Balance Studios

(4 reviews)

2.0 mi

Been going to this boxing gym for about 4 months now and I train with Mr. Rob in the mornings. As a…read moreprofessional Muay Thai fighter who recently moved to Philly from LA, it's been difficult to find a gym that was a good fit! I am so happy to call this gym my new Philly home gym! The training is top notch and you get personal attention. I love that the schedule is open so you can go whenever fits for your schedule. There is always a trainer at the gym to help you out. They also have all skill levels and not just fighters so they know how to cater to each individuals specific needs! It's a no frills gym where everyone is friendly and works hard together.

It sounds like a cliche, but this place is not just a gym, it is a way of life. It is a family…read moreaffair. The gym owners run the place as a family. There are almost always children around, from grade schoolers all the way down to babies who are watching their pro dads (it's usually dads). From aspiring golden glove yunguns to fit older gentlemen, this gym is open to anyone who loves boxing and wants to work hard improving their skills. As a woman boxer, I felt at home almost from day one. I'm usually the only woman training, but I've never felt that to be a problem. Almost without exception, the men who train there are gentlemen and have treated me both with respect and friendship. Again, all that matters is a love of the sport. As a student, I disappear for months at a time during breaks, but whenever I'm back in Philly, I can't wait to get back to the gym. Having such a solid community makes you commit to your training. If my trainer Khalil weren't there asking me when I was coming in next, I don't know how many times I would have just opted to stay home and work a little longer or just laze around. This place makes training a lifestyle.

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Warrior Boxing Gym

2.3 mi

I've been training at Warrior Boxing Academy for one year, and I can honestly say it's been one of…read morethe best decisions I've made for my fitness and personal growth. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted with a warm supportive environment that makes you feel part of a team, no matter your experience level. The coaches are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Boxing and they tailor each session to help you improve at your own pace. What sets Warrior Boxing Academy apart, though, is the community. It's not a gym, it's a family. Everyone here is encouraging and it's inspiring to see how much the coaches invest in each fighters growth. If you're serious about learning boxing or just want to get in shape while having a blast, I can't recommend Warrior Boxing Academy enough. This gym has helped me become stronger and more confident and discipline in ways. I never imagine. Come train here - you won't regret it!

This place is awesome! Great trainers great location. JD knows what he is doing. Easy to get to…read morefrom the bus.

Founder and owner of warrior. . working hard since 2011.

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CKO Kickboxing Center City

4.2

(78 reviews)

0.4 mi

Updating review to low quality and conditions of the gym, noticed recently lots of old equipment,…read moredirty bathrooms, and unprofessional staff. Front desk people wear really unkempt clothes and are not looking like they work at the gym. There was once a big roach on a desk at the front reception and a front desk personnel would not kill it. It was crawling all over desk. So I grabbed something that was on the desk and smashed it on that big roach. The front desk personnel thanked me for being so helpful. She then said she was not going to pick it up, but instead put a paper on it so others knew it was something to avoid. They have roaches there and I've seen a few. Their air conditioning recently stopped working too!!! My review still applies to instructor named Randon! This gym is lucky to have him. Because some other instructors there don't know what they are doing. With that said, I think I may be canceling this gym. I really want better looking gym with better conditions. They charge over a 100 dollar for memberships but that is over priced.

So I've been to a similar establishment as a member back in Miami called Tapout. It was group…read morekickboxing classes along with strength and HIIT classes so I knew what I was getting myself into. What I truly love about CKO is the atmosphere. Everyone is welcome. Ana is super nice in the front and Carlos is such a fun and high energy instructor. I've been thoroughly enjoying his Sunday noon classes. He makes them fun and plays the game "Carlos says" like Simon Says but the kickboxing version. Plus there'sa gym area with mirrors set up around it along with free weights and kettle bells. The room itself is pretty big as well with lots of punching bags available. Being a yogi you would I wouldn't be open to this kind of stuff, but self defense is important and was initially he reason why I started taking up kickboxing. I've ended up loving so much though that I decided it's a great part of my exercise regimen. It boots your confidence, makes you feel stronger, and keeps your body fit and toned because they don't just have you box and jab, they have you do sit ups, crunches, planks, push ups, etc. and a good warm up/cool down. I'm glad I found this place(on Yelp no less). They also sell boxing gloves and other merchandise like hand wraps, shirts, and sweaters. I myself splurged and got one of their crop top sweatshirts which I don't regret because it's very comfy and keeps me warm because it's lined with a fleece like dupe material. There are also lockers available and changing rooms I should mention as well as those are important things to consider. What I particularly love is how they don't make you sign a contract. They are super flexible and accommodating with you. At Tapout, I would be charged a monthly rate but had to be committed to it and if I bowed out, I would still be charged a fee of $170 unless I canceled three months in advance or something to that effect. Gym memberships can get pretty pricey but I love how down to earth and understanding they are here. Like Carlos says, "It'll be the best 60 minutes of your life" :)

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Fight Firm

(11 reviews)

1.3 mi

This facility newly renovated and is under new ownership and management…read more Full access membership allows 24hr access. Facility has all the fitness amenities, infrared Sauna, Reiki therapy, modernized recovery equipment, boxing equipment e

It's called Old School Boxing, they are the best in the city so far, everywhere else is too small…read moreor a dump!

Boxing ring and mma cage

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Cardio kickboxing class

10 Hands Fitness + Fight Sports

4.0

(16 reviews)

0.2 mi

This is a boxing gym and one of the instructors, Randall, has been boxing since 1989 and opened the…read moregym three years ago. We did a bag class which was a lot of punching intermixed with floor work including my most hated burpees. The class was challenging and educational. At the beginning of the class they wrap your hands and give you boxing gloves. The studio and gym space was large and did not feel crowded or hectic. I liked the fact that they had real gym equipment so even if there was not a class going on you could go there and work out. I was surprised to hear that they offered yoga and hit classes too. The gym is very affordable for all that it offers. We did an intro class but we are considering joining now. Thank you Randall!

I've been boxing off and on for a long time in multiple cities, and 10 Hands has been by far my…read morefavorite place to box. First of all, the community is large and full of people who are interested in boxing and MMA but are also friendly folks. It's also not dominated by a bunch of dudes, which is nice to see. The instructors are top-notch and willing to discuss technique, both in terms of offense and defense. Highly recommended for people who are looking to get fit, find community, and/or looking to learn combat sports. ** Also, I'm struggling to understand some of the negative reviews I've seen here. The facility is incredibly well-maintained and the management is professional.**

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Endgame Boxing + Fitness

(3 reviews)

0.1 mi

Endgame has completely changed the fitness game for me. I have always loved group classes, but also…read moreenjoy getting an individual focus at times especially for technique, form, etc. This spot has the perfect fusion of both! Coach Geoff (otherwise known as the General) goes above and beyond for every person that walks in the door. He is the full package as a coach; gives you empowering feedback when needed, tells you when to step it up when he knows you can give more, and leaves you be when he knows you are having a tough day. This is a very unique gym to Philly, if you haven't tried it out for fear of not being good at boxing or not knowing how to box -- don't let those hold you back anymore! The gym is kore than just a boxing gym and is guaranteed a great workout and to uplift your spirits!

Looking for a great place to learn boxing fundamentals as a beginner or perfect them as a pro? If…read moreyou answered yes to either of these, come to Endgame. The variety of small group classes offered allows you to get focused attention from the incredible coaches. Plus, the community at this gym is unmatched!

Great 1:1 attention in every class.

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Perfect balance of gym vibes - everything you need and not overdone/inaccessible!

Delco Boxing Academy

(1 review)

7.1 mi

Great gym with a lot of bags and a ring. The owner Jason Rodden is really nice and knows his…read moreboxing. Good for beginners just looking to get in shape and still good for the more experienced guys who want to spar and compete. Some gyms can only teach you basic footwork and punches. Jason and his team can teach advanced techniques with sharp counter punching and creating angles. I been going there for about a year and have learned a lot. You start off with or without a trainer depending on what you're trying to accomplish. The best part is the gym is 24hr a day, you get a special key card to let you in the door. They have all the boxing stuff in the first floor and a big weight room in the basement with everything you need so I can box one day and lift weights the next day to switch up the workouts. It's really reasonably priced also, you'll pay twice as much at some of the other gyms I've been too. All in all its a good spot to get a workout and I'll be a member for a long time.

Philly's Next Champ

(2 reviews)

11.7 mi

This place has new ownership and is much better than ever. My family lives in Philadelphia and I am…read morealways looking for a place to stay in shape and take my son to keep up with his MMA when I visit. This place is great! They have everything you need from general fitness classes to all levels of MMA. I am so glad I found this place; maybe need to visit family more often!

If you are looking to make a positive change in your life join this gym. Philly's Next Champ is…read moreunlike any gym or boxing gym in northeast Philly. It's unlike any other because of the strong, motivated and dedicated trainers who instruct Fitness Bootcamps. It's unlike any other because you find families at that gym who not only see Philly's Next Champ as a place of exercise; it's a place of warmth that creates lasting memories while also instilling health and fitness. It's unlike any other gym because it teaches that strength comes from within oneself at first and then shows off after time. Attending one class is just as I described and will have you hooked immediately. So take that free first class and find the strong, motivated and dedicated trainers who will teach you to convince your mind and the heart will follow and let it follow you to your best self yet!

Bootcamps everyday

Kids MMA NAGA tournament

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Boxing Training With Coach Rock

(1 review)

1.3 mi

Coach Rock is amazing, she does a great job of pushing you to be your best and works with you based…read moreon your own individual needs and goals. If you are looking to learn how to box or just want to improve yourself (both physically and mentally), I would definitely recommend checking out the Philadelphia Boxing Academy.

From the owner: By Appointment Only Boxing Fitness, and Lessons. Character Building. Personal Nutrition…read moreConsultation.

Boxing bag workout drill during training.

Coach with youth after boxing combat training.

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Friendly trainer, but intense and focused training!

Spruce Street Harbor Park

4.2

(414 reviews)

1.9 mi

Absolutely love this venue ! Perfect for a date night or…read morefamily outing . Great food trucks and bars on the water and I love the random hammocks to lounge in ! I'm so glad we stumbled on this during our vacay

Very cool park along the water. The large, docked ships add a layer that other waterfront parks…read moredon't have. A lot of hammocks and "chill" spots in the shade. I visited the park largely to see one of their summer shows. The Lazy Hammock stage is walled in in its own section of the park. There is a bar at the back right corner of the area. There are lots of picnic benches and seating to the left of the walled in space. The middle is reserved for those that want to stand/dance. The sound quality was excellent. I found the stones on the ground to be annoying when trying to move to the music but there is a pit area at the front of the stage made from wood. This area was a lot more to my liking.

Me enjoying the evening vibes

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O'Connor Pool

(19 reviews)

0.6 mi

water was the perfect temp not too cold not too warm and the whole place was super clean plenty of…read moreloungers too lifeguards were chillin but kept an eye out best swim ever ‍

first time trying out a philly public pool! we did have to wait outside for about ten minutes to be…read morelet in and then an additional five for the life guards to get to their stations, which was a bit disappointing because we only have 50 minutes to swim before they kicked us out again! there's small bathrooms, and no changing rooms but they do have a place to rinse off your feet? (very odd as there is no sand but y'know...) i wish there was a place to change out of my wet bathing suit and into dry clothes, but other than that it was worth trying out on a really hot day! really clean pool and life guards are posted at every side :) unfortunately did not get any pics!

Always so nice + clean and the staff is so friendly

10 minutes of tranquility (break time).

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Wet N Wild Waverunner Rentals

(42 reviews)

56.0 mi

What a FUN experience! Extremely easy to book and plan. The staff were super friendly and helpful…read more They got us a setup quickly and we were on our way on the beautiful bay! Highly recommend planning a unique day date for you and your boo!

Felt nice getting out of the house to actually do something entertaining for once.(This covid bs is…read morea drag) This was my 6th time coming here over the years. Like previous visits, the staff was great. Easy check in. Easy instructions on how to use the ski. Clean and sanitary life vests. Clean and sanitary port o potties. Decent ski's (fast and reliable) A couple negatives - They really did crack down a lot on just how far you can go on the ski's. They also added a lot more staff out there with you (That's good from a safety stand point but they keep you contained to a specific area and enforce rules haha) Previous visits we were able to ride from bridge to bridge ... It felt alot more open and free. This time around it was 1/4 the riding area and basically a large circle. Bummer, but what can ya do ? Safety is in these days. Btw my review from 5 years ago mentions the price as $85 for an hour with a passenger... this year was $118 ! Paying a lot more for a lesser experience. (inflations a bitch) Negatives aside, I still really enjoyed the experience and I look forward to stopping here again soon. It was a great time.

Riding in the Back Bay of OCNJ!

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College Settlement Camp

(4 reviews)

15.7 mi

College Settlement is the best! Initially, I was extremely nervous about sending my children at…read moreages 8 and 11 to their first 2-week overnight camp. However, when registering them for summers following, they insisted on participating in the full 2-week overnight camp, no shorter. CS offers a variety of experiences and activities and keep the kids engaged. They look forward to going back each year and always seem to return home more independent than when they left.

Best place for you kids. My two learned to ride bikes and swim there. They sign up for the same…read moresession each summer to meet their friends from camp again. The staff are very good and handle any situations very well. As a teacher myself I am very impressed at the professionalism of the staff. The camp does bring in kids from many backgrounds and has many kids that come from tougher areas and the staff do a great job of creating a safe space and bringing kids together. This is one of the main reasons my kids have attended for years. I needed financial assistance for a couple of years and the camp was there for us. The staff are from all over the world, and many were campers there too. The senior have been there for many years and are always so friendly and know my kids! I can't say enough about this place. Both my kids loved being junior staff there and can't imagine a summer without College Settlement.

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Zach A.

12 years ago

While deciding where to take class in BJJ I checked out many gyms. Cliques within gyms, hard asses and meat heads who wanted to hurt the "newbies" and low quality instructors were the norm in these dojos. A friend of mine told me about Balance studios and said he heard good things about them. I tried out one class and knew this was the place I wanted to train. Upon entering the room, I was immediately greeted by the students and staff with kind and welcoming words. It was also clear to see the amount of talent and experience in the room with multiple black belts present including each of the instructors. From the time class began to the end, my partner was extremely helpful in understanding the techniques. As I surveyed the room it was apparent that there was a great deal of camaraderie in the air. People were laughing, having fun and learning. I was a little intimidated to roll with such highly ranked students because of poor experiences I had at previous schools with being a beginner tossed in the lions den and having highly touted black belts practice painful moves on the new guy. I rolled with 2 black belts and a few of the lower ranking belts and found all of them to be patient, humble and kind. Instead of capitalizing on white belt mistakes, each partner stopped and reminding of what I was doing wrong. Balance Studios is the best gym I have ever been to. World champions instructors, a clean and welcoming facility and helpful students makes this a great place to learn BJJ/MMA. read more

Rose G.

124

3 years ago

From my experience of over 30 years knowing Phil and Ricky I can say that they have not just upheld the standards set forth by our family traditions but they elevated and I can honestly say that I consider them one of the best I have ever come across. They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the art of jiu-jitsu, and it shows in the way they teach and interact with their students and everyone in the community. They are children of the fight game and their expertise in martial arts goes back generations of their family as well. Their Balance Studios have a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, which makes it easy for students of all levels to feel comfortable and supported while learning. The facilities are also top-notch, with ample space to train and the kind of care that it's hard to find in most schools. I have seen them grow up and become men full of integrity and passion when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu and they are true Martial Artists making it inspiring to be near them to feel that passion rub off. The community of students is also fantastic, with everyone encouraging each other to succeed and reach their full potential. Overall, I highly recommend Balance Studios as a team of schools to anyone looking to learn or improve their skills in this martial art. The quality of instruction, facilities, and community are all outstanding, and I am grateful to be a part of it and continue to be inspired by these fine men that do this exceptional job of leading these schools. read more

Tom G.

12 years ago

I was able to train here for 6 months until life took me out of Philadelphia and I have to say it was a pretty amazing experience. If you're serious about wanting to learn Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, etc, Balance Studios is definitely a place you want to check out. The community was extremely welcoming and I believe anyone at any level with the right mindset (stay humble, work hard) would have a great experience here. The upper-level students (and there are a ton of them, as you really earn your belts at Balance) would always take the time to help newer people like myself, and nobody ever took advantage of my lower skill level when they obviously could. I constantly got new tips on how to improve my game and I was surprised at the amount of knowledge that I got not only from the instructors, but from the students as well. I think that speaks to the environment the owners and management have fostered here, where everybody can always learn something from everyone else. Not to take anything away from the classes, which both emphasized basics and taught those cool advanced moves to impress people with. If I ever had the chance to return, I definitely would. read more

Timur D.

4 years ago

Long winded review coming through. If you are in for short review - here it is: go join Balance. If you want to hang around, keep on reading. As a black belt in two traditional martial arts (aikido and kendo) I came in to Balance in order to find that evasive "real life" training experience most people talk about. Instead I found a way of life, a community, and a life long pursuit, well worth time spent doing it. First of all, as far as lineage goes - it is as legit as it gets, literally first hand Helio students. You want world champions? Also here! But much more importantly- life long committed martial artists. Both Phil and Rick inspire you through action. Living and teaching BJJ live stile is not a gimmick for them, it is what they do. And if you do not find perfectly matching personality in them, there are literally dozens of student and instructor black belts who are always more than happy to support you. Flexibility in training locations is unmatched, and all facilities are world class through and through. Come join on all the fun. It is well worth it! read more

Philip S.

12 years ago

I started training with Rick & Phil since Balance opened in 2002. I can tell you that it changed my life in many ways. I'm a 47 year old bartender (soon to be 48) and I beleive that training jiu jitsu keeps me young, in shape and has become a tremendous boost of my confidence and psyche. The culture that Rick & Phil have created is exemplified right as YOU walk in the door with the big sign that states "KEEP YOUR SHOES AND EGO AT THE DOOR". All of the instructors here are great teachers and great human beings especially Josh & Drew! Check out Balance if you're just a regular "Joe" like me or want to step into the Octagon. Numerous UFC & Bellator fighters train there and often visit to train. Rick & Phil have been doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu way before it was cool! They are world class instructors and produced great competitors! They have great Jiu Jitsu, Mauy Thai, Judo and anything else that will help your MMA career get started! Plus they have lots of self defense classes as well!!! Check them out! You won't regret it! read more

Phil N.

14 years ago

I would have to say that after doing homework and going to damn near every school in the city to check it out that Balance was def the right choice. All the instructors are top notch and will help you until you understand the technique. If you go in with an open mind and no ego you can def learn a lot from the instructors. But the beauty is that you have the opportunity to train with so many black belts. You learn so much on the mats during a rolling session that it is insane. People complain about the price but every other school is damn near the same and have no where near the about of experience and wisdom as balance. I roll with black belts damn near every single day...if you understand the art you will know that this is a big deal. And you will understand that you cannot find this at any other school in philly. Amazing place and I will def recommend this school to anyone trying to learn the beauty of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. read more

Frank B.

12 years ago

WoW!!! If you are interested in training this is the place. They have the nicest people working there that it blows my mind. Coming from the city you just don't find that too often. As for the talent, well I can tell you they are the Best and you won't be under any pressure as they take it at your pace. The slower you go the better you learn. But if you want to get right into it and bang you can but you better know that all these guys are really good so you will learn to be humble. They want to teach you the art and they will become your friends. Also they have it all Jui-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, & Judo. When you leave a class you just feel so much better and can't wait to go back. I would take their 30 free trial and I am sure you will agree with me. read more

Trisha R.

220

12 years ago

I visited Balance Studios for a tour recently because I was looking for a jiu-jitsu gym in philly. When I walked in, I immediately felt comfortable and welcome. I expected to check things out and be on my way back home but I was encouraged to jump right in a class. I was nervous at first with those "new kid in class" jitters but that didn't last long. The instructors and students treated me immediately like I was already a part of the team. The positive vibes and professionalism in this gym are infectious. I left with a huge smile on my face, eager to get back there as soon as possible. I can't wait to officially sign up and be a part of such an amazing group of people. Thank you to everyone who made me feel comfortable. I'll see you all soon! read more

Crystal B.

4 years ago

All of the instructors I've worked with at Balance are very knowledgeable and take an interest in the success of their students. I have found the environment to be very encouraging and supportive of my development. I think that comes from the top down - Phil sets a great example of professionalism and respectfulness. Balance has a wide variety of classes in multiple disciplines, and there's also a good mix of competition-focused students and hobbyists, so there's something for everyone. Speaking to the experience of being a woman in a male-dominated sport, I've found the atmosphere at Balance to be very inclusive to women and considerate of the unique challenges that we experience. I've consistently been treated as an equal member of the team. read more

Samuel H.

178

11 years ago

I've trained at a lot of gyms, and Balance Studios is one of the best. As a member of three Balance Affiliates, I have frequently attended Rick's Sunday Open Mats and have had the opportunity to attend a number of Seminars at Balance HQ . I have never been disappointed. The training and competition is top notch, the instructors and students are always helpful and friendly, and you will get a great workout. I even brought my 10 year old nephew in one day where he was treated to lessons from some of the top guys in the room. Rick and Phil are extremely knowledgeable and excellent instructors. Whether you are looking for basics, or to fine tune your game, this is a great spot. I only wish that it were closer to my house. read more

Clara G.

12 years ago

This is the place to go for top notch instruction. The instructors are not only very skilled practitioners of the art but masterful teachers as well. It's one thing to be very good at jiu jitsu and another to be able to translate that into detailed and comprehensible instruction. It can be tough sometimes, as a woman in the sport, to get the attention to your game that you need. The focus at other schools might be on just the men and women are a secondary consideration. I have never stepped through the doors at Balance and felt like I was anything other than just another person on the mat struggling to improve my game. Ultimately, I think that is what women are looking for and they can find it here. read more

Mark K.

4 years ago

I trained at Balance Studios for several years while I lived in Philadelphia. I loved the atmosphere there. The teachers and the students are very friendly and welcoming. Phil and Ricardo Migliarese, the head instructors, are among the most experienced jiu jitsu practitioners, and they generously share their knowledge of grappling, striking, and self defense (and so do the other amazing instructors). The level of teaching is top notch, and there are multiple classes every day, so you can pick whatever works best for your schedule. You can see how quickly everyone in the room progresses. The students also do very well in competitions. I'm looking forward to training at Balance again soon. read more

Mick R.

12 years ago

I have no choice but to give Balance five stars, and yes it genuinely is as good as it gets! I was visiting Philadelphia on a 24 hour layover due to my work with an airline. I live in England and travel worldwide and always try to find a club to train at while I am away. Balance is immaculately clean, with friendly students and instructors who really care. I attended a midday Jiu Jitsu class and felt at home immediately. I have many years Muay Thai experience but am fairly new to Jiu Jitsu so the quality of teaching is imperative to me if I want to learn and improve. The only negative for me is that this club is not in my home town in the UK, because I'd like to train there every day. read more

Drew V.

433

11 years ago

Balance Studios has been home to me for 12 years now. I've visited many other schools in the United States and have never found the same combination of technical instruction, positive atmosphere and tough training partners. Phil and Rick have a collective 45+ years of Gracie Jiu Jitsu practice between them and all that experience and knowledge is shared openly and without ego. It's very difficult not to improve, regardless of your goals, if you're training consistently and listening to the instructors...most of whom are black belts. Do yourself a favor and check us out! read more

Adam P.

4 years ago

Phil and Ricardo have been two of the most inspirational people in my life over the past 15 years! Their Jiujitsu studios have served as a safe space for me to develop street self defense, Jiujitsu understanding, and most importantly self-actualization. Balance Studios has also served as a place for what has turned into a lifetime bonding experience with my son. He has been going there for 10 years now and it keeps us close and connected during his teenage years! Only the best things can be said about this place and the people who teach and train there. read more

Jimmy C.

4 years ago

Balance Studios is one of my favorite places in Philly. Their welcoming and judgement-free atmosphere has helped me go from an overweight, shy guy to an MMA fighter with a healthy appreciation for life. The enjoyment and sense of camaraderie I get from training jiu-jitsu with them really did help me find purpose and motivation and inspired me to do things I never thought possible. Everyone builds each other up, and I always learn new things when I am training there. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn a new hobby or start a new passion. read more

Becca M.

4 years ago

Balance is just amazing. I started taking classes about a year ago and definitely a little intimidated my first day, but Phil, Rick and the other instructors were so welcoming, kind and patient that I felt comfortable right away. My strength, stamina, confidence and technique have improved immensely since I've been taking classes and there's nothing better than good ol' adrenaline and endorphins to wash away the winter blues! I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. So much love and appreciation to the Balance team. Thank you!! read more

Tri-An N.

4 years ago

Balance studios is the best in business. Phil and Rick are the world-renowned instructors that have ever lace the sport of jiu jitsu under the guidance of Relson Gracie. Phil have been studying the art of jiu jitsu for 35 years. Not only Phil and Rick are a great instructors, they are also a great people that are generous to their community. I am grateful that I get to be a part of a great school. Learning new techniques and meeting new people and sharing the knowledge of jiu jitsu. Balance studios is place to be at for jiu jitsu. read more

Lonnie B.

14 years ago

I have trained Jiu Jitsu since 2006 and I was in search of the best. I found Balance Studios and Rick and Phil Migliarese through a mutual friend and I knew right away it was the right choice for me. I currently take the 2hr. round-trip train ride to learn from them at least twice a week. The classes are fun, the students are great and the atmosphere is welcoming and bodes well for anyone looking to learn the most authentic style of Jui-Jitsu. The Gracie way, all the way. You will have no doubt when you walk in! read more

Michael N.

14 years ago

This is a good place to learn bjj but the prices are a bit extreme. I paid $140 with a $250 registration fee and was limited to 3 classes per week for the beginners program. When you graduate to the advanced program you pay $180 a month for 5 classes and another registration fee. Nice guys and good training but that is very expensive... for that price I would rather commute to NYC and train at Renzo Gracie's academy. read more

Balance Studios - martialarts - Updated August 2026

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(18 reviews)

I found this gym on Reddit and it was well worth it. They are the only Jiu Jitsu dojo in the Philly…read morearea to do free open mats frequently and you can have the first week free. The first Friday of the month is also a time to drop in for free. I looked for so many dojos in Philly and this one was very welcoming. It's truly beautiful inside. Super clean. 2 showered. Many changing rooms. So much clothes and merch you can buy. Clean mats and nice people. It's right off the train about a block off the L. It's in a good neighborhood :) come through! I come for free often as a student who can't yet afford to pay for training. So this place helps me keep my bjj learning continuing for free. I love it here!

Josh and Angie Vogel are experienced jiu jitsu teachers, practitioners, and business owners. JJC is…read morea professionally run school that prides itself on quality instruction and a drama-free training environment. This is a particularly great space for women to train while feeling safe, seen, and 100% supported in their growth. Josh and Angie have a unique and effective teaching style, in which they spend a substantial amount of time dedicated to a theme and are very involved with providing individualized feedback to all students, regardless of rank. This works particularly well for my knowledge retention and ability to truly grasp a concept. The amenities and space (showers, towels, gorgeous natural light, plants, balcony, community area) are nice bonuses, though I would train in a pit in the ground if that's where the Vogel's were!

Gracie Academy

(12 reviews)

Best Bjj Gym in Philly! Doesn't matter if your experienced or a beginner, this is the spot!!read more

Took the free self defense class- I'd recommend it. It was very basic so you don't need any…read moreexperience. The instructor went slow, and was very clear. I couldn't get all the moves and he didn't make me feel at all bad about it. We just moved on. The place was clean, and looked new.

Daniel Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

(16 reviews)

Spacious mats for a small studio. I could actually start sparring standing up like mma, judo, and…read morewrestling! The atmosphere reminded me that I have a lot to learn in the world of BJJ though I have a firm grasp on escapes and positions before submissions. I'll likely return. I was also able to borrow a gi!

I train at the Daniel Gracie gym in Philadelphia, right in the heart of Fishtown, just a…read morefive-minute walk from my house. The location is perfect, but the real magic is in the atmosphere. The energy here is unmatched, and I've made incredible friends who quickly feel like family. I owe a huge thanks to my guy, wholesale Nick, for introducing me to Daniel Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. And Veronica--she's simply the best. She's taught me so much, not only about jiu-jitsu but about health and making positive lifestyle choices outside the gym. I've been fortunate to train at jiu-jitsu gyms across the world--in Australia, South Africa, South Korea, Japan, and England--but Daniel Gracie in Fishtown stands out above the rest. It's more than just a gym; it's a place where I feel truly at home, where the people are as dedicated to each other as they are to the sport. This gym is my community, my support system, and my favorite place to train. Nothing quite compares to Daniel Gracie and the neighborhood of Fishtown.

Shorty's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

We were traveling though and decided to stop here for a class. The instructor Mike Shorty was…read moreawesome. The techniques he taught were articulated very well. He and everyone else at the gym were very welcoming and even gave us tips on what we should do while in town. This is a great gym and if you're looking for a good place to learn jiu jitsu, I recommend you stop by and try a class.

Shorty's BJJ has been an amazing experience. We tried out at least 3 different gyms in the area…read morebefore joining this gym. It was BY FAR the best gym we have ever joined. It has a community feel to it, and it's not uncommon for us to grab a beer with the students and instructors. Mike has been wonderful from the start to end. He cares about all his students and has a phenomenal understanding of BJJ. Brittany has taught us a lot from a woman's perspective(woman's class on Sunday is ) This gym is NOT a bunch of agro dudes out to rip off each other's head, but this gym DOES have talented hard working competitors and practitioners. If competing is not your thing it's also just fun to learn BJJ as a workout and make friends. We are moving and not looking forward to find another gym and will be coming back to visit when we can.

Osagame Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

4.9

(8 reviews)

I've been coming to Osagame for BJJ training for about a year and half. From day one I found it to…read morebe a very welcoming environment--both from the instructors and fellow students. The instructors explain everything well and put a strong focus on making sure you learn the fundamentals (as well as more advanced techniques). BJJ training is difficult, but Osagame is an environment where everyone helps each other learn in a safe manner. Also, unlike many other other gyms, Osagame does not try to lock you into a months-long contract. You get 30 days free and then pay month-to-month with no contract after that.

My son has been coming to Osagame nearly weekly for martial arts training for six years, and I've…read moretrained on and off as well. I can't say enough good things about Osagame. The coaches are knowledgeable, personable, and protective of the students. I can't imagine our weekly routine without this gem.

Logic Jiu Jitsu & Muay Thai

(7 reviews)

my grandson attends classes there they're very professional and yet make it fun for the younger…read morestudents to learn and be engaged. Very happy with the service.

Was coerced into signing up for muay Thai under false pretenses, told if its not for me after the…read morefirst class, I'd get a full refund. Worker used his own financial difficulties to develop rapport only to scam me, an autistic person, out of 700 plus when I realized the classes were too much for me after finishing the first and only class. Do not trust them. They do not care about anything other than money and once they have it, they will go back on their word and make your life hell trying to resolve it and you will wish you had never signed up.

Together - Old City

(4 reviews)

I couldn't recommend this Pilates studio more! This was my first ever Pilates experience, and I'm…read moreso lucky that it was! I've taken two classes with Bri now, who kicks my ass every time! The Pilates shakes are SO REAL. I have absolutely been humbled. She is so inviting, warm, knowledgeable, and has a great coaching/instructing style that really pushes you. I also love the music she plays during the class she has great taste. Her classes are my go to for a great workout!

Together Old City is one of my favorite work out classes in the city. Their booking platform works…read morereally well and they have good times before and after work. The studio is very clean and has a nice vibe to it. The staff is super friendly and nonjudgmental and the classes have a perfect mix of challenging and fun. Often Pilates studios, in my experience, have no availability and you end up wasting classes, but not the case here. The credits last like 6 months (compared to some that only last a month) and I usually don't have trouble finding time in the week that works. The only downside is that they don't have a water bottle refiller so come with full water.

Maleek Jackson Fitness Boxing Gym

I joined this gym without any boxing experience and two years later I keep coming back every week…read more Please do yourself the favor of stopping by. The coaches are incredible, the people are awesome, and you'll get in shape while learning something new and fun!

This is my happy place! The gym is so inclusive and accepting of everyone that walks through the…read moredoors. I'm not your typical gym member and have been one for over 3 years. I've learned so much about myself and am in the best shape of my life! Everyone should give it a try!

Aikido Aikikai of Phila