Echo Park Boxing

Best workouts I've ever gotten. Period. Joel is an extraordinary trainer, and a pleasure to be around. Cannot recommend enough. Just go.

Reviewed on Yelp

Loved the vibe here! Definitely a local spot and true to its trainings. Gym owner Joel and trainer Sean are real fighters and are great at teaching/strengthening your technique. I would highly recommend this spot for people really looking to train and better themselves. Great atmosphere and members! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I always leave Joel's class feeling physically and mentally stronger and more empowered.  I am on the shorter and smaller side so have always felt vulnerable.  Through working w Joel, I am (1) training my ability to stay situationally aware and (2) developing the muscle memory / ability to react to my situation should I need to.  Oh yea and getting an amazing workout. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

If you're looking to change your life for the better, meet awesome and inspiring humans, be in the best shape of your ENTIRE life, and also be part of a fun, active, and amazing community, then sign up . ..NOW! This gym seriously has changed my boyfriend and my life, forever. The facilities are super clean, the equipment is always new and getting replaced when needed. The instructors are absolutely incredible and the owner, Joel, is extremely knowledgeable and one of the coolest guys I know. The classes are either 1hr-1:30 and they kick your BUTT in the best way possible. They're extremely friendly to beginners, so no worries if you've never boxed before. Also, there is a great group of girls, so don't be afraid, ladies, to come and work out!I do private lessons with Gabe and he has made a huge impact on my boyfriend and my life. We are so extremely grateful for this gym and can't wait to become serious ninja assassins in the next few years. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I first met Gabe at a different boxing gym. I loved the way he taught his classes and began taking personal training sessions with him. When I heard he left that other gym, which I had left a few months prior, I decided to hit him up at Echo Park Boxing and take 1:1 lessons with him there as well. He and I have worked hard to improve my boxing and kickboxing skills as well as build a booty with weights. I enjoy his laid back zen personality and his flexibility with my schedule. I like the gym as well as it's always clean and the owner is really nice. I highly recommend Gabe's classes and his 1:1 packages. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is a great gym. All trainers are very knowledgeable and make you feel very comfortable. I was very hesitant to join at first because of my nerves but after the first class it has been very clear that this is the place to be for both beginners and professionals. Joel the owner is always at the gym and has the greatest attitude with people. prices are very reasonable and the gym has everything you need to become a unique fighter. I will always recommend this place to all my friends. If you are hesitant to join because you're nervous.... don't be.... this is the place where you can learn and nobody will make you feel uncomfortable More...

Reviewed on Yelp

After only one intro to boxing class I feel compelled to leave a glowing review. Joel and his son Hunter taught the entry level class and we absolutely amazing. They are patient, knowledgeable and kind, and you can tell they take real pride in their craft without being overly serious. I immediately purchased a 10 pack of classes and do intended to start personal 1:1 boxing lessons with Joel...which are VERY reasonably priced for personal training. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great workout. Great teachers. I've learned so much. The classes go by fast, and as long as I'm taking 3 classes a week, I'm in great shape without thinking about. Classes are in the mornings or evenings, which works well with my schedule. I started out as a complete beginner and now I feel like I can go to any gym and spar.. or at least not look like a complete fool. Which is something! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I came to this gym with no prior boxing, martial arts, or fitness experience whatsoever. I was just depressed, angry, and out of shape and needed to do something about it. It's a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere and, as a beginner, I did not feel intimidated at all. Every teacher is awesome and has their own style and if you take multiple classes a week, you learn different things from each of them. It's very technique-focused, but it's also a RIDICULOUS workout. I've been at it for 4 months now and it has significantly improved my life. I feel better, stronger, healthier, and more confident than I've felt in years, maybe ever. Twice a week, I come in with my stress and anger and leave it behind on the gym floor. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I like this place! I go for boxing. The instructors are great and know their stuff. Sometimes I wish there was more 1 on 1 mitt work with the instructors but much of the class is partner work with others. I'm not advanced by any means but have had some training in the past. Most of the time I enjoy partner work and if there's someone that is new I do like to help guide their technique so that we can all level up. However I went to 3 classes back to back where this happened and this is when it gets a bit tricky because we spend more time getting someone up to speed than me being able to go as hard as I can. If there is a way for instructors to pair people together based on skill level more often I think I would definitely sign up for a membership! I'm thinking of taking the Muay Thai classes though, since I don't have as much training in this and perhaps that will make a difference! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

great time with positive instructors. I had my second day here today (third class) and I've already learned so much for a beginner. and the classes are very reasonably priced. You'll leave feeling confident (and sore) after your first class (: More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Awesome gym for all levels. Lots of individual attention & good workouts. Real Muay Thai & Boxing for all levels. I came in out of shape & rusty & I've seen results within a month. Everyone is super friendly and welcoming no BS & the space has you need to train. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This is like a boxing cheat sheet. . All the trainers are current or ex fighters and pass on the condensed skills and knowhow they have. . Seriously best place I have ever trained anywhere in the world. Perfect for short term but once you join you will never leave More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I was a guest here and this is definitely the best boxing/muay thai gym in the area. All of the coaches do a great job!!!

Reviewed on Google Maps

Joel has shown me  so much in a short period of time   Great atmosphere. Highly recommended.

Reviewed on Yelp

I love this place man! It literally changed my life.  I originally started here with fitness goals in mind after being a gym rat and triathlons but switched my goals ti fight training and combat sports.   Joel is an amazing fighter savant that is a fight scientist. Takes shit to the next level and can break down anything from the science of basics to advanced fight strategies.  Toby is an amazing martial artist that brings his unique fighting style to the table while teaching and you have to love Ben in the morning.  There are literally more class times than I have ever been able to attend and the general atmosphere is safe, not a tough guy atmosphere but if you want to step up your game there is always someone there who will kick your ass.  Also, its super clean and all the equipment is new.  The class sizes are small and there's a lot of personal attention.  You can spar frequently which is something that I loved immediately.  A lot of technique as well.  Can't say enough good about the place. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

i joined just over a month ago and wish i had sooner.  joel is incredibly knowledgeable, patient and dedicated to creating a fun and relaxed gym with no egos or aggressive attitudes.  he's very experienced and like others have said, you gain a lot of knowledge about the sport as well as a challenging workout.  his desire to build a relaxed community is working and everyone there is super welcoming and helpful to new students.  can't praise this place enough. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've worked out with Joel now for over four years, since he was at two other martial arts gyms in the South Bay.  EPB is spotless, the equipment is clean and well maintained, the mats don't feel grimy underfoot, the bags aren't patched up and the gym is well ventilated and well lit.  Almost belongs with the hipster coffee shop and vegan stores on the same block--except he's showing you how to take someone's head off.  With a smile. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I had a great experience being part of Echo Park Boxing. Work and school have kept me from being able to go back but I will without a doubt return! Great vibe, great trainers. As someone who has minimal experience boxing I felt comfortable and for sure got a great workout in the process of learning technique. I recommend this anyone looking to get away from the regular gym vibe. An added plus, easy neighborhood parking. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I love this place. Joel is super knowledgeable and pays a lot of attention to proper technique. The gym itself looks great and prices are reasonable. I had no experience when I first started and I've learned a ton. Definitely recommend it!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Lets just sum it up here: If you're serious about wanting to get in shape AND learn about proper boxing techniques with a dash of history of the culture and art of fighting then Joel from Echo Park Boxing is your man! Absolutely dedicated to his passion, Joel has not only immense skill and knowledge but patience. Originally I just wanted some routine to get in better shape. But Joel has made me realize that boxing isn't only being done with your fists but even moreso, made me realize just how incredible complex boxing (or fighting in general) really is. If you're looking for something else than boring gym routines but always were a bit scared to sign up for boxing, trust me, Joel will easily set your mind (and fists) at ease. To me the most important thing any teacher of any profession should have is patience. This is exactly why Joel is so good and why you should go and try it out for yourself. You will not regret it!EPB is easily accessible right off Sunset blvd. Plenty of street parking or better if you live close get a bike and get your warmup going before your session. :) Good luck! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Echo Park Boxing is the perfect gym for anyone looking to get a workout and hone their fighting skills. Whether you want to train in traditional boxing, or muay thai Joel, the owner, is a savvy trainer and consummate professional. His wealth of experience and knowledge of fighting is clearly present not only in the techniques he teaches, but also in the anecdotes and colorful metaphors he is known for using to teach.  I started two months ago with private classes (one or two times per week) having never boxed a day in my life. My progress has been so noticeable I have people asking me if I have been boxing for years. If you're curious about boxing, I would say try the free introductory class to feel it out. You'll know if it feels right. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I just started training here with my husband and we are obsessed.  We both want to get in shape and thought that learning a specific art/ self defense could be a fun way to do so.  I was nervous because neither of us have experience with any type of boxing, but Joel is so incredibly knowledgable and patient.  I actually feel like I've leaned a ton about form from him in just a few sessions while also getting a personal-trainer level workout (dripping in sweat within minutes).  It's challenging in the greatest and most fun ways.  I've done a ton of yoga, pilates (reformer and mat), Bar Method, boot camp, Pop Physique, and this is by far my favorite workout.  Cannot say enough good things about Joel and this studio! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Echo Park Boxing is the coolest fight haven in the area. There are classes that are available to just about any demographic from kids to beginners to advanced fighters. The weeks are full of great options with trainers that know their shit (I personally love Berto's class on Monday evenings) and the weekends have concentrated training camps with the owner Joel. He has an overwhelmingly expert knowledge in MMA and Muay Thai and I love that he is always eager to share the wisdom.The facilities are clean and well maintained and there is a ring in the back that's in the process of being built. The training area has new mats, so no special shoes are required. The bags are all new and there are weights, kettlebells, and foam rollers etc if you are looking for some extra conditioning. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Happened upon this awesome gym a few weeks ago and met Joel, the owner and trainer.  My wife and I decided to take private lessons with him and started two weeks ago. Not only is Joel a fantastic and patient trainer, but his workouts are some of the best I've ever had and I've worked with several private trainers before.  Cannot recommend Joel and Echo Park Boxing highly enough. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This place is seriously awesome. The trainers here know what they're doing, and Joel who runs the it is probably the best trainer I've ever had. ..at anything. He teaches technique the way you would want- catering to your strengths/weaknesses or already know individually. It feels like a choose your own adventure, where other places would make you keep up or fail. This is my first time at anything in the martial arts realm, but he's also training people at a high level there too. So it gives me a look into the future. I'm only 3 lessons in, and already I feel like I know more about body movements in fighting than I've ever learned in my whole life. A month ago I probably would have broken my wrist and fallen over while throwing a punch. Only a few lessons later...world beware.I highly recommend the crew here! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This place just opened up near my buddies house and it's legit! Awesome vibe and awesome people all around. Love it and recommend it

Reviewed on Google Maps

Took an intro class with Ben. He was super friendly and immensely helpful. Joel was also very helpful and welcoming. Definitely recommend this place!

Reviewed on Yelp

Been training here for a few months and love it. Haven't done any martial arts or boxing before so I was very confused and intimidated at first, but I soon realized that everyone there is down to help and wants to see you get better. Joel is a great trainer, teaches with plenty of analogies and fun stories along the way. You can tell he really knows his stuff from years of experience, and does a good job sharing that knowledge.  Everyone there is super friendly and helpful and the gym is developing a great vibe. I have been doing Muay Thai, though they also offer boxing and jiu jitsu and it sounds like everyone is equally as happy with those classes and instructors too. And if thats not enough they are also adding some yoga classes. A great neighborhood gym full of great people. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great new addition to Echo Park. I have been looking around for an affordable and most importantly *informative* boxing gym for quite some time and finally found one. You want a good workout? Sure this spot will definitely help with that. But if you're like me and moreso just want to learn the sweet science, then Joel and EPB is who you're looking for. Did a 1 on 1 lesson with Joel and I was happily signed up for a monthly membership by the end of the hour. Actually the first lesson went a bit long, as have subsequent lessons as Joel just likes to talk about boxing and fighting technique, which is awesome. Boxing is awesome and Joel and crew make you realize exactly how awesome it is.The gym is new, which is nice for obvious reasons but also because it's still figuring out what it wants to be. Sometimes classes get cancelled, or new classes pop up... Joel is always looking for feedback so it feels very personalized and like you're on the ground-floor of something special. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I trained tae Kwon do and  Muay Thai for 5yrs down in OC with my kids. I will always give love to Master Pely for my training. Life got busy so we stopped training.  It's has been 2.years and 30lb later. In early July 2015 I started see work being done on the gym. The sign went up ECHO PARK BOXING AND MUAY THAI .  Started checking Facebook and website for opening.Call Joel owner/trainer chatted it up and waited for last finishing touches.  I signed up the first day I could and been there ever since.  Being a Chef it is tough to train at nite so when I found out day classes too HELL YEAH and the 5 min walk from my house is not bad eitherJoel is so knowledgeable on boxing, muay thai and other marital art styles.  He breaks down the techniques from feet work, elbows, knees, kicks and punches.  Every time I train I learn something new if it how to throw hook or holding thai pads. The other coaches/trainers have know Joel for years or trained with him. From Black belt jitsu, MMA fighters, and cardio specialist.  SO IF YOU LOOKING TO TRAIN AND A FAMILY not a meathead gym. Come on in get your sweat on. I DID AND ALREADY LOST 20 OF THOSE 30LBS... More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been coming here since they opened, I had always wanted to learn Muay Thai and since I live down the street I considered it a sign. The class schedule is great for me as I need to be able to go during the day since I work nights. They have classes for the early birds, the people like me that tend to sleep in, and those that want to go after work. All the instructors are really great, different styles and intensities but they all care about the students. I mostly train with the owner Joel but have also taken DeeDee's and other classes on occasion. It's become a nice little community of people I see on the regular and my technique and strength has grown over the months. If you're looking to learn Muay Thai or boxing I recommend checking them out! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

The other reviews here are all spot-on. This place really is deserving of the hype. I've tried a few other martial arts of the years but never made it beyond lesson #1. There is something that seems naturally unwelcoming when you're learning something like this...but that is not the case here.Joel really is the best trainer I've ever met. He takes his time to not only teach you the 'how' but also the 'why'. And it's when I understand the why that something clicks and I realize the goal of a given move.Someone else said it perfectly- he's humble and knowledgeable all at once. I got another trainer another time and he was amazing too (turns out someone that Joel trained years ago and now teaches)I highly recommend Joel and his team here...they seriously rock. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

It had been a while since I had trained (boxing), and I was psyched when Echo Park Boxing opened up down the street from me. The studio is small yet nicely set up and very clean. I purchased a 10-pack of personal training sessions with Joel, the owner. I've been very impressed with his approach: He is chill but really emphasizes good form. You get a great workout but most importantly, you will learn to box properly here. I haven't tried the classes yet but they sound amazing. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been a member since they've opened and i find the instructors to be extremely knowledgeable and most of all challenging. Joel and his staff provide such a positive atmosphere in which to learn Muay Thai, boxing, and other classes that one can never get bored of the variety and quality of classes. Come check it out and share in all the fun. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great gym! All the instructors are super knowledgable and helpful with their instruction. Joel gives the place a welcoming vibe with his excellent teaching and superb music selection. As a total beginner, I've been impressed with how much I've learned in such a short time and how fun it's been to get a good workout. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Been training with Joel, the head instructor, for many years now.  When i heard he opened a gym i had to check it out.  A really nice spot, always very clean and inviting, a friendly atmosphere for people of all skill levels and sizes, with lots of equipment available. The muay thai training is top notch.  Instead of brainlessly throwing set combos, Joel really helps you develop a feel for the game and an appreciation for its intricacies.  I know that my flow, responsiveness, defensive movement, and gamesmanship have progressed greatly under his tutelage.  The explanations of techniques and concepts are often given with hilarious and highly entertaining analogies.It is said that training martial arts is a personal journey of discovery;  one would be hard pressed to find a better guide. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We've been coming here since it first opened this summer. Having trained for many years in the past, starting up again felt great, and Joel is just a great teacher. He breaks down concepts and technique and really helps everyone in the class understand the mechanics and meaning behind every move. The gym is small, but I like that about it. The smaller class size allows for more individual attention. It's very clean and laid out well. I only attend the Muay Thai classes in the mornings these days, but they also offer popular Jiu Jitsu classes and a Muay Thai/Yoga class on Sundays. This place is the real deal! Glad to finally have a gym of this caliber on our side of town. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

World class, yet humble. How often can you say that about a business?I came to EPB having first trained one-on-one with a Muay Thai fighter for two years, then tried two different schools around town. Being used to a more personalized experience, I didn't like either of them. Further research revealed more schools, but a lot of them only offered only evening classes. And then one day, I was driving down Sunset, when I caught the small storefront of EPB. So I called. Turns out that the owner, Joel, used to train with one of my childhood friends. After a complimentary hour-long introduction session, I decided to do a series of 10 one-on-one sessions with Joel.Joel is a very experienced Muay Thai trainer, having lived in Thailand and trained dozens of fighters himself. He is patient and precise, insightful and encouraging. I'm about 7 sessions into my pack of ten, and I've seen my skills become sharper, as well as a change in my body composition. Joel explains things in ways that make the techniques far easier to learn, especially for someone like me who isn't exactly a natural athlete. The gym is also highly creative -- they offer a Chess Boxing class as well as a Muay Thai Yoga class. I would like to try both.If you want the kind of professional boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA training that really fosters a mastery of the art, set in a simple but comfortable and considered environment, Echo Park Boxing and Joel Villines both have my highest recommendation. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Been coming to this place for a moth now and I'm really enjoying the workout that I get from boxing.  I have never done any boxing whatsoever before so I'm still in the process of learning the techniques but I'm enjoying it as I go along.  All the instructors are super cool and they all make sure you get a good workout out of every class.  Owner Joel could not be nicer and he'll work it out so that you enjoy every class you take.  Finally we get a great boxing studio in the neighborhood at an affordable price range.  I strongly recommend this place, even if you're a first timer at boxing, it's worth the try.  Keep up the good work!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Superb boxing, Muay Thai, and cardio boxing classes being offered here! Been going there for three months and luv luv luv the place! Expert professional instructors and very clean and modern looking space. Highly recommend the place for those looking for a fun filled strength and conditioning workouts!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been training with Joel for years and am more than happy to follow him from Hermosa Beach all the way to Echo Park. His knowledge in Muay Thai and Boxing is vast, training with some of the best fighters in Thailand. I've learned a ton skill, correctly, from what he has taught me.Gavin Is a another high class trainer when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu. With a BJJ black belt from Bob Bass (Machado Dirty Dozen and former wrestler). I have trained with both of them in the past and the mix of wrestling and BJJ is unstoppable. If you want to up your technical game or just want a hard workout Echo Park Boxing is the best in the area. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Echo Park Boxing is awesome!1) Exceptionally cool trainers, a real community of great people who, no matter what your level, are willing and HAPPY to work with you to develop skills. 2) Very clean!3) Lots of options for classes, different ways to work on your skills and learn new ones.Well done Joel! You are building a great atmosphere and community with Echo Park Boxing. More...

Reviewed on Yelp