How to minimize risk of serious injury in Muay Thai? (practitioners only please)?

Question

Sorry if this is a dumb question. I'm about to start Muay Thai training (this would be my first MA ever) and I'm really looking forward to it so far. I know bruises are common and essentially unavoidable. However, what about the injuries like cracked ribs, nerve damage, ligament damage...etc. My upper body is very well conditioned and supple from bouldering (i.e. rock climbing) but my knees are quite fragile and I am flat-footed.

I don't want this experience to be short-lived, if you know what I mean, and leave with permanent damage.

For the record, I have no plans on competing.

Thanks in advance folks :-)

Answer 1

since you have no intentions of competing most of your sparring will be lighter and you will work a lot on your tecnique on the heavy bag, mits and thai pads. I really see the only injury being from a bad teacher. just make sure the school is good and you will be fine. I do Muay Thai for mma

Answer 2

Well...youre supposed to damage the nerves in your shins by lightly kicking very hard bags for rounds.