Editors note: We deliver this interview with Denver student Natalia Esquivel in a Q & A format.
What is your rank? How long have you been training (at Easton or otherwise)?
I’m a green shirt; I have been training at Easton since July 2021.
What got you started on your Muay Thai Journey? How did you find Easton?
I have always been interested in combat sports, but was too fearful and anxious to ever seek out a gym. Coincidently I got an ad for Easton, and decided to check it out. After my first class, I was hooked!
What are your goals in training? What do you aim to achieve?
It would be awesome to participate in a smoker! That is my initial goal, otherwise I am really enjoying being a kids coach and helping develop their skill & love for Muay Thai.
[Easton Muay Thai 2021 Winter Smoker Highlight]
What keeps you coming to the academy, day-in, day-out?
The community! I am not a Colorado native, and being without family and friends is tough. Finding Easton has made Denver feel like home more than ever before.
Have you ever wanted to quit? What would you say to someone who might feel like giving up?
Not necessarily, no, but there have definitely been days where it was tough to get to the gym. I would tell anyone in a similar situation that I have never gone to train and regretted it. The opportunity to train even on my worst days is incredibly humbling and grounding.
What is your favorite music to train to? Any songs that get you in the zone?
Bad Bunny! His album just dropped, shout out to the desk for streaming it 24/7! Titi Me Pregunto is the ultimate pad round jam.
Any advice that you would give to someone looking to get started?
All you have to do is show up! It can be intimidating and at times feel like you have no idea what’s going on, but committing to coming as often as you can is huge! Things will start to click, you’ll make friends, and you’ll wish you would’ve started sooner!
Header image: Natalia with Coach Alea Benson-Littlejohn after her recent promotion to a Green Shirt.
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