After reading the 1 star reviews (which are extremely biased, although there are grains of truth to some things they say, as I will explain), I felt compelled to try and set the record straight about Krav Maga Elite. Note this is not my first martial arts school. I've been to quite a few over the years, so I think I have a decent basis for comparison. First of all, this is the best school I've been to in terms of teaching mental preparedness, strategy, timing, and footwork, rather than simply "punching and kicking." These other skills are crucial to tying the "punching and kicking" together. Without them, you cannot effectively fight, even if you can execute individual techniques beautifully. As some highly-critical reviews note, no, Joe Diamond doesn't teach every class. Is there a school where the head instructor teaches every class? Not that I've seen. In fact, I've been to schools where I don't think I was taught once by the guy whose name was on the door. In contrast, Master Diamond may not teach every class, but he teaches quite a few, and I'd say I see him there far more often than not, whichever classes I attend. Regardless, it's a non-issue. When Master Diamond isn't teaching, there are several other teachers who might teach various classes (or help Master Diamond even when he is there so that students can get more individual instruction). They each have their own teaching style and personality, so maybe some resonate better with certain people than others. But, they are all good at what they do, and you will certainly learn from all of them. Another criticism that was mentioned in some other reviews was that there is "only" one class per day per style. That's not exactly accurate - there are actually days when certain styles are not taught at all. But, in my experience this is quite normal. The school teaches Combat Krav Maga, Brazillian Jui Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, and Kali. Do people expect an instructor for every one of those arts to be sitting around waiting for when they happen to want to take a class? That's not how it works. It's like a college course - there are several times a week when each style is offered, and there are normally at least 3-6 classes per week per style. If you can't make the class times (posted on the web site), then this school might not be convenient for you, but I don't think you are going to find schools with schedules that are much more flexible. With respect to "hidden" fees, they do charge $50 to test for Krav Maga. I don't know if the fees vary for the other styles. Note that if this concerns you, you don't have to test if you don't want to. And, I was not charged anything for the books that contain the testing material, contrary to what was asserted in another review. All in all, I think this is an excellent school. I think the quality of instruction is top-notch, and I don't think it is unusual to charge for testing - but again, you don't have to test if you don't want. A final thing I'd like to mention about this school is that is has a comradery that I've never seen before. I think this is because the teachers really want to teach, and the students really want to learn (and the advanced students are very willing to help the less advanced students if they have a question and the instructor isn't handy - no one makes anyone feel dumb). This makes for an enjoyable, rewarding environment in which to train. read more

Do not be fooled by this guys bullshit; I've been at this school for sometime back in 2012 at city fitness and the lack of people teaching the classes Joe Diamond has his half ass students teaching his classes half the time; he is hardly there and gives people belts and stripes like its going out of style; after coming from balance studios and coming here i basically wiped the mats with majority of his students; and not to be disrespectful Mr Diamond isn't to well a bjj himself don't believe me look his 2 fights up on youtube where he quit his mma fight he couldn't go on.. he is a very nice guy but need to put more effort into his philadelphia classes instead of counting on his half ass students to do the class.. his purple belt students are basically blue belts with not much experience.. my recommendation is to go to a REAL school that will teach you the basics first before you jump to the fancy moves that you can't use out on the streets; his bjj is for tournaments fights and half his so called fighters never fight or lose; as far a the krav its pretty good and his mauythia class is half ass but good work out but anyone could do this at home... i know this review is harsh but im just being real. if your going to join a bjj class id would recommend a much more reliable school theres a couple good ones out there besides balance try Daddis;maxercise rococo's gym; do not go here its bullshit Don't be fooled!! my suggestion is go to a couple schools try them out before you walk in here and you will see the difference in training and bullshit.. im sorry Mr Diamond your a very nice guy but your teachers/fake purple belts and brown belts are worthless and shouldn't be teaching.. look him up check his reviews YOUTUBE him read other peoples comments and you will see.. he moved to a different location now with a fancy building but fancy building and new gear doesn't change the fact your never there to teach and teach half ass.. i believe you know your shit but if your going to take peoples money make sure you teach them and not count on your students to do your job!! thanks a million for giving me false hope in your bullshit! i am now back at balance and getting the right training..do your research people first before you walk in here.. TRUST ME read more

We have been training at Diamond MMA for almost 6 months now. We started with very little background in martial arts and focused our efforts in Muay Thai and Commando Krav Maga (CKM). Joe has been an outstanding instructor from day one. He is very professional, respectful and patient as we work through complex techniques and fighting strategies. His extensive experience in MMA and Commando Krav Maga (CKM) shows, especially when he provides 1 on 1 teaching and fine tunes your technique. We have never felt intimidated during class, as there are students at many different levels of training, genders and ages. We feel that safety is always a priority, including proper protective equipment. Classes tend to vary in size, ranging from just a few students to somewhere around 15. The studio is a large space with lots of mats and punching bags to practice. The A/C is great during the summer. There are clean male and female separate bathrooms to change if you need to and there is always cold water to drink. One of the best aspects of this studio is that there are classes every night and even Saturday morning, which makes it easier if you have a hectic work schedule. We exercise routinely and are in pretty good shape but we are amazed at the physical fitness aspect of Diamond Krav Maga (CKM). We've lost even more weight and are feeling so much better about our overall fitness. Finally, classes are tons of fun and there is a good team spirit in the studio, with a general feeling that everyone is training towards a common goal. We absolutely recommend it! read more

Training at Krav Maga Elite has heightened my levels of concentration, focus, stamina and endurance. When you train in a dojo, two things are being asked of you: Release your ego and never give up. If you have an ego in fighting, you are bringing something with you to the table that is not to your advantage. The ego is also detrimental to all other areas of life. In a fight, there is no such thing as giving up. If you give up, you have already lost and who wants that? However, if you do lose, you come back stronger than ever when you never give up! The mindset that training in a dojo has given me has carried over into all other aspects of life. Life is a fight and you need to be prepared to keep going even if you get knocked down. Instead of dodging problems that need to be handled in the present moment, I am able to tackle them without feeling overwhelmed. When you are training in contact fighting techniques like Muay Thai and Krav Maga, you have no choice but to be in the present moment. If someone is coming at you full speed, you have to react as quickly as possible without thinking. From training at Krav Maga Elite, my ability to do this has enhanced. On a physical level, I have gained the mind set to not give up even when I am tired. Because of this kind of thinking, my levels of physical stamina and endurance have been taken to another level. You literally learn to suck it up and keep moving. read more

Now this is a place to really learn about self defense and martial arts... From the second you walk in you can see everyone focused and working up a sweat.. It's very motivating seeing people of all ages practicing and training together.. The instructors command respect yet remain very patient and humble.. You really get a sense reassurance knowing the instructors really care about you and not only want you to learn the skills but be careful at the same time.. I'm a personal trainer and have a bunch of workout routines but Nothing compares to this kind of combat training.. It almost reminds me of the workouts I did while I was serving in the United States Army... I really thought I was in great shape until I had my first training from Coach Rodriguez.. I've had the pleasure of working with a few different instructors and learning so much from each of them.. They make me wanna train all day.. Finally the facility and the equipment are all top notch... Very clean, respectful and professional.. Me and my son have found a new place to bond and call our home and I look forward to all the progress we will make together.. Above all I'd like to thank Head coach Joe Diamond for opening your doors to me and my son.. Sam Rodriguez and Christina Tanon for bringing me to such an amazing place!!!!! read more

I have been a student/coach at Diamond's Mixed Martial Arts for 2.5 years now. During that time, with the help of Professor Diamond and my awesome teammates and coaches, I have developed into a better fighter, and consequently, a better son, manager at my job, co-worker, friend and boyfriend. Our Krav Maga, Gracie Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai classes are top of the line. I can guarantee that you will not find better. Our team will develop any individual into a warrior in not only body, but mind and heart. Mixed Martial Arts is not only a great way to stay in shape and learn self defense, but it is also very mentally and spiritually fulfilling. It is also a lot of fun to compete! I just finished my 10th submission grappling tournament, and won my 5th medal! I also just passed my level 3 Krav Maga exam! As difficult as it was, it was very rewarding and so worth the time and effort it took to get there. If MMA sounds like something you would want to try, come check us out! We are conveniently located in Northfield NJ (801 Tilton Road) and Philadelphia PA (1714 Washington Ave)! Just call 609-272-2270 for details and come train at the best MMA school out there and learn from the best trainers! See you on the mats! read more

I can't say enough good things about this gym in Philadelphia that offers an impressive array of martial arts disciplines! Whether you're interested in Krav Maga, BJJ, Boxing, Pekiti Tirsia Kali, or any other martial art, you'll find top-notch instruction here. The instructors are not only highly skilled but also incredibly passionate about what they teach. They create a welcoming and supportive environment for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced. I've personally experienced tremendous growth in my skills since joining this gym. The facilities are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need to train effectively. The class schedules are flexible, making it easy to find a time that suits your schedule. Plus, the camaraderie among fellow members is fantastic. Whether you're looking to learn self-defense, get in shape, or just have a great time while learning martial arts, this gym has it all. I highly recommend it to anyone in Philadelphia interested in martial arts. It's an incredible place to train and grow as a martial artist. read more

Joe Diamond and his crew at Krav Maga Elite are great! When I first started over a year ago, I was brand spanking new to the world of martial arts and was only looking for some basic knowledge about self defense. At first, I was worried that I may have gotten in over my head, especially with all of the amazing talent I saw there; however, the instructors were fantastic about helping learn basic moves and getting comfortable with how to use my body as a tool in my self defense. After only two classes, my anxieties faded, and I left that day with the confidence that I could protect myself better than I could have before. One year later, I still attend, but have now moved on to more advanced classes that help me now boast a confidence I never thought I could have found before and I owe it all to Joe Diamond and the wonderful instructors there. And thanks to the kickboxing classes, also credit them with helping me lose 25 pounds! Thank you Joe and team for your wonderful guidance and teaching me not only by method, but by example. You made a life-long student of me! read more

I have started training only two months ago, and I love it! The moment I arrived, I had a warm welcoming greeting from Master Diamond. The environment is very friendly, and since the groups are small (up to maybe 10 people), we receive personal instruction and attention from our teacher and his assistants. I train other martial arts, but I really like training here because of the emphasis towards effective self-defense in real life situations. Since they also teach Muay Thai Kickboxing, I am learning how to kick and how to punch. It is a lot of fun, even for an almost 50 year all woman! There are also Brazilian Ju-Jitsu classes that I am planning to join very soon! I am glad they opened this dojo here in Philly. Although I do not drive (I go to the dojo walking or by bike), I have noticed that there is always plenty of parking space . It is my hope to continuing with my training here for the long term. read more

I joined Diamond's Mixed Martial Arts in August, after checking out their website and coming in for a free Commando Krav Maga class. Right after the first class I talked with Joe personally in his office and we talked a little bit of my history and that I was looking for. He listened assured me that they could help me reach my goals. The main reason I said yes only after 1 class was due to my conversation with Joe and because of the skilled and encouraging instructors. After four months of coming to train 3-5 times a week I lost over 40 pounds and passed CKM Levels 1 and 2. I am looking forward to the next weeks, months, and years, as I learn, grow, and succeed in CKM and other disciplines. So I'd encourage anyone and everyone come in and train with us. You will not regret it. read more

I am no expert on MMA (yet), but I do know fair business practices and good people when I engage with them. I have been attending Krav Maga Elite for at least 6 months now and I observe Joe Diamond to be an excellent leader, motivating coach, and great business man. There are fees associated with any accreditation, so I'm not sure what Nomi missed when reading her contract, but his prices are reasonable, the bi-lingual instructors are very knowledgeable and flexible with level of expertise each class may have, and the facilities are constantly improving and being upgraded. If you're looking for a great space to have an intense work out, build life-saving skills and learn a diverse array of techniques for men, women, and children, Krav Maga Elite is your best bet! read more

I have been studying Commando Krav Maga, Muay Thai Kickboxing and now JiuJitsu. Where else could a person go to get all three styles for the same monthly price. I have lost 15lbs, my stomach is flat, I am faster and more agile than I have been in years and I feel healthier and alert. I know my self defense techniques are getting perfected each time I go. Thanks to Joe and his team for getting me back into shape. By the way did I say that i was in my 60's and yet I keep up with those who are 1/3 my age. I would highly recommend!!! read more

I've been taking my kids here for about 6 months and I LOVE this school! There were quite a few schools to choose from, but this one stood out amongst the crowd! Joe has taught my children with patience and passion and it's been nice to see them develop a skill they are proud of. Both of my children (a boy and a girl) love coming to "Joe's." And as their mother, it's nice to watch them develop their confidence along side other children whose parents share the same dedication to personal improvement. You get 10 stars in my book! read more

My experience at this dojo has been good since day one (almost a year ago). I like training here because of the friendly and energetic environment. I have been training martial arts for many years, and I am happy I joined this dojo. I am learning a lot about practical movements that could be used for self-defense in the streets. And since I am an active person, I love my kick-boxing classes (although sometimes at the end of the class, or the next day, my whole body would be hurting). read more

Highly recommend Diamond MMA and CKM ! Joe and all of the instructors are incredibly patient, competent, and professional. I can already see improvements a few weeks in and look forward to the results months from now. (This review coming from someone who couldn't even do a pushup properly a couple of weeks ago.) The gym is very welcoming but also challenging; I really appreciate how positive the environment is, the variety of classes available, and the talented staff. read more

I've been in a couple of MMA gyms. With instructors who are excellent at MMA. But bad at teaching, dnt focus on individual students and are just in it for the money. Instructor Joe Diamond is non of the above. Awesome, easy going instructor. Pays attention to detail while instructing and never lets any of his students fell left out. The gym is also kid friendly. I would recommend his Combat Krav Maga and other MMA classes to anyone of any age. read more

Master Diamond is an amazing instructor! I have been training for two and a half years and each class is different. Their Muay Thai and Krav Maga classes are an incredible workout and I've learned so much from every class I've taken. The class size is small enough where the instructors can take the time to help me when needed. I highly recommend giving this place a try! read more

Master Diamond is an amazing instructor and joining was a great decision! Their Muay thai and Krav maga classes are an incredible workout and I've learned so much from those classes since I joined. The class size is small so the instructors are always available to help you. I'd definitely recommend giving this place a try if you are interested in martial arts! read more

With the help of Master Diamond and my awesome teammates and coaches, I have developed into better fighter, and consequently a better son, manager, friend and boyfriend. The Krav Maga, Gracie Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai classes are the top of the line. And I guarantee that you will not find a better school out there! read more