Toronto martial arts options for all ages
The beauty of the martial arts is that they are as good for your mind as they are for your body. Whether you’re seeking a calm escape from worldly pressures or a high-intensity workout and self-defence skills, you’ll find a good fit for your needs.
Black Belt World
972 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1L6The name translates as kicking with the lower body, striking with the upper body and ‘the way,’ which is the intellectual aspect. You learn how to hone your mind as you develop your physical skills, resulting in a solid self-defense system and emotional well-being. Black Belt World has classes in several GTA locations.
Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism
134 d'Arcy St, Toronto, ON M5T 1K3If you’re looking for a martial art which is not as vigorous as karate or judo but still has the benefits, Tai Chi is a great place to start – and perhaps stay. Still strong on self-defence techniques and the discipline necessary to develop these, its deliberate and flowing moves are excellent for relieving stress and anxiety. The Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism will give you pointers about classes all over the GTA. They run introductory weekends as well.
Fight Club
401 Donlands Ave, East York, ON M4J 3S2Martial arts are excellent for developing clarity of mind but they’re also practical for self-protection. Fight Club is one of the only centres in Toronto that runs training in the super-tough Russian SYSTEMA, which has been refined over a millennium. It’s a self-defence that’s effective on the street and in combating the stress of daily living. Co-ed classes are run for all ages.
Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
6 Garamond Crt, (Sakura Way), North York, ON M3C 1Z5Judo aims to develop the highest efficiency in mind, body and morals. Although you’re in combat with another person and using what are known as ‘throwing moves,’ the tenet of this practice is respect and responsibility both in and out of class. There are lessons for all levels. The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre hosts a range of other more obscure martial arts classes, such as Naginata and Laido, if you’re looking for an extra challenge.
Sam Lumpini Gym
2073 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4C 1J8Some of the toughest martial arts techniques are taught here by trainer Sam Lumpini who has been a bodyguard for A-list Hollywood and sports celebrities. Sam teaches Krav Maga, the Israeli self-defence system, BF Savate, the French boxing technique, and Muay Thai, which is a competitive Thai technique. He also teaches a combined method called MMA or Mixed Martial Arts, which uses elements of each. Classes for children, teenagers and adults are available.
Toronto Kickboxing & Muay Thai (TKMT) Academy Inc
433 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M1K 1G5Known as "the art of eight limbs,” Muay Thai is a demanding combat sport from Thailand that uses a combination of standard clinching techniques alongside striking with fists, elbows, knees and shins. Classes for men, women and children focus on discipline in a friendly environment where you won’t feel intimidated. The philosophy at the centre is to make Muay Thai and kick-boxing accessible to everyone.
