54 Yelp Reviews for A4 Fitness 5/5 Star average
Absolutely love A4 Fitness! The staff is great - so friendly, helpful, and really caring. I have learned so much from this place and have definitely had the best workout experiences I've ever had here. It's super challenging, varied, and fun! I highly recommend A4!
Adam and Amanda are a class act. This is a great gym.
I've been doing Crossfit with A4 since January. I'm really happy with the workouts and the results.
I can only comment on the Crossfit side of the place, and the community though.
The facility is clean and the prices are very competitive. They have several classes everyday. I have a pretty eratic scedule and I have found a time to workout every time I want
A third updated is overdue as AMMS has been bought out and its name changed to A4 Fitness. Now there's a big addition of CrossFit to the program. Two week CrossFit trial for $10 is a pretty sweet deal. Great thing about Adam and Josh (who teach the CrossFit) is that its catered to push yourself pretty hard regardless of whatever fitness level you're at. Sundays at 10:30 am however is an open, donation-only CrossFit class where you can bring family and friends.
The martial arts program is still the same thank goodness with all the same coaches.
Check here for the schedule of classes:
clients.mindbodyonline.c…
This place is pretty much my 3rd home now! (work gym is #2)
9/21/2012 Previous review
Been meaning to write an update since I've signed up. Depending on if you wanna only do muay thai or… Read more
6/21/2012 Previous review
"I feel like I'm fighting a powerpuff girl" - my fave quote from my sparring partner commenting on… Read more
9/21/2012 Previous review
Been meaning to write an update since I've signed up. Depending on if you wanna only do muay thai or… Read more
6/21/2012 Previous review
"I feel like I'm fighting a powerpuff girl" - my fave quote from my sparring partner commenting on… Read more
This place is fantastic! It's really like a third home for me, since the staff and the people you meet along the way at each class truly become like your family. What I love about this place is that everyone is down to earth and working towards one vital goal, to feel both physically and mentally healthy! Adam, Josh and Amanda have been extremely helpful with every facet of Crossfit. I'll admit, that I've always been a queen of cardio, and never a fan of strength training; but ever since I started attending A4 Fitness, I've a new-found respect for the practice, and am thrilled with the overall progress I've achieved since my first class 3 months ago. I feel great and much stronger and I couldn't have achieved it without such great mentors! I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to get fit while have a great time! Crossfit Rocks!
I have been doing crossfit with Adam (and assistant coach Josh) for about 3 months now and I love it. I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated at first because I had heard so much about the intensity of crossfit and I was in no way fit or even athletic. I actually had only been doing light cardio at the time I signed up, but decided to face my fears and took advantage of the two week $20 deal. Adam was so patient with me and tailored my workouts to my level - well he still is/does. I remember my first few weeks not being able to even lift the 35lb bar, and just yesterday I did a total of 80 reps of 55lb push-presses. Wow, I never would have believed I could do that even two months ago. You don't notice it, but the more you go and as time passes, your strength level increases. My goal is to get toned and I'm already starting to see it in my arms and legs; my abs are another thing but Adam is developing a nutrition series to help us out with that. Really great place and great people. I feel so comfortable being there and actually look forward to the workouts.
This was actually written by my hubby, but I could tell he was very pleased with this gym :D
5/4/2011 Previous review
The best martial arts gym I have attended. They will work your butt off while teaching you great… Read more
5/4/2011 Previous review
The best martial arts gym I have attended. They will work your butt off while teaching you great… Read more
I've been a student at A4 for a little over 2 months now and I have nothing but good things to say; I always have a fun at this school.
First, the coaching staff: The coaches are well versed in multiple techniques of martial arts. Some are current or former fighters and others are life long practitioners. They are friendly and supportive while still maintaining disciplined instruction.
Second, the facilities: I've only worked out in the West L.A. location so I can't speak for Hawthorne; so, the school has everything an aspiring martial artist or mixed martial artist could want. There's a training area, warmup area, boxing ring, MMA cage, and a weight room. There are plenty of punching bags, jump ropes, extra gear, and weights to prevent a student from being in want. This faciltiy trains both active fighters as well as fighting enthusiasts.
Lastly, the classes: As previously mentioned, the classes are both fun and disciplined. Different coaches have different teaching methods. One class may be very technical in which form and technique are emphasized; in another, you'll still get technique, but he emphasis will be more on fitness and cardio. I believe this change in atmosphere is really conducive to learning, helps prevent monotony, and helps shape both the mind and the body.
In closing, this is a very versatile school that, I believe, has something for everybody that is willing to put in the effort. I'm proud to be a member.
This was the gym that started my journey in MMA. I had to stop going here due to the work schedule change. I had done some traditional styles for a long time, until I came here and it opened my eyes on MMA. The coaches here are excellent and the instruction is very detailed. Also, everyone here is like a big family. There isn't any hatred in training and there are always smiles even though they are sparring. A excellent MMA school to train in the Westside.
I joined AMMS the beginning of this year (2011) and have loved every second of it ever since. I began with Muay Thai and found the instructors extremely helpful. Coach Jeremy is always available to answer questions and help with any problems I had during training. Classes focus on technique and sparring without the BS, to train anyone how to defend themselves in real situations. Regardless of your fitness level, the coaches will help guide you through each move till you get the technique down. I also started BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and even though I have no background in grappling, the instructors helped me with the basics to get me up to speed with the rest of the class. Not only are the coaches good people, but the members and students themselves are also helpful. I never felt intimidated by fellow classmates, and actually was surprised to find a group of extremely talented martial artists who also were genuinely nice people. Whether you're a fan of MMA or looking for an effective way to get fit, AMMS offers everything to get you on track. Plus with the free trial class, you can see for yourself and find out if this is right for you. I highly recommend this school and feel that anyone will feel comfortable when getting started.
My review is for the muay thai classes only :)
AMMS offers more than martial arts training. Their curriculum, which also includes meditation and breathing exercises, will challenge you mentally and physically.
Ladies, this is not the cardio kickboxing class where you bounce and jump around to Beyonce or Lady Gaga. You will learn technique and you will learn to fight. You will spar with guys and girls alike, which sounds scary, but it pushes what you believe you can do! As a female, it is empowering to know that I have tools to help ward off a potentially dangerous situation.
AMMS is the right place for you if you're not only looking to train, but to further your understanding of the art. Coach Jeremy and the rest of the team are so supportive and so willing to take you to the next level. Even if you're not looking to be the next big MMA fighter, you can still get the same kind of training. AMMS does justice to the art of muay thai by teaching it right!
If you're interested in training in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu this is the perfect gym for you.
The coaches are top notch. Great teachers and fighters. Its inspiring working with them.
My level of fitness has increased hugely since I've started training here and I feel great!
Short and sweet: This is an excellent gym. If you're looking for a legit place to train on the West Side, I highly recommend it. The instructors are knowledgeable and actually care about their student's progression. This isn't the kind of place where you go to pay for your belts, you're going to have to work for it and prove your skills. If you apply yourself you'll make noticeable advancement, and as they work off of an actual curriculum you can track your progress easily and you'll always be ready for your next belt test. Stop by for a free trial class, you won't be disappointed.
This is a review for the first location of the two. Recently, a larger and more complete facility opened in Hawthorne - check it out. Anyway, as for West LA, I had some great experiences but am no longer there. Positives: gracious and friendly students, mats and bags (some places have hard wood floors), small cage and small ring (some places have neither), a couple really solid instructors/coaches, various classes. Negatives: no locker room or shower, small, not everyone teaching has fought/competed, beginners are sparring before technique/fundamentals are established, no organized fight team. There is also a belt system which is not usual for an MMA or Muay Thai gym, so a belt there is not recognized elsewhere.
Comment from Adam L. of A4 Fitness
Business Owner
5/18/2013 Thanks Wendy for your review! We do now have lockers and showers as well as lots of new equipment in…Read more
This Dojo gets my total respect and devotion. AMMS is truly a self
empowerment Temple. First of all, its safe and there are no egos.
Everyone works well with each other no matter what level one may be at,
you won't get thrown to the wolves here. If I was to use a slogan for
AMMS it would be, "don't take kindness for weakness." Hardcore fighters
are coming out of this gym winning medals, the teachers here have serious fighting credentials, yet you wont get any unsafe treatment here.
I've been involved in sports and martial arts since a kid in addition to being a certified professional personal trainer for the last 10 years. I have been involved with plenty of realms in this industry. With that being said, AMMS by far is on the cutting edge of the industry, merging all the effective philosophies together into a True Mixed Martial Science system. The coaches here are topnotch and unique and they all stay true to the spirit of the Dojo. You can not beat the unique blend of spiritual, mental, and physical growth lessons that AMMS has to offer. On top of all that, one of the things I really like is the very meticulous and effective ranking system. I've witnessed many people, including myself, grow by diligently applying themselves through the ranks.
So you maybe looking to get a killer physique or looking to obtain a higher level of spiritual growth, defend yourself on the streets, and/or be a competitive professional fighter. AMMS can accommodate.
I've done martial arts for a good chunk of my life and have belonged to many gyms of various styles and quality.
One of the things that struck me about this gym right off the bat is that it takes a lot 'modern' styles, but teaches them in a structured 'traditional' sense. If that makes sense. A lot of the old school traditional elements such as spirituality, discipline, and sense of community are lost in the modern MMA gym. Not at AMMS. Here you will bow and meditate. Another neat thing is that the coaches send encouraging emails and generally keep everyone in the loop for upcoming events.
Jeremy, Tito, Akkim, and Paulo are a great lineup of coaches for Muay Thai and Jiujitsu (I'm partial to Muay Thai myself). One of my favorite things about this school is that there is continuity from class to class and coach to coach, so what you learn in one class is reinforced and built upon in the next class. Great for beginners to improve, and for experienced people to stay sharp.
If my work schedule weren't so erratic, I would definitely show up more often, cause I really enjoy this Academy. The facility is always clean, and the atmosphere is welcoming to people of all sorts of skill levels and goals.
I miss getting punched in the face at this place.
Let me start off by saying that AMMS has some of the nicest guys that you will ever meet. The coaches, especially coach Jeremy are very accommodating to your goals. The veteran students are also just as hospitable and they are usually more than willing to help you out with a certain technique or form. I only attended lessons for a month, but I did get a good feel for their Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - I felt like this was the better of the two classes because they were relatively small (around 10 people). You get a really good workout and the coaches will watch over you. If you first come in they will teach you an introductory course which covers the fundamentals: arm bar, side control, full guard, and hip escape. They will also help beginners to catch up.
Muay Thai - The Muay Thai class is definitely the more popular class, but in my opinion the guidance is lacking, just because its a big class ( I would say around 25-35 students and one instructor). You will usually focus on a few drills with a partner, however to me the class was too large for that much guidance. The class is definitely very female friendly, there are alot of women who come in to train. You will leave with a good workout, but I cant say that I ever left feeling like I had learned a lot (given I was only there for a month, and this was only the first level). An interesting part of AMMS is the meditation at the end of each class, AMMS teaches a spiritual side to be a complete fighter, I also think they have philosphy/meditaiton allotted times on the weekend
Overall: This place is good for people who want to get a taste of mixed martial arts, which is definitely what I got. It's just that on a college student's budge the 200 bucks per month was a little to steep for me. I also had to miss a lot of classes because of time commitments so it wasn't worth it in the end.
Comment from Adam L. of A4 Fitness
Business Owner
5/18/2013 We appreciate the good words. We have recently upgraded everything, added a great Crossfit program…Read more
I have been a devoted Lover of Martial Arts since I was a child training under the guidance and wisdom of my Father. Since then, I have given my heart and soul to various martial arts studies and schools while working hard in the corporate world.
What sets AMMS apart is their on-going schedule that covers various martial arts training such as self defense, Muay Thai, MMA, BJJ and Falun Dafa. A unique balance of external and internal practice.
Their close quarters combat for their self-defense curriculum covers techniques to confidently turn defensive to offensive tactics from those with only bad intentions towards you. This training includes defensive and offensive with weapons. Practical, going along with the laws of physics and making your hard spots a magnet for your attackers' soft spots.
Their Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu jitsu (BJJ) coaches are seasoned professional fighters with the wisdom, patience and students' best interest in mind, on top of their medals to back it. They are true Teachers, not just instructors. They push me to go beyond the pain (and also point me to the bathroom when I'm about to puke!) and show me how to recognize or make openings and opportunities to take assertively as well as be aware of the weaponry I have been equipped with on my own body to appropriately apply. They have helped me become an even more versatile fighter using what I already have.
I have learned during my martial arts journey, that the quality of the school goes hand in hand with the quality of the Teachers. The students are the reflections of their teachers. And the students here are built for physical and mental combat but project a sense of humility and respect. Of course the ego rears its ugly head from time to time which comes with environments that build strength, but I have observed egos being checked by self and others here.The essence of this school is courage, discipline, integrity and deep love.
Lastly, they have recently added Falun Dafa, which is a powerful meditation and eastern philosophies practice on Sundays lead by dedicated practioners that volunteer their time. This is an amazing, (trippy!) experience for the spiritual warrior, indeed!
In a nutshell: you sweat, you hurt, you heal, you grow stronger on many levels at this school, especially if you are a true Warrior at heart following its Sacred Path.
From the moment you arrive, you can tell there is something quite special about the Academy of Mixed Martial Science. The brand new studio is spotless, well-lit, and spacious, is adorned with Buddha carvings and features brand new equipment. Watching the previous class finish up their exercises, one notices that people are enjoying themselves, but also that this studio and its participants take their study seriously. Unique to other boxing gyms around town, AMMS adheres to the philosophy of the crafts they teach, combining skill with discipline, and respect to the culture of origin. Some classes even conclude with a brief meditation session, and according to AMMS literature, qi gung is Incorporated into their curriculum as well.
AMMS couldn't have provided a more friendly environment for my friend and I to take our first Brazilian Juijitsu class. The quality of teaching was impressive, with pacing that allowed us beginners to feel adequately directed, but seemed to challenge the people who'd been coming for a while as well (the classes are broken down by level). I came back shortly after my initial visit to try Muay Thai for the first time, and once again was impressed with how well Coach Jeremy managed students whose experience seemed to range from one day to several months. The Muay Thai class, in particular, was a great work out with lots of partnered sparring work. With Coach Jeremy and his assistant coach continually making the rounds, a lot of personal attention was given to each student, despite the class size of about 25.
What was perhaps most telling of the quality of the AMMS, however, was the enthusiasm of the students. Several students sincerely and independently introduced themselves, welcomed me to the school, and expressed how much they enjoyed coming to classes. I haven't witnessed such camaraderie and collective spirit in a long time. I highly recommend checking out a class here, especially since AMMS offers free trial classes for new students. They can do this because, in all likelihood, it seems, you'll be coming back.
96% of customers would recommend us to a friend. (24/25 responses)
Amazing staff and fun environment! Highly recommend :) July 15, 2014
It seems to be a great place with great instructors. June 10, 2014
Great group. Highly recommend. April 14, 2014
Positive vibe, supportive, chill yet challenging you to do your best. Highly recommend! April 12, 2014
Great place to work out friendly people. April 11, 2014
Good experience. I thought Adam was a great instructor and really nice. March 29, 2014
Very good staff! March 26, 2014
Make sure you speak with one of the owners when you start in so that you can get a run through of how to best transition into CrossFit. February 23, 2014
- Vicky V.
- Venice, CA
- 14 friends
- 16 reviews
Absolutely love A4 Fitness! The staff is great - so friendly, helpful, and really caring. I have learned so much from this place and have definitely had the best workout experiences I've ever had here. It's super challenging, varied, and fun! I highly recommend A4!
- J D.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 32 friends
- 21 reviews
Adam and Amanda are a class act. This is a great gym.
I've been doing Crossfit with A4 since January. I'm really happy with the workouts and the results.
I can only comment on the Crossfit side of the place, and the community though.
The facility is clean and the prices are very competitive. They have several classes everyday. I have a pretty eratic scedule and I have found a time to workout every time I want
- Lily L.
- El Segundo, CA
- Elite ’14
- 166 friends
- 241 reviews
A third updated is overdue as AMMS has been bought out and its name changed to A4 Fitness. Now there's a big addition of CrossFit to the program. Two week CrossFit trial for $10 is a pretty sweet deal. Great thing about Adam and Josh (who teach the CrossFit) is that its catered to push yourself pretty hard regardless of whatever fitness level you're at. Sundays at 10:30 am however is an open, donation-only CrossFit class where you can bring family and friends.
The martial arts program is still the same thank goodness with all the same coaches.
Check here for the schedule of classes:
clients.mindbodyonline.c…
This place is pretty much my 3rd home now! (work gym is #2)
9/21/2012 Previous review
Been meaning to write an update since I've signed up. Depending on if you wanna only do muay thai or… Read more
6/21/2012 Previous review
"I feel like I'm fighting a powerpuff girl" - my fave quote from my sparring partner commenting on… Read more
9/21/2012 Previous review
Been meaning to write an update since I've signed up. Depending on if you wanna only do muay thai or… Read more
6/21/2012 Previous review
"I feel like I'm fighting a powerpuff girl" - my fave quote from my sparring partner commenting on… Read more
- Karla C.
- NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA
- 45 friends
- 14 reviews
This place is fantastic! It's really like a third home for me, since the staff and the people you meet along the way at each class truly become like your family. What I love about this place is that everyone is down to earth and working towards one vital goal, to feel both physically and mentally healthy! Adam, Josh and Amanda have been extremely helpful with every facet of Crossfit. I'll admit, that I've always been a queen of cardio, and never a fan of strength training; but ever since I started attending A4 Fitness, I've a new-found respect for the practice, and am thrilled with the overall progress I've achieved since my first class 3 months ago. I feel great and much stronger and I couldn't have achieved it without such great mentors! I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to get fit while have a great time! Crossfit Rocks!
- Sandy F.
- Long Beach, CA
- 10 friends
- 8 reviews
I have been doing crossfit with Adam (and assistant coach Josh) for about 3 months now and I love it. I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated at first because I had heard so much about the intensity of crossfit and I was in no way fit or even athletic. I actually had only been doing light cardio at the time I signed up, but decided to face my fears and took advantage of the two week $20 deal. Adam was so patient with me and tailored my workouts to my level - well he still is/does. I remember my first few weeks not being able to even lift the 35lb bar, and just yesterday I did a total of 80 reps of 55lb push-presses. Wow, I never would have believed I could do that even two months ago. You don't notice it, but the more you go and as time passes, your strength level increases. My goal is to get toned and I'm already starting to see it in my arms and legs; my abs are another thing but Adam is developing a nutrition series to help us out with that. Really great place and great people. I feel so comfortable being there and actually look forward to the workouts.
- Sara G.
- San Diego, CA
- 17 friends
- 29 reviews
This was actually written by my hubby, but I could tell he was very pleased with this gym :D
5/4/2011 Previous review
The best martial arts gym I have attended. They will work your butt off while teaching you great… Read more
5/4/2011 Previous review
The best martial arts gym I have attended. They will work your butt off while teaching you great… Read more
- Mike C.
- Redondo Beach, CA
- 10 friends
- 1 review
I've been a student at A4 for a little over 2 months now and I have nothing but good things to say; I always have a fun at this school.
First, the coaching staff: The coaches are well versed in multiple techniques of martial arts. Some are current or former fighters and others are life long practitioners. They are friendly and supportive while still maintaining disciplined instruction.
Second, the facilities: I've only worked out in the West L.A. location so I can't speak for Hawthorne; so, the school has everything an aspiring martial artist or mixed martial artist could want. There's a training area, warmup area, boxing ring, MMA cage, and a weight room. There are plenty of punching bags, jump ropes, extra gear, and weights to prevent a student from being in want. This faciltiy trains both active fighters as well as fighting enthusiasts.
Lastly, the classes: As previously mentioned, the classes are both fun and disciplined. Different coaches have different teaching methods. One class may be very technical in which form and technique are emphasized; in another, you'll still get technique, but he emphasis will be more on fitness and cardio. I believe this change in atmosphere is really conducive to learning, helps prevent monotony, and helps shape both the mind and the body.
In closing, this is a very versatile school that, I believe, has something for everybody that is willing to put in the effort. I'm proud to be a member.
- Sam L.
- Monterey Park, CA
- 17 friends
- 261 reviews
This was the gym that started my journey in MMA. I had to stop going here due to the work schedule change. I had done some traditional styles for a long time, until I came here and it opened my eyes on MMA. The coaches here are excellent and the instruction is very detailed. Also, everyone here is like a big family. There isn't any hatred in training and there are always smiles even though they are sparring. A excellent MMA school to train in the Westside.
- Mitchel D.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 32 friends
- 1 review
I joined AMMS the beginning of this year (2011) and have loved every second of it ever since. I began with Muay Thai and found the instructors extremely helpful. Coach Jeremy is always available to answer questions and help with any problems I had during training. Classes focus on technique and sparring without the BS, to train anyone how to defend themselves in real situations. Regardless of your fitness level, the coaches will help guide you through each move till you get the technique down. I also started BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and even though I have no background in grappling, the instructors helped me with the basics to get me up to speed with the rest of the class. Not only are the coaches good people, but the members and students themselves are also helpful. I never felt intimidated by fellow classmates, and actually was surprised to find a group of extremely talented martial artists who also were genuinely nice people. Whether you're a fan of MMA or looking for an effective way to get fit, AMMS offers everything to get you on track. Plus with the free trial class, you can see for yourself and find out if this is right for you. I highly recommend this school and feel that anyone will feel comfortable when getting started.
- Angie S.
- San Francisco, CA
- 31 friends
- 3 reviews
My review is for the muay thai classes only :)
AMMS offers more than martial arts training. Their curriculum, which also includes meditation and breathing exercises, will challenge you mentally and physically.
Ladies, this is not the cardio kickboxing class where you bounce and jump around to Beyonce or Lady Gaga. You will learn technique and you will learn to fight. You will spar with guys and girls alike, which sounds scary, but it pushes what you believe you can do! As a female, it is empowering to know that I have tools to help ward off a potentially dangerous situation.
AMMS is the right place for you if you're not only looking to train, but to further your understanding of the art. Coach Jeremy and the rest of the team are so supportive and so willing to take you to the next level. Even if you're not looking to be the next big MMA fighter, you can still get the same kind of training. AMMS does justice to the art of muay thai by teaching it right!
- Andrew R.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 6 friends
- 3 reviews
If you're interested in training in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu this is the perfect gym for you.
The coaches are top notch. Great teachers and fighters. Its inspiring working with them.
My level of fitness has increased hugely since I've started training here and I feel great!
- Christopher S.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 5 friends
- 25 reviews
Short and sweet: This is an excellent gym. If you're looking for a legit place to train on the West Side, I highly recommend it. The instructors are knowledgeable and actually care about their student's progression. This isn't the kind of place where you go to pay for your belts, you're going to have to work for it and prove your skills. If you apply yourself you'll make noticeable advancement, and as they work off of an actual curriculum you can track your progress easily and you'll always be ready for your next belt test. Stop by for a free trial class, you won't be disappointed.
- Wendy N.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 82 friends
- 78 reviews
This is a review for the first location of the two. Recently, a larger and more complete facility opened in Hawthorne - check it out. Anyway, as for West LA, I had some great experiences but am no longer there. Positives: gracious and friendly students, mats and bags (some places have hard wood floors), small cage and small ring (some places have neither), a couple really solid instructors/coaches, various classes. Negatives: no locker room or shower, small, not everyone teaching has fought/competed, beginners are sparring before technique/fundamentals are established, no organized fight team. There is also a belt system which is not usual for an MMA or Muay Thai gym, so a belt there is not recognized elsewhere.
Comment from Adam L. of A4 Fitness
Business Owner
5/18/2013 Thanks Wendy for your review! We do now have lockers and showers as well as lots of new equipment in…Read more
- Chris B.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 1 friend
- 4 reviews
This Dojo gets my total respect and devotion. AMMS is truly a self
empowerment Temple. First of all, its safe and there are no egos.
Everyone works well with each other no matter what level one may be at,
you won't get thrown to the wolves here. If I was to use a slogan for
AMMS it would be, "don't take kindness for weakness." Hardcore fighters
are coming out of this gym winning medals, the teachers here have serious fighting credentials, yet you wont get any unsafe treatment here.
I've been involved in sports and martial arts since a kid in addition to being a certified professional personal trainer for the last 10 years. I have been involved with plenty of realms in this industry. With that being said, AMMS by far is on the cutting edge of the industry, merging all the effective philosophies together into a True Mixed Martial Science system. The coaches here are topnotch and unique and they all stay true to the spirit of the Dojo. You can not beat the unique blend of spiritual, mental, and physical growth lessons that AMMS has to offer. On top of all that, one of the things I really like is the very meticulous and effective ranking system. I've witnessed many people, including myself, grow by diligently applying themselves through the ranks.
So you maybe looking to get a killer physique or looking to obtain a higher level of spiritual growth, defend yourself on the streets, and/or be a competitive professional fighter. AMMS can accommodate.
- Mark F.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 146 friends
- 4 reviews
I've done martial arts for a good chunk of my life and have belonged to many gyms of various styles and quality.
One of the things that struck me about this gym right off the bat is that it takes a lot 'modern' styles, but teaches them in a structured 'traditional' sense. If that makes sense. A lot of the old school traditional elements such as spirituality, discipline, and sense of community are lost in the modern MMA gym. Not at AMMS. Here you will bow and meditate. Another neat thing is that the coaches send encouraging emails and generally keep everyone in the loop for upcoming events.
Jeremy, Tito, Akkim, and Paulo are a great lineup of coaches for Muay Thai and Jiujitsu (I'm partial to Muay Thai myself). One of my favorite things about this school is that there is continuity from class to class and coach to coach, so what you learn in one class is reinforced and built upon in the next class. Great for beginners to improve, and for experienced people to stay sharp.
If my work schedule weren't so erratic, I would definitely show up more often, cause I really enjoy this Academy. The facility is always clean, and the atmosphere is welcoming to people of all sorts of skill levels and goals.
I miss getting punched in the face at this place.
- Francis D.
- Philadelphia, PA
- 41 friends
- 144 reviews
Let me start off by saying that AMMS has some of the nicest guys that you will ever meet. The coaches, especially coach Jeremy are very accommodating to your goals. The veteran students are also just as hospitable and they are usually more than willing to help you out with a certain technique or form. I only attended lessons for a month, but I did get a good feel for their Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - I felt like this was the better of the two classes because they were relatively small (around 10 people). You get a really good workout and the coaches will watch over you. If you first come in they will teach you an introductory course which covers the fundamentals: arm bar, side control, full guard, and hip escape. They will also help beginners to catch up.
Muay Thai - The Muay Thai class is definitely the more popular class, but in my opinion the guidance is lacking, just because its a big class ( I would say around 25-35 students and one instructor). You will usually focus on a few drills with a partner, however to me the class was too large for that much guidance. The class is definitely very female friendly, there are alot of women who come in to train. You will leave with a good workout, but I cant say that I ever left feeling like I had learned a lot (given I was only there for a month, and this was only the first level). An interesting part of AMMS is the meditation at the end of each class, AMMS teaches a spiritual side to be a complete fighter, I also think they have philosphy/meditaiton allotted times on the weekend
Overall: This place is good for people who want to get a taste of mixed martial arts, which is definitely what I got. It's just that on a college student's budge the 200 bucks per month was a little to steep for me. I also had to miss a lot of classes because of time commitments so it wasn't worth it in the end.
Comment from Adam L. of A4 Fitness
Business Owner
5/18/2013 We appreciate the good words. We have recently upgraded everything, added a great Crossfit program…Read more
- Phebbie P.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 73 friends
- 5 reviews
I have been a devoted Lover of Martial Arts since I was a child training under the guidance and wisdom of my Father. Since then, I have given my heart and soul to various martial arts studies and schools while working hard in the corporate world.
What sets AMMS apart is their on-going schedule that covers various martial arts training such as self defense, Muay Thai, MMA, BJJ and Falun Dafa. A unique balance of external and internal practice.
Their close quarters combat for their self-defense curriculum covers techniques to confidently turn defensive to offensive tactics from those with only bad intentions towards you. This training includes defensive and offensive with weapons. Practical, going along with the laws of physics and making your hard spots a magnet for your attackers' soft spots.
Their Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu jitsu (BJJ) coaches are seasoned professional fighters with the wisdom, patience and students' best interest in mind, on top of their medals to back it. They are true Teachers, not just instructors. They push me to go beyond the pain (and also point me to the bathroom when I'm about to puke!) and show me how to recognize or make openings and opportunities to take assertively as well as be aware of the weaponry I have been equipped with on my own body to appropriately apply. They have helped me become an even more versatile fighter using what I already have.
I have learned during my martial arts journey, that the quality of the school goes hand in hand with the quality of the Teachers. The students are the reflections of their teachers. And the students here are built for physical and mental combat but project a sense of humility and respect. Of course the ego rears its ugly head from time to time which comes with environments that build strength, but I have observed egos being checked by self and others here.The essence of this school is courage, discipline, integrity and deep love.
Lastly, they have recently added Falun Dafa, which is a powerful meditation and eastern philosophies practice on Sundays lead by dedicated practioners that volunteer their time. This is an amazing, (trippy!) experience for the spiritual warrior, indeed!
In a nutshell: you sweat, you hurt, you heal, you grow stronger on many levels at this school, especially if you are a true Warrior at heart following its Sacred Path.
- Liz B.
- Los Angeles, CA
- 24 friends
- 21 reviews
From the moment you arrive, you can tell there is something quite special about the Academy of Mixed Martial Science. The brand new studio is spotless, well-lit, and spacious, is adorned with Buddha carvings and features brand new equipment. Watching the previous class finish up their exercises, one notices that people are enjoying themselves, but also that this studio and its participants take their study seriously. Unique to other boxing gyms around town, AMMS adheres to the philosophy of the crafts they teach, combining skill with discipline, and respect to the culture of origin. Some classes even conclude with a brief meditation session, and according to AMMS literature, qi gung is Incorporated into their curriculum as well.
AMMS couldn't have provided a more friendly environment for my friend and I to take our first Brazilian Juijitsu class. The quality of teaching was impressive, with pacing that allowed us beginners to feel adequately directed, but seemed to challenge the people who'd been coming for a while as well (the classes are broken down by level). I came back shortly after my initial visit to try Muay Thai for the first time, and once again was impressed with how well Coach Jeremy managed students whose experience seemed to range from one day to several months. The Muay Thai class, in particular, was a great work out with lots of partnered sparring work. With Coach Jeremy and his assistant coach continually making the rounds, a lot of personal attention was given to each student, despite the class size of about 25.
What was perhaps most telling of the quality of the AMMS, however, was the enthusiasm of the students. Several students sincerely and independently introduced themselves, welcomed me to the school, and expressed how much they enjoyed coming to classes. I haven't witnessed such camaraderie and collective spirit in a long time. I highly recommend checking out a class here, especially since AMMS offers free trial classes for new students. They can do this because, in all likelihood, it seems, you'll be coming back.
96% of customers would recommend us to a friend. (24/25 responses)
Amazing staff and fun environment! Highly recommend :) July 15, 2014
It seems to be a great place with great instructors. June 10, 2014
Great group. Highly recommend. April 14, 2014
Positive vibe, supportive, chill yet challenging you to do your best. Highly recommend! April 12, 2014
Great place to work out friendly people. April 11, 2014
Good experience. I thought Adam was a great instructor and really nice. March 29, 2014
Very good staff! March 26, 2014
Make sure you speak with one of the owners when you start in so that you can get a run through of how to best transition into CrossFit. February 23, 2014