Reviews of Wilkes Martial Arts and Fitness Academy

My son has been training here for over 5 years, from a tiny 2 year old to now preparing for his Black Belt.

There are a dozen classes closer to us, but we wouldn't be anywhere else!

The instructors are highly skilled but approachable and friendly, and make even the most nervous novice feel welcome and have fun.

Great for adults as well, from those just wanting to give it a go or get fit, to those interested in the sport of MMA and competing.

Is the best dojo that I have ever been too. would go to no other place.

You feel like you can go up to anyone and ask them for help

You feel like you are actually progressing

You feel like they are actually making a difference to you.

The instructors at Wilkes Martial Arts and Fitness are all very kind and approachable, and the dojo has a great family atmosphere. The kids martial arts classes are engaging and develop skills like respect and coordination. Adults have the option of freestyle martial arts, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Eskrima and fitness classes. Since I started training here I've noticed huge improvements in my fitness, confidence, and martial arts skills.

Joining Wilkes was the best thing i have ever done.

Ive met the most supportive people there and are proud to call them my friends

the instructor team are the most kindest and helpful people iver ever met.

joining in 2011 was the best decision ive ever made and would never look back.

i love recommendeding this place to people because i know its a wonderful place

with wonderful people and i have never been so fit.

in the last year ive lost 10kgs and 2 dress sizes just from the classes witch are hard but the most fun.

between the fitness classes, bjj classes and martial arts classes I pretty much live there and i love it.

I have been training with Wilkes since 2012, I turn 41 this year and I dont remember feeling as fit, sharp, confident and balanced in a long time. The atmosphere/vibe created within the gym is a sactuary from pressures of the outside world, the instructors are dedicated and passionate about there art and the progression of all students be it the 3yr olds through to the "older" people like myself.

egos are left at the door and everyone is in there to assist and bring the best out in everyone else regardless of experiance and rank.

anyone thinking of signing their child or children up, I could not recommend Wilkes more highly, the quality and subsatnce in the kids classes are not just self defence and fitness but crucial life skills including respect, courtesy, integrety and dedication.

All in all a fantastic enviroment to train in, a fantastic group of people, quite possible one of the best decisions I have made was walking through the door and getting started.

I joined Wilkes Academy in 2013 after realizing that 25 years of trying every fad diet available had left me a middle aged very overweight man susceptible to diabetes and a shortened life expectancy. My wife and daughter had already joined and I had been along to watch a few times, never even daring to think I could do what they were doing. I was asked a few times by Mr Mitchell if I'd like to join in, but I managed to find an excuse every time. Eventually I plucked up the courage to have a crack at it, fully expecting to feel humiliated. What I discovered was a family of instructors and students who are absolutely dedicated to helping people set a goal and realise it, to get fit and have a laugh at the same time, and to learn a skill that both gives you focus away from life's worries and in the unfortunate event that you need to rely on it, would give you a good chance of defending and protecting yourself in a controlled way.

Eighteen months later, I am 16kg lighter, fitter, happier, healthier and the proud wearer of a blue belt.

I had no confidence that I would last a month when I signed up, but now I can't imagine not having this aim, and these friends, in my life.

My ten year old daughter has her education and attitude assessed prior to every grading and this has proved to be very effective in making her want to 'do the right thing' as well as giving her the ability to defend herself also.

We pay a very reasonable weekly membership fee and can attend as many classes as we wish. This is not only martial arts classes, but also general fitness classes.

Wilkes Academy has changed lots of things about me, but most importantly it has given me a life that I previously thought was out of my reach.

Needless to say, I would recommend them to not only the serious athletes, of which there are many in the Academy, but also to the people like me that need the guidance to change their lifestyle and lose weight and get fit.

This is an amazing dojo. I can't recommend them enough. They are fantastic for aiding in the development of kids, not only helping them with focus and attention skills but also teaching them discipline in ways that are exciting to the kids. With the added bonus of coordination and team work skills, why wouldn't you send your kids here. As for the adults there is a real sense of family. I felt at home as soon as I walked through the door. The higher ranking students are more than willing to help you improve your new found skills and even take the time outside of classes to help. That extra 5mins goes a long way in personal development. Not only am I fitter and stronger but more confident in my own. I'm so grateful I joined this gym and can't wait for what the future holds! Black belt and beyond!