Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy
“We haven't found any other activity with such a well-rounded emphasis on core strength, flexibility, balance and cardio that the whole family can participate in together at their own level and pace”
Best Martial Arts Classes in Waterloo, ON
15 gyms listed · 8 in Waterloo · 13 open weekends · all 15 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 18, 2026
Shamuon Generation of Martial Arts
“I appreciate the focus on respect, discipline and confidence, along with learning martial arts.”
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Gentle Arts Dojo
“The coaches genuinely care about their students and keep finding better ways to teach instead of clinging to the old ways.”
Japan Martial Arts Centre
“Sensei Kam Arefi is the grandmaster that has built it all for anyone that wants to remould themselves into a individual with character, dignity, self-confidence and respect.”
D'Souza Martial Arts Academy
“I've witnessed their transformation in becoming more confident and learning to be resilient.”
Grand River Karate
“Also, managed to become a yellow belt and I encourage everyone to come check out Grand River Karate which managed to put a smile on my face each class I attended.”
The 15 gyms listed for Waterloo, ON teach martial arts and combat sports. Styles taught, youth programs and class times come from each gym's own pages, with star ratings from public reviews.
Area overview: Waterloo, ON
8 of the 15 gyms we list are based in Waterloo; the other 7 serve Waterloo from Kitchener (6 km). The gyms on this page are rated from 4.5 to 5.0 across 888 reviews; 9 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the gyms on this page are "atmosphere", "skills" and "confidence". 13 are open on Saturdays and 2 on Sundays. 8 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 24 years. 2 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 15 of the gyms on this page; 11 publish a contact page; 12 list a public email and 7 take bookings online. We count these figures across the gyms on this page; distances are straight-line, and hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the gym before you enrol.
Which gyms listed for Waterloo show a timetable online?
All 15 gyms have a website on file. The useful ones name the instructor against each slot and mark which classes take beginners. A site built around the founder's rank and a contact form tells you nothing about the Tuesday night you would actually be standing in.
Golden Triangle Aikido
“In is traditional Dojo, that besides teaching you martial arts you will learn discipline, control and respect.”
Waterloo Jiu Jitsu Club
“Absolutely great place to learn self-defense and have a lot of fun sparring and grappling with others.”
Heritage Martial Arts & Fitness Centre Inc.
“What an amazing facility and staff, I highly recommend this to any and all that would benifit from his decades of skill and experiences.”
Return Of the Dragon Martial Arts
“He brought specific examples of how what he was training would help with their baseball and linked the two sports for the kids to understand.”
Kitchener Karate Academy
“We highly recommend Kitchener Karate Academy to any family looking for a martial arts program that not only teaches excellent technique but also builds character.”
Guardhouse Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“With a wide selection of experinced teachers it keeps me challenged and a feel I will expand my skills at a quicker rate compared to other gyms.”
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TKO Fighting Arts
“TKO is a fantastic gym, whether you're brand new (like me) or a seasoned veteran of muay thai/MMA, as they offer beginner all the way to competitive.”
Kitchener Kicks Martial Arts Centre
“The training is not just about physical techniques - there's a strong emphasis on the philosophy and discipline behind Kung Fu, which has helped my family and I build both confidence and mindfulness in everyday life.”
Darkside Muay Thai
“Vibe is overall very welcoming and fun, I drove from Guelph because the gym was 100% worth the 30 min drive compared to what I could find locally.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about gyms in Waterloo
- “The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and professional, creating a supportive and disciplined environment.” — from a review of Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy
- “Black belt practitioners Justin, Faisal, and Mohammad (along with their respective instructors) have created an environment of positive reinforcement, professionalism, knowledge-seeking, and just downright fun for their students.” — from a review of Gentle Arts Dojo
- “They teach discipline, respect, and confidence alongside karate skills, which has had a positive impact on my son’s focus and self-esteem.” — from a review of Japan Martial Arts Centre
- “The club is incredibly clean and provides such a safe, positive environment where the kids are encouraged to build confidence, discipline, and respect — while still having a lot of fun.” — from a review of Shamuon Generation of Martial Arts
- “The dojo has a very welcoming atmosphere that gives a real sense of community which makes it a great learning environment.” — from a review of Golden Triangle Aikido
Excerpts from public reviews of the gyms listed on this page.
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