"Any dispute you have with the school has been resolved by a third party that you selected. It was determined that the school has done no wrong to you." Again, the complaint was closed as resolved when you made the same false allegations that you make below, which prevented me from responding despite making several attempts to do so. "The confidential information you are publicly posting does not help your cause. It only reinforces that the school has done nothing wrong. In fact, posting these confidential documents in an attempt to validate your story discredits your entire review." -The information I am posting is not confidential (you may want to consult with a lawyer on that one) and does not reinforce in any way that the school has done nothing wrong. These documents are not altered(as you originally wrote) and don't discredit anything I have said. "-One of your photos is from your cancellation date with Pure Fitness, for access into the facility. That is a different business. Not Elite. It has nothing to do with your cancellation with Elite." -The photo of cancellation that you claim is for a different business specifically says "Elite MA" on it and is provided by the business you happen to rent a room from to operate your school out of. I also did not have a membership with that gym so it can only refer to your school. This only strengthens my argument you billed me incorrectly and I now know it was intentional. "You claim that is our billing system but it is not."-No I don't claim this is your billing system, this is evidence you notified the gym of my cancellation. "This is false information on public display you are choosing to post." -There is nothing false about this information. In fact claiming something is false when it is not is defamation. I have already verified it with the gym's staff. "You may want to consider taking these altered documents off your review."-These documents are not altered. I have removed personally identifying information. Again, you are trying to put a false narrative on this issue. (I see you removed the word altered in an edit) "You are correct that some of our reviews are from individuals currently serving as staff. Due to the high quality of training..." -your not supposed to have employees or other people with conflicts of interest write reviews for your business. Yelp policy states you should never ask customers to write reviews also. It's pretty obvious some of the previous reviews were in direct response to mine. "Conflicts of interest: Your contributions to Yelp should be unbiased and objective. For example, you shouldn't write reviews of your own business or employer, your friends' or relatives' business, your peers or competitors in your industry, or businesses in your networking group. Businesses should never ask customers to write reviews." Google also has a similar policy. You may want to start reviewing policies/rules/laws before you respond to things. In summary you may have made quite a few allegations. You may want to check Yelp's policy on reviews before responding further... and consider trying to resolve this. read more

After having incurred a significant knee injury, rehab and personal training, I knew I wanted to move on and try something out that motivated and challenged me beyond a work-out at the gym. After a friend mentioned Krav Maga in a conversation about Martial Arts, I started looking at different programs. What was enticing about Elite Martial Arts (EMA) was: the fact that I could attend class at any of their locations, their class schedules, and the various programs offered (Krav Maga, Conditioning, Weapons Defence, Women's Self Defence, and Muay Thai). I can whole-heartedly say that my decision to join EMA has been a great experience. I have had the unique experience of being one of the only students to attend classes at EMA's Toronto, Toronto West, and Mississauga locations, which at first was a bit of a concern to me. It's of comfort to know though that EMA's curriculum is consistent, the instructors (Dan, Lawrence and Patrick) are clear and concise, as well as very supportive throughout their lessons, and the students are welcoming and encouraging at all locations. Seeing as Toronto West and Mississauga are newer locations, it has all truly been a pleasant surprise. I originally only anticipated the benefits of training and not the high level of instruction at each location or the connection with fellow students. I really should add that your level of ability and fitness really doesn't matter, as students are taught and matched up accordingly. I would highly recommend that you take that first step and schedule your free trial. In my experience, Dan Novak, owner and Head Instructor, is more than approachable in person and via email as well. Email communications are prompt and personable, which indicates to me that students and their questions matter. I truly hope that you do try out EMA's programs, I couldn't be happier with my decision to do so! Helen ~ EMA student read more

I joined EMA Toronto in the fall of 2022 on the advice of a friend who had found great success there. When I started, I was a paunchy, uncoordinated mess of a student -- no prior experience in martial arts, just an out-of-shape nerd. For months, I routinely used my asthma inhaler after long stretches of conditioning drills... how embarrassing. As tough as it was being so out of shape, I found comfort in knowing that if I kept listening to the instructors and working consistently, my skills and conditioning would improve. For years, I had become accustomed to lonesome workouts -- lifting weights and maybe spending a few minutes on an elliptical. My first class at EMA was a humbling experience. Like many others, I fell in love with EMA's Muay Thai program, drawn to its technique -- beauty, grace, and power. The quality of instruction is first-rate. Night after night, without fail, the PCKs and Krus give thorough explanations of complex combinations, weight-shifting, counterstrikes, angles, clinching techniques, and more. Great respect is shown for the sport's culture and its heritage in Thailand by EMA's teachers and students. I've learned to be a practitioner of Muay Thai, and the credit goes entirely to the instructors and fellow students who've carried me along. I've experienced great joy watching countless others improve alongside me. It's now September 2025. I was 185 pounds when I started Muay Thai; I'm 165 pounds now -- the same weight I was at 21. I'll be 42 next February. I've barely used my asthma medication in a year and a half. I still have much to improve on: learning not to be tense, employing better control, proper footwork, and more. There's always more to learn -- and that's what keeps me returning to EMA regularly. I couldn't recommend it highly enough. read more

"Whether you realize it or not, your principles define the values of your organization, which in turn define the culture and behaviour of your employees (Instructors)." Bruce McAlpine, President Fulcrum Search Science Inc., Executive Search Firm, Toronto April 19, 2023 .https://fulcrumsearchscience.com/bruce-mcalpine/principles-centred-leadership-examples-from-warren-buffett/ Elite Martial Arts Toronto Have recently had the opportunity to participate in several Krav Maga classes with the EMA organization owned and led by Dan Novak. As an Executive Leadership Coach, I have worked with numerous mid and senior executives in the Canadian Financial Sector. Recognize superior leadership when I see it. Imagine my surprise to see Dan's leadership in action and begin to realize that it is gold standard. As good or better than any of the numerous organizations I have been affiliated with in the past 45 years. Krav Maga is a lethal martial art. As such, it demands a high degree of respect and trust on the part of all participants. EMA Instructors combine key leadership characteristics in a balanced manner: Professional, empowering leadership. Disciplined yet flexible approach in recognition of different levels of capability. Every single Instructor is deeply knowledgeable and competent. Every single one communicates efficiently and effectively. And each Instructor is alert (seem to be everywhere at once), supportive and not intimidating in any way. Quite frankly, amazing! Intend to continue attending Dan's 'workshops' for at least another year. Dave Gray, MBA (Thesis focus: "Leadership & Empowerment") read more

Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to practice different martial arts and styles. I have done Taekwondo, Ninjutsu, Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing and Muay Thai. About two years and a half ago, I decided to practice something new and that is when I came across Krav Maga and Dan Novak, owner and lead instructor of Elite Martial Arts. Dan and all Elite instructors are dedicated, knowledgeable, skilled but, most important, they are truly committed to the individual growth of their students. Krav Maga is a well-rounded set of techniques that prepares you for real life situations and allows you to get out of them as fast and safe as possible. Here, at Elite, the classes are focused on what can really happen and what has proven to be an effective defense technique; it doesn't have to look nice or fancy, it just needs to work. Also, Elite offers an awesome environment where women and men train together (men are respectful and fair). Recently, Dan partnered up with Siam and added a Muay Thai program. As a person with previous experience in Muay Thai, I can truly say that this is an invaluable program that relies on traditional practices (something I value and look for in a school). Since I started to practice Muay Thai in combination with Krav Maga, I have noticed that my stamina, speed, strength and overall skills have improved considerably. If you are looking for a school that prepares you for real life scenarios, is dedicated to its students and their goals, offers a friendly environment and allows you to grow within the program, Elite is definitely the right place for you! read more

I've been a Krav Maga student at downtown Toronto EMA since January 2016. I've also attended the recently opened Toronto West school. All of the instructors, not only know their stuff, they train hard along with the class, they motivate, they care, and they clearly love what they do. I can honestly say that each and every instructor at EMA is high calibre and that their individual abilities and teaching styles are what makes every class worthwhile. Dan Novak, owner of the school, is also highly involved. Not only does he regularly teach classes (while training along with us), I see him come in very often even when he isn't teaching. There was even a short period of time that he couldn't teach due to an injury and he would come in anyway just to say hello to students and to the instructors that were covering classes for him. He also spends a lot of time organizing some pretty amazing workshops and social events. I don't believe I've ever met anyone as passionate and dedicated as Dan. He clearly loves his school and it's evident in the instruction we receive and in the overall vibe. In addition to the highly qualified instructors, EMA schools are part of Krav Maga Canada. Knowing that EMA follows these high standards is another motivator for me. I know I'm learning "the right way" and that I'm not just following a random curriculum made up by someone who decided they're good enough to teach. And last but not least, EMA has a diverse and truly welcoming community feeling. If you're going to do Krav Maga, join Elite Martial Arts (there are 3 locations). read more

After 3 years thinking about it, I finally started Krav Maga lessons March 2015. I initially picked Dan's Toronto school for the location and schedule, but what clinched it was the first class. I went alone without a friend and it didn't matter, the other students (esp. Sue, who Dan assigned as my partner) were very nice and friendly and Dan is an excellent instructor. So are his co-instructors. The students are a full mix of men, women, age, size, ethnicity and ability. I could tell immediately it was going to be a positive place to be each week. As a woman, it can be intimidating joining a martial arts type environment, but there are no macho egos here and no aggressive "meathead" type students or behaviour. It's respectful, which ensures everyone gets the most out of each interaction in class and keeps everyone focused on the fact that Krav is extremely efficient self-defense, not a recreational sport or antagonistic weapon. If you want, you can assess your learning and belt test to advance through the belts. The conditioning classes will keep you fit, I really like them. The quarterly social events are fun! It's nice to actually socialize with everyone instead of just hitting them in class ahahaha!!! There's a new Mississauga location that I also attend periodically and Ed and the other instructors there are just as thorough, accurate and attentive to your progression as Dan. read more

Great facility and so much fun! I've been going here since Dec 2014 and it's been amazing every class. The staff are super knowledgeable and always willing to help you out if you have questions or aren't getting something in class. I've done martial arts (specifically Taekwondo) before but I never really felt like I was learning something 'real world'. I learned how to punch and kick, but if I was every attacked I knew I wouldn't really be able to defend myself. Learning at EMA is WAY different. Every class I walk out learning something new that is something real world. Instead of learning how to punch, I'm learning to defend myself from an attacker in random situations or what to do if they have a gun or knife. Most of the lessons are close combat (e.g. someone choking you from behind, 3 on 1 fights, etc) It's a great environment too, I'm a 5'3" girl that weighs 150 lbs and I end up going against people of every body type and size, and I've gone up against a guy over 6 feet and twice my weight and been able to use the moves and lessons taught during class during simulated attacked. Using the skills I've learned at EMA I'm confident I'd be able to defend against a real life scenario against any attacker. This is a great class with a great bunch of people and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn self defense, or even just get in a great workout. read more

I have been training with Head Instructor and Founder of Elite Martial Arts Toronto, Dan Novak, since 2018. I was present when he moved from a smaller gym to the Pure Fitness building to the online classes due to COVID-19 restrictions. To give some context, I am not in this to be a competitive fighter. I knew absolutely nothing about krav maga when I went in to my very first class. Over the years, I show up because I want to 1) build confidence, 2) learn techniques, 3) get healthier. You have to find your 'WHY' when picking any course. That way you COMMIT. Once you commit, Dan and his team have got your back and never failed to deliver. Key example is during COVID-19 times when everything was closed, I suggested to Dan that we should do online classes because I found a group of ladies who were interested in it. With that, we have been consistently at it for the last 6 months! From the bottom of my heart, I give my full support to Dan and his team of instructors. From the moment I started, I never looked back. I rave about it to my friends, colleagues, and family all the time. Many of whom have joined in on the classes too. Whether you are a newbie like me, an experienced fighter, or anywhere in-between, there is something new to be learned from Dan and his team. read more

I've been training at Elite Martial Arts for over two years now. I've loved every second of it, so when I realized I hadn't reviewed it on Yelp, I knew I needed to correct my oversight asap. Dan runs a top-notch Krav Maga and Muay Thai school with excellent instructors and a solid community. Everyone from Dan himself to other instructors like Matt, Lawrence and Sue are incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and detail-oriented. They've polished every technique to make sure it works, and they have you train it time and again in as realistic and tiring a scenario as possible. There's a lot of emphasis on being aggressive (it is, after all, a Krav Maga school), and that is the most important thing I'd say I've learned here. In other words, even if I forget a technique, I'm now aggressive enough to keep on fighting, no matter what the odds are or how imposing the attacker is. To never give up is easier said than done, but if a school can teach you to do it, this is it. Whether you're a man or a woman (actually, there are a lot of women here), you owe it to yourself to check out Dan's school. As I always say, everybody should know how to defend themselves--or at least, the good guys should. There aren't many places that'll do a better job with that than Elite Martial Arts. read more

Look no further for a highly effective full body workout, EMA's Martial Arts Program is without equal. As a long time fitness and Taekwondo instructor myself, I joined EMA in autumn 2014 to supplement my martial arts training. The quality of the program and its instructors were immediately obvious to me, and EMA quickly became my favorite place to train. Beyond the Krav Maga and Muay Thai classes - I find the varied and challenging Elite Conditioning routines effectively build balanced strength and endurance. The Program consists of high intensity workouts using body weight, free weights, and resistance bands; which are enhanced by the incorporation of basic martial arts skills and an inspiring team atmosphere. I lead multiple of my own fitness classes weekly, but EMA and their Elite Conditioning Program is the place I choose for my personal workout. EMA instructors even graciously allow me to incorporate elements of the Elite Conditioning Program into the fitness classes I instruct! Beyond a clear improvement to my capabilities as a martial artist, EMA has an incredible Krav Maga + Conditioning + Muay Thai program for those looking for that 'athletic edge' or to generally improve their overall fitness. read more

I've been doing Muay Thai for about a 1.5 years before I discovered Krav. I was looking to expand my skills to something more practical and I definitely found that at EMA. The program provides a wide range of training opportunities from Krav to weapons defense and jiu jitsu, all of which, I believe, have greatly improved my fighting skills. What was equally important to me, was finding a place where I would actually enjoy training. The stuff at the EMA, lead by Dan, are incredible. Whether you're just starting your fighting training or have been training for awhile they are always there to help you grow and are very knowledgeable and supportive. I'm glad to see that more women are getting into martial arts, as it's a great way to stay fit and build strength and confidence. I've definitely seen that trend at the EMA in the few months I've been training, with more and more women joining and growing into amazing and inspiring fighters. Finally, EMA is not just a gym, there's definitely a sense of community where people help each other grow and celebrate each other's achievements. The workouts are tough (prepare to sweat), but nothing can bit that feeling of accomplishment at the end of the night. read more

If you are looking to get in shape and be a better and more confident person than look no further than Elite Martial Arts. Dan and his staff are passionate about helping you reach your fitness and personal goals and it shows thru their attention to detail, clear communication and compassion for their students. At 39 years of age I decided it was time to get my ass back in shape (both mentally and physically)and I wasn't interested in the resistant weight training regiment that I had long been a part of throughout my 20's. I have been a regular for 18months now, attending classes about 3 times a week (enrolled in both the Krav and Muay Thai programs) and I can confidently say that I am in the best shape of my life. Down 35lbs and able to keep up with the kids half my age on the mats. I am glad that I found Elite Martial Arts. It's engaging and gives you confidence on the street if any situation were to go sideways. If you are looking to become a better human (while getting In shape) then why not start by trying out a class at Elite. It may spark something that will change your life for the better! See you in class ;) read more

I recently joined Elite Martial Arts and have been thoroughly impressed with the quality of the classes and the care shown by the owner and instructors. From the start, the owner was helpful and welcoming, taking time to answer my questions. The instructors are knowledgeable and engaging, creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment that challenges students to improve. The classes I've attended have had great energy and intensity, and as a new student, I'm already certain that I can learn a lot here. I also appreciate the inclusivity and respect shown towards all students, including myself as a trans woman. The teachers have been considerate and reassuring, making me feel entirely comfortable and welcome. Overall, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive and I highly recommend Elite Martial Arts for exceptional self-defense and martial arts classes in a supportive and inclusive environment. The owner's commitment to creating a positive learning environment is evident in every aspect of the school, and I'm excited to continue training there. read more

A friend of mine mentioned she attended a women's self defense class and it totally piqued my interest. I decided to sign up with my sister to attend. When I walked in on the first night, I felt really intimidated. I had no idea what I was doing, and my #1 goal was to survive the class. Well, I survived, and it was so empowering I decided to sign up to train. I had been going to the gym for quite some time, though going to that self defense class showed me I had a lot of work to do to get into way better shape (both mentally and physically). After a few months, I'm now feeling fitter than ever and have gained a new passion I never expected. I'm amazed that I now have a yellow belt in Krav Maga! It's also one of the most welcoming schools and communities I've been a part of. Dan (the founder) truly cares about his students and wants us to succeed. One night I didn't properly hydrate and was feeling light headed and Dan gave me his credit card to buy coconut water. It's the little thing like that, that truly inspire me and renew my commitment to training! read more

Elite Martial Arts (EMA) has been my Krav Maga and Muay Thai school for the past few years. I initially came to learn self-defence (Krav Maga is, after all, the most practical and real-world self-defence system out there) and have learned about awareness & mental state, control positions, stand-up techniques, ground techniques, combatives, sparring, gun disarm, knife disarm, stick disarm, and more. But I have improved in many other surprising ways. By constantly testing your mental and physical limits, you can effectively elevate them. By practicing martial arts, you can enhance self-confidence AND humility at the same time. I have tried a few other martial arts gyms for comparison and found myself quite privileged, and staying with EMA. Dan, Lawrence, and the other instructors are great teachers, they have always believed in me and supported me. The facilities are great. My fellow students are my friends, and we are all invested in everyone's development. This is my school for the long run. I recommend you come for a trial class and see for yourself. read more

It has been over 1.5 yrs since I joined Elite Martial Arts (EMA). I still remember my first day meeting with lead instructor - Lawrence, he thoroughly explained the process for the evening and partnered me up with an experience Krav student. We started class with a 30 minutes intense workout and a few minutes after 1 hour of Krav Maga techniques. ... the students and instructors made me feel quite welcome, I was very impressed. I left that night convinced in my mind that my research and school selection was the right one. A couple days later I signed up for 12 months paid in advance. Being a practitioner of other Martial Arts I wanted a more direct explosive fighting method - this system delivers. My skills has dramatically improved along with my level of fitness. ... So, needless to say Dan - the owner and the other instructors takes the time and patients to ensure you are ready to take on the physical aspect and ensures you understand why each defense and counter-attack is important. Fredrick J. Krav Maga, and Muay Thai (Student) read more

I signed up with Elite in the summer of 2021, and have been going ever since! I came in with limited knowledge in martial arts, and since then have had the experience of a lifetime! Elite has created an enviroment that's safe and conductive to learning. The instructors come in with a vast amount of experience, knowledge, and extrodinary passion in teaching the Krav Maga and Muay Thai programs. This is a great place for people who have zero experience in martial arts AND for people who have been training for a long time. Elite does well in acknlowdeging and catering to your skill level. For those who have more expreince, Elite always challenges you within your skill level. You will always feel like you're learning something new everytime. It's a great way to develop your skills, fitness, and your confidence. Elite also has a women's-only program, which not a lot of other places have. This program focuses on issues women face and cater its martial arts teaching towards that. Wouldn't recommend this place enough. Give it a go! read more

I began training at Elite Martial Arts with absolutely no background or experience in any form of martial arts, and the progress I've made has been incredible. After more than two years of attending Krav Maga classes, I've gained practical self‑defense skills and a much stronger sense of personal and social awareness. The facility is clean, easy to access, and creates a great learning environment, supported by instructors who are knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in your growth. The flexible weekly schedule makes it easy to train in the afternoons or later in the evening, which has helped me stay consistent. I've also incorporated their Muay Thai into my routine, and it has significantly improved my striking and conditioning over the past year. If your goals include learning to defend yourself, getting stronger, becoming more aware of your surroundings, and connecting with people who share similar goals, I highly recommend Elite Martial Arts. read more