Absolutely book a class with these guys, expert level trainers and a very clean, well put together space. Best boxing gym in OC.

I've been a professional personal trainer since 2009. I ran the entire training department for large corporate gyms, and I still train clients I've worked with for over ten years. Any of them can vouch for me. In my entire career, I have never had a single billing dispute with a client. I know this industry from the inside, which is exactly why my experience at The Box has been so disappointing. I came to The Box in early 2024 on a strong recommendation from a close friend, and at first I loved it. My coach, Coach Yuka, is excellent, and I valued the many sparring partners I got to share the ring with. From day one, though, I noticed the owner frequently no-shows on clients and talks far more than he actually trains. As a trainer myself, I clocked it immediately, but I figured it wasn't my problem and kept it to myself. After everything that followed, I think it's worth letting people know he is not a serious coach. My issue is not with the training staff, who are great. It's with the owner and how the business is run. Every single person I sparred with at The Box was a good sport. The owner was the exception. When I got in the ring with him, rather than boxing technically he repeatedly lunged, and at one point threw his shoulder into my face after breaking up a clinch he had started. I hurt my back so badly I couldn't walk the next day. He let his ego surpass his professionalism, and what should have stayed a respectful exchange in the ring turned into something he then carried into how he treated me as a paying client. After that, I canceled my membership, and Mario confirmed the cancellation. A year later, reviewing my finances, I discovered he had been charging me the entire time. He agreed to refund me but only returned half of what I was owed. I let it go because I planned to come back and keep training. When I returned, I came with my family. Previously I paid about $60 a month for myself and my kids, so I expected something reasonable. When I asked about my missing refund, he said it had gone toward "enrollment fees." As a professional, I can tell you it is not standard to charge enrollment fees to someone who only trains privately once a week rather than using the classes and facilities. Those clients are typically given a discounted rate. We finally agreed, in writing, on $180 a month with no enrollment fee, to be charged on the 20th. Without any notice, I was charged $297. I tried to confirm the amount beforehand and the receptionist ran the card anyway. When I put the discrepancy in writing, that we'd agreed to $180 and I was charged $297, he never actually addressed it. Instead of fixing the charge, he replied with a long breakdown of "the actual numbers" and how much value I was supposedly getting. I didn't ask for a sales pitch. I asked why I was charged a different amount than we agreed on. That question never got answered. Instead, he cornered me and claimed I now owed $780 for a month we'd used, even though he had already agreed to credit me that month. So rather than refunding the payment I'd just made, he moved the goalposts entirely. Billing here is a nightmare. When it's time to collect, they're relentless. When it's time to honor an agreement or process a cancellation, they vanish. I've worked in this field for over 15 years and have never seen a client treated this way. I can't recommend doing business with this owner. read more

I checked out this spot because it's close to where I live. I bought a private training package. I was flaked on last minute two weeks in a row and the third week I showed up and when the owner wasn't there I texted him. He said he was running late. After 30 minutes I finally left and asked for a refund for my remaining sessions. Fortunately he did honor that and refunded me and I am grateful for that. However I was never offered any kind of apology or anything despite the inconvenience to me. I felt it was very unprofessional and poorly handled. It's unfortunate bc I wanted to like it but wouldn't recommend it. read more

Canceled my membership on December 8th and was told in writing: "Memberships canceled." Despite that, this gym has attempted to charge my account $99 almost every single night for the past 4 months. This is not a one-time mistake, it's repeated unauthorized billing. I have full screenshots of the cancellation message and the ongoing charge attempts. Be very careful giving this place your payment information. Monitor your account closely and keep documentation of everything. I've already blocked them through my bank and am in the process of reporting this. read more

THEBOX Training Center - Prime example of horrible marketing. - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

100% the place to be to improve your hands but not only that get in serious fight shape. Mr Mario is a phenomenal coach/instructor. He is the real deal OG and knows exactly what it takes to fight at the highest level and not only that but get you ready to preform to the best of your abilities. I myself currently active amateur mauy thai fighter come here regularly to improve my setups and hands via boxing. Straight up one of the best places to be for boxing. If you can or serious about leveling up your boxing game, you need to check this place OUT! read more

If you're looking for a boxing coach who actually *knows* the sport inside and out--and can push you while keeping it fun--Mario is your guy. He's insanely talented, brings real expertise to every session, and you WILL get a workout and see results. I've trained with Mario on and off for years, and no matter what shape I'm in when I walk through the door, he always meets me where I'm at and knows exactly how to modify when needed (including through injuries). The energy at the training center is also a huge part of what keeps me coming back. The other instructors are great, and I've had a blast working out alongside his other clients. It's a motivating, supportive, and no-BS atmosphere. Highly recommend to anyone--whether you're just starting out or looking to level up. read more

Ive been to the box a few times now and i can tell the environment is very friendly and competitive , the coaches there like maria and soto are great people that will challenge and guide you to be a better version of yourself read more

THEBOX Training Center - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Visited here with a friend who's a member, awesome local gym. Staff is very nice and ready to make you put in work as soon as you step in. Had a 1 on 1 with Jesus Soto and it was a great workout. Would highly recommend visiting this gym over the more commercialized boxing gyms in the area! read more

This boxing facility is amazing. Everyone has incredible energy, the music, facility and talent here are unmatched. Personal training or classes The Box and Andre have been amazing for this community. We all look forward to coming here weekly. read more

5 Stars - Easily the Best Gym Experience in Costa Mesa! If you're looking for a gym that feels less like a business and more like a family, you need to check out Mario's boutique boxing and fitness gym in Costa Mesa. From the moment you walk through the door, you can tell this place is different. It's not overcrowded, not intimidating, and definitely not one of those cookie-cutter chain gyms. The vibe is personal, authentic, and welcoming. You'll find people from all fitness levels -- beginners, seasoned athletes, and everyone in between -- all there to have fun & get better. Mario himself is a huge part of what makes this place special. He's the real deal -- insanely knowledgeable about boxing, strength training, and conditioning -- but he's also just a genuinely good human being. You can tell he cares about every single person who walks through his doors. Whether you're looking to get in the best shape of your life, learn real boxing technique, or just have a place where you feel supported and motivated, this is the spot. Every class feels personal. The coaching is hands-on, tailored, and encouraging -- no two workouts are exactly the same. The gym is well-kept, the equipment is top-notch, and the energy is always high without ever feeling overwhelming. If you're tired of feeling like just another number at big gyms, or if you're someone who wants real results with real community support, The Box is your new home. Highly, highly recommend! read more

Great place for a workout. The coaches are great and learning a lot about boxing definitely recommended to anyone who wants to learn how tobox read more

The coaches are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and really push you to be your best, whether you're a beginner or more advanced. The facilities are top-notch, clean, and well-maintained with all the equipment you could need. The community here is also super supportive--everyone encourages each other, which makes training fun and motivating. If you're looking to improve your boxing skills or just get into better shape, I highly recommend this gym! read more

awesome boxing gym best one i have been to ever great people great coachs especially coach Julien he's new at the gym but super experienced and just a great dude and every other coach there is great read more

Terrible gym. the manager charges people $25 for those gauze handwraps that cost 1-$2.

This is a hard space where you do hard work. The staff is great and the vibe of the other people there is positive. I've taken several of the cardio boxing classes and worked with three different coaches so far. Tan, Adele, and Jesse are very different from one another but they all three know their business and I couldn't really pick a favorite between them. I'd laid off going to a boxing gym for five years or so (lone wolfing in my garage with the heavy) so it was an adjustment getting back into the groove of following someone else's combination call outs. Plus, I'm on the older side and I'm a southpaw, so I'm slow and backwards, but I get a lot out of the classes and always feel great afterwards. I'm going to keep coming here as my work and life schedule allows and you should too if you're ready to put in some work and have a good time doing it. read more

This 7am class w coach Sean was the best workout I've had in 1 year + no lies !! Motivational experienced coach working w me to bring out my unknown skills I'm motivated back to a healthier lifestyle, and boxing self defense and professional worldwide sport. Y'all gotta come here and check it out yourselves. read more

THEBOX Training Center - Me after class - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I have been training with owner Mario for over 10 years and he has been the best personal trainer and boxing coach that I have ever worked with. Arriving at Mario's former gym as an unfit finance professional in my early 30's to simply lose some weight, Mario transformed me into an amateur boxer within 6 months. After that time I prepared to make weight for several amateur fights and won an amateur fight by TKO within one year. In addition to the insight he provides on boxing, fitness, and diet, Mario instills in me a strategy and mindset that impacts my overall approach to life. The only times I have taken a hiatus from Mario's oversight were times where I was traveling or living abroad for work assignments, times where I worked with other professional coaches and did not see the same results. Working with Mario is an investment in your physical and mental health, you will never be the same person again! read more

THEBOX Training Center - My first amateur boxing match - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

After a few months of training and seeing great results for myself, I felt compelled to leave a review for Mario/The Box gym. As a former college athlete, I've trained at many other facilities, including boxing gyms. The Box has a lot more to offer than most gyms. Loaded with different types of punching bags and boxing equipment, but also weight lifting machines, free weights, kettle bells, cardio machines and more. All top quality equipment, clean and great condition. Beyond the quality of the gym is the quality of people at the gym. All coaches are exceptional, extremely knowledgeable and genuinely care about your personal goals and development. All members are welcoming, very cool people from all different ages and backgrounds. I'll wrap up with this, if you're looking for a gym and considering The Box, check it out. See the gym, meet the people and try class. I highly recommend and guarantee you will be happy you did. Cheers. read more

I'm not even gonna lie, I knew absolutely nothing about boxing before stepping foot into this place, but Mario and his entire team of amazing trainers are seriously the best in the business! From the first class I've been absolutely hooked, I've taken classes from nearly all his trainers, they all have different styles, but always keep you motivated and excited about what you're learning. I've gravitated towards the 5pm class taught by Jesus Soto Karass, who was a world champ! The guy is funny and makes his class so much fun to be in. I've been going about 2 months and am already getting compliments from friends about slimming down and a better overall mood. I gotta say thanks again to The Box training center and seriously recommend it to anyone reading this review, try it, it will change your life! read more

THEBOX Training Center - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This is the best boxing gym I've found! Mario and all of his coaches are world class (he legit has world champions coaching there) and know their stuff. This is a great place to go regardless of whether you are just starting out and interested in fighting, are a pro looking to polish your game, or are someone that just wants to get in shape with no desire to fight. I can't say enough good stuff about this establishment. read more

By far the best boxing gym. From group classes to one on one training with some world class champions. Even as a beginner, you will receive great training with full confidence. Whether you want to simply train/workout or learn how to fight. Or both. The owner, Mario, is a professional fighter and knows how to train as well. I've learned a lot for him through the years. I've also watch him develop some great fighters The membership is also very reasonable. read more

Mario Angelito @TheBOX has been my Boxing Coach since 2009. Mario is a World class trainer coming from an elite camp as an amateur and later pro career. His staff includes two former World champion Boxers Jose Armando Santa Cruz and Jesus Soto Karass. If you're looking to intensify your game- there isn't a better place to start. This crew can take you from beginner to pro if you had that mind set but no matter where you're at in the pursuit of optimizing your strength and conditioning these guys will push you to become your very best. Tell them Dennis sent you... read more

Mario is the absolute best! I'm so thankful for him. He has more than 20 years of experience and not only has a real talent for boxing but also a teacher's patience and ability to demonstrate and communicate. My colleague and I live in Los Angeles but work near Costa Mesa during the week and have been doing joint classes with Mario for a few months in the mornings. We absolutely love it! I'm a complete novice and my colleague has minimal experience, but with Mario's guidance and positivity we've learned a lot of boxing combos and are working on strength training. I've never been able to jump rope in my life and now I can! He keeps it varied, interesting, and plays awesome music (and changes it on request!). Plus, he's flexible and easygoing, willing to work with our unpredictable work schedules. Mario's low key, fun, smart, thoughtful, and we highly recommend him and his training facility!! read more

Both my 8 year old son & myself train here. Mario is an excellent trainer. He builds muscle & confidence! He's kind , fun but still gets the job done ! My son trains during the week & privates on the weekend with coach Hugo and Jose. My son loves it & asks to go everyday (if he could he would !). We Love it here !!!! read more

If you are looking to get into boxing then Jesse Bahena from The Box Training Center is the coach for you. He is very professional and on time. During each sessions no time is wasted. He makes sure your fundamentals are down, corrects your mistakes, and shows you step by step. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. read more

I LOVE this place!! Boxing is one of the best ways to stay in shape, burn body fat, Increase endurance, great for your mental health and to beat some asses if you have to LOL All the coaches are very nice and Professionals, the facility is clean as well as the equipment they use, prices are razonable, definitely WORTH the investment!!! Don't forget to try the group classes for a Killer full body workout!!!! Soooo FUN! read more

Loved it, best workout in the OC for mind and body! Very well rounded class with cardio, legs, abs and arms, along with technique. Tan and his wife were so warm and welcoming, they really created an atmosphere of camaraderie and excellence. I will definitely be back next time I'm in the area! read more

I've been training boxing for many years with Coach Mario Angelito, Jesus Soto Karass, and Jose Santa Cruz. The 3 of these guys under one roof makes THE BOX a powerhouse of knowledge and experience. Clean and well equipped gym, good parking, and classes and training for all skill levels. From fitness & cardio to competition. You can feel comfortable here having never thrown a punch in your life, knowing these coaches will bring out your abilities and get you in the best shape of your life. And if you're an experienced fighter, these coaches can take you to the championship level. Honored to get to train at this gym. read more

THEBOX Training Center - Pad work with the legend Soto Karass - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I love coming here with my friend it feel like family they really push me to do better and it made me love boxing more

Had a private 60 minute training session with Tan at the box training center. My girlfriend and I are complete novices and Tan and the staff there were so friendly and definitely made us feel comfortable with being acquainted with this new sport, and we had a lot of fun while doing it! It's a great sweat sesh and learning boxing fundamentals was really cool! Special thanks to Tan! read more

Don't be soft take the 6 am class with Jeff , no chestnut syndrome. Full cardio , bag, mitts and paddles , what more can you ask for. Stay hard read more

Great place to train! Mario is very helpful and has alot of boxing experience! His staff is amazing, gym is new very clean and they sanitize all their equipment. read more

THEBOX Training Center - Gym - Boxing Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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I love this spot and highly recommend it! Mario and his team are amazing! I'm new to boxing and they make it fun and I'm getting in the best shape of my life. Clean facility, great environment, and very motivating! read more

This gym is a hidden gem in Costa Mesa. I just started training here after being at a corporate boxing gym. I definitely prefer this place. They have real boxers and fighters training you so you know it's the real deal and not some watered down cookie cutter stuff. I worked harder in one session with Soto than I ever did in the year I was at the corporate boxing gym. No matter what your fitness goal is, they'll help you get there and push you harder than you've been pushed before. read more

Hi This is Homer Took My 15 year old to learn about Boxing The Monday watching Noah go through the warm ups The Champ invited My Wife to join in that was in the beginning o June we ( Noah, My Wife and I have been going 4 days a week haven't missed yet Sota is a Awesome instructor who leads bye example Great Personality his attention to Detail is amazing I just turned 70 I look foward to it every day Sweat is we're it's at the Class is a awesome mix we're a family read more

Let me highly recommend this training center to everybody. Top of the line trainers very respectful and professional and at the same time cool to chill with. The exercise are intense in a good way. Great spot and good job guys! read more

Mario and staff are top notch! If your looking to get fit or step up your training they got years of experience working with people and athletes of all levels. I can't recommend them enough to anyone looking to get in shape or take their training to the next level. read more

I tried this new gym and I was greatly impressed by the quality of the gym, it's coziness, and the quality of the training staff. I am definitely joining!! C.Q. read more

Great place to learn how to box especially being trained by a professional like Soto Karass it doesn't get much better than that. I also liked the cardio class with coach Mario , very professional as well and a great class to lose weight. Overall great environment and dedicated coaches , thanks guys. read more

Great place to work out a with great coaches and great people! The gym is new and really clean.