Uprise MMA

I do not like to exercise but my aged body tells me I have no choice. I then tried few things in last couple years but never stick to any.  That is typical me with exercise. Lol ... By chance, I went to check out the beginner class at Uprise MMA.  Everyone is so friendly, encouraging, and respectful. Coach comes around often to give key points. I didn't feel a bit awkward even in my first class and learned a lot. I told myself I could go twice a week, then one week later I started to go three time a week, then ... I am now addicted to it and can see myself going long term. I finally find a very comfortable and joyful environment with an exercise that works on my entire body to build flexibility, strength, and coordination. Beginner classes are offered at Monday through Thursday right after work and then Saturday morning. Parking is very convenient in front of the gym. Inside beginner classes, there are a lot of working hard seasoned students. They are great inspiration. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great place , ohana (family ) style . Love it there :

Reviewed on Facebook

family, workout, fun, do you need more

Reviewed on Facebook

This is the best place to learn Jiu Jitsu or Kickboxing with no ego with a friendly vibe. If you want to push yourself and test your limits the coaches will train you compete too!

Reviewed on Facebook

Awesome place to train Muay Thai or BJJ! It's clean, professional, no big egos, has a family feel, and offers good technical instruction. I would absolutely recommend Way Of The Warrior Training to anybody looking to get in shape, compete, learn self defense, start a new hobby, or make new friends. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Finding the right gym that makes you feel comfortable and fits your training needs is important. I love the family atmosphere and the thought put behind Way Of The Warrior's training methods. All aspects of training are covered on all levels... technical, practical and proper conditioning are taught in a way that makes you want to push yourself. Everyone is super friendly and want you to succeed in your goals. I highly recommend to come in and try a class for yourself. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I’ve been training for over a decade and been to many gyms across the US. Uprise MMA is easily the best of the bunch. You couldn’t get a better mix of quality training, community, happy people and no-ego in an mma gym. All at a price point lower than anything I’ve seen. Whether you want to fight professionally or just get fit, you’ll love this place. Very sad to leave LA mostly because I’m leaving the uprise family. Pete is the man. See you guys again very soon!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Started training here a few months ago and am very happy to have finally found a home. Great training partners, great coaches, great facility, great schedule. No matter what level you are at: whether you want to compete or just get a good workout, this is the spot. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Great gym!!! Great coaches!!!

Reviewed on Facebook

Great group of people, family type atmosphere. Everyone is excited to see each other and train hard together.

Reviewed on Facebook

Very laid back community vibe. The people who train here take it seriously and are very helpful with each other. I recommend this gym for anyone looking to get into martial arts or continue their training

Reviewed on Facebook

COME AND GET YOUR FIRST WEEK FREE!!!I have to point out that the atmosphere around here is very friendly, very approachable people, so far no egos. What surprised me was how nice the coach was. Typically a lot of MMA gym coaches come with the impression of "you need me I don't need you l" attitude or they think they're a badass and act disinterested. But here it's pretty awesome. PROS - 1. Various martial arts from mma, Muay Thai, Jiu jistsu, wrestling2. Fair prices and I love the month to month contract options 3. Very clean and everything is pretty organized 4. I got 1-1 on the coach. Just my lucky day, don't count on it or expect it. Very informative. He's not just going around and looking, he's engaging with everyone 5. Space for just changing or the bathroom 6. Like I said everyone is pretty approachable and nice. This could be my new gym...all depends on where I permanently get work IMPROVEMENT - 1. They can improve on their Instagram game ;). Coach ...lmk 2. Also make their attire more creative. I'm willing to wear a shirt representing uprise but some more effort needs to be put into the creation More...

Reviewed on Yelp

There are a lot of good martial arts gyms in the L.A. area, but this one is exceptional. Wide array of classes in BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai as well as wrestling, conditioning and a bit of kali/escrima. Some of the best instructors around and the vibe is very welcoming. If you're a beginner looking to get started, this is your spot. And, if you're experienced and want to up your game, well, shoot, this is also your spot. Everyone is friendly and fun but still competitive. Mats are good. There's also a cage, bags and weights in the back so you can get your full workout in. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Best martial arts gym in all of LA. Amazing prices and the greatest instructors . 5 stars.

Reviewed on Facebook

I signed-up for the unlimited class and it is amazing. Instructors are hands-on, good friendly environment and you will really learn the martial arts that you want to learn. I highly recommend Uprise MMA.

Reviewed on Yelp

Uprise MMA is a great place to train whether you're someone who wants to increase your general fitness or an aspiring amateur fighter. I've been training here for almost two years and still look forward to coming in every day. I joined with no martial arts background and started with Muay Thai. A few months later I started BJJ and now I train both. I've even competed a few times in BJJ! The environment is laid back but respectful. For BJJ, we do not require one color gi or make you purchase the team gi/rashguard, you can wear whatever you want as long as it's clean. Although we train hard, we do not make you spar if you don't want to and we don't shame you if you need to take a round off. You put in as much as you want out of it. The coaches will not force you to spar or compete. They will, of course, encourage it, but they understand not everyone is there to prepare for the next MMA fight and respect your decision. The gym has a good mixture of competitors and hobbyists. You will find people from all backgrounds: students, lawyers, doctors, school teachers, moms, dads, office workers, nurses, you name it. Nowhere would you find a community with so many different people mixed together having fun. The gym culture is great, everyone is super friendly, willing to help and respectful. The coaches/instructors are all very knowledgeable, friendly and have their own personal style of teaching so you get exposed to a variety of instruction, skill and concepts. Class schedule seems to accommodate most availabilities, we have morning classes, evening classes, and classes/open mats on the weekends. We have kids classes on Wednesdays and Saturdays as well. We cover all aspects of Muay Thai: the clinch, elbow, knees, trips/throws, boxing, and kicks. We even have a general strength and conditioning class if you want to further improve your cardio. For BJJ we train in both gi and no gi, as well as application of BJJ through wrestling/mma. Pricing is competitive and we have a one week trial where we encourage you to try every class to see what best fits your needs. Like I said, the vibe is super laid back so they are not pushy and won't hover like a salesman to get you to join. If you tried a week and don't like it, no worries! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Hands down Uprise MMA's Muay Thai program headed by owner Kru Pete Panos is the best experience I have had in a Muay Thai class thus far. I have been training Muay Thai for about 2 years every week constantly and have trained at 3 different gyms in the LA area. He generally cares about your technique/fundamentals and helps you develop your skills whether your a beginner, intermediate, or advanced student. Everyone at the gym wants to help each other, is very kind, and overall has a wonderful group of students trying to get better everyday. I never had an issue. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for anyone trying to get into Muay Thai no matter the experience! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been training at Uprise MMA for a few months now and still love everything it has to offer. Before picking Uprise as the right gym for me, I had visited a handful of other Muay Thai/Brazilian Jiu-jitsu gyms for their free trial period. These gyms included Dynamix MMA, Westside Training Center, Uprise, and Boxing works. Dynamix and Boxing works both offered one free class while Uprise and Westside Training both offered a full week for free. I did like Westside training as it was walkable from where I currently live, however they only offer 3 Muay Thai classes a week.I ended up choosing Uprise because of the quantity of MT classes that are offered. You have an option of 2-3 MT classes every weekday and one class on Saturday mornings. Almost all MT classes are taught by Kru Pete who is very talented and gives great instruction on proper technique and form. I have also come to find that everyone at the gym is extremely friendly and very helpful in sharing their knowledge and skills with you. The gym offers heavy bags, speed bag, weights for everyday lifting, and a ring for sparring. From a price perspective, Uprise definitely isn't the most expensive nor is it the cheapest available option. But you do get your money's worth and you'll have a great time while you're at it. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I wanted to learn bjj so I came here primarily because of the price. I figured I would give bjj a one month trial. If I didn't like it, then I would quit and wouldn't cost much. I have been been at this place 8 months now.I have stayed because the instructor is really good at teaching and he looks out for newcomers. Everyone gets along and is willing to help. Don't be shy about visiting. You won't find a better rate or a better coach. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Fantastic training, gym, owner, and instructors. The people that you will train with will only look to better yourself. Hard to find that in any MMA or martial arts gym.

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been coming here since the gym was Way of the Warrior. Now it's time to uprise, Uprise MMA will have the same great dedicated instructors and the same welcoming students on a much bigger and equipped place. The new location is great!

Reviewed on Yelp

Awesome place to train no matter what your goals are. If you're interested in general fitness and fun, you'll find a lot of like-minded people and incredibly friendly and helpful instructors. If you're interested in Muay Thai, the instructors are extremely high-level and knowledgeable. If you're interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Gustavo Gasperin is a multi-time world champion that has a first-rate reputation within the BJJ community.The gym itself and spacious and clean, with a very welcoming atmosphere. You can show up without any previous experience and feel comfortable. There's a great mix of morning and night classes, so it's easy to find something that works with your own personal schedule. And the pricing is far more competitive than any other gyms/studios around. They offer a free week trial for you to get an idea of all the different types of classes.If you're looking to train hard and have fun, give this place a try! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great place to learn Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu. The instructors are extremely talented and have been doing what they do for many many years. It's also a great environment, the instructors and classmates are very friendly and patient so if you're completely new to MMA you'll have a great time knowing everyone is there to help you More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place has an amazing vibe, excellent instructors and just a fun vibe to it . GO!

Reviewed on Facebook

What can I say.  The Jiu Jitsu instructor Gustavo  is a multi world champ in gi and nogi.  He is a black belt under Fabricio Werdum, and is very technical with his instructions as well as patient with new students.  Pete, the Muay Thai/Striking instructor is very humble and friendly.  He helps everyone from 9-5er working people that want to take up a new sport for fitness to hardcore people that want to compete in Kickboxing tournaments. The vibe here is like a family.  There is no ego when we train.  The less macho mentality is open to women and children students. Sometimes we go out to watch UFC fights, celebrate the holidays, or to watch our gym buddies compete.  Jerry Quill has an awesome Kali/Eskrima class on Sun. He is well versed in Gung Fu has spent his life studying Martial Arts and is a very friendly guy to top it off.This is also the best price in town.  Join here for Fitness, Fun, Self Defense, learning to Compete in Martial Arts, or simply picking up a new hobby and meeting a cool group of people. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I came to this gym with no background in martial arts and not knowing what to expect. I really wanted to try BJJ but never went for it. I am mostly experienced in the BJJ classes, so this review is about my experience on BJJ at WOTW. When I first came to Way of the Warrior I felt an awesome vibe from everyone in there, Pete is a really nice and patient guy who is always willing to help you. I started with the BJJ beginners classes with Gi and No-Gi. Little by little I moved on to the intermediate and advanced level classes taught by Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Gustavo is an awesome instructor and a really accomplished BJJ fighter, he truly has a vocation to teach. He breaks down the steps for each technique and is always teaching you the basics, even when the technique is a bit more advanced. Pete himself and his guest coaches are really knowledgable as well, its definitely a great school to learn. It is important to note that you get a lot of personal attention from these instructors during the classes, which is awesome because it helps you progress so much more.I also regularly do the conditioning classes. These classes are awesome if you are trying to complement your training with a bit of cardio and strengthening. I don't know how is it in other gyms, but at Way of the Warrior there is a sense of family between all the students and coaches. Everyone is helping each other to be better with a really positive attitude. If you are interested, Pete offers a Free trial for a week!!! Come and try it yourself, you will get addicted! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I had been interested in trying out boxing/Muay Thai to try and get back in shape in a way that was fun and engaging. After trying out a few places all over LA, I can decidedly say that Pete is the best there is. Pete is a really chill guy who's passionate about his craft and it shows in his dedication to his students. I felt like I learned more with Pete than any other place I tried. He does a great job of setting a challenging pace, but listening to your needs and interests. Its instantly clear he's a knowledgeable trainer that has a 1001 ways to get you working and all of them are dope. My sessions with Pete were money well spent and I'm eager to come back and train with him. For all of you out there who are on the fence, do it. You won't regret it. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Less than a month and so far so good, Pete is an awesome instructor, very patient and friendly. Wish there was more parking but still definitely deserves 5 stars. Highly recommend!

Reviewed on Yelp

Great MMA gym! The owner Pete is a gracious guy and the culture here is very helpful to the students to learn in a safe environment. Everyone training here is nice (no idiot thugs or dickheads). The BJJ Instructor Gustavo is amazing. Gustavo is a Brazilian with legit BJJ pedigree. He teaches techniques in detail and walks around the room ensuring people are executing correctly. Gustavo is first rate instructor in a first rate gym. The gym is an incredibly large space with VERY REASONABLE PRICING. Most gyms don't tell you the prices on their websites to lure you in. WOTW has it right there at affordable rates. I have a lot of experience in fighting and marital arts and WOTW is top notch. Train here and you will learn a lot and not be disappointed. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I'm no bruce lee, however I would love to be.  If bruce lee was still physically alive he would be MMA's biggest advocate. With the growing audience and popularity of MMA, a seed to take a martial arts class was implanted.  I took a karate class in college, one session of BJJ with a friend, however I did dare call myself a martial artist.I went to go shopping for a place where they offered both hand-2-hand combat with some courses on bjj - I think to be an overall fighter in today's world - you have to know both - striking and ground.For myself, I went strictly for the Muay Thai, and not the BJJ  due to my own time constraints.  I would have loved to do both.  My review is on my Muay Thai experience at WOTW.First of all the instructor - Pete - is awesome as an instructor - patient and constantly looking at form - striking, defense - everything.  I never felt rushed or out of place.  I just felt that Pete was looking out for my own interest - which was to become the best martial artist to my capabilities.On the studio, it has everything that you need to practice Muay Thai in a comfortable and clean envrionment.  Focus mitts to larger pads, and the flooring of the studio was never an issue.  Most of the time we were standing up barefoot, and I never once tripped or fall.  To my understanding the studio has grown considerably - which is a sign that the studio is gaining popularity.  As it should be.On the fellow students - great bunch.  I had a couple of social gatherings with the group outside of class - once at a UFC fight at someone's apartment, and the second at a local bar for a UFC fight.  Before class, after class, and during class - I did not feel any ego from anyone.  I sparred a few times, and the times I did spar, my fellow classmates were in control, and all was good.I haven't been to class for quite a while, since I started a new job, and also moved farther away from WOTW.  But here and there I would drive past the studio on Venice and I would reminisce on my experience.  A great experience I hope to find at a new studio.  For the time being, I do miss WOTW environment, people, and instructors... the only thing I don't miss is the warm-ups and sometimes, warm-downs.  Maybe I'm saying this since I am really out of shape (currently as type this... my fingers are aching).But those who are looking for a martial arts studio - and you live close to the palms/culver city area... or if your commute everyday is along the path of WOTW - do drop by - and do the trial.  See if you dig it.  I did, and I stuck around for almost a year.  A year well spent, IMHO.  Good luck. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Just go.  This place is great and you will agree with me in one session.  Pete and his crew of instructors are amazing.  Pete sets a great tone for the gym - relaxed but serious when it comes to learning!  I have been going here off and on since 2013 and whenever I get the chance to train bjj I only go here! The friendly atmosphere remains the same.  No one is walking around like they are too good for anything or rookies like me.  I wouldn't go anywhere else - you shouldn't either. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

A great place to start the training early. My 4 year old is loving it. Pete has awesome patience with the kids, making sure they develop their form well. I highly recommend it!

Reviewed on Yelp

I started at Way of the Warrior by doing the 1 week free trial period. I ended up going to beginner Muay Thai classes (BJJ is also offered) and really enjoyed it. First off, as a beginner all you have to do is show up. Gear is available for you to use. I found everyone in the class to be really friendly, and the instructor Pete to be welcoming and great at introducing students to Muay Thai. I was clueless, and didn't know how to properly throw a punch or kick. Even though I was in a class with probably 10 other students, Pete gave me a ton of individual attention and was patient and clear in introducing me to the fundamentals. Additionally, I liked that Pete didn't use any hard sales tactics during the trial period... it was just fun and low pressure.I've now been going to the gym for about 4 months. After that first trial week, I was hooked, and went out and bought all the gear. Pete is great at drilling the fundamentals, and progressively getting you to focus on improving your technique. Both the beginner and advanced Muay Thai classes are also incredible work outs. You leave drenched in sweat every time.My favorite aspect of the gym though has to be the positive energy everyone exudes. I think this starts with Pete who sets the example. If you start going you will notice that everyone walks into the gym with a smile.Finally, the gym is also blessed to have Grand-Master Sensei Sifu Kru Chew (facebook.com/sifukruchew) as a patron. He is a former instructor of Pete and just recently returned from Chaing Mai, Thailand where he was running a training camp and developing the revolutionary style of Chew Jitsu. I've been lucky enough to have done pad work with him a few times, and my evasive as well as striking ability dramatically improved as a result. If you meet him, take into account that he is accustomed to training seasoned Thai fighters, so be sure to be respectful. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Looking for a gym where I could do both BJJ and Muay Thai, I tried every MMA gym within a 5 mile radius, and Pete's was the best. Simple, small class size, more one on one attention, great teachers, month to month, humble, friendly people, all levels of experience. Great workouts. I always leave this place in a great mood. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Been coming here for almost two years now for both muay thai and jiu jitsu. Although I had some previous jiu jitsu experience this is the place where I got my blue best from Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Intermediate jiu jitsu classes on Tuesday and Thursday are very good. Sensei Gustavo always starts by making sure you have the basics down before adding anything flashy to your game, which I greatly appreciate. Although I had no previous muay thai experience it has become my favorite martial art. Kru Panos is extremely knowledgeable and is always drilling fundamentals in both the beginner and intermediate classes. He is very good at keeping an eye on everyone and tailoring classes to everyone's level. You will be getting personal attention from him in every class.With all this being said what makes this the best gym in the area is the presence of Grand-Master Sensei Sifu Kru Chew. facebook.com/sifukruchew. He is Grand-Master of the gym and makes sure the gym is running to his very strict Thai standards.  He has been developing his special martial art called Chew Jitsu and has been teaching some techniques to his students. He is very nice as long as you are extremely polite and respectful so always make sure to bow to him whenever you walk into the gym and before leaving. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is a great school that offers different styles of martial arts from Muay Thai to Brazilian JiuJitsu. The best thing about this school are the instructors and training partners who pushes you to be your best in an ego less environment.

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been thinking about writing a review for Way of The Warrior for a while now but it didn't happen because life got in a way.  I finally found some time to sit down and write about this gym.  I never trained, exercised, worked out, or even gone to the gym seriously before let alone training in any kind of martial art.  One day I was walking my dog and saw the gym and I thought that I wanted to give it a try.  Since then I never looked back.  Even though I don't have any experience in martial art at all, Pete made it very easy for me to understand.  Pete makes sure that everyone in either the beginner or intermediate class gets attention from him.  One other GREAT thing about this gym is no one has any ego and everyone is very friendly and very helpful.  If one of your New Year resolutions is getting back in shape, trying to lose weight, trying to become an amateur fighter, or whatever reason you have in mind,  come check Way of the Warrior out.  Pete offers a  Free trial for a week.  You can come and try all of the classes and experience the awesomeness yourself!  I can go on and on and on about this AWESOME gym.  But I think it's best for you guys(and girls) out there to come and check it out yourself! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is a great gym! Pete is a great instructor. There are a few girls who train here. If you're a beginner, come for a trial class - there is gear for you to borrow. I  would recommend absolute beginners start with the Tue, Wed, or Thurs classes only. Everyone who trains here is great, there are no egos! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been training at Way of the Warrior for a year and a half now and I can honestly say that when I first started I had no clue about martial arts let alone Muay Thai and how to throw a punch. But under Pete's tutelage I've grown stamina, conditioning, strength and the ability and confidence of self defense.Pete is an amazing teacher with a tremendous amount of patience and understanding of each individuals needs. He knows when to push you harder than you think you can perform and also when to ease up if your having a rough day. The students at the gym are really great people to work out with, there aren't any egos or macho ism. They're friendly and always willing to give you a tip.If you're ready for a no frills get your ass into shape and be pushed THIS GYM IS THE PLACE! I can go on and on about how awesome it is here but try a free week and you'll see.Wwwwwwaaaaaayyyy ofooofff thhhaaa WwArrior!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Pete Panos is a great instructor! I've trained in martial arts for many years and been with many instructors. Pete is awesome. He know's how to break down techniques and sparring strategies very well. Love the atmosphere at WOTW. Everyone is there for self improvement, not stroking egos.  Great place to train. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I am thoroughly enjoying my training here at Pete's gym. I am a blue belt who originally trained overseas and have, in the past, been turned off by the attitudes of American BJJ gyms (especially Brazilian owned ones. .. it always felt like they were after my money). The vibe here is great. During training, everyone is friendly and focused more on long term improvement than single match victory. The guest instructors are exceedingly knowledgeable, as is Pete himself. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I started training here back in 2009 without any previous knowledge or training of Muay Thai and now I'm proud to say I teach the women's Muay Thai class on Saturdays! Pete has trained me to be stronger person both mentally and physically in and outside the gym.The small class sizes guarantee a lot of one on one attention which leads to a greater development in technique. WOWT is NOT your fluff kickbox cardio class....get ready to be pushed to new limits. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been a member of Way of The Warrior Training Since October and I love it.  When I started I had very little training and was just looking for a new way to exercise.  I decided to look around for crossfit and MMA gyms.  After visiting a few I decided that crossfit was a bit to pricey for my budget.  I found and tried out a couple of gyms before stumbling to Way of the Warrior.  At first I was concerned by the size of the gym but quickly realized this was all I needed and more!  I have no plans of becoming a pro fighter so I don't need to train inside a cage what I needed was someone to kick my ass into gear while teaching me proper form.  Pete is great at both of these, he is very personable and a great teacher.  They offer Muay Thai as well as BJJ classes/MMA classes as well as some that combine the two.  The class sizes are small so you get a lot of one on one attention and instruction, they even have classes for kids and self-defense, and they offer reasonable prices and NO CONTRACTS!!!!  I have learned so much already, but admittedly am still a beginner and look forward to learning everything I can and becoming a new man in both physique and ability.  I highly recommend that at the very least, everyone who is even slightly interested should come and take a few FREE classes to see for yourself. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is a great place for  Men and Women  boys and girls.   No matter what point you are at there is a class for you.   Why not have a good workout while learning a skill.  Good people to workout with a place to learn and have fun.  What I like the most is you get to see what works for you. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

After spending 6 months at another, well known mma training center nearby doing muay Thai, I thought I did OK and that i was in good shape. I was wrong. Training with Pete made me realize that the other place was severely lacking personal attention and good conditioning. In the past weeks Pete gave me so many technical corrections its unbelievable. Learned more in two weeks then I did in the last 6 months at the old place. No hard feelings towards the other place, but if you really want to progress in Muay Thai, go here as well. Good pricing, great atmosphere and top instructor. More...

Reviewed on Yelp