In this episode of the Elite Podcast, we interview Ben Nicholson, a serving member of two Para and the Army Muay Thai head coach. Ben shares his journey of spending 12 years in the army, his efforts to get Muay Thai recognised as an army sport, and his experiences during 'Op Pitting' in Kabul. He talks about the challenges of getting a new sport accepted by the military, the surprising collaboration with French, Germans, and Polish forces, and the highs and lows of his deployment in Kabul. Additionally, Ben discusses his future plans post-military service and offers insights into the evolving training and fitness regimes within the parachute regiment.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Recognition of Muay Thai in the Army
03:03 Challenges and Achievements in Army Sports
07:41 Starting Muay Thai Classes in Colchester
09:11 Navigating Army Regulations and Setting Up a Civilian Club
13:14 Future Plans and Career Transition
19:47 Reflections on Military Service and Documentary Experience
25:17 Boxing Tournament Progress
26:01 Parachute Regiment's Boxing Legacy
26:57 Training and Coaching Improvements
30:41 Life in the Battalion
44:05 Operation Pitting Experience
51:38 Conclusion and Farewell

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

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▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
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