If you're looking for a top-tier training facility that truly embodies inclusivity, expertise, and a welcoming community, book a class at Systems Training! This is not your average gym or martial arts studio--it's a space where everyone, regardless of experience or fitness level, can find the right class to challenge and empower themselves. What makes Systems Training stand out is the incredible variety of classes they offer. Whether you're looking to master self-defense, improve your martial arts skills, or focus on fitness, there's something for you. Their programs are designed to accommodate all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Every class is structured in a way that ensures participants feel included, supported, and challenged at their own pace. There are also kids classes offered starting as young as 4 years old. A huge part of what makes this place special is the leadership of CEO Marcus Kowal and his wife, Mishel Kowal. They aren't just running a business--they are hands-on instructors who bring passion and expertise to every session. Marcus, a professional MMA fighter, martial artist and self-defense expert, is a second degree black belt of Krav Maga. Mishel is the Co-founder at Liam's Life Foundation, who brings an inspiring approach to training. Both cultivate an environment that is motivating and empowering. Beyond their own instruction, they collaborate with certified trainers and professional martial artists, ensuring that every class is led by experts who are deeply committed to their craft. The community at Systems Training is another reason this place is unmatched. It's a space where people of all backgrounds and abilities come together to grow, push their limits, and support one another. The focus is not just on physical strength but also on mental resilience, confidence, and real-world preparedness. Whether you're looking to get in shape, gain confidence, or learn real-world self-defense skills, Systems Training is the place to be. It's more than just a gym--it's a movement. If you're considering signing up, don't hesitate. You won't find another place like this! read more

I love this place. It's really a second home for me. I wanted to learn MMA and the coaching staff are experienced, knowledgable, and friendly. They have all the equipment you need to train; boxing ring, heavy bags, med balls, double end bags, speed bags, battle ropes, MMA cage, jump ropes, and brand new mats. They even padded the wall in their front room to simulate working off of the cage wall. They have a great MMA program. Its a 12 week MMA Fundamentals program that takes you through all the MMA basics from punching, kicking, takedowns, jiujitsu, wrestling, etc. Then they have "advanced" classes for those that have completed the 12 week program and a lot of their Pro and Amateur MMA fighters show up and take those classes too. So, you get a chance to train with these guys. The staff is friendly and it really feels like a family when you walk in the doors. There aren't any tough guys so if you are new to MMA, Boxing, or Fitness you don't have to worry about anyone making you feel like you are new. Everyone helps everyone and they all want to see you progress because everyone there experienced "day 1". I recommend this place to anyone that wants to learn Boxing, Kickboxing, Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, Self-Defense, or Fitness. They offer a free class, so there's nothing to lose and its no obligation. Lastly, if you have kids, they have a great Kids MMA program (ages 5-10+) and they go to Jiu-Jitsu tournaments and bring back medals! read more

As a complete beginner, I was initially a little intimidated by the idea of joining a martial arts or cross training program. However, due to my many wonderful instructors patience and professionalism, along with a culture of cooperation, I quickly found a home at Systems Training Center and my enthusiasm to learn was always outmatched by my instructors passion to teach. Here, you are not simply doing random drills and learning a few useful moves. Rather, mma professionals are sharing the fundamental building blocks which can change a new comer like me, to a formidable fighter within a relatively short amount of time. But for me it is not exactly about that. I want to be the best fighter I can be but, mainly, I find the training extremely fun, engaging and challenging. You are taught a set of moves, in a never ending game, and the possibilities often seem limitless. This has been an eye opening experience for me, and anyone who is even slightly interested in martial arts, must go to Systems Training Center as soon as possible, so that they may better explain to you all that they have to offer. I am sincerely and extremely grateful to the many instructors at STC who have sparked a lifelong passion for martial arts in me, and will never forget the many wonderful opportunities which I was given here. read more

I was never motivated for the gym. I would sign up go for a few weeks and quit. I always stuck to the same machines cause i wouldn't go with people who helped me with others and was to shy and embarrassed to ask. When i got introduced to Systems it became a lifestyle. A gym i look forward to attending. The trainers i go with are the most amazing, humble , hard working , motivating , trainers i've ever had the pleasure of having. They welcomed me and accepted me. They helped me improve in stuff i was weaker , and helped me make my strengths even stronger. The way they encourage me to never give up and motivate to keep pushing, right when i think i'm going to give up they say "you got this" and it really does push me , and once i'm done they make you feel good about it. Never did i think i would be able to front squat 115lb. I'm seriously in love with Systems Training Center. I see the people in there more than just trainers and people in my class. i see them as family. people who i want around even outside of the gym! Thank you Christos , Rodney , John , and last but not least Dima ! Keep kicking my ass and never let me give up on myself during hiit fit and crossfit! Much Love and appreciation monse read more

I started at Systems Training Center at the Hawthorne location in 2012. Since then, coaches, members, and even the looks of the place have changed, however the overall morale, lessons, and vibes haven't. Starting out as a kid can be quite difficult, especially because I was the only girl in class for almost a whole year. But the coaches have always been so kind and welcoming; they never let me feel out of place. Shoutout to my coaches at the time, Luis, Danny, Rob, and Carnation and to Coaches Angel and Cherry who are still there and still encouraging, inspiring, and pushing the kids. I've practically grown up at the gym, as now I am an adult who's even made it to the team. The coaches and programs are still just as encouraging. Coaches Christos, Dima, Chris, John, and Marcus all push members to keep going and stay determined. Because of that, I am more confident in my skills. Everyday I go to the gym so excited and happy to see all my friends, coaches, and teammates. It's impossible not get attached to the gym and to the people. Such a great environment and I love my second family. read more

I am a current member at this fitness center and I highly recommend it to others. The instructors are always courteous and friendly and always ready to go! People of all ages are welcomed and no matter what class one decides upon the instructor is very careful to start them at the right skill level. Classes are never routine and repetitive, members are always learning something new or improving on technique. If you like what you see on the images provided what are you waiting for? This can be you now or in a few months of training. Marcus, the gym owner really cares about every individual and that they get all techniques correctly, he really wants everyone to know that they can defend themselves and can get away from a violent situation. I have been to other gyms before and also have paid for personal trainer sessions, I know I am getting a good value for my money...one can come every day of the month if they choose for the same price! I really like the staff and great instructors. Come on in and try a free class today, tell them Sarah sent you! : ) read more

This is definitely the best gym in the South Bay! Friendly staff and great coaches. They offer classes for adults and children, everything from strength and conditioning classes to self-defense classes like boxing, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu... Since I started in November of last year I have lost 25+ pounds and have packed on muscle too. Part of it goes to my own self-discipline. But special shout out to coach Chris who has helped me reach this achievement, by teaching me proper lifting and exercise techniques along with great diet advice . Also, coach Rafa who has helped with my kickboxing/muay-thai technique and conditioning. The other coaches are really knowledgeable too, I just haven't taken their classes very much yet. The owner Marcus is is a really good guy, and very passionate about health and self-defense. I look forward to continuing to learn from him and to be inspired by him as-well. I can go on for a while on how Systems is a great place. My advice is, sign up for a month and see for yourself! read more

I actually came across this place through yelp when I was looking for a good gym to go to for cross fit classes. Luckily I found this place near my house and decided to go check it out. I visited the location and everyone was very nice and helpful and so I decided to take some classes for the summer. Honestly best decision ever because I was in such a great environment and even though I wasn't as fit as I wanted to be I was helped and encouraged by others and the instructors. The classes were intense but great, I honestly lost 7lbs in the 1st 2 weeks of going to crossfit class. If you like intense workouts with intense and fast results this is where you come. I really love this place because it's small, "homey", and everyone is very kind/helpful unlike any ordinary gym. If you want to go to a place where you feel comfortable in your own skin and want to be pushed to be the best you can be, than go to systems training center because they will really help you reach your goals! read more

It's that rare offered combination of technical knowledge, mindset training, subject matter expertise, professional experience, with rock-solid team esprit de corps, and genuine individual-oriented personal development that sets Systems Training Center apart from all fight/fitness organizations. Whether your goal is to fight professionally; as an amateur, be as fit as a fighter, or accomplish your own personal health, fitness and/or martial arts goals, Systems Training Center, and its staff and instructors are here to help you realize those aspirations. The coaches here go above any beyond physical training and sincerely look to impart guidance, and direction in developing your most confident and well-rounded self. There's nowhere else to look if you're serious about realizing your potential; this is the time to start - and Systems Training Center is the place to begin that 1% better/daily journey towards actualizing who you know you can become. read more

I love training at this place! The idea of training amongst fighters, when you're not experienced yourself, can be intimidating. But as soon as you walk into this place it has a total family vibe and there are all sorts of different people training here. Everyone was introducing themselves to me and asking if I was new to the gym etc. The instructors are all really nice and chill and helpful. Just real, no egos and they actually know what they are doing and teaching cause they're professionals. I come here for Crossfit and Thaipads, and last week I tried something called Calisthenics which was really fun and different. I've been coming in a couple times a week for the past three weeks and I already see and feel a big difference in my body and strength. It's just a great environment to be in and everyone is supportive and cheering each other on. Great for beginners as well as for those who are experienced. read more

THIS IS THE BEST GYM FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR A REAL WORKOUT, NO GAMES! Whether you're looking to lose weight, get in shape, get stronger/get that awesome physique, or train martial arts for self-defence or competition... Systems Training Center is definitely the ideal gym for you (i know from personal experience). The entire cast of trainers and coaches is composed of professional and amateur fighters, world champions, and top level fitness athletes. The kids classes are both very easy to learn from as well as fun, kids are literally having fun while effectively learning martial arts. Strength&Conditioning, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, kickboxing, krav maga, you name it, they have an experienced and committed, yet friendly and helpful trainer there ready to help you. Free classes if you wanna try it for yourself. You'll be glad you did. read more

I am overweight AND have a neurodegenerative disease from which doctors told me I'd be in a wheelchair within 5 years, this was 2 1/2 years ago.) My body has certain limitations due to this disease, but I really REALLY wanted to try Crossfit. The good folks of Systems Training Center embraced me, taught me modifications to exercises, and made me feel comfortable in their space. Marcus, Cristos, Dima, and Lauren have treated me with every kindness and made me feel like I really matter. So, if you want a place where you're more family than client, this is the place to be. I love you Systems Training Center. =) I broke my toe in May and because of doctor's orders have had to abstain from Crossfit, but I will be right back at it at the end of July when my podiatrist clears me for Crossfit. You should come join me. You'll be glad you did. read more

The day camps at Systems Training Centers are absolutely wonderful. My son truly loves going, and that alone speaks volumes. Every day he comes home excited, full of stories, and eager to tell me about all the fun activities he did and the new things he learned. I really appreciate that the camps give him the opportunity to interact with other kids in such a positive, supportive environment. The staff clearly put a lot of thought into planning meaningful, enriching activities that keep the kids engaged and happy. It's not just fun, it's purposeful. My son is always counting down the days and talking about how much he's looking forward to the next camp, which gives me so much peace of mind as a parent. I'm incredibly grateful for the experience Systems Training Centers provides and highly recommend their day camps to other families. read more

I had never stepped foot in a mma gym before. Systems Training Center of Hawthorne was a great place to start, for me. The coaches are very welcoming, as well as experienced & accomplished in their own respective martial arts careers. I gained invaluable knowledge in self-defense, and I got physically healthier & stronger. Training at Systems is the closest thing I've done to being part of a team sport, since high school. I joined the gym because I couldn't get myself to do at-home workout dvds anymore lol. Systems Training Center offered the accountability I needed. It got me regularly exercising again, out of a slump, and served as a reminder that physical exercise is probably the most effective method to raise one's mood & spirit. You'll meet some good, genuine people here, too. read more

For some people a gym just might be a place where you only come and workout and that's it. But here at Systems Training Center this place is more than just a gym, its a 2nd home. We have a good time here, but at the same time everyone is putting in hard work. All the instructors and classes are excellent, the people are nice here and you will learn so much here and get a good workout here and have fun doing it at the same time. Every class is exciting and you will definitely not get bored here. Anybody that lives in the South Bay area or just like to train and learn a variety off skills, technique, self-defense, get in shape or whatever your motivation might be. I highly recommend coming and trying a free class at Systems, because we have it ALL! read more

had to say one of the main reasons I came here was because of the amount of 5 star ratings this place has. The staff is super awesome and helpful. They offer a great variety of classes both night and morning and on the weekends which is super helpful cuz Im so busy during the week! I took a kickboxing class with Coach Rios on Tuesday nights and love the personal touch, its not a 50 person class!!!! the speed of the class rotates around the whole level of the class, which I thought was cool cuz this was my first kickboxing class and they were all super cool about leveling out so I could keep up!! I am definitely a member of Systems Training Center now!! read more

Systems Training Center is a great MMA and Crossfit gym. I've taken Crossfit classes with Marcus and Christos as teachers. Both are thorough with teaching form and amazing motivators. I've also taken Krav Maga here with Marcus as a teacher. Krav Maga is a great class in self-defense fighting technique and Marcus is again detailed in teaching technique and humorous in his delivery. The teachers I've had at Systems are wonderful and even the students here tend to help in motivating each other. Systems is a great gym if you're looking for variety and positivity in your workout. I feel stronger and happier everytime I leave there. read more

What a great place! I recommend this training center with all my heart. I have never trained any type of Martial arts in my whole life before and to be honest always a little scared to take a class since I don't have any fighting skills. But they brought me in to try a free class in self-defense the other day and I couldn't believe how much fun it is and how much you actually learn about you body. Only after one class I feel like I'm gonna be able to get really good at this and be able to defend myself if anything happens. The trainers and the whole center has a great energy and you feel very motivated to get better! read more

Just started training here and it's been amazing. First off, the teachers are great. The teachers are all well versed in different fighting styles and are friendly when it comes to new comers. It's definitely a comfortable place to get excited about fitness and getting into shape. There's tons of different classes to get into as well, like Crossfit, yoga, BJJ and boxing too. They even have classes for your kids! I was a little hesitant to join a gym for a couple reasons (being in college really drains the wallet, feel me?) but this prices here are great. Overall, great staff, great facility, great choice. read more