American Boxing Muay Thai Fitness Gym

I knew from day one that this coach knew what he was talking about and had a lot of experience fighting. He definitely pushed me to my limits and I learned a lot during my time here. He also does not sugar coat anything and is not afraid to criticize you or teach you a thing or two. That being said he also has a strong personality so be open-minded. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Coach Dave is who you come to when you want to make real progress. He won't sugar coat anything but all criticism is constructive. If you're looking to improve your health both physically and/or mentally I couldn't recommend a better trainer. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Man!! This vlass is awesome!! I am figuring out how to get back into shape. Dave's class wasn't easy. But he let me go at my own pace. I also didn't give up!! That did probably help. I really enjoyed the punching bags and the sparing workout I got!! Made me feel like I was got to do what I came to do. Learn Thai Boxing.  Everyone in the class was friendly. The place was clean. Even the owner on the gym is super nice. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place has become my family and my home Kru Dave was there for me while I was in serious treatment in San Diego. He loves what he does, he is true professional and is instant that all his students get the finest training possible. His training firm and fair and it should be Muay Thai is the art of 8 limbs. It is in my opinion one of the most amazing martial arts in the world and Kru Dave brings the heart and soul of the art. I have trained all over the world and to prove how dedicated he is to his students progress and well being that he took well over an hour of his personal time to look at videos of my bag work and then talk with me about theory and technique since I have no place to train where I am in Rhode Island. Find that any other place and I’ll call you a bold face liar. Only here at American Boxing. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been training martial arts all my life, Kru Dave is great at what he does.  He will teach you proper technique and make corrections immediately if needed, he's honest and to the point, these attributes are what you want in a coach.  With his experience and talent, you can't go wrong! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

American Bowing Muay Thai and Fitness is a High intensity club with a great family feel and incredible program, not for the week. I would recommend to anyone who has done serious sports in the past! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

favorite gym, great people & atmosphere

Reviewed on Yelp

Awesome gym! New members welcomed with open arms and personal support from the coach for quick improvement in technique!

Reviewed on Google Maps

Great place to train! Unique small class structure which allows the head trainer Kru Dave to give his students expert coaching & attention. No better workout and environment to learn how hard you can push yourself. I miss this place!!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

At the time that I tried this gym I had been boxing for about 2 years. I wasn't quite sure if muay thai would be something I'd enjoy but wanted to give it a try. It took me a few classes to really understand coach Dave's approach and what muay thai really was but ever since then it became something I truly love. You'll get out of it what you put into it. When I trained there I literally was in the best shape of my life and I'm 40 years old. I've since moved to Orange County and I've trained at other gyms with other trainers but nothing compares. My heart is still at American Boxing. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have been training since many years in Boxing and Kick Boxing gyms, in Europe and in the USA and I can tell you that AB is way far the best gym I have ever been. Coach Dave is outstanding, he is the absolute best and passionate at what he does. By my experience, it's very difficult to find an excellent athlete (Coach Dave Nielsen has held several belts and he is 7 x World Champion in Muay Thai) who is at the same time a very good instructor.Classes are consistently focused on your daily improvement both from a technique point of view and your cardio. The training is tough and the classes are detailed so you get your workout and you build your skill set as long as you show up! Coach Dave is a perfectionist, so do not expect to be prized to motivate/please you: if you are not performing a certain technique in the exact way he teaches you (btw that's so called professional Muay Thai) he will kick your ass till you do it the right way. And day by day you'll see the results of a steady commitment.I am telling you, if you wanna improve yourself, get more self confidence, be a better person, you are in the right gym.Cool people, nice place right in the heart of PB.American Boxing is a great gym to train for anyone. Coach Dave really does his best to make you feel at homeWith that said, let's have a look to the facts. I get the best workouts training Muay Thai as it improves my cardio as well as my strength: when I first walked into the gym in September 2015 my heartbeat rate was 63/65 b/m. I checked it out the past week and now it's 52!!! - yes Coach, thank you for beating the s**** out of me with I don't know how many burpees and drills :-) !! And I am 39!Stop by and check it out, you'll love training @ AB More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I started with a week trial at American Boxing Muay Thai & Fitness, and after just one class of Boxing and one class of Muay Thai, I knew this was the real deal and signed up for a membership. I don’t have any fighting experience at all. It’s been a challenge for me jumping into something I’m not familiar with and trying to execute proper fighting techniques. I love how each class is limited to a certain amount of people. The small class size is giving me a chance to really learn and focus on what I'm doing. I’ve been involved with strength/conditioning, cardio, and fitness for quite some time as I started as a Freshman on both my High School Varsity Soccer team and my D2 College team, and I have to say the fitness this place provides is awesome! Every class I've been to has been a high level workout. Coach Dave is helping me reach my goals. One minute he’ll be throwing humor into the mix and cracking jokes, the next he’ll be calling me out when I'm not doing something right and will continue to call me out until I get it right or until he comes over and shows me the correct stance, combos, or footwork. I’m looking forward to all my future trainings! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I actually train in OC but I'm always looking for other places. I was on a trip to San Diego and tried this place out it came highly recommended and I was not disappointed. From the minute I walked in the owners and staff were very friendly. They are very knowledgeable. If you want to move to the next level and want to train like a fighter this is the place. The training is hard, as it should be. It's a very relaxed almost family feel here. I can't say enough good things about this place I would drive there just to train on the weekends. There are a lot of schools out there but this is definitely one of the best. Check it out you will be glad you did!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Best thing I've done since I've moved to San Diego. I was looking for a Muay Thai school. I didn't know what to expect since the school's name was "American Boxing". But I wanted to try and that's always the first step and ever since the first day I was hooked. Everyone's friendly and don't treat you different. Coach Dave is purely Awesome! He deals with personal attention and has a lot of experience and the knowledge to help you with your goals. It doesn't hurt to try...well maybe a little =]. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I had been interested in taking muay thai classes for a couple of years, but could never seem to find a gym that I (as well as my parents) felt comfortable about. I tried out American Boxing and loved it. American Boxing has a welcoming environment, the classes are small, and the people are friendly. This is important because people don't feel that they are being lost in the crowd in the classes. The classes always have interesting workouts and time moves faster when you're with others in a class. Coach Dave is not just a superb fighter himself, but he is also a great teacher. He has extensive knowledge on fitness and nutrition and is not reluctant to give it out. He knows all the tricks to helping people achieve the results that they want and understands that everyone is different and everyone's capabilities are different so he works each individual with their best speed. I know that this was a smart investment for me because I've been told I look healthier since I've been going here (from family that doesn't know that I have joined this gym); I always look forward to going to the gym now because I can see myself improving and I know it is because of the great care that Coach Dave takes in helping everyone improve - it's also a huge stress reliever! If you are looking for a great place to train or workout, I would highly recommend American Boxing. This gym is a great long-term investment for both your mental and physical well-being. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Always been a huge fan of Manny Pacquiao, and I really wanted to try Boxing one day. And after years of putting it off, I finally decided to go out and look for a gym. American Boxing was the closest gym from UCSD, with the most reasonable price. Signed up for a 5:30 boxing class and it was the most intense work out I ever had. Really made me regret smoking cigarettes. Some of the people there suggested that if I liked boxing, I should give a MUAY THAI class a try to, given that it's their specialty. And I LOVED IT! The level of intensity was just as high as BOXING class, but we also get to learn how to kick, knee, and my favorite, elbow. Coach Dave really knows what he's teaching and the best part is he takes the time and effort to help you meet your own personal fitness goals by devising kind of like a game plan, i.e how to get the most of the classes to benefit YOU, or what kind of food you should eat/not eat. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been training at American Boxing for a little over a year, and I just renewed my membership because this place is awesome. I've seen some negative reviews on here, but what no one can deny is that at AB, you get an incredible workout. One dude that I trained with for a while played college lacrosse, and he told me that practices were nowhere near as intense as one of the hour long Muay Thai classes. For my part, I'll say that if you come in regularly, you'll feel yourself getting stronger and just generally feeling healthier after just a few weeks. The combination of hardcore cardio and resistance training gives you the kind of dynamic total body workout that you can't get from just jogging or lifting weights. But it's not just a good workout, this is a serious gym where people interested in competing can really hone their skills. Coach Dave has a tremendous amount of experience and he takes the time to make sure your form is on point and works with you on a really personal level. The classes are capped at twelve people, so it never feels overcrowded. It's a small gym and the people who train there regularly are super cool and it's an eclectic crowd, not a bunch of 19 year old meatheads. If you come in regularly for a few weeks you'll feel right at home. Don't get me wrong, the classes are intense and Coach Dave is a demanding instructor but it's a friendly place. He's usually kicking it in there with his daughter and their dog, Paris, who's the sweetest dog on the planet, and people usually linger for awhile after class and shoot the breeze. Overall I'd say that American Boxing is a great choice, whether you intend to compete or are just trying to get in better shape and feel healthier. Good Luck! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My 7 year old son wanted something to do between football and baseball season, so he decided to try boxing/ muay thai. He absolutely loves it! It is a great workout for him, and Coach Dave is amazing with the kids! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Awesome gym! If you are looking to get in the best shape of your life, I highly recommend you taking the boxing and muay thai class here in American Boxing. Coach Dave runs a fun but at the same time very challenging program here. You'll meet a lot of new people, classes are smaller and meaning more one-on-one interaction. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

It was such a relief to walk into this place and have such friendly staff and members greeting you! I've been to a few MMA gyms in So Cal and there were so many times people would look you up and down right as you enter the door. / Or when class started the trainers didnt know what the heck they were doing, too busy flirting and trying to get the students numbers. I was glad American boxing muay thai mma academy isn't one of those places. Everyone there is very welcoming and treat you like family. Coach Dave's instruction is top notch without the arrogance. He takes time to show you how to do this right, stance, kicks, elbows ext..... I'm so glad I found this place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I started training at American Boxing a couple years ago. I have always enjoyed working out but at that time my normal program of weight training and cardio that I had been doing for the past few years had begun to have diminished results. I was looking for something new to challenge me and get me in better shape. I had never taken any martial arts or boxing classes in my life but a couple friends told me it was a great workout. I checked out American Boxing because I live in Pacific Beach and it was a super convenient location. I have to say after over two years of training, American Boxing is as advertised - an amazing workout that pushes me harder than I have been since I played sports in high school. I have gotten great results too - lost weight and trimmed my torso down. I am in the best shape of my life at 23 and not to mention that I have learned something new - solid boxing technique from a world champion, Coach Dave. I look forward to each class and would recommend American Boxing to anyone that is looking for two things - 1) To Work Hard and 2) To Get Results More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been training at American Boxing since January of 2012. I came there to learn more about the fundamentals of boxing because I really enjoy the sport. I also wanted to experience a more interesting workout rather than the monotony of throwing weights around in the gym every day. I had never boxed before. I've played baseball, basketball, and football my whole life along with lots of sprinting and weight lifting now that my playing days are over. Until joining the gym I underestimated how physically demanding boxing is but I now truly appreciate just how hard of a workout it is along with the importance of learning the proper technique. Coach Dave has been fantastic. It's a real treat to have someone push you to give 100% effort while also ensuring you are using proper form. He really represents the saying "perfect practice makes perfect." I've stuck to the boxing and haven't tried muay thai yet, but I'd like to try it in the future. Be prepared for an eye opener in your first few sessions at the intensity because you probably won't really realize how out of shape you are. That's coming from someone who thought they were pushing themselves hard on their own and thought I was in great shape, but stick to it and after a couple sessions you'll see great improvement! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My son signed up for kickboxing classes and was greeted warmly. The coach has high standards and makes sure the kids get a good workout! We will keep coming back.

Reviewed on Google Maps

My son signed up for kickboxing classes and was greeted warmly.  The coach has high standards and makes sure the kids get a good workout!

Reviewed on Yelp

American Boxing is a great academy with an amazing team culture. Coach Dave truly cares for his students and goes above and beyond to ensure you get proper training. He's always open to accommodate his students and will work with any schedule to ensure you get gym time. His resume speaks for itself and you can be assured you will get top notch instruction and a fair dose of tough love- no sugar coating feedback here. More than fitness there is nutrition, body mechanics, technical and overall life knowledge being served up. After 7 months of training I am seeing the results of the training and its complementing my other sports. Coach Dave is also experienced in chiropractic and body mechanics and with his help have ensured that I am injury/pain free and able to train at my best. Recommend American Boxing to anyone of any level- men, women, children, or anyone looking for a fun and educational experience. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My 6.5 yr old son Dylan has been training here for four months and I could not be happier . Coach Dave does a great job working with the kids, a LOT of one on one coaching throughout the class. There is lot of hitting and being hit in a safe manner which I believe is invaluable experience for my son . I prefer the real fight experience versus simply memorizing a number of moves and techniques which I have seen in other Martial Arts. Most importantly, my Son enjoys it immensely. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have always wanted to try kickboxing (Muay Thai), so I tried a class at American Boxing and I loved it. I knew I would definitely be coming back for more classes. This class is challenging and intense, but in a totally awesome way. Coach Dave definitely knows what he is talking about and he is extremely helpful and very encouraging, not to mention, you are being trained by a true professional. He pushes you to limits you never knew existed within yourself. He is a great sense of humor but is serious when he needs to be, which makes the gym environment even more awesome. This is a great gym and I plan on training here for a long time. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been coming to American Boxing since late March of this year, I found it through an Internet search! I checked it out first & foremost because of it's close location to my home here in PB! I've STAYED because of the awesome results I've seen for myself!! I've been nothing but HAPPY with the workouts, schedule, owner, equipment, & other fellow "fighters!!" I was very impressed at the amount of time Coach Dave spent w me on my initial meeting w him! I stopped into the gym to see what it was all about & find out if it would work for me! He spent probably 15 minutes talking to me about diet & nutrition, personal goals, what I could expect from a Muay Thai class etc! Since my first class I've seen nothing but progress...well & some bruises & LOTS of sweat, but that's to be expected right !? The classes are tough, Coach Dave is TOUGH... But for me it's very motivating. There is also a consistency of students here, which I think is proof that something good is going on! I also want to mention how happy I am with how I've been supported by Coach Dave, as I am now training for 2 ( yep, pregnant)! I was given the option to freeze my membership, if desired, but encouraged to come train with modifications! I'm so glad I chose the later, & feel very comfortable with the guidance & support I'm given by him to help me get a great workout, while being comfortable & staying safe!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My 8 year old son has been coming to this gym 3 days a week for the past 2 years. He loves it!Coach Dave shows a genuine interest in my son and the other kids in the class. The classes are a good workout for the kids. They definitely get sweaty! Coach Dave focuses on teaching proper technique. Once the kids are ready, they are allowed to spar. The kids wear gloves and shin guards when sparring. It's a very safe and controlled environment. Coach Dave also emphasize proper nutrition and respect for self and others.I've noticed an improvement in my son's self confidence and mental and physical strength. I am so happy with my son's achievements inside and outside the gym.I highly recommend this gym if you are looking for a nontraditional sport for your kids or during the off-season of their other sports. A big Thank You to Coach Dave for the excellent training and kindness over the years! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I literally just signed up for classes a week ago.. I was able to make two classes last week and I absolutely loved it. Now that I am settling into San Diego and my new apartment, I can't wait to start going everyday! I came into American Boxing with no Muay Thai experience, just boxing and regular kickboxing, so it is still an adjustment getting used to the different style. The two encounters I have had with Coach Dave have been awesome! The class was amazing and then after when he went over the program details, he was very up front with everything, pricing, rules, etc, etc, which I really liked. He was even up front about being a hard ass... but I didn't come to a boxing gym to get babied. I'm excited to continue working out here. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Been training for boxing here about a week now and already love the place. Doesn't get anymore local than this gym, and it feels like it every time you step in. I like this gym for the friendly members, great coaching, and being a part of a good group of like minded people. I would highly recommend this gym for those interested in or already practicing Muy Thai and Boxing. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

If your serious about getting into shape and want to have a blast doing it, there is no better place than American Boxing! The team atmosphere and high level coaching from Dave Nielson is the perfect recipe for success no matter your skill level or physical ability. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

fast learning. convenient classes. the teacher will challenge you.

Reviewed on Facebook

I have been training since many years in Boxing and Kick Boxing gyms, in Europe and in the USA and I can tell you that AB is way far the best gym I have ever been. Coach Dave is outstanding, he is the absolute best and passionate at what he does. By my experience, it's very difficult to find an excellent athlete (Coach Dave Nielsen has held several belts and he is 7 x World Champion in Muay Thai) who is at the same time a very good instructor. Classes are consistently focused on your daily improvement both from a technique point of view and your cardio. The training is tough and the classes are detailed so you get your workout and you build your skill set as long as you show up! Coach Dave is a perfectionist, so do not expect to be prized to motivate/please you: if you are not performing a certain technique in the exact way he teaches you (btw that's called professional Muay Thai) he will kick your ass till you do it the right way. And day by day, you'll see the results of a steady commitment. I am telling you, if you wanna improve yourself, get more self confidence, be a better person, you are in the right gym. Cool people, nice place in the heart of PB. American Boxing is a great gym to train for anyone. Coach Dave really does his best to make you feel at home With that said, let's have a look to the facts. I get the best workouts training Muay Thai as it improves my cardio as well as my strength: when I first walked into the gym in September 2015 my heartbeat rate was 63/65 b/m. I checked it out the past week and now it's 52!!! - yes Coach, thank you for beating the s**** out of me with I don't know how many burpees and drills :-)!! And I am 39! Stop by and check it out, you'll love training @ AB More...

Reviewed on Facebook

If your serious about getting into shape and want to have a blast doing it, there is no better place than American Boxing! The team atmosphere and high level coaching from Dave Nielson is the perfect recipe for success no matter your skill level or physical ability.

Don't hesitate, try something new and you will be looking back wondering what took you so long! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My name is Enrique Alvarez I'm a full time plumbing technician here in San Diego and a native resident and the reason I chose American Boxing for Muay Thai for the past 4 years here is because the small classes are always a pleasure to be in , and with good variety of technical workouts in each class it just makes it that much better for a full workout and for sport and proper learning of the art. To me, the classes that Kru Dave teaches and gives, will keep you on edge and with the proper technique that he gives, will give you the confidence you need. I could go on , on all the good stuff here , but I'll keep it short, all I got to say is You will learn Excellent Muay Thai technique here, Great Atmosphere , great clean place , close to the beach and great people looking to get fit, stronger and train. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've practiced a variety of martial arts for 17 years. Been with this school for 2 years now. Within 3 months of joining (Muay Thai only), I noticed a difference in my health and physique. After 6 months, I was (and continue to be) in the best shape of my life (and that's 1-1.5 hours x2-3/week). Kru Dave is a no BS, technical coach. It's not for everyone, but if you want smart, practical training, don't need to be coddled and can handle tough love, then come in and try a class. It's good for all ages and experience levels. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Very technical instruction, making the experience safe. Friendly members, everyone is very kind and helpful. The coach is tough but funny and definitely cares about his students. Probably the best overall workout I've done. I played traditional sports my entire life and college baseball. If you want to learn how to box or kickbox for a workout or self defense, I highly suggest you try this gym first. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Dave worked one on one with my 16 year old son on Friday. Not only did Dave teach my son technique and proper form, he taught him valuable life lessons. My son is going back on Monday and I'm trying a boxing class for first time on Wednesday. Can't wait!! Highly recommend. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

There was no way I expected the great experience I had here. As an out of shape, weak, clumsy, asthmatic, I gained so much confident and strength during my year here. I have never enjoyed working out and I fell in love with Muay Thai. There is so much focus on technique that class flies by. I cancelled my membership because I moved farther away but am debating accepting the traffic and coming back. I was definitely one of the slower learners but everyone was so welcoming and accepting I wasn't (was only slightly) embarrassed.  It's definitely worth keeping an open mind and giving it a try! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

If you want an amazing workout and develop real athleticism and strength, then train with Coach Dave at American Boxing Gym! Yes, he is tough and expects maximum effort, but he is truly dedicated to his students and will absolutely get the best out of you. I also really love the atmosphere of this gym, the people are real and welcoming, there’s no pretense. Just work out, and work out hard. Coach Dave will teach you good technique so that you get the maximum benefit from your workouts, and trust me, your body will absolutely feel the difference! I’ve taken his classes for two months now, and also taken personal training from Coach Dave, and nothing compares to American Boxing Gym!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Small class sizes mean you get a lot of hands on coaching from a very experienced coaching staff. They are tough on you so be prepared to work when you go in.

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been a member for 9 months. Trained for 3 years in Muay Thai as a teenager and was looking for a gym that wasn't filled with egos and definitely not a cardio kickboxing class. I wanted the best Muay Thai and boxing gym that offered more than just a workout and hopefully allowed me to compete done the road against other gyms. Here's my 2 cents.Pros: Only 12 allowed per class. Each class doesn't matter what day you go will be tailored to who shows up. The people are top notch. Instructor cares how you kick the bag, not the fact that you can kick the bag 100x. Never sweated before like this in my life.Cons: classes are only an hour. Could be an hour in a half. Weekend classes are mid day at 12:30. Would like them to be a little earlier. Here's the scoop on the gym. Dave will yell at you, but he yells things like. "Step when you punch, turn your hip over when you kick" if your not doing it, you will get called out. My point is that's different than someone yelling harder, faster, or you are too slow!!! He's correcting your technique and getting you dialed in. Once you get dialed, then he pushes you to the next level. I am constantly learning and advancing my craft and that's the number one reason why I love this gym. There was so many things I wasn't doing that he noticed right away and no one ever said anything to me when I trained at other places and I trialled 4 gyms. I did multiple classes at other gyms. Some gyms I liked and others I absolutely hated. Also the sparing sessions are great and he doesn't let anyone just jump in the ring. You have to first prove you know the techniques then demonstrate you have control. After each sparing session we all sit down exhausted and tells you indivially what he liked and what you need to do next time. This gym has character, class, and the people treat each other like a family. I'm also scheduled to fight later this year, so where ever you want to take your training Dave will guide you. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have spent 10 years in the fitness industry and have memberships in several locations and choose to invest in training at American Boxing in spite of that. Dave is a solid guy. He will for sure run you through the ropes and make sure that you are able to keep up. This makes the community really legit. I Love the coaching, technique improvement and motivation here I've found here. Dave is the best boxing/Muay Thai coach I've ever worked with all around and facility is extremely clean and well equipped More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Trained before in Chicago and New York and was looking for both proper technique and a kick ass workout. This was the first and last place I tried. Dave is experienced, entertaining and no nonsense. The people are friendly and there is a community feel. The classes are small and always something different. I highly recommend this gym for both women and men! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps