Ian CheesemanA buddy of mine asked me to join his MMA gym, and since I was looking for a way to get ripped (without actually giving up pizza), I was like “Sure!”
Imagine my surprise when I saw my friend spar with his coach, and he did MMA-worthy jabs and kicks, plus an awesome takedown to boot.
Naturally, I was jealous and got down to business. After a couple of months, I’m happy to report that…I’m still not as good as my friend, but at least I’m able to do basic moves (and my abs are slowly making an appearance!).
For those who want to train like an MMA fighter, here’s a legit list of the best MMA gyms in Toronto.
How much does joining an MMA gym cost in Toronto?
Joining an MMA gym in Toronto typically costs $150 – $200 per month. Some gyms offer drop-in rates of $20 to $40 per session or package deals for multiple sessions
Factors that may affect the price include the membership type and class access. Higher-end facilities with elite coaching, private instruction, and top amenities may charge even more.
1. MMA World Academy
You just can’t argue with MMA World Academy’s motto: “Excuses don’t burn calories.” Not gonna lie, I feel personally attacked.
Kidding aside, they offer MMA training classes, featuring a deadly combo of boxing, kickboxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and wrestling. Their goal is to make you a well-rounded fighter by developing your standup and ground-based grappling moves.
You can also take these martial art forms in separate classes if you’re kinda weak in one area (e.g. kickboxing or Muay Thai) and want to sharpen your skills there.
Facility-wise, they look pretty fancy, with a full-sized octagon and ring, as well as a training area and a spacious studio.
Now, if you want to be the next Misha Cirkunov, we recommend signing up for their VIP Membership plan. This includes unlimited classes, plus freebies like t-shirts, boxing gloves, and wraps!
Note, however, that we heard about some rude and ineffective trainers.
Has a real MMA cage and a dedicated MMA sparring day
“A great gym, with nice people and an amazing facility. The programs here have something to offer for people at all levels, from beginners to competitors. One of the few facilities in the GTA that has a real MMA cage and a dedicated MMA sparring day too!!!!!”
Alvin Lo, Google Review
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
2. Straight Blast Gym
Straight Blast Gym in Scarborough was founded by Jun Dazai, a 1st-degree Black Belt-holder in BJJ. He believes in providing an ego-free space so that everyone can build their confidence and push their limits.
Impressively, this gym also has locations in the US, UK, Korea, South Africa, and Sweden. No wonder they have homegrown pro fighters who have competed in the UFC, Bellator, and TUF around the world!
As for their adult MMA program, it offers a wide range of combat moves like clinch, standup, and ground. One catch is that you need to complete their Foundations BJJ and Muay Thai programs first before you can join.
We also heard about trainers not providing enough one-on-one instruction; instead, they’re guided by experienced students. Not a good look for the trainers—but on the other hand, this also proves that they’ve built a great community.
SBG Scarborough is hands down the best
“Awesome gym. I couldn’t recommend it enough. I’ve trained at several gyms in the GTA and the training and atmosphere at SBG Scarborough is hands down the best. The environment is very welcoming to beginners and experienced people alike. The head coach and owner Jun is a kind and friendly person with a wealth of knowledge and experience in jiu jitsu. All the coaches are excellent at communicating to all training levels. Everyone at the gym is super friendly. They’ve done very well in building a positive culture at the gym.”
Taimur Gilani, Google Review
Amazing gym with the best coaches
“Amazing gym with the best coaches. My son loves it here, he’s always learning something new and is always eager to come in to class. Whole team makes you feel like your part of a family, the SBG family, which we are proud to be a part of.”
Arjay P, Google Review
3. Action & Reaction MMA Inc
Action & Reaction MMA’s mission is pretty straightforward—to help you and your children become the best that you can be.
To that end, they offer MMA programs for kids, youth, and teens. Aside from skills, they believe it’s also important to learn discipline and self-control at a young age.
For adults, they offer wrestling, BJJ, Muay Thai, and Judo. Make sure to check out their exclusive online offers before signing up for a class to snag a good deal!
Just a heads up though—we heard about students getting injured during their classes. This is a bit concerning, especially if you’re an athlete who needs to compete.
On the bright side, the space is conveniently located near 404, with free parking (score!). There’s also a very spacious matted area, with two dedicated areas for grappling and striking, as well as showers, lockers, and change rooms.
Best BJJ and MMA gym
“It is the best BJJ and MMA gym where everyone can practice in a friendly, fun and safe way in a family-like atmosphere. Highly recommended to everyone!”
Chul Kang, Google Review
Best martial arts gym in Canada
“Best Martial Art Gym in Canada. World class coaches, massive facility and friendly environment. I’ve never seen a gym with a bigger space and variety of classes it offers. If you want to learn BJJ (Gi or No Gi), Judo, Kickboxing, or Wrestling they have it all. Not only are the coaches great teachers but they have competition experience at the highest level.”
Grant Ellis, Google Review
4. Budo Canada
If you want a gym that specializes in MMA and boxing, then go to Budo Canada. It’s home to top Canadian pro fighters such as Glory Middleweight Champion, Simon Marcus, and Boxing Hall of Fame Boxer, (and two-time Olympian!) Chris Johnson.
Another pro fighter is their MMA Head Coach, Xavier Nash, who has over 14 years of pro-MMA fighting experience under his BJJ Black Belt.
We like that they offer MMA classes for fitness, self-defense, and competitive training.
Speaking of competition, they have one-on-one MMA training packages—a cool option for those who are competing as an amateur or pro fighter. Coupled with their boxing and MMA rings, studios, private rooms, and open mat areas, you’re good to go!
A downside we noticed is that their MMA classes are for adults only, unlike other gyms that teach children.
One of the best fitness MMA, boxing in Toronto
“One of the best fitness MMA, boxing, yoga and more clubs in Toronto in my opinion, amazing stuff, grate coachs, facility is absolutely upper standard! Highly recommend you to try💯”
Kirill Likhachev, Google Review
One of the best gyms to learn martial arts in Toronto
“Awesome facility with nice and clean equipment. One of the best gyms to learn martial arts in Toronto. Plus you will have access to a spacious weightlifting and cardio area. Friendly staff and coaches. It makes you feel at home.”
Ömer Faruk Tanrıverdi, Google Review
5. Revolution MMA Gym & Fitness
If you’re really into MMA, then you’ve probably heard of REV MMA—that’s because they’ve been featured on The Joe Rogan Experience, Toronto Star, and National Post. Not surprising since the owner, Joel Gerson, has over 35 years of MMA experience.
We like that they offer MMA classes not just to adults but to kids and teens too. For adults, their MMA program is beginner-friendly, designed for those who have full-time jobs and want to learn quickly.
Now, if you’re an aspiring MMA fighter, we suggest signing up for personal training, where you can work at your own pace with your preferred instructor.
A free session is even offered for those on the fence, so you could check out their MMA class and spacious, well-equipped facility as well.
However, check the fine print before payment. We heard about students who were promised flexible memberships but were charged a full year when they canceled.
Best gym I’ve trained at
“This is the best gym I’ve trained at. It has very clean facilities compared to what ive seen at other places, and very high level instructors for all disciplines especially bjj. If you come for bjj youll be welcomed in no matter what experience level, high or low. Plenty coloured belts, plenty white belts, and big classes every single day. I also know ghe muai thai coaches are all real fighters and multiple time champions. Highly recommend this spot 🔥🔥”
Mark Alcamo, Google Review
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
