(cross-posted from my Google review)…read more I started training at the Boston Martial Arts Center in early 2007 after training elsewhere. I'm glad that I did; I've enjoyed my time at BMAC immensely. Mark Davis: Mark's technical, teaching, and interpersonal skills are outstanding. He nicely manages the tricky balance between approachability and authority; he's a super-nice guy, but unquestionably the master of the dojo. Other instructional staff: The other instructors bring a nice mix of different skill sets and philosophies to their classes. It's worth noting that several members of the teaching staff have been with Mark for ten years or more; while they are all deeply experienced, they continue to train and grow under his direction. Students: The student cohort is supportive and friendly. There's a good mix of serious and casual students; some are there virtually every day, while others come a couple of times per week. Curriculum: The formal curriculum taught at BMAC could be generally described as "traditional." This traditional material is used to teach important concepts and principles that are then translated to modern contexts and applications. Students are encouraged to experiment and make their own discoveries under the guidance of the teaching staff; the "why" question reigns supreme. Rote memorization and mechanical reproduction of techniques are very much discouraged. Schedule: Great hours! Classes are held every weeknight, on Saturday mornings, and during the lunch hour on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Classes are 45 minutes long, so many students stay for multiple classes per evening. Facility: The dojo facility is adequate. The space is large enough to comfortably accommodate all but the largest class groups. The carpeted floor gives incentive to develop good rolling and falling skills. The dojo is very convenient to both the MBTA Green Line and the #66 bus. Both stop about one minute from the dojo building.

The best thing you can ever do for yourself. Not only does it offer highly competent instructors…read morethat teach you how to use martial arts, it teaches you the history and the practicality of using it today. I've studied different martial arts and after attending this school I'm reluctant to go anywhere else. Set in a humble area of Allston, most people pass by the school without even knowing its there. To get there you have to want to find it. The school does not attract those out to earn a collection of belts or those looking to hurt people. Instead it offers a place where you can find the balance that comes with knowing how to defend yourself. It teaches you how to use your powers for good, so to speak. The instructors know their stuff and make the classes interesting without one ever being like the other. You may even find yourself coming in when you don't have any classes. It becomes an even social atmosphere with great, friendly students and teachers. They welcome anyone that may want to come in and check out a class. If you meet Mark, you probably will end your search. He's the head instructor and can tell you why Ninjutsu is the best style for anyone hoping to better themselves or stay safe on the streets. The school is reasonably priced and gives you much more than what you pay for. They offer kid's classes as well. Visit a class and you'll be back for more.

Great classes at a no frills gym. Great exercise to add into your mix. And you get to punch a bagread more

Hello, This has been long overdue!…read moreI have had the pleasure of going to Nontantum Boxing Club (NBC) for over two years, and this place changed my life. The club loves teaching others of all shapes, sizes, and ages boxing. The old-school vibe is amazing and the people there are supportive, it has become my second home. The club holds classes with cancer survivors and through this club, I joined the Haymakers for Hope a cancer charity to "Knock out Cancer." The owners are reachable and accessible for questions if need be. I LOVE THIS GYM more than anything, I call it my second home. The monthly rate is more than reasonable compared to other places. They also hold a class for children on Saturday mornings. (It's cute to see the kids' box) The club is open 7 days a week with morning and evening classes. Can't say enough things about this place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love the small group classes! The classes are brief (45 mins but really a ~30 min workout with a…read morewarm up and a cool down) but are efficient - you're getting a tough workout if you have the right form and right weights. The instructors keep their eye on you - especially the owner, Zeynep. Definitely loved the yoga class - it was slow, restorative and I learned new things despite practicing yoga on and off for over a decade. There's mood lighting, upbeat music, and no more than 8 people a class really. It's right underneath the star market so parking is free and it's so convenient to swing into the store after class to grab groceries before going home.... Or to just have parking in general. (I've definitely done the manic run to the Pilates class. And they are quite forgiving if you're late.) They are neighbors to a little kid gym, so parents can drop off their kids there and go for a quick workout and grocery shopping. Highly recommend

I didn't know that people use yelp for fitness facilities too... but here it is. I highly recommend…read moreMats Boston! Especially if you want to get a personalized and supportive workout experience without the pressure of 1-1 coaching, this small-group studio might be for you! Instructors are nice, knowledgeable and approachable without imposing. I really like all of them so far. Their classes are different each week (I have been going for 4 weeks now) so haven't gotten bored yet.

This is an amazing gym! I always look forward to coming here. Michael is so positive, encouraging,…read moreand knows right when to push you. There are a ton of classes, but my favorite is cardio-boxing. it is a lot of fun and he makes it a great workout for all levels. I highly encourage everyone to check this place out. great price, clean environment, great equipment, and a spectacular workout!

This is a wonderful training facility with very professional and friendly owners Mike and Grace…read more I have been training with Mike for a few months before their fitness studio found a home right in Newton Center (across the Newton Center T stop- convenient!) and have seen wonderful results with my stamina and strength. He caters the workouts to my needs and provides a great variety in addition to his boxing skillset. This is a great activity with friends & family as well! Groups are encouraged and I will definitely keep coming--- THANK YOU

So much fun!!! We had zero experience-- didn't know how to hold the foil (didn't even know what a…read morefoil was vs a saber), didn't know how to stand, and didn't know how to put on any of the equipment (did you know there's a plastic chest shield, under arm protector, and an electric vest to record the hits?). Sergei very patiently taught us the basics, let us practice the techniques on the mannequins, then let us try to "fence" each other! On Saturdays, they have a free adult intro class, then you can sign up for the classes to learn the techniques, etc. Highly recommend!

I have been training at FAB for almost two years now. They provide an excellent environment for…read moreclub members to train in. Vitaliy is a world class coach that molds people into champions. Whether or not you want to be competitive or have fun and get some great cardio, this place is for you.

Dina and Keith at Fitness Principles are awesome! Their energy is infectious and gets you motivated…read moreand pumped up for your workout. I first started training with Dina a few weeks ago. Before we started training we went through a FMS Fitness Test to see where my fitness level was, mainly focusing on mobility. Seems like years of biking and running without stretching has rendered me pretty immobile. Over the past few weeks of training it's been great to be able to work on my mobility and overall fitness levels to get me where I need to be in order to do simple exercises with the correct form. Turns out mobility is HUGE. Dina has been great in knowing where I am and customizing mobility focused workouts for my specific needs. Additionally, my workouts consist of nutritional education and homework (stretches and exercises) that I can take home in between workouts. I highly recommend investing in your overall health and fitness and signing up with Dina and Keith at Fitness Principles.

This place has changed my life. I have been training at Fitness Principles for a long time and I…read morecontinue to be both surprised and energized by the creativity of the owner. Keith McGrath has created a space that accommodates both young and old, novice or advanced and challenges that person to become their personal best. The welcoming culture of the facility combined with the advanced knowledge and experience of the trainers causes me to remain a very loyal client. Do yourself a favor and experience the very best in strength and conditioning training while being elevated in mind and spirit.

My husband and I did our research before enrolling our now four-year-old, autistic daughter about a…read moreyear ago into Kung Fu classes at SDSS Newton. Right from the very beginning, Sensei Logan's natural talent of working with children stood out. The high energy, fun music, and caring environment facilitated the requisite space for our daughter to thrive. She continues to learn the Kung Fu techniques, make belt advancements, build self-confidence, and improve her balance and coordination. Most importantly: she LOVES it! Recently, my husband and I also enrolled our three-year-old, autistic son into Kung Fu classes at SDSS Newton. Because of the pandemic, we were concerned that our son's sensory profile would clash with the robust health & safety protocols (which include kids keeping a mask on, checking temperature at the door, using hand sanitizer, each child staying in their own "zone", etc.). After expressing our concerns, Sensei Logan worked holistically with our family toward finding solutions which have enabled our son's successful transition into regular Kung Fu lessons. It is also worth noting separately that during the pandemic, the Digital Dojo experience has been both enriching and fun. The consistency provides motivation for the kids to continue practicing their skills throughout the week and keeps them mindful of and thinking about the Shaolin Rules. Sensei Logan's level of skill, integrity, dedication, and kindness are impressive, impactful, and inspiring.  He leads by example. As parents, my husband and I appreciate that our two autistic children are valued members of the Dojo who are offered the same level of respect and dignity as any other student. We highly recommend!

We started my 5yr old son at DMA about 2 months ago and our daughter will start in the fall. So far…read morewe have really enjoyed being a part of the DMA studio. I love that Shihon Dan focuses as much on life lessons as he does on Karate. He does a great job talking to younger children about powerful topics such as honesty, respect & perseverance. We are new to Karate as a family but it's not something I can see us giving up any time soon. If you are looking to get your child into martial arts I highly recommend the DMA studios.

Other karate classes for young children that I've seen are mostly games, running around, with a few…read moresloppy kicks here and there. DMA teaches REAL karate from day one, and still manages to be just as fun for the kids without sacrificing learning actual self defense. Don't waste your time and money on schools that don't really teach your children much of anything. DMA is the best, hands down. You'll never find a more patient, capable, and FUN instructor than Shihan Dan!