Vietnam's first professional martial arts centre opens in Ho Chi Minh City

The Saigon Sports Club was put into operation in Ho Chi Minh City on October 15 with the aim of training young Vietnamese martial arts professionals.

The Saigon Sports Club, the biggest of its kind to introduce international martial arts to Vietnam, was put into operation in Ho Chi Minh City on October 15. (Credit: VNA)

Covering 7,000 square metres, the centre includes areas for a gym, weightlifting, swimming and food and beverages services, along with an area for martial arts.

Head of the General Department of Sports and Physical Training Vuong Bich Thang said the centre was one of the biggest of its kind to introduce international martial arts to Vietnam.

He urged the centre to introduce Vietnamese martial arts to international friends, while facilitating Vietnamese martial artists’ efforts to attain a high level of recognition on the continent and in global competitions.

Trinh Van Tri, Director of the centre, said the coaches were champions at national and international martial arts competitions who would help youngsters compete in international tourneys.

The centre has developed training programmes for boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and plans to host three or four tournaments for these categories annually.

It will also provide health assistance in the event of accidents.

(Source: NDO)