If you're a bit of a fan of martial arts movies (think Jackie Chan, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Katheryn Winnick, Gina Carano and Bruce Lee), you may already be familiar with the moves and techniques in jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai and taekwondo.
Perhaps you fancy yourself as the next kicking and boxing movie hero?
Or perhaps you just want to have a bit of fun, get fit and kick a few personal fitness goals in the process?
Either way, it sounds like you're ready to check out some of your local boxing or kickboxing classes at your closest gym or martial arts academy.
Before you rush off, though, take a moment to read this article where you'll find a few tips about the benefits and requirements of your kickboxing lessons, and what you need to look for to find the best class, program or personal trainers to help you reach your goals.
We'll also help you get started with a few suggestions to answer your question: Where is there a kickboxing gym near me?
What are the benefits of kickboxing classes?
The biggest benefit is, simply, that it's fun.
Then, once you get used to the techniques, you'll really be able to embrace the full-body cardio and strength workout that this form of exercise offers. Be warned — it's easy to get hooked (but, what a great thing to get hooked on!)
There are physical fitness benefits, including:
- weight loss
- strength development
- increased stamina and endurance
- improved cardiovascular health.
And, there are mental health benefits, including:
- increased self-confidence
- self-discipline
- reduced stress
- aggression outlet
- opportunities for socialisation.
Oh! Did we mention how much fun kickboxing is? Well, it is — loads of fun and something everyone can participate in, from kids to adults and all levels of experience, from beginners to professional fighters.
What do you need?
There's another great thing about kickboxing and boxing — unless you're considering turning professional, you don't need to go out and buy lots of expensive gear or equipment.
Turn up to your kickboxing classes with:
- gym gear that is loose-fitting, breathable and comfortable
- a drink bottle
- a towel
- supportive training shoes.
That's it! Your gym or personal trainers will provide the other things you may need, such as pads, protective headgear and gloves. (Although, if you don't fancy the idea of slipping your hands into a pair of sweaty boxing gloves, you may wish to purchase a pair of 'inners' — thin gloves to stop chafing, and sweat-sharing.)
What should I look for?
Above all else, you need to feel comfortable, both in the gym or academy environment and with the people (the personal trainers and the other students). When you walk in, if something feels off, it probably is — trust your instincts.
Look for trainers who are friendly and who take the time to listen to your goals (as well as any concerns you have).
Talk to the students or other gym members or class participants. Are they friendly? Do they seem happy? Are they having fun during their workout?
Check out the gym or training space. Is it clean? Well-maintained? Arranged to ensure safety and easy access?
If you feel good from the outset, this is a great sign. To check, make sure you ask if they offer a free trial so you can take a few classes before you pay for a membership.
Other sources worth checking
Joining a gym or martial arts academy program can be a significant financial commitment, so do your homework before opening your wallet.
Look at reviews and testimonials. Ask your friends and colleagues. Check out the Fitness Australia website, where you can find all sorts of information including a list of registered trainers and where to do your own training if you want to become a fitness instructor yourself.
Okay — now that you've done your homework, let's take a look at where you can find some of the best kickboxing classes in Australia.
Is There a Kickboxing Class Near Me in Adelaide?
In a recent ranking exercise conducted by a fitness supplement company in Australia, Adelaide came up as number 8 in Australia's most fit cities. Known more for its amazing wine and natural produce, this ranking may surprise some people.
However, a quick internet search shows a large number of martial arts gyms, where you can learn self-defence, Muay Thai, boxing and a range of other mixed martial arts (MMA), in and around Adelaide.
You can check out our article on kickboxing classes in Adelaide for the full rundown but here's a quick taster.
- Adelaide Kickboxing and Fitness Academy — the only kickboxing-focused gym in the region.
- Gym to You — no time to go to the gym? These personal trainers come to you!
Brisbane Kickboxing Gyms
With a great climate and outdoor lifestyle, there's no excuse not to stay fit in Brisbane. Plus, they're going to be ramping up the training facilities over the next few years — 2032 Olympics, here we come!
If you want a 'kickboxing class near me', Brisbane is the best place to be as there is no shortage of classes, personal trainers and fitness centres offering not only 'kicking' but also MMA, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, boxing, taekwondo and self-defence.
Try these locations for a start:
- TMG MMA — where you can try a little bit of every martial art, or focus on your favourite
- Brisbane Fitness Empire — great training in a boutique environment
Take a look at our article on where to learn kickboxing in Brisbane for more suggestions.
Learn to Box and Kickbox in Canberra
Canberra did not appear to rank particularly well when it came to 'fit cities in Australia', coming in at number 37 after all other capital cities listed in this article. However, Canberra did rank considerably higher when it came to the number of gyms per 1,000 people — with Melbourne and Sydney having a mere third the number of gyms, pro rata, as Canberra.
Also, as you will see in our Boxing and Kickboxing Clubs in Canberra article, rankings differ greatly depending on the criteria assessed.
So, the best boxing or 'kickboxing gym near me' in Canberra ...
- boutique but top quality — Full Throttle Boxing and Training Centre
- large and a bit of everything (Muay Thai, jiu-jitsu, boxing etc.) — Stockade Training Centre.
See the article for more options.
What's the Best Kickboxing Gym Near Me in Melbourne?
Melbourne is becoming known for producing world-class athletes, and kickboxers are not absent from this list.
Home of the first Olympic Games to be held in Australia, in 1956, Melbourne has maintained its sporting tradition with a high ranking when it comes to the fitness of the general population and a large percentage of gyms and other places to achieve a great workout.
When it comes to combat sports for fitness purposes, there are a number of key locations in Melbourne you should definitely check out first.
- For people who need absolute flexibility when it comes to time and location, Doherty's Gym is open and fully staffed 24 hours a day and can be found in 3 locations throughout Melbourne.
- If you're keen to have ex-pro fighters train you in a family-friendly environment, don't go past Fighters Xpress.
And that's just two of many. For a few more suggestions, head to our article on where to find kickboxing classes in Melbourne.
Try a Kickboxing Lesson in Perth
One of Australia's most successful female kickboxers grew up in Perth — so if that doesn't motivate you to achieve your goals in the gym during a tough workout, nothing will.
The local council in Perth is active when it comes to promoting fitness amongst its locals and, as such, supports a number of community initiatives and gyms to get people exercising.
A couple of possibilities to get you started are:
- M1FC — great for people who aren't quite sure which martial art is for them; here you can try them all and then pick one to learn.
- Doherty's Gym — also in Melbourne, this gym is family-friendly with all-day training opportunities and a range of classes.
Find out more when you read our Perth article here.
Sydney Kickboxing Clubs
Still zinging from the success of the 2000 Olympics (the best Olympic Games ever), Sydney seems to have a gym or fitness facility on every corner.
There is a wide range of options in Sydney, including:
- Australian Kickboxing Academy — for all fighters from beginners to professionals who want to focus solely on the art of kickboxing.
- City Gym — a regular fitness centre with some of the cities best 'kickbox for fitness' classes, great for both gym junkies and beginners just starting their health journey.
Read about other Sydney options in our article here.
Keen to learn to kickbox, but don't live in any of these cities? Don't despair. Believe it or not, you can also learn how to kickbox online! Check out the range of personal trainers on the Superprof platform and pick a trainer or coach for boxing class to help you meet your goals today.
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