These Are the 5 Gyms Where the Best Martial Arts in Sydney Are Taught
Like a lot of guys, I’ve always had that fantasy of being a master in martial arts and landing that perfect spin kick. I tried learning from YouTube tutorials, but ended up looking more like a grown man auditioning for a slapstick comedy stint.
Clearly, learning martial arts is something that needs actual dojos with instructors who can correct postures and moves.
So my friends and I, all craving for a new challenge, decided to go on a hunt for the best martial arts academies in Sydney. We joined trial sessions and asked other students to get a real feel of what each dojo offers.
If you’re also thinking of getting serious with martial arts, here are the gyms that stood out during our search.
How much do martial arts lessons cost in Sydney?
Martial arts lessons in Sydney typically cost around $150 to $300 per month, depending on the difficulty/skill level, class credits, and class style.
1. Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do
Address: 358 Abercrombie St, Darlington
Phone: +61296997012
Business hours:
- Monday, 3–10 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday, 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday, 3–10 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–4 PM
- Sunday, 8 AM–12 PM
Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do is a traditional Japanese martial arts school that welcomes all ages and genders. They have classes for kids, teens, and adults.
While looking into them, we found them to be a great option if you’re looking to learn more about self-defense and personal growth.
This is mainly thanks to their approach. The school doesn’t merely teach martial arts for the sake of it. The instructors actually take time to teach the fundamentals of discipline and character development.
We also appreciate that they go beyond just physical training. They strive to promote students’ mental well-being.
Several students we spoke with said that the dojo has an inclusive environment that made them feel safe during lessons. Plus, the instructors support all mental health-related concerns with care and confidentiality.
When it comes to their programs, Jin Sei Ryu offers a free trial, which is helpful if you want to get a feel of the teaching style and atmosphere before signing up.
Our only gripe is the unlisted pricing. Their rates are reasonable for the quality of teaching they provide, but not having them up front makes it tough for budget-conscious students to compare options.
Well done
“My three sons started whilst in kindergarten and are now going to year 8 and 9. A variety of instructors have been able to cater to quite differing expectations and abilities of kids aged 4-5 until 14-15. Well done. In the meantime, I have started myself and can speak for the fact that they also cater well to the 50+ crowd.”
- Laurens Libeton, Google Reviews
Great place to learn karate!
“Highly recommend! Been there for about 9 years and have learned a lot! You make new friends and it becomes your second home!”
- Charlotte Wong, Google Reviews
2. Movement Martial Arts
Address: Suite 1.05/68 Waterloo Rd, Macquarie Park
Phone: +61298871230
Business hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 12–1 PM, 5–9 PM
- Wednesday, 7–8 AM, 12–1 PM, 5–9 PM
- Friday, 11:30 AM–1:30 PM, 6–8 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–12:30 PM
If you’re looking for a little bit of variation, we found Movement Martial Arts a great option. They offer a more modern and versatile setup than most martial arts schools in Sydney.
The gym offers a range of martial arts classes, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts. We found the class suitable for students of all levels too, with fundamental classes offered for those who have zero knowledge about martial arts.
The programs here are more structured, offering a chance to build up your skills gradually at the appropriate level.
For example, if you’re interested in MMA, you’ll have to go through BJJ and Muay Thai first as fundamentals before advancing to MMA classes.
Many students we talked to said this made it easier for them to follow, and they didn’t feel like they were stretching themselves too thin to keep up with the classes.
On top of that, the gym has a great, supportive environment.
Movement Martial Arts offers a free trial week, and it’s a great way to try its classes without obligations. However, if you ever decide to get a membership, make sure you’re ready to commit because their cancellation fee is expensive.
Absolutely fantastic gym.
“I have been training with Wade in MT for 8 months now. The teaching is professional, exceptional, and very thoughtful, and I just feel grateful to have such a great coach in my martial arts journey. My daughter goes to the teens class, and I can see she’s more confident and active now. I remember the focus and care she got from the coach in the first lesson, and it just blew my mind. The coaches are very caring of the kids. If you or your kid wants to try out an effective martial art, this place will not disappoint and is highly recommended.”
- James Mak, Google Reviews
Best spot to train BJJ, Muay Thai, and MMA!
“The coaches are super friendly and professional, great training schedule, and generally a great vibe overall! Highly recommend.”
- EW 369, Google Reviews
3. Team Perosh MMA
Address: 1/97 Queens Rd, Five Dock
Phone: +61297153100
Business hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 1–9 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 AM–9:30 PM
- Saturday, 9:30 AM–1:30 PM
- Sunday, 2–4 PM
Team Perosh MMA offers programs for MMA, BJJ, and Muay Thai kickboxing. The gym is headed by UFC veteran Anthony Perosh, who personally trains the coaching team to ensure the quality of the classes.
What we really love about this Sydney martial arts school is its flexibility. They can tailor the programs to match each student’s goal, whether it be self-defense or preparation for professional competitions.
Plus, they offer both group classes and one-on-one private sessions. This makes it easier for students to find a class that suits their learning style and needs.
As of this writing, the gym plans to offer online training classes for greater flexibility.
For kids, structured classes are offered. Parents we talked to said they love the focus on building confidence, discipline, and fitness.
Environment-wise, the gym is very community-oriented. The coaches are strict but approachable, and it’s the kind of place where everyone welcomes and supports each other.
However, it would be appreciated if their pricing were more upfront. You have to personally come to the gym and enroll in their free trial if you want to inquire about their prices. They don’t reveal them during inquiry calls, making it hard to compare prices.
Legends
“I’ve had the privilege of training under Anthony Perosh at Team for the past 12 years, both as my coach and affiliate coach to my school. His experience, knowledge, leadership, and support have been second to none. Anthony has not only helped me grow as a martial artist but also inspired me personally. Definitely get in to train with a UFC Veteran and Legend. Couldn’t recommend him and Team Perosh more!”
- David Garnham, Google Reviews
Absolutely love it
“It’s a great atmosphere with awesome people and, of course, with top-notch training as well. I’ve felt catered for at all stages of my journey so far, from when I started as a beginner to no,w starting to dabble in amateur competitions. Highly recommend this place, you will always have something to learn from Anthony with his wealth of knowledge and experience.”
- Sunny Kim, Google Reviews
4. Straight Blast Gym Australia
Address: 1/689 Parramatta Rd, Leichhardt
Phone: +61295726975
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 10:30 AM–12:30 PM, 4–8:30 PM
- Saturday, 8 AM–12 PM
Straight Blast Gym, in general, is a global network of schools offering various martial arts disciplines. They offer lessons and training in MMA, BJJ, and kickboxing.
If you’re aiming to train for a competition, this is a great venue.
Their advanced classes feature live sparring. This allows students to practice their skills and moves in actual combat, which helps them prepare better for competition.
While this might sound scary at first, many told us the coaches and fellow students make the sessions more approachable because of how supportive they are. The vibe is obviously friendly, so even newcomers don’t have a hard time settling in.
If you’re a beginner, though, don’t worry about joining the sparring sessions as soon as you enroll. They actually start you off with basics until you feel comfortable enough for live sparring and other advanced training.
Since SBG is a private members’ club, you don’t just walk in and purchase a membership. Instead, you’ll have to book an appointment for a consultation with one of the coaches to discuss your goals and find the most appropriate program for you.
Membership is a little pricier than other gyms, though!
Amazing gym
“SBG is an amazing gym with a great, knowledgeable head coach, Ben, and the other amazing trainers helping everyone and pushing them to be better at this beautiful sport of MMA. I have had only great experiences here and truly had a blast every time I showed up to a session. Even the gym members are the friendliest people and always give a helping hand when you need it. I will miss this place. 10/10 gym and 10/10 people.”
- Jai W, Google Reviews
Great experience
“I trained at SBG in Leichhardt for about 5 months when I was living in the area, and couldn’t have had a more positive experience. Fantastic culture, established by coach Ben and passed down through all the fantastic fighters. A perfect gym for athletes of all abilities. I learnt a lot and was able to do so in a great team environment. Only left due to relocation; otherwise, I would have been training there for years. Highly recommend!”
- David Hoey, Google Reviews
5. Australian Martial Arts Academy
Address: 35/142 Addison Rd, Marrickville
Phone: +61295691943
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday, 9 AM–8:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 8 AM–1 PM
Australian Martial Arts Academy stood out to us for being family-oriented. It’s not always that you can find a martial arts school in Sydney that allows parents and their children to train together.
The school’s over 40 years of experience also gives us confidence that students are learning from experts who actually know martial arts by heart.
The academy’s strong focus on kids’ development is really impressive. They offer structured and tailored programs for children as early as 18 months old.
As for martial art styles, Australian Martial Arts Academy offers a good range. They offer classes for every style, from Taekwondo and Kung Fu to kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
On top of that, their classes are very accessible. They have multiple locations in Sydney, making git easier for students to find a class near them.
Plus, they offer a large number of classes every week, so busy families can attend anytime they’re free.
We also appreciate that they go beyond martial arts. They also teach other life-essential skills, such as focus and bullying prevention.
The only real downside is that they have less focus on training for competitions. If that’s what you’re looking for, it’s best to look elsewhere.
We absolutely love AMA!
“We have been students of the academy since 2018, paused during COVID times, and rejoin this year. Our kids have excelled in self-confidence and bullying defense. We love the connections with the staff who have been part of the academy for years! And love the level of positive reinforcement that enhances children’s self-confidence. Thank you, AMA, for being so awesome!”
- Carol Balloons, Google Reviews
Impressive
“We are highly impressed by this venue, organisation, and their dedicated, engaging team. Our son has benefited in so many respects since day one. We love AMA being part of the family weekend. Worth every cent and more. Thanks a million, AMA Marrickville team, it truly is a credit to all involved! RESPECT!”
- Mel Mel, Google Reviews