James AllenI’ve always been hooked on UFC fights. The way MMA brings together boxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and so many other styles into one smooth mix is just wild!
Watching those matches made me realize it’s not only exciting to see, but it’s also a pretty handy skill for self-defence. That’s what pushed me to finally join an MMA gym and start learning how to use it to stay safe and confident.
Since I know plenty of people might be curious about trying it too, I’ve rounded up the best MMA gyms in Toronto. But if you’d rather explore traditional martial arts, I also have a list of the best local martial arts schools for you to check out.
How much does it cost to join an MMA gym in Toronto?
Most MMA gyms in Toronto charge about $160 per month. However, the price can vary depending on how often you train, the quality of the facilities, and the level of experience your coach brings.
How We Chose
1. The Lab MMA Academy
Lessons offered: Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, MMA, and body conditioning
Address: 11 Steinway Blvd #1, Etobicoke
Phone number: +1 416-675-5552
Business hours:
12:00 PM – 9:00 PM (MON, WED, and FRI)
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (TUES and THURS)
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM (SAT)
The Lab MMA Academy is the gym I’ve been training at, and so far it has been a great experience! One of the main reasons I chose them is their connection to Sylvio Behring, who is a respected Brazilian jiu-jitsu master.
That gives them a sense of legitimacy that you don’t always find.
It also helps that they offer trial classes so you can see if they’re a good fit. They run a wide mix of classes, including jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and conditioning.
I signed up for their Fighters Training programme, which is definitely intense and works well for people who want to use MMA for self-defence, since it involves tough sparring and conditioning.
That said, they’re in Etobicoke, which can be a hassle to get to if you live in the east. I also found their operating hours to be confusing initially but eventually got used to them.
They make training fun while still pushing you to improve
“I’ve had such a great experience at The Lab MMA Academy! The coaches are super friendly and patient, and they make training fun while still pushing you to improve. The gym has a really welcoming vibe. It was very clean, and the community atmosphere makes it an excellent place to train and grow. I highly recommend it if you’re looking for MMA, fitness, or just a great community.”
-Julian Ibrahim, Google Reviews
This place is a one stop shop for whatever you need
“Amazing atmosphere and amazing instruction. There are a number of other gyms out there but this one is different. The training is practical and applicable to developing confidence and the ability to defend yourself. Professor Jesse has a ton of experience in various backgrounds including striking and grappling. Professor Donnie brings an edge and wealth of knowledge whether it’s for MMA or physical fitness. This place is a one stop shop for whatever you need.”
-S Sutt, Google Reviews
2. Revolution MMA Gym & Fitness
Lessons offered: Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Gracie Combatives, boxing, kickboxing, MMA, and more
Address: 150 Lesmill Rd, Section 5, North York
Phone number: +1 416-847-1020
Business hours:
12:00 PM – 9:00 PM (MON and WED)
12:00 PM – 9:30 PM (TUES and THURS)
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (FRI)
9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (SAT)
Revolution MMA Gym & Fitness has been around since 2006 and is certified under Gracie jiu-jitsu, which gives it strong credibility. I was impressed to learn that the owner, Joel Gerson, has 35 years of MMA experience and has even choreographed fight scenes for Disney shows!
The gym offers a wide range of classes, including kickboxing, MMA, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I liked that they run Gracie Bullyproof for kids, since it builds confidence and teaches self-defence without being aggressive.
They also have Gracie Combatives for complete beginners and a 38+ programme for older members who want to train safely. It’s nice that newcomers can try a free session before committing.
On the downside, the fees are higher than average, and the membership lock-in policy requires a full year once you sign up.
The coaching is top-tier; technical, detailed, and focused on real growth
“I’ve trained at several martial arts gyms over the years, and REV MMA stands out right away. The coaching is top-tier; technical, detailed, and focused on real growth. There’s no ego on the mats, just solid training and a great mix of skill levels. The environment is professional but welcoming, and I’ve already learned a ton since joining. Easily one of the best gyms I’ve trained at.”
-Michelle Vinokurov, Google Reviews
The instructors are really supportive and encouraging
“I signed up after my trial session because it was such a great experience. I was looking for a new fitness challenge and continue to learn so much in each class. The instructors are really supportive and encouraging, which was perfect for someone entirely new to this.”
-Tanya Cho, Google Reviews
3. One To One Mixed Martial Arts
Lessons offered: Boxing, kickboxing, no gi jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and MMA
Address: 1188 Danforth Ave
Phone number: +1 905-801-8192
Business hours:
7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (MON-FRI)
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (SAT)
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (SUN)
One To One Mixed Martial Arts is a solid choice if you want a well-equipped and well-led gym. They run classes in kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and MMA, along with a kids’ programme that keeps things family-friendly.
If you’re serious about competing, they have a competition team training setup with sparring sessions. Most of these classes are led by head coach Conner Rideout, a 4-time MMA champion, so you’re in good hands.
Another thing I like is their facilities. They have an infrared sauna and a lounge where you can relax after training. They also have an exercise therapist on site and a weight room to keep you strong and healthy.
However, it’s important to note that they’re a bit far if you live in one of Toronto’s western neighbourhoods. They also lack a proper online booking system, so calling ahead is best.
One to One is bar none the best place to take a class
“One to one is bar none the best place to take a class. So much so that I immediately enrolled my son when they started offering classes for youngsters.
Love these guys!”
-Dan Guiry, Google Reviews
A great space for people of any experience level
“Trainers are professional and safe. They also create a friendly and fun atmosphere, which is appreciated, since martial arts can be a bit intimidating for beginners. A great space for people of any experience level.”
-Andrew Barr, Google Reviews
4. Fight Den MMA Krav No Gi
Classes offered: MMA, Krav Maga, no gi jiu-jitsu, and K‑1 kickboxing
Address: 499 Queen St W
Phone number: +1 416-845-1532
Business hours: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (SUN-FRI)
Fight Den MMA Krav No Gi is a spot I checked out that blends self-defence with combat sports. It’s headed by Sensei Mike Khardas, who has more than 20 years of MMA experience, and the focus is on practical training rather than tradition.
Their MMA classes are tough but useful, with striking, grappling, and even combat jiu-jitsu, where palm strikes are allowed. They also run specialized Krav Maga sessions that focus on real-life scenarios like weapon disarms.
I like that they make their classes more accessible by offering five locations across Toronto, along with online options for people who can’t always attend in person. They even provide corporate team-building seminars for companies that want employees to train together and stay active.
The drawbacks are that their online lessons are still limited, and they don’t offer free classes for newcomers.
I have a new found confidence in self-defence
“I have been working with Sensei Mike for about a month, I started with zero experience and have seriously learned so much! The classes are jam packed with relevant information and his teaching style is well structured and easy to follow. I have a new found confidence in self defence. I would highly recommend Fight Den to anyone.”
-Lauren Higgins, Google Reviews
Classes are dynamic, challenging, and tailored to fit all skill levels
“Sensei Mike is not only a master of Krav Maga but also a passionate instructor who genuinely cares about the progress and well-being of every student. His classes are dynamic, challenging, and tailored to fit all skill levels, ensuring that each session is both enriching and enjoyable! Highly recommend!”
-Nicole Basovich, Google Reviews
5. Grant MMA & Boxing Gym
Classes offered: Boxing, muay thai, MMA, strength and conditioning, and kids striking
Address: 4884 Dufferin St, Unit 6, North York
Phone number: +1 416-736-7770
Business hours:
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM (MON)
10:30 AM – 9:00 PM (TUES and THURS)
7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (WED and FRI)
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (SAT and SUN)
One MMA gym I found that makes booking simple is Grant MMA & Boxing Gym. They have a mobile app that lets you reserve classes, check upcoming sessions, and even track your training progress!
Their classes cover boxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. The coaches bring years of experience, with founder Ryan Grant having more than 15 years of coaching under his belt.
Like many gyms, they offer a free class for newcomers, which is a nice way to test the vibe. They also give a 20% discount if you pay for 12 months upfront.
Furthermore, there are no initiation or cancellation fees and no lock-in contracts, so you can leave whenever you want without hassle.
However, I’ve heard that some coaches can come across as rude or condescending, and the operating hours may feel confusing for some people.
Best gym I have ever been to, period
“Best gym I have ever been to, period. Coaches are second to none and a great environment. Would highly recommend to anyone and everyone!!”
-Darryl Mendonca, Google Reviews
This is the place you go where you want to train like a fighter
“This is the place you go where you want to train like a fighter. The instructors’ passion for boxing matches the quality of lessons that they deliver. Highly recommend”
-Joshua Velasquez, Google Reviews
