Kandice VincentI’m not exaggerating, but I think I would rather die than go to a regular gym. Fine, I know it’s my fault for overindulging over the holidays, and now it’s time to pay the piper. But going to the gym? Yuck.
Luckily, my friend suggested an alternative that was 100x more fun—kickboxing!
For a couple of months, we kicked our way into fitness, and now I’m happy to report that I’m just a couple of pounds short of my goal. It’s not just about the physical aspect either, I feel more and more confident after each class.
So, for those who want to get fit without going on a treadmill, join one of Toronto’s best kickboxing classes below.
How much do kickboxing classes cost in Toronto?
Typically, a kickboxing drop-in class in Toronto costs around $20 to $35. As for monthly memberships, they might set you back $100 to $200, and it could go much higher if you opt for personal training.
Keep your eye out for special introductory offers or trial classes before committing.
How We Chose the Best Kickboxing Classes in Toronto
1. Evoke Martial Arts & Kickboxing
Located in Uptown Toronto and North York, Evoke Martial Arts & Kickboxing is a fitness studio with one heartfelt goal—to evoke one’s courage and spirit via martial arts.
Make sure to check out their Fitness Kickboxing 60-minute class—it’s packed with bag-hitting and HIIT drills. The best part is that you’d be listening to an awesome soundtrack while you work up a sweat.
And unlike other kickboxing gyms, they created signature kickboxing combos, specially designed to improve your endurance.
We’re also impressed with their online library of kickboxing tutorials, as well as cool downloadable learning materials. These digital assets would certainly help improve your technique in no time!
Kickboxing classes for teens and kids are offered as well, so you can make this a family bonding affair if you want.
Sadly, some have told us that they seem understaffed at times.
HIIT kickboxing and Muay Thai classes are top-notch
“I have been a part of Evoke Academy Martial Arts for over 5 years, and I can’t recommend it enough! The HIIT kickboxing and Muay Thai classes are top-notch, providing an intense workout that keeps you motivated and coming back for more. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring that every session is both challenging and enjoyable. The sense of community here is unmatched, and I’ve made great friends along the way. If you’re looking for a place to train and improve your fitness, Evoke Academy is the place to be!”
Chris F., Google Review
My endurance, fitness levels, and breathing have improved
“After attending the first of 2 kickboxing trial classes at Evoke, I felt so good that I decided to sign up right away! I am not a person who is motivated at a regular gym without instruction. Here, the academy and the instructors have such good, positive energy. They understand your endurance levels and tell you to put in as much effort as you can while also making sure to gently encourage you to test and push your limit each time. I saw results in just 3 classes in being able to hold my plank longer than my first class. Love that every class focuses on improving kickboxing technique and has different combos and burnouts. In my 5 weeks here my endurance, fitness levels, and breathing have improved. Also happy that my sciatica that used to affect me often while walking, had completely gone away in less than 2 weeks. I should mention that they take the time to personally check in via text to see if you’re ok when you miss a class. The camaraderie is instant here amongst members and staff. 🙂 Thanks, team, for being so wonderful!”
Anjana Rao, Google Review
2. Toronto Kickboxing & Muay Thai Academy
Toronto Kickboxing & Muay Thai Academy or TKMT opened in 2006 and has now grown to four locations around the city. This comes as no surprise since customers keep raving about their top-tier coaching.
Want to burn calories way after your class has ended? Then, sign up for their signature Kickboxing HIIT class, which combines intense kickboxing moves with short breaks.
It’s okay if you’re still on the fence though. They offer a $10 trial class so that you can check if kickboxing is your jam.
But once you decide to join, we recommend snagging a membership plan, which would help save you money in the long run. We personally like their short-term option of 3 months for $183 per month, netting you unlimited classes.
Unfortunately, you might want to ask questions face-to-face since we heard they’re not easy to reach via phone or email.
By far the best gym I have been to
“I have been practicing Muay Thai and Kickboxing for 6 years, and I have been to gyms in many countries. I can proudly say that TKMT Downtown is by far the best gym I have been to. Amazing atmosphere, great people and of course our very respected Kru Clifton Brown who really helps his students improve and become the best fighters they can be! Thanks TKMT for being the best gym ever!”
Raly SAFOUANE, Online Review
Classes are well structured and make it super easy to learn
“I’ve been coming consistently to TKMT Queen st for the past 5 months and have nothing but great things to say. The environment is super welcoming. The instructors are very friendly and always push you to be your better self. The classes are well structured and make it super easy to learn. Highly recommend for all levels.”
Ryan M, Online Review
3. Big Hit Kickboxing Studios
Big Hit Kickboxing is a pretty unique studio. Established in 2004, they offer a hybrid kickboxing and weightlifting class format, which—to be honest—sounds intriguing.
To learn the fundamentals of striking and footwork, with a sprinkling of kickboxing combos, join their SmartBox class. But if you want to target specific areas, choose between their BodyBox – Upper Body and BodyBox – Lower Body classes.
Each class flow is clear-cut, consisting of a 3-minute warmup, 20 minutes of kickboxing, and lastly, 20 minutes of weightlifting and bodyweight drills.
Don’t be overwhelmed though. Imagine house, rock, or hip-hop beats playing in the background—trust me, the time would just fly by! If you don’t believe me, then check out their free 7-day trial and see for yourself.
Word of advice, though—make sure to arrive 15 minutes early. That’s because we heard about people arriving 5 minutes early and being turned away (even though they already paid!).
Best kickboxing studio I’ve been to!
“The best kickboxing studio I’ve been to! I’ve been training here for 2 years; great workout and amazing coaches! One hour and the workout for the day is done. The combination of cardio and lifting gives you a great balance! As a bonus, the people who work there are just fabulous !”
Anna Zakharchenko, Google Review
By far the best kickboxing studio in the city
“Big hit is by far the best kickboxing studio in the city. Super clean, welcoming and amazing music all the time. The staff are super helpful.. The instructors are especially attentive during class and even remember everyone’s names (very impressive). Special shout-out to coach Olivia! Always bringing the latin vibes and contagious positive energy to class.”
Norma Hung, Google Review
4. 9Round Kickboxing Fitness
9Round Kickboxing Fitness is another studio that has our seal of approval. They’re known for their circuit-style kickboxing class that runs for 30 minutes. The flow is also expertly planned to boost one’s coordination and strength.
Your goal is to hit nine stations during each class. We like that they keep things fresh by changing the circuit exercises daily.
Here’s the lowdown: Round 1 to 2—movement training, Round 3 to 8—boxing and kickboxing, and Round 9—ab-focused exercises. As a bonus, trainers can change your exercises at any point if they think it’s too easy or too hard for you.
And forget about rushing around, worrying whether you’ll make it in time for class, since—big reveal—they don’t have class schedules! Yep, simply jump in on any session once you arrive.
The only downside we heard about is their terrible cancellation process.
Best workout class/gym on St Clair!
“9round fitness is the best workout class/gym on st Clair! The owners Brian and Michelle have created an amazing place for fitness! The trainers are knowledgeable and friendly. The place is always clean! I use to not enjoy working, now with 9round I have the most fun! I feel like I am always being challenged! I would totally recommend anyone to try it out!”
Dara Dias, Google Review
This is my happy place
“This is my happy place. Trainers are amazing, the environment is amazing and workouts are all levels of fitness friendly. I used to hate working out. However this people are so good at their jobs that they made me love kickboxing. 100% recommended if you’re looking for a new fun way to workout!”
Ana Chávez, Google Review
5. 1MR One More Round
1MR One More Round doesn’t want to be just your run-of-the-mill martial arts gym. They aim to be a support hub for people who want to gain confidence via kickboxing.
Similarly, you won’t get a run-of-the-mill instructor either. You’d be taught by Head Coach Cristian Rojas, a hardcore Chilean fighter who has fought in over 120 professional matches—whew!
He teaches Muay Thai Kickboxing, also known as “The Art of 8 Limbs.” It’s named so because you’d use not just your two fists but also your elbows, knees, and shins.
Learn awesome striking techniques, complemented by bodyweight exercises, in each 45-minute session. What’s better is that your little ones can learn too via the gym’s kickboxing for kids program.
Sounds good so far? Then, go ahead and book a free trial class. Just a bit of warning, you might encounter a rude attendant or two. But then again, you might not!
Best boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai gym
“This is the best boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai gym I’ve been to in in a while.
They have multiple coaches that adapt their management style to fit your needs. Whether you are starting from scratch trying to lose weight or get fit or if you want to be a professional fighter, this is the right place to do it. The main coach, Cristian, is the best there is. He will take you from zero to hero in no time! You are going to feel how amazing this place is by just going to one free tryoutclass. Go for it and you wont regret it.”
Mohammad Alhussein, Google Review
1MR is truly the best
“1MR is truly the best. After attending my first class 6 months ago I was instantly hooked. The classes are primarily 45 minutes long so perfect for someone who leads a busy life like me. But those 45 minutes are packed full of exercise and intensity to lead to the best results. All the coaches are amazing, but Coach Cristian has taught me so much with his engaging style and constant encouragement. Thanks to 1MR I’m seeing my abs again for the first time in years!”
Jill Kennedy, Google Review
