I've trained at quite a few Muay Thai gyms over the years. Like a lot of people who move around, I've bounced from city to city and tried different spots. Most of them were solid. Good people, good workouts. But Jay's Training Grounds was the first place where things actually clicked for me. What stood out immediately was the way Coach Jay teaches. Instead of just drilling combinations, he breaks down the fundamentals and the reason behind every movement. Footwork, balance, timing, defense, how punches connect with kicks, when to check, when to counter. You start to understand the system instead of just memorizing techniques. That made a huge difference in how fast I improved. The atmosphere is also very genuine. No ego, no intimidation. Just people who want to train hard and get better. Beginners get clear guidance, and more experienced fighters still get technical details that sharpen their game. It feels like an authentic Muay Thai training environment, not a cardio kickboxing class. If you're in the Bay Area and looking for a place to train seriously while still feeling welcome, Jay's Training Grounds is worth checking out. Drop in for a class, talk to the coaches, and see it for yourself. You'll know pretty quickly why so many people stick around. read more

Jay’s Training Grounds - Boxing class before Muay Thai class - Boxing Near Me - Oakland, California

My Muay Thai journey started back in 2014, and from 2014-2018 I was fully committed to training until life hit me with school, work, and relationships that forced me to step away. During that time, I gained a lot of weight and felt like I lost a big part of myself. When I tried to come back, I found that the gym where I originally started had closed due to rising rent costs. I checked out a few gyms in Oakland, but none of them had that same community vibe where people truly enjoyed Muay Thai for the art and what it represents, I didn't feel welcomed Honestly, I felt lost and thought I'd never find that feeling again. I even considered driving far just to train because I missed Muay Thai so much. That all changed when I came across Coach Jay's bio and saw that he had trained under the same coaches I had when I first started. I looked at the photos, saw the location, and instantly felt the same vibe I'd been searching for. From day one, Coach Jay was welcoming, helped me get my technique back, and I immediately felt the support from the entire team. Since rejoining, I've gone from 260lbs to 210lbs, building muscle along the way thanks to the strength and conditioning classes (something I never had access to before). On top of that, I've been training in boxing, improving and learning a lot, while of course continuing with Muay Thai. I've even competed in a PKB and plan to keep competing in the near future. For me, Muay Thai and boxing here have not only helped me get in shape but also pushed me to grow mentally, physically, and spiritually. The training is tough but motivating, and the team always makes you feel supported like family. Everyone trains hard, but there's also real camaraderie and respect. This gym has given me opportunities to challenge myself in ways I never imagined, from sharpening my technique to stepping into the ring. It's more than just a gym, it's a community that keeps you accountable and pushes you to become the best version of yourself. I'm incredibly grateful to Coach Jay and the gym for helping me return to what I love and for improving my health. If you're serious about training or even just curious to try something new, I can't recommend Jay's Training Grounds enough. - Manny read more

Very nice gym. Coach Jay takes a lot of pride in his gym. It's super clean and inviting. My husband and I go there to train and always have a great time. Coach Jay is generous in sharing his knowledge of Muay Thai. I always learn something when I train there! read more

Jason has been my coach and personal trainer for more than 16 years. I've studied Muay Thai and boxing with him, and rely on him for strength and conditioning. I'm 51 now, and my priorities have changed, but I work out with J three times a week, and it's been transformational for my life, my health, my fitness and my mental well-being. Like J often says, it's a lifestyle choice. A lot of gyms have a bro-kinda vibe and are unwelcoming to new members or folks who are trying out boxing or muay thai for the first time. Jason is about as far from that as you can get. He's warm, welcoming, and happy to share his art with anyone from a total beginner to someone looking to go pro. As someone who has worked with J for almost two decades, I've gone from being focused on high-intensity fighting shape to wanting to stay strong and protect my back and knees as I get older. Jason has been on every step of this journey with me. You will never find a more passionate, attentive, or caring human being. Jason is all heart, and is relentless is perfecting his art. I'm in some of the best shape of my life, and I owe it all to Coach J. I recommend him without reservation. read more

JTG is hands down the best gym. They offer Muay Thai, boxing and strength and conditioning classes. It does not matter if you are a beginner or advanced, this gym makes everybody feel like family and is catered to all levels. Since I started here, I have changed so much physically and mentally. (See before and after photo )The owner, Jay, is such an encouraging coach and really pushes you to your fullest potential. If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be who I am today. read more

Jay’s Training Grounds - Before I joined vs after joining one year later - Boxing Near Me - Oakland, California

Went to an intro class and really appreciate the one on one guidance I received from Jay. He is a great coach and guided me well. I am signing up for his tue/thurs boxing 7am class next week. So excited! read more

Coach is a great motivator and inspirational. If you're looking for a transformation and a positive place to workout and become part of family this is the place. read more

This is a gem of a spot. I was nervous joining because it's clear a lot of people here take boxing and Muay Thai very seriously with some on the circuit level, and frankly I'm out of shape. I came at a transitionary place in my life and now been getting into shape and on a regular schedule 2 times a week and moving that to 3 times a week. Coach Jay is great, very inspiring and a solid teacher, as is the camaraderie amongst people in the classes. Also incredibly clean, the gym bathroom might even be cleaner than at my house...great to shower before commuting to work. read more

Jason Joseph, owner and head coach of Jay's Training Grounds, has single-handedly changed my life through fitness. He is the BEST trainer I have ever worked with, and trust - I have tried a *lot* of trainers and gyms. I first met Jay back in 2016 and have never looked back. I have been following him around wherever he teaches classes, just waiting patiently for him to open his own gym, and thank goodness that time has come! Now you can enter a space and just get his wisdom and amazing workouts 24/7 - couldn't ask for anything better. It's honestly hard to describe why he - and the community he cultivates - is so special. You just have to come experience it all for yourself. All I can say is: if you decide to join the JTG family, your body and mind will transform, and you will get into the best shape of your life. I mostly do his strength and conditioning classes and am not a serious boxer or muay thai fighter, though I've done those classes as well, and they're great, too! Anything at this gym is sure to be a great workout and a ton of fun. Guaranteed. Whether you're trying to get into MMA or you're just looking for a place to get a solid workout in - and, as a byproduct meet some pretty amazing people - look no further, JTG is for you. read more

My husband and I have been training with Jay for over 15 years now. He is not only an incredibly talented trainer and athlete, he is good energy and pure integrity. If you want a personal trainer that scrolls through their Instagram account while you put in the work, then Jay's not the trainer for you. If you want a trainer that is 100% present and committed to helping you reach your fitness goals, then Jay is your guy. He is focused on teaching good technique and gearing each workout based on how you're feeling that day, which is really important to me because I have a lot of old sports related injuries. He's keeping us healthy and on track towards becoming better versions of ourselves. Jay's Training Grounds is a clean, well organized and welcoming environment. If you're looking for a great personal trainer, look no further. read more

I have known Jay since 2016 and have been following him around from gym to gym. Now, he has his own gym to call his own and I couldn't be more proud of him!!! Coach Jay will push you, motivate you, and encourage you! At times, you think you've emptied the tank, but some how you manage to keep pushing yourself through class, especially with the help of other athletes cheering you on. No one gets left behind! Coach Jay knows everyone at the gym on a personal level. He is constantly checking on you to make sure your mind and body is right, even on day offs, he's texting you. Come to JTG. You'll be so happy you joined!! read more

Jay's Training Grounds is the place to be if you want your body transformed and your overall health rejuvenated. Jason is by far the best trainer I have encountered. He knows human physiology so well; he customizes your workout for YOU. The Muay Thai and boxing classes are ! Summer is around the corner. Start with Jay's training ground now and within one month, if you put in the work, you will not regret it. read more

I started training with Coach Jay in November 2022. Coming out of COVID I had gained a lot of weight and lost a lot of motivation. For a few months months I did Muay Thai twice a week. I had never done Muay Thai. It was really fun and challenging. Then I switched to strength and conditioning classes three times a week which I love. I am by no means an athletic person. I have a lot of joint issues and am not flexible at ALL. At first, I was intimidated by all of the fit young people who go to the gym. But coach Jay was sooo encouraging and accommodating of my physical limitations. Everyone at the gym is super welcoming. We laugh as much as we groan lol. I've never gone to a small gym, and now I will never go back to a larger gym. In 7 months I've lost 30 pounds and regained my confidence. I feel amazing. Going to the gym is no longer a chore. Now, the gym is one of my happy places. If you find this diamond in the rough count yourself lucky because Jay's is AMAZING! read more

Not only will Jay change your body for the better... if you commit, he'll change you mind and your soul for the better too. Jay is a phenomenal coach and an amazing friend. And the community at Jay's Training Grounds is one of inclusion and belonging. Whether you are there to do conditioning, weightlifting, Muay Thai... and no matter what level you are at, you'll feel like you are at home. I've found a healthy, motivating and supportive community. Come join us. read more

I started training with Coach Jay at the lowest time in my life. I'm doing way better today and Jay is a big reason why.

Jay is amazing! He makes working out fun and enjoyable for everyone! Definitely coming back!

I met Jay in the early 2000's. He has always been the most in shape, vibrant person I've ever known. He spent countless hours helping me and everyone around me train and become our best selves. Jay's training is best best hands down. I've spent time training in Thailand and his training rivals the best I trained with there. You will get top training here learning real technique. Jay will drop everything to help anyone. He genuinely cares and is always motivating. read more

Jay is the greatest passion excitement and commitment to you and your goals... he will get you right and your technique will be the real deal!!! --- Jolynn P read more