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Kickboxing for Beginners in Tempe
12 gyms in Tempe, Arizona show real evidence — from their own sites or students' reviews — of being a welcoming place to take your very first kickboxing class. That first class is simpler than the nerves suggest: you don't need to be fit, you won't be thrown into hard sparring, and a patient coach walks beginners through stance, punches and kicks on the pads and bag at their own pace. Wear comfortable athletic clothes, bring water, and expect a warm-up, some shadowboxing and footwork, and a few combos learned slowly — many gyms lend gloves so you don't need to buy anything yet. Gyms are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 12 beginner-friendly options in town, it's worth calling ahead, saying it's your first time, and asking which class on the schedule they'd start you with.
1. EVKM Self Defense & Fitness | Krav Maga
4.9 ★★★★★ 407 reviews
“I was so impressed with the knowledge and quality instruction that was presented from the instructors, over all, the atmosphere was amazing. Keith is honest and I didn't feel…” — Luis
2. Jay Pages Jiu-Jitsu & MMA
4.9 ★★★★★ 302 reviews
“Super welcoming crew! Dropped in for a 6 am class while visiting town, and had a blast. Jay is so knowledgeable and approachable. He takes time for questions, and has a really…” — Brandon
3. Arizona Combat Sports
5 ★★★★★ 243 reviews
“I think this is the best MMA gym in the city in my opinion. Could be the best in the state. I love how the classes are set up to challenge you and improve Everytime you go in.…” — Rohit
4. Irongloves Boxing Gym
4.8 ★★★★★ 228 reviews
“Boxing gym is a great spot to visit. Was in town for the weekend and is stopped by to check this place out. The owners wife greeted me and was super welcoming and friendly. I…” — Brandon
5. JAB Fitness
4.6 ★★★★★ 202 reviews
“Great gym! John Long and Jason Ellegood are some of the best coaches I have worked with. They have lots of classes for beginners, intermediate, and advance fighters. The gym is…” — Steven
6. Performance Arizona
4.8 ★★★★★ 147 reviews
“Going to a fighting gym can be incredibly nerve wracking your first time! Luckily the staff and students create an amazing environment that has something for everyone. From…” — Justin
7. Phoenix JKD
5 ★★★★★ 104 reviews
“I’ve trained at other schools and various other arts for 17 years before arriving at JKD Institute . I can say with confidence that the training, techniques, and various real life…” — Peter
8. Sunshine's Boxing, Muay Thai, and Fitness
4.9 ★★★★★ 99 reviews
9. KBX PHX Fitness Kickboxing
5 ★★★★★ 79 reviews
10. Fluid Martial Arts Academy
4.9 ★★★★★ 58 reviews
“Did a week trial here and sat in on some BJJ lessons With my girlfriend, I would HIGHLY recommend this place, The instructor was super cool and supportive. The lessons we sat in…” — Olson
11. Rumble Boxing
4.8 ★★★★★ 46 reviews
“I’ve been going to Rumble since May and it is the best 45 minute workout I’ve found! The instructors are amazing, the front desk staff is so awesome and friendly and supportive!!…” — Erica
12. Knockout Fitness
4.8 ★★★★★ 35 reviews
“This is a great gym. The team is very welcoming, encouraging and respectful. Gym is clean and equipped and they provide you with the stuff you need for class. I almost threw up…” — Bobbi
Booking your first class in Tempe: practical notes
- Call ahead and say you're new. Ask which class they'd start a beginner with — many gyms have a beginner or all-levels class that's a gentler introduction than the advanced floor. A good front desk loves this question.
- Ask how sparring works. You won't be made to spar as a beginner; find out whether and how a gym introduces sparring so you know exactly what you're signing up for.
- Keep gear simple. Comfortable athletic clothes and water are enough for a first class — most gyms here lend gloves, so you can try kickboxing before buying anything. See the what-to-wear guide.
- Go at your own pace. Being winded the first time is normal and expected. Take breaks, drink water, and let your fitness build over your first few weeks — nobody expects a beginner to keep up with the regulars.
- Use a free trial. Many gyms offer a free trial class — the cheapest, lowest-pressure way to find the room that fits. See free kickboxing trial classes.
Beginner kickboxing near Tempe
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