London, United Kingdom
Arch 12 Miles St
N/A
+44 2077201088
Wheelchair-accessible car parkWheelchair-accessible entrance
Trialled boxing fundamentals, good technique focused class, not beginner friendly. Seemed to have a mix of beginners and advanced people, so my interpretation of fundamentals meaning a beginners class was wrong. The instructor didn't seem to care or ask about having a first timer, which I bet would put off anyone with anxiety about joining. I can imagine sometimes pros prefer to train pros rather than beginners. The class included warm up and cool down calisthenics circuits, shadow boxing (because beginners are pro shadow boxers), and sparring technique drills and one mini sparring session. I told my sparring partners it was my first time and they were cool to be considerate and help me out. It was intimidating but fun to get involved in a mini sparring session right away. The mini sparring had us both hold our lead foot within close proximity of each other, we obviously didn't go full force but my poor blocking technique led to a nice self inflicted cut. Looking at the timetable it was meant to be Daniel leading the class, but from the photos it didn't seem like he was. Lacked stretches for cool down or warm up but you can do that yourself. Really hard to find the gym with google maps, make sure you give it sometime when you first go. In summary, I'm glad I left with only a self inflicted cut on my elbow because I don't know how to block my body properly despite a wonderful 20 second personal intro on how to. No harm in trying it out if your in shape and ideally known how to throw a punch and block, otherwise I'd bet you'd risk injury. I'd consider going again in the future after I've become better at the basics. No idea if all the classes are like my experience but other reviews seemed to point out the poor beginners support.
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This is the first fight gym I have ever attended and I love it! I have always wanted to learn some kind of practical street fighting/self defence and the Krav Maga and the Dirty Boxing classes offer just that. The step by step, logical approach to the classes really teaches techniques that work and that become second nature. I always assumed I would be able to defend myself if it came to it but I now walk around feeling certain that should someone try to hit me I would be able to not only avoid the hit but would damage my attacker in the process. If someone pulled a knife on me it wouldn't turn out well for them! Good people. Great instructors. Lots of fun!
Definitely one of the best places (possibly the best) to learn martial arts in London. Reasons are: 1. Almost every class includes some sparring element, even if a couple of rounds at the end. You can make it hard or soft, just agree with your partner, but it is essential and many gyms make sparring something exclusive for more experienced members by invite only or make it a standalone class. UWA allow everyone to try sparring and encourage being understanding and respectful of your partner's ability. 2. Classes are 90 mins. Most gyms do 60 or 75 mins per class. Having been to a few gyms, I know that this makes for a world of difference. The level of stamina you build up is amazing. If you subsequently take a 60 mins class elsewhere, you will find that you can go full out without having to place yourself. 3. First 15 mins or so of each class is dedicated to warm up which is helpful in building up fitness and preventing injury. 4. Fees are reasonable for central London. 5. Instructors are knowledgeable, experienced and have positive personalities. Sadly, I had to leave the gym since I no longer work in the city and it is now far out of my way. I really enjoyed my time there and will gladly come back if my commute changes again.
Very good place to train and improve self defence and the coaches are really professional and polite I do recommend it worth it
I absolutely love this place. Staff are all very professional, and I have learned alot in a short space of time. Club has a family feel to it, and the owner ensures every session is beneficial, safe, and fun. He done well with the coach selection, all professional and advanced in their craft. Price is very good, I get to train with professionals 6 times a week for the one membership fee. This is my second home, and will be for years to come.
I absolutely love this place. I'm well and truly hooked on BJJ. The atmosphere is amazing. Everyone is so friendly and supportive. I was a nervous beginner (and still am) but I immediately found comfort amongst the instructors and students. The vibe is almost family like. Couldn't recommend it highly enough.
A lot of sexist language is used. The culture in some classes is agressive, violent and misogynistic. Very little help is given to beginners. In some cases beginners are not taught basic techniques like how to protect themselves when falling or sparring. This put beginners at serious risk of having an accident.
I've been doing with MMA class with Marcin Lazarz and the instruction is exceptional. It's a great class with a world class teacher. The facilities are excellent, the cost is reasonable and the location is convenient.
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