledge, passing on his skills to the next generation of Muay Thai champions.
The Warrior’s Dilemma: A Martial Art of Control
Muay Thai, by nature, is a brutal martial art. The power behind its strikes can be devastating. Yet, for Kru Ruben, it’s not about violence—it’s about control. “I may know that I can kill you with a single blow, but I don’t do it,” he says. This control is part of the philosophy that sets Muay Thai apart. It’s about knowing when to neutralize an opponent without causing harm, a skill that takes both physical and mental discipline.
As a coach, Ruben feels a responsibility to ensure his students are equipped to handle this powerful knowledge with respect. He refrains from teaching certain advanced techniques to those who lack the mental balance required to handle such power. “I’m waiting for the right student who has respect for the art,” he explains.
The Fighter’s Journey
Kru Ruben’s personal journey in Muay Thai is a testament to dedication and sacrifice. He began training at 16, but it wasn’t until his mid-20s that he took the sport seriously. Despite numerous obstacles, including financial instability and the challenges of balancing work and training, Ruben managed to rise to the top. His determination led him to become the Iberian Champion without any sponsors, relying solely on his effort and perseverance.
Kru Ruben’s personal journey in Muay Thai is deeply enriched by his impressive list of achievements:
• 2017: Iberian Champion in 61 Kg of Muay Thai (AITMA)
• 2015: Kickboxing Champion in 61 Kg in Portugal (WKU)
• 2013: Bronze Medalist at the European Championship, Class A, 57 Kg (IFMA Muay Thai)
• 2011-2012: Muay Thai Champion in 57 Kg in Portugal (FPKMT)
The path to the Iberian title wasn’t easy. Ruben worked shifts, often training early in the morning, running at night, and fighting on weekends. Despite this, he believes that the hardships he faced only strengthened his resolve. “If I wasn’t better, it was because of the instability in my life,” he reflects. “But for Muay Thai, I would do it all over again.”
A Champion’s Commitment
At 41, Ruben’s dedication to training remains unwavering. He continues to perform intense workouts, including 1,200-1,300 sit-ups a day, demonstrating that age is no barrier to excellence in Muay Thai. He balances his rigorous training with rest, enjoying a glass of red wine and the support of his wife.
His physical commitment to the sport is matched by his teaching philosophy. For Ruben, Muay Thai isn’t just about fighting—it’s about understanding the nuances of each movement, reading the opponent, and mastering a wide variety of techniques. “It’s a game of proximity,” he says. “You read your opponent’s movements, hit their joints, and immobilize them.”
A Sport for Everyone
Muay Thai isn’t just for fighters. Ruben’s method of training appeals to a wide range of individuals, including those not looking to compete but seeking physical conditioning. Surfers, for example, come to his school for physical preparation, benefiting from the muscular endurance focus of his training. His approach focuses on resistance training rather than hypertrophy, ensuring that students build functional strength.
Ruben also has a unique assistant coach—his Doberman, Pinky. The dog accompanies students during beach runs, pulling tires and even racing alongside them. Pinky’s presence adds an element of fun to the training, reminding everyone that even the toughest workouts should have an enjoyable side.
Conclusion
Kru Ruben’s school, Caparica Muay Thai, is not just a gym—it’s a place where tradition meets modern training, where physical and mental strength are developed hand in hand. Through his dedication to Muay Thai, his respect for the art, and his commitment to his students, Ruben is building a legacy that will impact the sport for years to come. Whether you’re looking to compete or simply improve your fitness, Caparica Muay Thai offers a path for everyone willing to embrace the art of sacrifice and discipline.
