After relocating to Charlotte with years of martial arts experience, I did extensive research to find a gym that realistically covers all aspects of self-defense. That search led me to Ryan Hoover and Fit to Fight--and it exceeded every expectation.This isn't just a 5-star review; it is an open letter of appreciation. Here is what sets them apart: World-Class Leadership: Ryan, Amber, and Riley Hoover are incredible, highly accessible coaches who frequently teach classes themselves. Elite, Consistent Coaching: Every single coach and Black Belt is exceptional. There is no such thing as a bad class here. Complete Combat Curriculum: They train you for reality--covering everything from de-escalation and kickboxing to grappling, street-scenario jiu-jitsu, and weapons defense. Evolving & Relevant: The curriculum updates constantly to address ever-changing, real-world threats. Inclusive Community: You will train alongside everyone from teenagers to impressive 70-year-olds in an environment where everyone knows your name. Genuine Care: They truly care about your safety, growth, and well-being.Though I recently had to relocate back to the West Coast, Fit to Fight remains the gold standard. I fully plan to return for their intensive workshops. To Ryan and the entire coaching staff: keep doing what you do. It matters. read more

I cant believe I have not reviewed this before. I have been going here infrequently since it opened or shortly there after. The reason for the infrequency is that it is a solid 25 min drive for me without traffic. Add in week day traffic and that turns into an hour. Otherwise, I'd be here all the time. The staff is super friendly. The bag classes are my favorite and a really tough workout. The intro classes are great as well. The first 15 mins of "warm up" is probably the toughest work out then it is on to learning basic skills. It's such a great work out and the training is great for self defense. They have another location in Gastonia if you live closer to there. I highly recommend them. read more

My friend Curtis brought me here and I loved it! This gym has everything. They have bags, mats, and a ring. Everyone waa super nice and skillful. It was a pleasure seeing this spot and I look forward to telling others about it! Awesome read more

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Love this place so much. They have everything you need to push yourself, get your aggression out, learn & improve your fitness. Heavy Bag Blast with Andre is my favorite. It's always different, always fun but always a great workout. I love how there are advanced classes if you want to become more specialized or learn self defense OR you can just stick with the fitness classes. The staff is super professional, AND The price can't be beat. read more

I've been going to FTF Charlotte for about six months now. I can't recommend this place enough. I'm regularly in the Krav Maga, SPARology, Heavy Bag, ChampFit, and Results classes. The only class I don't take there is BJJ. Once you start coming to classes here, the energy in the place is contagious and you'll want to try out every class they offer. I highly recommend this place if you are interested in learning Krav Maga, BJJ, or just want to get into great shape. read more

I'm in my second year of training at FTF and can honestly say its my favorite part of the week. After making it to the third level in Krav I started working on BJJ and got hooked. The training is thorough, the staff is like family, and all of the students motivate each other. I can't imagine training anywhere else and I'm looking forward to earning my BJJ Blue Belt :) read more

I recently signed up with FTF and have greatly enjoyed the workouts. The instructors are very professional and are eager to help you and the students are also a good group. You can do the drills at the speed that is appropriate for your skill level. There are many activities to choose from which is different than a tae kwon do/karate type of program. You may think that you are in very good cardio and strength condition until you take one of their classes. I sleep very well the nights after class. read more

I was very impressed with FTF from the very start. I looked into a few different Krav Maga places and decided this would be the best fit for me. They're very professional, and the customer service is great. I'd definitely recommend it. Thanks FTF! read more

Just had my first Krav Maga foundation class. Very intense but fun as hell at the same time the instructors are great at teaching and keeping the class going. I'm hooked read more

I've been coming to FTF Charlotte since 2016. Definitely a top-notch business with high quality instructors. I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to step out of their comfort zone. read more

I have been fitness training with FTF Fitness and Self Defense for approximately a year now. I love it!. The trainers and staff are fabulous and the instruction top notch. I love that you compete against yourself, and the heavy bag is your partner. As a 56 year old woman who has never been a natural athlete or exerciser I can say that FTF continues to be an fitness experience that I enjoy and look forward to. Highly recommended! read more

I have been going to Fit-To-Fight (FTF) Charlotte for almost 6 months now, and I love it! They charge a monthly membership fee, and you can go to as many classes as you'd like. The Heavy Bag classes are probably my favorite right now because they are so fun and energetic, and I also really like the Krav Maga classes because they teach very practical self-defense techniques. They have many other options to choose from too, including Judo, BJJ, and Boot Camp-type classes, so you'll never get bored. As fun and varied as the classes are though, it's the instructors that truly make this place so great. All of the instructor's I've had at FTF Charlotte are very good at what they do, and it's easy to tell that they love doing it. I have worked with at least 8 different instructors, and every single one of them is amazing. They are always encouraging us to achieve our goals and motivating us to push just a little bit further than last time. Their positive energy is contagious, and it keeps me coming back every week. So if you're looking for something different and fun, or if you're just a little burnt out on Zumba or the treadmill...give FTF a try and you won't be disappointed! They offer free trial classes so you can check it out and decide for yourself. I hope to see you there! read more

It only took one class for me to get hooked. It's a great workout that comes with real life skills. I strongly recommend for anyone wanting self defense or a good workout! read more

If you're looking for a total body workout, FTF is the place to be. Excellent instructors and small class sizes allow individual attention to students while you train - all the way down to private/semi-private sessions if the class size is small enough. I highly recommend FTF to anyone willing to give it their all. read more