The effectiveness of Muay Thai training on stress biomarkers and body composition in young adults

Introduction: Rising stress levels and poor body composition among university students necessitate effective physical interventions. Muay Thai, a high-intensity martial art combining aerobic and anaerobic demands, may offer dual benefits for metabolic health and stress reduction, though empirical evidence remains limited. Objective: This study examined the effects of an 8-week Muay Thai training (MTT) program on stress biomarkers (sAA) muscle mass and body fat percentage compared to brisk walking (BWE) in university students. Methodology: Sixty-four students were randomized into MTT (n=32) or BWE (n=32) groups. Both interventions consisted of 60-minute sessions, 3 time/week for 8-weeks, with intensity maintained at 60–80% of maximum heart rate. Body composition (BMI, body fat %, visceral fat) and sAA levels were assessed at baseline, 6-weeks, and post-intervention. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and between-group comparisons (p<0.05). Results: The MTT group showed superior reductions in body fat % (31.59% to 30.06%, p=0.029) and visceral fat (7.63 to 6.94, p=0.016) versus BWE. Energy expenditure was significantly higher in MTT (532 Kcal/session vs. 494 Kcal, p=0.011). While sAA levels transiently increased at 6 weeks in both groups (adaptation phase), MTT demonstrated a greater decline by 8 weeks (51.25 to 50.13 KU/L vs. BWE: 51.71 to 53.47 KU/L, p=0.041), indicating sustained stress modulation. Conclusions: Muay Thai training significantly improves body composition and reduces sympathetic nervous system activity compared to moderate aerobic exercise. These findings support its integration into university health programs as a time-efficient, dual-purpose intervention. Future research should investigate long-term adherence and psycho-social mechanisms underlying its stress-reducing effects.