Deborah McCabeFinding the best martial arts training in Philadelphia requires matching your personal goals with the right academy.
If you want to build core strength or learn practical self-defense, the local training scene offers plenty of options, ranging from traditional disciplines to modern combat sports.
I’ve actually spent time looking into these facilities to see what they actually offer beyond their promotional materials. Here’s a breakdown of the top gyms in the city to help you decide where to tie your belt and start sweating!
How much does martial arts training cost in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, standard monthly memberships for martial arts training typically range from $135 to $179. Specialized adult programs and budget-friendly community classes create a wider pricing spectrum.
| Program Type | Average Cost |
| Budget & Community Sessions | $10 per class |
| Youth Monthly Membership | $129 – $159 |
| Adult Specialized Training | $150 – $250 |
1. United Martial Arts Academy Philadelphia
Website: umaaphl.com
Address: 1816 South 11th Street
Contact: 267-800-3103 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday 6:30PM–7:30PM | Saturday 2:00PM–3:00PM
United Martial Arts Academy Philadelphia merges striking and grappling into a highly accessible curriculum.
They actively encourage family participation through solid financial discounts and provide specialized personal training regimens tailored for individuals over 50.
I like how the lead instructor here pairs tough physical conditioning with personalized nutritional counseling to ensure comprehensive wellness.
With their approach, stepping onto the mats shouldn’t feel intimidating for older adults or complete beginners.
You can even book an immersive birthday package where kids earn an honorary black belt after breaking a real wooden board. I spoke with a parent recently who mentioned how much this specific party setup boosted their child’s confidence.
However, getting into a class requires detailed scheduling coordination because of the narrow one-hour evening window during the workweek.
You also miss out on weekend combat instruction since their single Saturday session focuses strictly on physical conditioning.
Customer Reviews
Comfortable and Great Training Environment
Awesome experience for my first day. Master donna wells and Mr.dave made me feel very comfortable. Looking forward to my next class.Very great environment for you to train for martial arts thank you.
- Thomas Fegeley | Google Reviews
High Integrity Master and Dedicated Partner
I was in master Well’s Tang Soo Do School, and I say was because of my relocation, and you cannot find a better teacher/Master than her! She puts her Dojang family before money and she also has very high integrity! And her fiance Dave, her other half, is likewise to master Wells and puts all his heart into supporting her and her Dojang. They are great and I highly recommend them!
- paul miller | Google Reviews
2. Martial Arts Hero Factory & Philly Krav Maga
Website: malifestyle.com
Address: 2237 Hartranft St
Contact: 215-551-6252 | [email protected]
Hours: Daily 8:00AM–10:00PM
Finding a training space that actively rejects arrogant attitudes makes a huge difference for newcomers. At Martial Arts Hero Factory & Philly Krav Maga, they prohibit big egos.
They also collaborated with psychologists to co-create their segmented youth programs into highly specific age brackets.
Their dedicated Krav Maga classes focus on instinctive movements to build practical defensive skills. The routines specifically target abdominal muscles to counteract modern posture issues.
While they provide excellent instruction here, their specialized Krav Maga curriculum completely excludes anyone under 15 years old. Nonetheless, teens who have never played organized sports easily gain agility through these accessible sessions.
Enrolling with your teen is also a great way to foster bonding. After the training sessions, you can check out the nearby dessert shops to catch up.
Just a heads up: They have strict enrollment caps, so you might struggle to secure a spot in their promotional introductory offers. You’ll have to enroll early to secure it.
Customer Reviews
Learning Discipline, Respect, and Self-Defense
My daughter took classes with sensei John about 15 years ago. I’ve known sensei for almost 25 years and he is kind, the learning environment is friendly yet structured, he is very knowledgeable about martial arts and has an excellent teaching style. Taking classes at martial arts hero factory your kids aren’t learning how to fight! They are learning discipline, respect, self defense and kindness. Great school, wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
- M LM | Google Reviews
Positive Impact on Son’s Confidence and Maturity
Sensei John & MAHF are a confident company that are focused primarily on providing a fun, safe, & professional environment for both kids and adults alike. We have been bringing our oldest son for a year and has grown into a much more confident and mature individual at an early age and we thank them for having a positive impact on our family. Couldn’t recommend a better business, especially for developing a younger individual(s) or looking to get started into martial arts.
- Kurt Gibson | Google Reviews
3. North Star Mixed Martial Arts
Website: northstarmma.com
Address: 6673 Germantown Ave Unit B
Contact: 215-848-5454 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Thursday 4:00PM–9:00PM | Friday 5:00PM–8:30PM | Saturday 9:00AM–1:00PM
Commitment issues often keep people from trying combat sports. North Star Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) removes that barrier by offering flexible bi-weekly billing and a comprehensive introductory bundle equipped with essential gear.
The youth programs here are particularly great. These classes prioritize constructive encouragement to help children build social skills.
They even frame their striking and grappling classes as intellectual exercises that challenge cognitive focus as well as physical fitness.
I recently tried a guest session here and immediately noticed how effectively the drills synthesized different defensive disciplines into practical movements. The intensity of their workouts serves as an effective way to burn off negative aggression.
Take note, however, that the academy enforces extremely rigid rules regarding proper training attire for every class level. Students who fail to bring their exact required equipment are immediately denied entry to the training session.
Customer Reviews
Professional Instruction and Beginner Friendly Environment
Amazing facility, awesome people, professional instruction. This place is awesome! I remember coach Jackson from when he was tearing up the Muay Thai and MMA scene in Philly over a decade ago. North Star really has it all…Totally beginner friendly, fun training, multiple classes, different programs, flexible schedule. Anyone interested in martial arts do yourself the favor by checking out this place. “Highly Recommended “
- Eric K | Google Reviews
Excellent Facility and Engaging Owner Jackson
Excellent facility. The people there train hard under excellent coaches and in a great environment. Great attitudes! Spacious facility, updated equipment.
The owner, Jackson, is definitely engaging and very connected in the martial arts scene in Philly. Also, very generous and a contributor to the Budo community.
- John Lepore | Google Reviews
4. Philly Karate Club
Website: phillykarateclub.com
Address: 13629 Philmont Ave
Contact: (272) 444-0406 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday 5:00PM–10:00PM | Saturday 9:30AM–1:00PM
Philly Karate Club specializes in Olympic-style Shotokan Karate, led by a team of instructors who hold international championship titles.
Training under elite competitors gives you a unique edge, whether you’re looking to compete or just want to sharpen your skills.
The studio also keeps things high-energy with kickboxing and general conditioning classes that focus on practical, real-world self-defense.
If you usually hit up Philly nightclubs on weekends, these high-intensity classes provide a great alternative for burning off late-night energy.
I also love that they offer a free trial, so you can get a feel for the mats before committing.
Just keep in mind that they’re closed during standard business hours on weekdays, which might be tough if you have a non-traditional work schedule.
Additionally, the small staff means you’ll get consistent instruction, though with fewer varying teaching perspectives.
Customer Reviews
Unmatched Professionalism, Passion, and Dedication
Philly Karate Club is truly outstanding!
The level of professionalism, passion, and dedication from the instructors is unmatched. Every class is well-structured, energetic, and filled with a strong sense of purpose and discipline. You can tell right away that the team here truly loves what they do.
The atmosphere is welcoming, respectful, and motivating. Whether you’re new to martial arts or have experience, this is the kind of place that makes you feel inspired to grow and challenge yourself.
- Roksoliana Penkovska | Google Reviews
Knowledgeable Instructors Lead by Great Example
Philly Karate Club is exceptional in every way.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel the strong sense of discipline, respect, and community. The instructors are knowledgeable, passionate, and truly lead by example. Each class is challenging, focused, and motivating.
The environment is always clean, organized, and welcoming. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care goes into everything they do.
Highly recommend to anyone seeking top-quality martial arts instruction in a supportive and inspiring setting.
- Kids Nations Daycare Center | Google Reviews
5. Old City Aikido
Website: oldcityaikido.com
Address: 722 Market St, 3rd Floor
Contact: (215) 922-3656
Hours: Monday 11:00AM–9:00PM | Tuesday & Thursday 4:30PM–9:00PM | Wednesday 10:00AM–8:00PM | Friday 5:30PM–8:00PM | Saturday 10:00AM–2:00PM
Mastering armed combat requires a highly specialized environment and expert guidance. Old City Aikido delivers a comprehensive weapons curriculum alongside traditional empty-hand techniques and integrated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes.
The head teacher brings decades of experience to the mat, maintaining a practical approach by cross-training in multiple arts.
To help you get started, the dojo offers a structured introductory track that systematically prepares beginners for mixed-level adult sessions.
If you’re looking for more personalized instruction, you can book private coaching that covers everything from grappling to traditional weapons mastery.
Managing your training is easy, too, as you can handle enrollment and scheduling directly through their mobile app. J
ust keep in mind that the BJJ classes are designed for those 16 and older, and their youth program is geared toward children aged 6 to 13, which means there may be a gap for some younger teenagers before they can join the adult curriculum.
Customer Reviews
The Perfect Fit for Returning to Martial Arts
I was only searching for a martial arts dojo for a short while before finding Old City Aikido right in the heart of Center City. I had not done martial arts since I was a kid and was looking to get back into it. Old City Aikido has been the perfect fit!
- Noah S | Google Reviews
Devotion to a Solid and Professional Training Environment
Old City Aikido is one of the finest dojos on the east coast. Having taught there as a visiting instructor I have seen first hand Perna Sensei’s devotion to cultivating not only his vision for a martial arts school but, a solid training environment for the students. There is a seriousness and an attention to detail, balanced with an open, friendly yet, professional atmosphere. Any student at any level would do well to avail themselves of what is offered at Old City.
- Barry Benjamin | Google Reviews
