Elijah RomeroFinding the right martial arts studio in Denver can feel overwhelming since there are so many choices. If you want to get in shape or help your kids build confidence and discipline, you’ll definitely find places that fit your needs. The question is just which one.
Denver has some amazing academies specializing in everything from traditional karate to energetic kickboxing and technical ground fighting. We’ve checked out these gyms ourselves to see which ones actually follow through on their promises!
After exploring the local scene, we’ve put together this list of the top places where you can grow, sweat, and build real confidence right here in the Mile High City. Read on!
How much does a martial art cost in Denver?
Martial arts classes in Denver usually cost between $50 and $250 per month, depending on the style and how often you train.
Most adult classes fall in the $150 to $200 range, while specialized programs like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Krav Maga can be up to $250.
| Training Type | Monthly Rate |
| Adult General Classes | $150 – $200 |
| Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | $100 – $250 |
| Krav Maga Programs | $169 – $229 |
| Children’s Martial Arts | $50 – $200 |
| Private Instruction | $50 – $120 |
1. Pound 4 Pound Muay Thai
Website: https://www.p4pkickboxing.com/
Address: 5302 S Federal Cir Ste C, Littleton
Contacts: +1 (303) 359 – 3346; [email protected]
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 7:30 pm, Sat 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Pound 4 Pound Muay Thai is a top spot for real Muay Thai and kickboxing, taught by instructors with actual pro fight experience.
The workouts here are super intense but still friendly for beginners, so you get sweaty and build real skills without feeling lost.
When we visited their downtown gym, it was clear that the coaches really care about teaching solid technique, not just having people hit pads without purpose.
One member even shared how the detailed feedback from coaches helped them fix a hip rotation problem they’d had for years at other places.
Plus, if you want to train before work, their early morning classes are a great fit.
The only downside is that they’re closed on Sundays, which isn’t great if weekends are your main time for training.
The dedication and time put into the curriculum is shown daily
Been going here for years. This place is amazing. The facility is gorgeous, the staff is welcoming and can help anyone if any level. The dedication and time put into the curriculum is shown daily. Give this place a try
- Alejandro Rodriguez Google Review
Happy to be training here
Really can’t say enough good things about this gym. Justin and Ashleigh are just all around great people who take a lot of pride in creating a welcoming environment and putting out a solid product. They have a variety of classes for all skill levels and the community is very inviting. Happy to be training here!
- Cameron Papworth Google Review
2. Shotokan Karate Dojo
Website: https://shotokankaratedojo.com/
Address: 12102 E. Mississippi Ave.
Contacts: +1 (303) 323-8862 / [email protected]
Hours: Mon – Fri 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Sat 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Shotokan Karate Dojo stays true to classic Shotokan Karate, focusing on both building character and mastering technique. The instructors are experienced Black Belts with years of experience in the traditional Japanese style.
Their classes run in a very organized way with a strong emphasis on basics and mental discipline. This creates a calm and respectful atmosphere, which makes the dojo feel clean and professional.
It’s definitely an awesome spot for parents who want their kids to grow in a structured setting that teaches sincerity and self-control.
But keep in mind classes begin in the late afternoon, which might not fit everyone’s schedule. Also, if you’re after modern MMA training, the strict focus on tradition could seem a bit too rigid.
It’s very amazing to watch as your kids growing and learning defense
Amazing class to get your kids into when they enter the class. They automatically make friends it’s more of a community and a family. Once you enter, it’s very amazing to watch as your kids growing and learning defense, and how to defend ourselves.
- Elizabeth Rondeau Google Review
We highly recommend this karate class
We’ve been attending the dojo for two years and absolutely happy with the knowledges and teaching methods. The service provided is exceptional. We highly recommend this karate class. Our kids like to see how their skills improve and see the results in tournaments.
- Alyona Kostina Google Review
3. Easton Training Center – Denver
Website: http://eastonbjj.com/denver
Address: 1304 S Santa Fe Dr.
Contacts: +1 (720) 722-6535; [email protected]
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sat 8:00 am – 1:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Easton Training Center is a major spot for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai in Colorado. They’re known for building top competitors in the area.
Their classes follow a curriculum, letting new students move ahead step-by-step instead of feeling overwhelmed right away. This setup is perfect for anyone who likes having a clear path to the next belt or skill level.
When we checked out a class, we were really impressed by the huge mat space and pro-level equipment.
We even chatted with a purple belt who said one of the best things about Easton is the network of sister schools. This means you can train easily even if you’re traveling around the Front Range.
But because Easton is so popular, the class sizes can get pretty big during busy hours. You might not get as much one-on-one time with instructors in those packed evening sessions.
It was clear the instructor has all the skills to teach a higher level class
I attended a Wednesday evening 7 p.m. kickboxing class here while I was visiting from out of town. The coach was extremely knowledgeable and welcoming, with a banger playlist, paying attention to all students and fine tuning technique. It was a bit more of a beginner class, which is not a bad thing! No one is above reviewing basics. I got the workout I needed and also learned a few things to work on. It was clear the instructor has all the skills to teach a higher level class as well, that just wasn’t the one I ended up at.
- Mo Riah Google Review
Great instruction from the coaches and super friendly people
I have been training at Easton for almost 2 years. This a good, welcoming place. Great instruction from the coaches and super friendly people. Higher belts always feel willing to help you learn. Big shout out to Tim and Rob, they’re the best
- Chris Campbell Google Review
4. Dark Horse Combat Club
Website: https://darkhorsecombatclub.com/
Address: 950 Santa Fe Dr.
Contacts: +1 (303) 900-8111
Hours: Mon – 6:00 am –7:00 am & 4:45 pm – 9:00 pm, Tue: 6:00 am – 12:45 pm & 4:45 pm – 8 pm, Wed: 6:00 am – 7:00 am & 4:45 pm – 8:00 pm, Thur: 6:00 am –12:45 pm & 4:45 pm – 8:00 pm, Fri: 6:00 am – 7:00 am & 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm, Sat: 9:00 am – 12:15 pm & 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm, Sunday: 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Dark Horse Combat Club is a community-focused gym that specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai.
The vibe here is really welcoming and doesn’t have the ego you can sometimes find at more competitive gyms in Denver.
The coaches are super patient and always break down techniques so everyone can follow along easily. It honestly feels like a place where people truly want you to succeed, no matter if you’re just doing this for fun or going for serious competition.
We noticed right away how much they care about safety. We also liked the clean showers, which are perfect for fitting in a workout during the day.
On top of that, they offer special women’s self-defense classes, making it easy for newcomers to get started and feel comfortable.
The only thing to watch out for is that the gym gets pretty crowded during peak hours, so you might need to arrive a little early to get a good spot on the mats.
From the second lesson I began to understand the technique
I started a women’s self-defense class few weeks ago. Our coach Arianna encouraged me as a beginner, and from the second lesson I began to understand the technique and reproduce it in practice. Arianna explains and shows the exercises very well, which gives me joy and pleasure from the class. Thank you Dark Horse!
- Julia Google Review
Orientation classes are free and a great way to get a first look at BJJ with low pressure
I have been training at Dark Horse for a little over 3 1/2 years and have loved every moment here. We have a very collaborative and supportive community that has become an incredibly valuable “third space” for me and many others who train here. If you’re on the fence about trying out BJJ, come check us out! Orientation classes are free and a great way to get a first look at BJJ with low pressure and 1:1 attention from an experienced student.
- Nate Cooperrider Google Review
5. Colorado Krav Maga
Website: https://www.coloradokravmaga.com/
Address: 5100 Broadway #400
Contacts: +1 (720) 315-5559 / +1 (303) 233-5728
Hours: Mon – Fri 11:00 am – 8:30 pm, Sat 9:00 am – 11:30 pm
Colorado Krav Maga is all about real-world self-defense that’s practical and simple to learn. This system was created for the Israeli Defense Forces, and Denver’s instructors keep things true to those efficient roots.
They’re also certified and run the drills safely, making sure things stay realistic without going overboard.
We’ve heard from students that the training is very direct and focused completely on neutralizing threats fast, which is awesome for personal safety.
You’ll get a tough full-body workout in every class, so you’re not just learning to protect yourself, you’re building strength and endurance, too!
However, it’s worth noting that monthly rates here are a bit higher compared to some smaller local studios. Also, there aren’t any Sunday classes, which might make it tough for people with busy weekdays.
I love when they bring out props to learn defense and take downs of guns and knives
I have attended 6 or 7 classes now, and it’s 1) A great workout; 2) A fun environment; and 3) A place I feel like I can learn a martial art safely but with real applicable skills for self-defense if i ever need. I love when they bring out props to learn defense and take downs of guns and knives. I would never have had an idea of it before these classes.
- Andrea Joy Studzinski Google Review
The instructors have been so nice and welcoming
I absolutely love this place! Starting a martial art at 37 was kind of intimidating, however, I am so happy I did. The instructors have been so nice and welcoming. Also, all the other students Are very kind and I feel right at home. I would recommend this place for anyone. It doesn’t matter your skill, level age, weight, physical fitness level, this place works for everyone! 10 out of 10 would definitely recommend to all my friends and family!
- Jacob Witzburg Google Review
