About the Guest:Christina Pheadona is a passionate Muay Thai fighter who discovered her love for martial arts at the young age of four. Over the years, she has transitioned from karate to kickboxing and eventually found her calling in Muay Thai. Despite family reservations about her entering the ring, Christina's determination led her to train in Thailand, the national sport's homeland. With a rich background in various martial arts and a degree in strength and conditioning, she stands as a strong advocate for the inclusion of more weight classes for female fighters in professional Muay Thai.​Episode Summary:In this episode of "She Who Dares Wins," host Michelle Hands engages with Muay Thai fighter Christina Pheadona in a deep dive into the world of professional fighting. Christina shares her stirring journey from practicing martial arts as a child to taking on the demanding training regime of Muay Thai in Thailand.Listeners get an intimate look at Christina's struggles and triumphs, including her experience with weight class challenges and her plans for advocating change within the sport. Through Christina's narrative, we learn the value of perseverance and the power of stepping into the ring. Key themes include resilience, empowerment, mental strength, and pushing for progress in women's Muay Thai.Key Takeaways:- Christina Pheadona's unwavering commitment took her from martial arts at a young age to professional Muay Thai in Thailand.- Dealing with the intense training schedules and the harsh realities of fighting at a heavier weight class shapes her experience.- Pheadona advocates for more inclusive weight classes to create opportunities for female fighters.- Muay Thai provides a moving meditation that teaches discipline and focus, offering mental health benefits beyond physical training.- Tales of spontaneous fights, dealing with adversity, and the significance of resilience in the fighter's journey are shared.​Notable Quotes:- "If you can step in the ring, you can do anything ... You're fighting to win."- "There was probably about two shows a year, and there wasn't much of a fight scene for women back then."- "I feel like I'm the strongest I am now."- "He said to me, you champion, but you fat."- "If I never fight again because of my weight, I'll be destroyed."Links:Christina on socials @christina_muaypandawww.shewhodareswins.com​ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.