As a previous reviewer stated, this is a real kickboxing/boxing gym run by a former champion Javier "El Gaucho" Diez, or simply Javi. You're not going to get cheated out of a workout here. I can guarantee you that.
Pre-covid, I was a regular here for years in his kickboxing classes before taking some time off. I started out in his boxing class and I realized my legs needed something to do, so kickboxing made more sense to me. Glad I made the choice.
Javi's gym is in the southern part of greater Pasadena and shares a strip mall with several other businesses. Funny enough, there's a donut shop right next to it, which is tempting after workouts. Parking is sparse, but in mornings there's a lot of space.
Inside is a bit tight, but his classes aren't too large, which is a good thing. There's also a ring that takes up most of the facility. Here, you'll often see some of his pro and amateur fighters sparring or jumping rope. On-site, he has extra gloves and tape in case you forget to bring your own or just don't have either (I'd highly recommend getting your own gear). There's also a co-ed restroom that he keeps tidy.
The classes run for about an hour long, with Javi at the helm instructing you. There are enough heavy bags to go around, but on some days you'll have to share.
The workouts are really intense, and Javi will push you. But he is patient and very approachable. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you get something wrong or need some clarity. Nobody gets left behind. Over the years, he's built an environment that is friendly and welcoming. Javi wants you to learn and will give it his heart and soul in the process. This type of commitment, coupled with a friendly atmosphere, is a rarity in gyms nowadays.
Javi himself, and not an assistant, will personally show you proper techniques, from your basic punches and kicks to advanced combos and movement. Everything is practical and makes sense. You will drill them repeatedly until they become embedded in your memory bank. The idea is that these techniques can be applied when you have the opportunity to spar, or in real-life situations (which hopefully never comes to fruition).
In between drills, he will run some conditioning exercises to build up your stamina. Over time, you will really notice the difference. I know I did.
I am forever thankful for the time I spent in Javi's gym. This is a top-notch facility where you will learn from a real, bonafide professional. Don't bother with the other fly-by-night, 30-minute workout gyms you see pop up around town, or the vanity gyms that social media addicts often use as filler for their IG posts. There's a reason this establishment has been around for years. Come see for yourself. read more