Brandon is a good Muay Thai Coach, very technical and knows how to break down the techniques step…read moreby step.

Before writing my review - I took the time to read other reviews that are posted for inspiration…read moreand talking points (both negative and positive). I started at Evolution in the Fall of 2013 with the intentions of joining the fight team. By the Summer of 2014, I had my first fight with Evolution and won unanimous. Prior to becoming a member at Evolution I had a strong background in Karate & Boxing. However, there were a lot of holes in my game that Brandon quickly fixed. He is excellent at translating information, correcting form, providing motivation, and creating a platform for individuals to grow. Not only did I win my first fight under Brandon, but by 2016 I achieved 5 championship belts and a Gold Medal for Team USA. From originally having an awkward style to becoming proficient in Muay Thai - I would say Evolution is an outstanding place to train. Whether you are training to fight, become fit, build confidence, or learn the techniques - YOU will get all of that accomplished here. The amount of work you invest in your training will reflect. I don't have anything negative to say about this gym, but a response to the reviews that are not 5 stars: 1. If it is your FIRST TIME visiting, arrive on time. 2. The gym is usually HOT when it's crowded. As a person who occasionally travels to Thailand for extensive training - I prefer training in warm facilities to prevent injuries and sweat out sodium. 3. Brandon is comical, but just like any trainer - he knows when to be serious. Training is already tough and can be intimidating to newcomers, so it's important to remember to have fun.

I felt the class was very disorganized. It's definitely not good for beginners. People weren't…read morefriendly and were very cliquish. It was very uncomfortable. The coach did not help with my form. The facilities could be cleaner. This place charges more than other more established gyms that have produced great fighters. Looking at the website it looks like John is the only professional fighter. I don't recommend.

Culture here is great, i highly recommend taking an intro class. The instructors are very…read moreknowledgeable and detail oriented, folks are super friendly and overall good experience if you want to be active & learn.

Such an awesome gym! I trained here regularly for about 1.5 years all together. Every class you are…read morepushed to your edge in intensity. You constantly work on new skills and techniques. Every class is different. No two are really the same. Even when I would attend two on the same day, what would be worked on would vary. I got to meet some really great people during my time there. You bond over your time on the mats together and there is a connection that is felt between all (at least that is my take on it). Even though it went unstated; it was there. Even between those whom I hadn't really interacted much with. . . The common thread of Sitan gym had woven us all together. Aziz has to have some of the best energy I've encountered. He is always quick to smile and slow to frown. He would bring his daughters in often (and his wife trains in the classes as well). This really made for a beautiful feeling of family that spread outwards. I learned so much when I was there. Got to train with those who had never thrown a punch before - all the way up to true fighters. All the while watching my own abilities increase exponentially. . . When I started there I was in the former group, with little martial arts experience before. By the time I was about to move from the area I had quite a few others ask me if I was thinking of fighting myself.

Best Muay Thai in NYC, hands down. Every level from beginner to kids, and professional fightersread more

I came here for a weekend Pad Work workout followed by a Bag Drills classes. It was my first time…read moredoing any martial arts whatsoever so I really didnt know what I was walking into. However, from the very start I was greeted by friendly staff and the instructors were amazing. They helped me with my form, gave me personal instruction on how to improve, and watched to make sure I was doing everything correctly. I loved the Pad Work class so much that I went a few days later once again. The workouts are tough, especially if you're not in shape and they'll have you sweating a few minutes into the class however I can't stress how worth it feels afterwards. I also really like that they allow drop-ins. Want to show up to a class later in the day? Ok! Don't want to go? No obligation to show up. I'll definitely be going again.

There is no gym in the world that I know of where I'd rather train year-round than Five Points…read moreAcademy, and I've trained at some of the very best--on both coasts and recently in Thailand. The staff is friendly and professional. Our instructors are all outstanding. Many of them are professional fighters. Two of our Muay Thai coaches are Ajarns, and for 6 months out of the year maybe the gym employs one or more Thai champions as trainers-in-residence. The vibe here is friendly and warm mostly but businesslike. People come here to train and we don't mess around. When I started here I had to settle in and adjust and earn respect like anyone does at any gym where everyone knows everyone. Now that I've been here over a year, and fought twice, Five Points Academy has embraced me with open arms. And I'm grateful for that because the gym is filled with extraordinary, brilliant, talented, kind, and insightful athletes and fighters. Give us a try. And please introduce yourselves. I'm the nicest guy around.

Anderson's Martial Arts is one of the most established and respected schools not just in NYC, but…read morein the country. They've been teaching since 1996 and it shows in the quality of instruction and the culture they've built. The community is incredible. Advanced students support beginners, and everyone feels genuinely welcome. Whether you're brand new or experienced, this is a foundational place to learn real martial arts the right way. The facility has everything you need: spacious training areas, locker rooms and showers, a weight training section, and a comfortable lounge up front where you can work or relax. The atmosphere is welcoming but serious about growth. It's diverse, inclusive, and you'll see beginners training alongside professional fighters.

By far the best school I've been to. As a young woman in martial arts, this is the only school in…read moreNYC I can call home. The school ranges between people who just want to learn how to defend themselves while being active, and professional athletes competing and learning from one of the best. The school specializes in Muay Thai, Jiu jitsu and JKD/Kali so it's a very well rounded school for anyone interested in various styles. Plus it's a comfortable and clean facility.

What an experience, to train with an elite and accomplished athlete and coach in Ajarn Phil Nurse…read more I'm one of those weekend warriors who has experience in martial arts but don't intend to fight pro, so I signed up for a private class to improve my fight game and to sharpen some skills with the best. And wow did I learn more than I thought I would in a private lesson. Ajarn Phil Nurse is simply top notch in instruction. He'll challenge you, he might go a few rounds with you, and he'll coach you up like he did his legendary fighters. Thank you Ajarn Phil Nurse for your time and sharing your expertise with me. I highly recommend the Wat and training with Ajarn Phil Nurse if you ever get the chance.

*Virtual Class Review…read more Today I had the pleasure of taking a free 45 minute beginner Muay Thai class taught over Instagram Live with Master Kru Phil Nurse. Nurse broke down several basic moves from Muay Thai in a way that anyone could follow. The Yelp description stated "Kru PHILosophies are unique because they strive to stimulate your body and your mind". I can genuinely say my mind felt clearer after the class and I got a full body workout! Just this one class had me looking into The Wat and their virtual classes. If you get a chance, I absolutely recommend trying out a class! Happy moving Yelpers!

Workshop NYC is not only a place where one trains, but it is also a place some people call home…read more Everyone is respectful no matter what level they are at. All the coaches are patient, friendly, and will always put emphasis on the fundamentals to ensure that you improve from where you started. From day one, the instructors will have your name memorized and will focus their attention on your form and technique while critiquing you along the way. It may be scary as a beginner, but don't worry! The fundamentals class will teach you everything from step 1. Scared of commitment? They offer a one week free trial for Muay Thai and Jiujitsu which many places don't do, so take advantage! Workshop NYC also offers a class with kettlebells!!

Workshop NYC is legit. Jin and Gianna are awesome. This wasn't my very first class, but it was my…read morefirst real focused, consecutive, introduction into Ju Jitsu and Muay Thai, and they made me feel right at home in the community that they've built in the gym. The environment has a nice blend of friendly, though, balanced with a 'I'll kick your ass' when you need it vibe (in a good way); which is something I look for in any sport or gym I involve myself with. They'll push you to do your best, but, at the same time, they are actually good people. Gianna is a great communicator when it comes to Muay Thai. Her explanations are very clear, and is great at building on the foundation or style you may have worked on in the past (ie: if you're more of a boxer, etc). But, also she is great at teaching you the style that she champions and focuses on herself. Jin teaches BJJ in a well thought out cycle-system, and it feels cohesive whether you're dropping into a gi or no-gi class. He is specifically receptive to partnering you with someone who is at your skill-level, weight class, or... perhaps above your skill level, if you need an extra kick; which is always appreciated. There is a certain respect for the art in the class that got me hooked; and Jin is a big part in instilling that. Will most certainly pick-up right where I left off, every time I'm in New York.

I attended Richard's first class and I'm so glad I did! For his very first time teaching, Richard…read moredid an incredible job. He was super helpful in getting everyone set up with their punching bags and stayed fully engaged throughout the class. Richard clearly explained the flow of the workout, demonstrated each exercise, and made everything easy to follow. I especially appreciated the one-on-one feedback he gave during class, which really helped me improve and correct my form. Glove rentals are only $5, which is more than reasonable considering the class was complimentary. The facilities are great and include all the essentials, like showers, and even a free laundry machine! Overall, Hit House has truly inspired me to get back into fitness, and I'm excited to stay active, motivated, and disciplined moving forward.

A friend and I dropped by for an intro class for 20$ each. We signed up for a weekday night session…read morefor Kickboxing and Flow with Shanna. The glove rental was 5$ which was well appreciated for my friend who didnt have gear, but I also brought my own MMA gloves to use. Lockers and bathroom at the facility were also amazing. You don't need your own lock, and the bathrooms were stocked with a lot nice products to freshen up post class. Hit House really pushed and challenged us - it was a really cool experience to try out their unique Bishop punching bags. A great workout and I loved how I didn't feel like I was pressured to buy more and buy a membership after our class. Tip: if you do the kickboxing & flow class (yoga) grab a towel so you aren't slipping on the fitness mat for the yoga portion of the class.

Mario is a great teacher and there are some good fighters that train here and best of all they are…read morereally fairly priced. That's what you need for the makings of a good training space. I've been to about 8 different Muay Thai gyms in the city and brooklyn and this is one of my favorites because it's not to crowded and down to earth. Might not be the best looking of all the gyms but they are just starting out and really deserve the support that will take them to the next level. If you live close you should absolutely at least give it a try. Personally I still train a several places because I like the variety but I'll Always be coming here.

Went to see and possibly join the gym. Maybe it was a bad day but it was empty and the person in…read morecharge said because it's summer many students are away. I didn't see a lot of equipment for a whole class to practice at the same time. Maybe my son's dojo has me spoiled. Anyway the lack of equipment and the emptiness of the gym makes me give it 1 star

I've been studying the restorative Qigong (Tuesday and Thursday mornings) and highly recommend this…read moreclass. Small group with lots of attention to detail which means you learn fast. Within 3 sessions I had something that I could start to practice at home on my own. Veronica is an exceptional teacher. I'm making progress each week and looking forward to progressing further.

This was my first time practicing kungfu and i really like it! The teachers and students here are…read morevery nice, although there are not many students, which surprises me because it's a really enjoyable class. However i'm also kind of glad about it since fewer students = more personal attention ;) I'm someone who hates to exercise; so the only "exercise" i do often is walk, dance, hike, and sometimes yoga. I find that kungfu is really nice for stretching and strengthening the body in a balanced way. The practice space on Spring street is simple but suitable for practicing. I think that as the weather gets warmer, there will be more practice meetings outside as well.