East Side Muay Thai is the best Muay Thai gym in the Hampton Roads area! Conveniently located in the Strawbridge Marketplace Shopping Center. This gym provides a great environment for all levels of traditional Muay Thai with Intro Classes, Kids classes, Advanced Classes, and Fight Team Level! Anyone from no experience to advanced is welcome to class and the community at East Side is wonderful! No big egos and the head coach/owner, Jose is mindful of partner pairing with someone that will take care of you. Everyone is nice and supportive for class making you feel comfortable to train! Kru Jose is an amazing head coach who has a passion for Muay Thai and an impressive portfolio of experience within the Muay Thai community! Jose coaches all classes and provides detailed instructions for class by a combination of learning styles for everyone. What I like the most is that there is accountability and structure for the class to elevate your level of training, and motivate you to push yourself to be better each time. The other coaches Summer and Zedd are also amazing at teaching and supporting the gym! Summer leads women's classes on Saturday mornings and supports intro/advanced classes too making a great impact on women who also train at the gym. The gym has a history of successful active junior and adult fighters with championship titles! The gym is clean and spacious with a full-size boxing ring as well! If anyone is looking for a gym that will teach you the fundamental techniques of traditional Muay Thai and provide a great atmosphere/community this is the gym for you! read more

Welcoming , clean, and professional. Learning a lot and looking forward to more. Classes for all ages

East side Muay thai has become a home for me, since joining back in march of 2023 with moderate knowledge of Muay Thai, coach Jose has transformed my IQ, and overall fighting abilities for the better. I have won 2 gold medals at 2 different tournaments showing that the instruction over at East side is top tier and can be trusted. I train alongside some of the best fighters in the world who have great experience and who have showcased amazing skill and heart. I even have my 4 year old son in the muay tinys class and he is doing exceptionally well. If you plan on coming to east side be ready to be pushed to your limits. read more

East Side Muay Thai - Muay Thai Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

About East Side Muay Thai: Muay Thai, also known as the Art of Eight Limbs, is a martial art from Thailand. Utilizing punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, Muay Thai is a full body cardio and resistance workout. Jose & Zed were our instructors tonight. Super handsome guys who demonstrated moves, technique and overall perfect form. Jose was super enthusiastic and made sure we knew how to execute each move. If we were the one wearing pads or gloves... he made sure each group were using the proper technique. Great instructor! About 20 ppl were in attendance tonight. Well I was about 20 mins late but I didn't miss too much. Jose advised they started a little late but quickly got me in with no issues. Signed waiver...let's begin! At this facility they strive to provide an ego free environment for students to learn self defense skills as well as get an intense workout. And with that in mind I learned some skills tonight in case I need to use them on a predator. Beware!!! Jab cross.. hook... knee kicks... elbow punches... we worked the combinations using punching bags towards the end of the workout and finished up the evening with 40 push ups and 40 crunches. Aside from the stinky smell in the facility I loved everything about this place. Not sure how often they clean the mats... gear... based on tonight a thorough cleaning is necessary. But if you're interested, any experience level is welcome! A normal session starts out with a typical a warm up then dives right into technical instruction and drilling. You can expect to sweat while working with a partner through combinations or working your technique on heavy bags. Class usually ends with a burn out drill and cool down. It is an intense 1 hour class, but you can modify the workout to fit your level of activity. Whether your goal is weight loss, self defense, stress relief, or competing, you will leave East Side sweaty and feeling accomplished. I'd recommend you give this a try! You'll get a workout as well as learn moves that will stick with you for a lifetime! Parking wasn't an issue. There are several shops in this shopping center near Dam Neck: Subway, Beauty Supply Store, other eateries and shopping. I believe I saw a bank as well. You'll enjoy it here! Have fun and enjoy life :) read more

See all

I am finally happy with a price and quality of a MMA and jujitsu school. I don't have any pictures because as soon as I hit the door, I get on the floor. The "family" running the place is awesome and very down to earth. If you show up and know nothing, everyone will work with you. The other students are very welcoming to a new person walking in the door. Remember when the local martial arts school worked with your schedule, let you borrow gear, and didn't charge an arm and a leg? Yeah, I found it again in this place. read more

I came for Yelp Fit Club and enjoyed a free introductory class. When I arrived the children's class was in session. The instructor Jose was awesome with the children. Encouraging but pushing them to use their skills. The kids seemed very confident and respectful of one another. When the adults class started Jose explained everything in an easy to understand way. I did not feel out of place. He helped us learn a series of moves that build on one another. We did them independently, with partners and then on bags. The instructors were there to guide, tweak and cheer on everyone. I was so impressed with this gym and how welcoming it was. They really made Muay Thai accessible to everyone in the class. Also, I got a FANTASTIC workout. I hope to be back soon! read more

What a great place for an awesome workout! I came here for a Yelp event, and was met by Jose, the owner of the studio. I had no idea what to expect and was definitely intimidated by the wall of countless championship belts, and pictures of their champs! That said, Jose was really great at teaching the class some basic techniques with punches, elbows, and kicks. At first I thought we were going to stay mostly stationary - nope! Once we were schooled on technique, then we practiced in pairs. You will definitely work up a sweat! Jose did an awesome job helping us improve our form. They also have classes (and discounts!) for multiple memberships/ kids' classes. Tip: if you have your own gloves, bring them :) Would love to come back! read more

See all

So I came for the Yelp fit club. I'd never done Muay Thai before, though I did a little bit of karate as a kid and also taken a couple kickboxing classes and one MMA gym class in recent years. I arrived and there was a group of little kids going head to head. There isn't much room in the studio aside from the mats, but there are plenty of posters, pictures, and championship belts adorning the walls. Seemed like a pretty legit studio. There were about 15 of us in the class and Jose instructed us. We warmed up with jumping jacks and then proceeded to learn strikes that utilized the hands, elbows, and knees. Once we could put them all together, we were then paired off with partners and did the same strikes on the hand pads. It didn't take long for me to get covered in sweat to the point that I was drenched. Though my shoulders got tired at times, it was an incredible amount of fun. And when I executed that knee and elbow combination just right and heard that powerful "poof" as I struck the pad just right, it was such a satisfying feeling. We finished with a few minutes of combos on the heavy pads. The hour elapsed quite fast, but two sets of 20 push ups at the end after all those punches... well hell, that was almost impossible. I had to modify by about number 28. It's just too far away me to attend regularly, but if you live nearby and have any interest in the martial arts, I strongly recommend you come by and give Muay Thai a shot. It's a great stress reliever, and will help you immeasurably with your balance, coordination, and concentration. And it's a whole lot easier to kick a hand pad than a heavy bag! read more

My son has been training here for over 2 years now. We started at another gym in Va Beach and wasn't excited about our son's overall growth in the sport. We came here at the suggestion of some friends. Kru Jose is really firm with the kids. He instills discipline in his students. I guess we got used to the coddling of the other couches in the past. Our son got used to his style of instruction and improved drastically. With in the first year we even started entering local mock fights and tournaments. Our son is so passionate about Muay Thai and even wants to train on a daily basis. Now he has his belt in a World tournament age/weight class. All of the kids in the junior fight team are national and world title belt holders. All the kids really help each other to improve. Kru Jose really is the best in the area. He really has a passion for his students and the art Muay Thai. read more

See all

If I could give this gym zero stars I would! DO NOT bring your children here! DO NOT enroll yourself in the intro course because this owner/coach is immature and holds personal vendettas against you if you're not one of his "favorites." They only reward poor behavior and if you speak up for yourself or your kid they will terminate your contract. I'm not sorry for telling my kid to stand up for them self against others who are bullying. During class outbursts he has expressed that we are just "moneybags" and "can be replaced within a week." Let's also mention the under the breath innuendos about "hating to be there," and how "we are waisting his time." If you want to use Muay thai to lose weight DO NOT come to this gym: this coach/owner will ridicule you and tell you to "join curves" because HIS gym is only for people who want to fight. Sound like a coach/owner you can trust? After being loyal for two years, having nearly perfect attendance, bringing in 10 new gym members, Convincing parents to stay (multiple times), paying for private lessons, buying the merch: it was and NEVER will be enough. They are moving locations soon in July/Aug and lets bet all the drama will follow. My family loves Muay Thai and we will continue to learn this art regardless of any obstacles in our path. read more

East Side Muay Thai - Eastside Muay thai Instagram - Muay Thai Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I have been coming here for a little over a week and they have been Amazing! I was a little nervous about coming in at first as I am older and have no martial arts experience. Everyone here is very welcoming and supportive. There is no judgement that occurs and trainers and students alike want nothing more than to help. I am having a blast and have signed up for the entirety of my stay here in VB! read more

I joined Eastside after I realized that i needed a structured workout environment to meet my goals. I'm out of shape, akward, and naturally lazy. Coach Jose is great at evaluating where you are and helping develop a pace that works for you. The 6 week intro course was fun, challenging, and truly motivated me to get in shape so I can become a better version of myself. I recommend this gym to anyone that wants to get into marital arts , regardless of your physical conditioning and experience. I look forward to training every day and if you sign up you will too read more

Great environment for all levels. Phenomenal for self defense and fitness! ESMT has the best Youth Fight team in the area. Kru Jose Aguirre has a tremendous foundation that brings the old and new school Muay Thai traditions together to create the perfect blend and best learning environment. read more

I'm not one to write up reviews but my experience here has been by far amazing that i've to give credit where it's due. It's been over a month since i started the intro level class to initially try something new besides going to the gym and my other usual routine to keep me active. I've had a slight experience from previous years in muay thai at a different location and the vibe is definitely not as energetic as East Side Muay Thai. The "Kru" (instructor) is very detailed with techniques, motivating and interactive with his students to a level that makes you feel they are passionate at teaching every single one of us in the room... every single class. As much students that they probably have, it surprises me sometimes how they're able to remember every single one by name. I've only been here for a little over a month and I feel like I've already improved in cardio, strength and tenacity than when I had started. During the intro level you'll learn basic skills physically such as form and technique, and also really understand the art it self. It's honestly really been worth my time and money that I'll be continuing my program to the next level. I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND EAST SIDE MUAY THAI IF YOU'RE CONSIDERING GETTING INTO MARTIAL ARTS! read more

I started with the intro class. It's a 6 week, 2x a week class which teaches you the fundamentals of Muay Thai. I have never done anything like this but Jose is such a great teacher! I was very awkward moving in week 1 but now I know a bit more techno Ivey and I'm raring to learn more! Every class is a welcome physical and mental challenge. I think no matter if your goal is to be a fighter or simply be healthier, ESMT is a great choice. Their classes cater to all levels and age groups. As for the prices you get what you pay for and more! Every instructor here is experienced and knowledgeable! I encourage everyone to try this, I think it's great for kids and adults! I honestly can't say anything bad about this gym. Very positive vibes! read more

My son was a little hesitant to try Muay Thai. He completed the intro program for beginners and loves it! Jose is an excellent instructor.

My daughter and I both take classes here and it's worth it! We gained strength and they go into detail to help correct your form for good technique! I'm on my second to last week of intro and feel more confident about me! Definitely taking All Levels next. read more

Jose and Kim are hands down the best in the business. Both my sons train here and there is no one better in the area. The Junior fight team is literally the best in the country and the pee wees are treated fairly but sternly. If you're looking for practical and fun self defense or you want to compete, there is no other option. As for some negative reviews here... not factual at all. We've been with these folks for 4 years. read more

East Side Muay Thai is the best Muay Thai School in Virginia Beach. My son has been training under Jose for the past 3 years and now he is a multiple time champion. My son has been invited to compete with Team USA in Thailand and he will be having his first experience competing on at a world level against the top kids from other countries. You really can't find this kind of training at any other locations around here. read more

Started up in March of 2018. Jose is very knowledgeable and competent in his ability to train. You are getting the best deal in the area with a very personal feeling. His new implementation of levels is exactly what I needed. Now I can start from a level 1 and work my way up, perfecting my form. I think the levels was the best thing to happen to my training since I've started. Looking forward to learning more. read more

Support your local schools, East Side is new and upcoming in the area and they are here to train you to win. I practiced for a few months with no experience at all, non-athletic, and coming here will get you back into shape in no time. Of course, you get what you put into it. It's a lot of discipline and work. Everyone here is like family and they really want you to succeed. I practiced to learn some self-defense and I always left feeling strong and confident. They also offer discounts if you are in the military and are great with kids! read more

#1 place to train for muay thai. the environment is so good and everyone who works there is beyond welcoming. the instructors are amazing at what they do and you will not regret going here. highly recommend:) read more

East Side Muay Thai offered a 6-week intro class, which taught the fundamentals of Muay Thai. I can definitely say that my experience with the gym was completely what I hoped for. Jose is the instructor for the gym. I was nervous during the first class, but Jose teaches in great detail - he breaks down all the techniques step by step and progressively puts it all together. This way of teaching definitely helped me grasp the fundamentals very quickly. During the second week of the class, I was already comfortable and always excited for the next lesson. Nevertheless, I will be continuing my journey at East Side Muay Thai as I advance into the next class. The classes have kept me energetic and wanting to master the art. If you want to learn the martial art of Muay Thai, then definitely sign up for their intro classes - you may end up wanting to actually join the gym and master the art! read more

My son was one of the original pee-wee member, after 6 months of training he was promoted and joined the Junior fighting team, 2 years later my son is one of the leader in the gym. I am so glad we joined East Side Muay Thai gym. Kru Jose and Kim provided my son and my nephew a place where they can go and train with the best and to be one of the best muay thai fighters. Hands down it's the best muay thai gym in Virginia Beach. East Side gym is place where you can train for fun, exercise and or to compete. East Side Muay Thai gym is home of the Champions! Come see for yourself. read more

We have been apart of ESMT since the beginning. The best Muay Thai gym on the the east coast

The absolute BEST! Jose and his entire crew are beyond skilled. Jose is an amazing coach. I've watched him train children barely big enough to hold gloves, and seniors trying to get in shape. He knows how to work with all of them. He is great with our teenage daughter and even our special needs son. The entire staff is disciplined, motivating and inspiring. Bringing my kids into ESMT was one of the best decisions I've made, and their mother and I may even start attending soon as well. The gym is clean, the atmosphere is inviting and they offer plenty of classes for all ages. I recommend it to ANYONE looking to get into Martial Arts. read more

Great gym with the best Muay Thai trainer in the area. My son has only been under Kru Jose Aguirre for about 5 months and his technique, power, and speed have increased tenfold! His mental strength and tenacity has also grown from being at East Side. We have found a gym that truly cares about their students and treats us all like family. This is definitely the place to be if you want to one day be a champion. read more

My 6 years old daughter wanted to try after a referral. One of the kids (autistic) was having a hard time focusing got horribly kicked by coach (for talking to another kid) while shouting, "do not disrespect me". That was my first and last time there. read more

My son, who has autism and is high functioning, has been going to East Side for about a year. It has been a great experience for him. I have noticed that his confidence has improved greatly. It has also improved his balance and strength. It also teaches respect. I highly recommend East side. I appreciate the owners because they are not like most of these martial arts studios trying to empty your wallet. Before we went to East side, my son took from another martial arts studio; the one that goes into all the local elementary schools trying to drum up business; we had a real bad experience with that teacher. So it was a relief to find East Side Muay Thai and its awesome teacher. read more

I trained briefly there last winter during a rotation period for work. Workouts are good but cleanliness is thumbs down. Price is cheaper than other gyms in the area but I prefer Impact or GMA for cleanliness. read more