MMA, or Mixed Martial Sport, is full-body contact and consists of combat disciplines, such as Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Wrestling. With the introduction of MMA broadcasting in 1993, the sport has rapidly grown in popularity, including marketing appeal.
For newcomers, it might appear intimidating with gladiator-style competitors. It is a sport that attracts people from all walks of life for an excellent body workout, a form of self-defence, improves self-confidence, reduces stress, and is physically and mentally demanding. It involves discipline and respect. I’ve researched to find six of the best MMA Gyms in London.
The Best MMA Gyms in London Near You (Map)
1. The Gauntlett Fight Academy – World-Class Coaches
In 2015, Neto Nunes and his wife Georgia opened the doors to The Gauntlett Fighting Academy. Hundreds of students of all ages have walked through their doors and felt welcomed by the family-friendly atmosphere. The Academy aims to provide a fun and encouraging environment, so all visitors feel comfortable achieving their goals.
Neto and Georgia are BJJ belt holders. Neto is a black belt, and Georgia is purple. A team of World-class coaches train you in BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Krav Maga, to name just some of the disciplines.
Classes are available seven days a week, with weekdays starting at 6.30 am and finishing at 22.00. The Academy offers several membership levels for kids and adults.
- A Gold Membership for unlimited training seven days a week, including free gym and functional training area access, is £118.00 monthly.
- The Bronze Membership for two classes a week, and free use of the training areas, is £75.00 per month.
- Kids membership is £65.00 per month for three classes and £80.00 for unlimited.
Gauntlett Fight Academy has two gym suites and 200 square metres of mat area for classes.
The Gauntlett Fight Academy as an excellent MMA gym in West London. The gym welcomes you with a community atmosphere where you quickly lose the feeling of being out of your comfort zone as you embark on your Martial Arts journey.
Address: 1A Haven Green, Ealing Broadway, West London, W5 2UU
Telephone: 020 8998 9262
2. Diesel Gym – Beginners to Professional
Diesel Gym is one of London’s oldest MMA gyms after Cliff Bura founded the gym in 2008. Over the years, Diesel Gym has successfully trained many competitors and champions. Most attendees turn up to improve fitness, personal development, and self-defence. Whatever your reason for partaking in MMA, the gym welcomes beginners to professional athletes.
In 2019, Diesel Gym became a non-profit organisation. They invest their profits into community projects, like sports for all, mental health, and youth crime.
The Gym holds classes in Muay Thai, 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Wrestling, Personal training, Strength and Conditioning, and Under 16s.
Classes are available seven days a week, with some days starting at 7.00 am and finishing at 9.15 pm. Prices are £95.00 per month, and under 16’s are £55.00.
Diesel Gym is highly-regarded as one of the best MMA Gyms in London. The team is incredibly accommodating to everyone, regardless of age, sex, size, or fitness level. The trainers are patient when explaining techniques, and there is a style of combat to suit all.
Address: 1012 Dockside Road, London, E16 2QT
Telephone: 07765 243012
3. KO Combat Academy – Since 1976
KO Combat Academy opened in 1976 when founder Bill Judd started teaching Muay Thai/Kickboxing in church halls. Bill’s reputation quickly grew, and KO Combat Academy became the place to learn one of the MMA disciplines.
Bill’s philosophy is ‘it is his job to open the door and the students to step through it. His role is to guide the way.’ The path is both spiritual and as a martial artist. Bill and his staff assist all, regardless of background or ability, to be the best version of themselves.
Coach Bill, a former world champion, and his team of professional fighters and experienced instructors provide years of guidance and expertise in many combat styles, including MMA, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, BJJ and Boxing.
Gym membership prices are as follows:
The first class is free for all ages.
Single-class prices are:
- £6.00 for ages 5 – 11 years.
- £8.00 for 12 – 17 years.
- £12.00 for students.
- £14.00 for ages 18+.
Full memberships prices are:
- £45.00 per month with unlimited access for 5 – 11 years.
- £55.00 per month with unlimited access for 12 – 17 years.
- £85.00 per month with unlimited access for students.
- £95.00 per month with unlimited access for 18+ years.
- £75.00 per month with two weekly classes for 18+ years.
The Academy holds personal training and boot camp packages.
Ko Combat Academy is an MMA gym in East London that follows a structured program to encourage improvement and development.
Address: 186 Bancroft Road, London, E1 4ET
Telephone: 0207 265 9693
4. MMA Clinic – MMA Gym in North London
You can choose your training style at MMA Clinic to get fit or learn Muay Thai, Boxing, MMA, and Grappling. You can participate in group lessons or progress more quickly in a one-to-one class.
Their equipment includes a 30-foot cage, 18-foot boxing ring, punch and kick bags, kettlebells, and various gear for strength training.
The gym is open Monday to Saturday, with some days having early starts at 7.15 am and late finishes at 9.30 pm.
MMA Clinic provides two types of Membership.
- Black Level is £65.00, which includes access to the gym facilities. Classes are available at additional costs.
- Gold Level is £90.00 and is a full membership with access to the gym and all classes.
There are cheaper packages for block booking in advance.
The team at MMA Clinic is an MMA gym in North London where the team is professional and treats everyone equally.
Address: 29 – 30 St. Alban’s Place, London, N1 0NX
Telephone: 020 7226 4731
5. Fight City Gym – Central London
Fight City Gym welcomes everyone from beginners to professionals preparing to compete. Their equipment is the latest, and their elite coaches have competition-level experience. The gym also takes a holistic approach and can offer nutrition advice.
The MMA gym has three London locations, Balham, Moorgate, and their newest Fight City Gym, Elephant Park. All gyms know that joining an MMA club can be intimidating and a nerve-wracking experience. However, they assure you they are one big happy community, and they invite you to try a two-week trial with unlimited access for £60.00.
They offer Mixed Martial Art classes, Women’s MMA, Kids’ MMA, and other Martial Arts. Membership prices are,
- Monthly: £140.00
- Six monthly: £775.00
- 12 monthly: £1,425.00
- Off-peak: £95.00 per month, available 6 am to 3 pm.
Fight City Gym provides a wide range of classes and quality coaches. There is a good mix of regular gym goers and those competing. The vibe is friendly, and you won’t find any gym bullies at this MMA gym.
Address: Moorgate branch, Lower Ground, 15 Worship Street, London, EC2A 2DT
Telephone: 020 7043 6032
6. MMA Den Battersea Park – South London
MMA Den opened in 2011. The gym teaches the traditions of Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, and MMA. Their mission is to cater for all abilities and help individuals to reach their goals and realise their strengths. Trainers are professional, and most are competing or competed at an international level.
The gym offers various pricing options from,
- Single class: £12.00
- Twenty classes: £200.00
- Gym only: £50.00 per month
- Three-month unlimited: £500.00
Kids’ pricing options include
- A single: £12.00
- Full Spring Term: £200.00
- Half Term: £110.00
There are also personal training packages.
Classes are for Beginners, Intermediate, and All levels. All sessions include warm-up, stretching, practice and repetitions, drills and sparring, finishing with conditioning and more stretching.
If you aspire to reach your full potential and learn a new sport, MMA Den Battersea is a great option for an MMA gym in South London.
Address: Arch 68 Queen’s Circus, Battersea Park Road, Queenstown Road, London, SW8 4NE
Telephone: 020 7627 5469
FAQs About Visiting MMA Gyms
Is MMA suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are classes for all abilities. Check with a gym for beginner’s lessons.
Is MMA training hard?
Yes, it is tough, especially if you want to compete. It is a sport that is mentally and physically demanding. However, if you choose a class that matches your level, you can still have fun.
What should I wear to an MMA gym?
Wear comfortable clothing. A tight-fitting T-shirt and a pair of athletic shorts are standard requirements for beginners. Mouthpieces and groin protectors are vital pieces of gear, along with shin guards and MMA gloves, which you will eventually need.
Should I get into shape for an MMA class?
It is optional to get fit beforehand. You will quickly build on your fitness during classes. It is essential to have a can-do attitude and commitment.
