Ian CheesemanA buddy of mine convinced me to try a martial arts gym after I’d failed miserably at sticking to regular gym routines. I had zero expectations and honestly thought I’d be done after one session. But wow, was I wrong.
Martial arts isn’t just about learning cool moves—it’s a full-body workout that boosts confidence and discipline and even helps you de-stress. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about nailing a kick or punch you never thought you could do.
If you’re ready to reset your fitness game and try something truly transformative, here are the top Toronto spots to kick, punch, and level up!
How much does a martial arts gym charge in Toronto?
Private lessons can range from $50 to $150 per session, depending on the instructor’s experience. Many gyms also charge a one-time registration fee, typically between $30 to $100, and additional costs for gear.
Fees can vary depending on the style, facilities, and membership type. Always check if they offer free trial classes or flexible packages to suit your budget!
How We Chose the Best Martial Arts Gyms in Toronto
1. Diamond Muay Thai + Boxing
Diamond Muay Thai + Boxing has been making waves since 2017. It’s focused on Muay Thai and boxing, giving you the tools and confidence to meet (and exceed!) your fitness goals.
For Muay Thai enthusiasts, they offer all-level classes tailored to both youth and adults. These 1.5-hour sessions are built on authentic Muay Thai training principles.
Boxing classes here are just as thorough, catering to all skill levels. They’re dedicated to teaching the essentials—punches, footwork, and defensive maneuvers.
If you’re really ready to level up, Diamond’s Competition Team is worth checking out. These sessions are geared towards intermediate to advanced fighters who have the itch to compete.
Flexibility in membership is another great perk. While they don’t offer drop-in classes, they do have no-commitment membership options.
Best Muay-Thai gym in Canada hands down
“The best Muay-Thai gym in Canada hands down. Tony is an amazing head coach with fights all around the world. All the coaches at Diamond Muay Thai are extremely friendly and will guide you 100%. Be it amateur training or you want to get into pro fighting, this is the gym for you. To add to that, pro fighters from all top organizations fly down here for seminars. From Saenchai to Damien Alamos, you get the world’s best teaching you. If you are looking for a Muaythai gym or want to improve on your striking skills look no further, Diamond Muaythai is the gym to be at.”
LS, Google Review
One of the best Muay Thai gyms I’ve ever joined
“Diamond Muay Thai is one of the best Muay Thai gyms I’ve ever joined. The instruction is clear, concise, and the training is tough, but not punishing. The instructors are great, and the members are friendly. I really appreciate their no-nonsense approach – this gym is legit.”
Calvin Arellano-Chua, Google Review
2. Evoke Martial Arts
Evoke Martial Arts offers martial arts and self-defense training with the goal of transforming intentions into real action.
Try Hapkido, a Korean martial art that blends various techniques like grappling, striking, takedowns, and submissions. It’s a comprehensive system designed to equip you with practical and well-rounded skills.
They also crafted a Lil’ Dragon program for kids aged 4 to 7. These classes are focused on building confidence and resilience in little ones through age-appropriate training.
Mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and Jiu-Jitsu training can be chosen here as well. This diverse lineup makes it easier to find a martial art that fits your style.
As a bonus, you can book two trial classes for $35 for yourself, and a free trial class for your child! Watch out, however, for some of their inexperienced instructors.
Really amazing place to train in Hapkido!
“This is a really amazing place to train in hapkido! it’s just such a welcoming environment! All the students are so friendly, the teachers are very skilled and helpful. This place really knows what they’re doing! Couldn’t recommend more!”
Wamaka Bould, Google Review
Great place for martial arts
“I think it’s a great place for martial arts. The instructors are great and so kind. It’s a great place for birthday parties and summer camp. In general, the place is very clean and the instructors sanitize the mats after every class. The classes are split into age groups, which I think is cool. It’s a great place to make friends. The bathrooms are clean, the mats are clean and everything is clean. It’s a great place for both adults and children to practice their martial arts.”
Roma K, Google Review
3. House of Combat
House of Combat in North York specializes in Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They focus on real-world self-defense skills that actually work when you need them.
The school is led by founder Joel Gelfand, who brings more than 30 years of experience to the mats. He also holds a Black Belt in Counter Terror Krav Maga and a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
You can choose from one of their 26 weekly classes, making it easy to fit training into your routine.
We love that they cater to everyone: kids, teens, and adults. And there are specialty programs like Women’s Self-Defense to help address specific needs.
As a bonus, you won’t find any restrictive annual contracts here—just a month-to-month structure (that can be canceled easily!).
Note that it can be tough to book classes at times due to high demand.
Absolutely enjoyed the Krav Maga classes
“I absolutely enjoyed the Krav Maga classes. Joel is a great instructor and I learned many useful self defence skills. Everyone is so friendly and supportive. Membership and class information is super organized too.”
Karen Zhang, Google Review
I felt empowered and energized
“The Krav Maga class was an incredible experience for me. My instructors Joel and Hayem are knowledgeable and supportive, creating an environment that was both challenging and welcoming. The techniques were practical and relevant, focusing on real-world self-defence while also incorporating effective striking and grappling skills. I felt empowered and energized. Highly recommended!”
Harry Santosh, Google Review
4. MMA World Academy
MMA World Academy has a wide range of martial arts classes on offer. They cover all the bases for anyone wanting to up their combat game or get seriously fit.
As the name suggests, MMA training is their specialty. Their approach blends major combat sports—from boxing and kickboxing to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling—into a well-rounded program.
Their wrestling classes are worth a mention too. If you want to build strength, improve control, and get a feel for dominating your opponent, it’s a great place to start.
We’re even impressed with their facility—it has a full-size Octagon and a full-size ring. You’ll feel like a pro as you train and prepare for competition (if that’s your goal).
One thing to watch out for, though—there have been reports of credit cards being mistakenly charged.
MMA World Academy is the best place to train!
“MMA World Academy is the best place to train! Whether you’re looking to learn self defense, get fit, compete, or simply have fun, this is the place to be! The gym is a very well-maintained, family-friendly facility with something for everyone. Check it out!”
Mike B., Google Review
My kids have been going there for the past 10 years
“My kids have been going there for the past 10 years. Great vibe, very cooperative, friendly, polite and respectful staff. Nice, clean, well kept and well maintained place. Reasonable fees, great trainers and workout schedules to fit different schedules. I wish they restart their yoga classes those were a huge hit.”
Tara Rizvi, Google Review
5. REV MMA
REV MMA is owned by Joel Gerson. With 30 years of expertise, his goal is to help people—both adults and kids—achieve their fitness goals through martial arts.
Whether you or your child want to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, boxing, Muay Thai/Kickboxing, Combat Fitness, or Krav Maga, you’ll find pro instructors to guide you.
They also have a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program, which focuses on 36 core techniques that have proven to be most effective through studies and real-world situations.
Their 12,000-square-foot facility is designed for safe training and includes handy amenities like showers, lockers, and even free parking!
Note that there’s a one-year lock-in period for memberships. However, some customers have said they weren’t properly informed about it.
Perfect blend of martial arts classes for kids and teenagers
“They have the perfect blend of martial arts classes for kids and teenagers. Really a safe place for my kids to gain self confidence. Joel is the best coach for kids.”
Mohit Sharma, Google Review
Really good professional champion fighters teaching all levels
“Been here for 2 years, really good professional Champion fighters teaching all levels of students. Classes are well structured. Great community of people with no ego and safe training.”
Derek Siew, Google Review
