8 Limbs Academy

4542 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143, USA

Address:	4542 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143, USA
Phone:	+1 267-405-3273
Site:	8limbsacademy.com
Rating:	4.9
Working:	6AM–9PM 6AM–9PM 6AM–9PM 6AM–9PM 6AM–9PM 8AM–2PM Closed

Location

Photos 37

Reviews 7

Julia Stone

Before joining 8 Limbs Academy, my martial arts experience was dropping out of Tai Chi, repeatedly, in college. Every semester, I thought it was a good idea and every semester something more pressing would come up. I took the free introductory class thinking it might be neat to see what Muay Thai is and that maybe it would be a good cross-training option for my running. Between the explicitly welcoming language on the website and the genuinely welcoming coaches and fellow students, as well as the HARD workout, I was sold. I signed up for the two week trial and tried to get to as many classes as I could. I love that there are womens only classes which are open to all who identify as women. I love that the peoples Muay Thai (LGBTQAI +) has its own time. I love that the coaches and students are so nice and hit so hard! I love that I have triceps now and that I can do 85 push ups (not in a row, sets of 25) and 4 pull-ups! My original goal was just to do some solid cross-training for my running since weight lifting was getting stale. I started with the womens kickboxing classes since I didnt really want to hit people. Now I also go to the foundations classes. Its awesome! I can punch people! They can kick me! Im still working on some basic things, like keeping my eyes open during sparring and not losing my balance when I teep. This gym is great for folks who dont think they belong in a gym/think martial arts is great for other people. Its a hard work out with a really nice bunch of people. Ive heard its great for experienced fighters as well, but its hard for me to judge that. ;)

Jeff Glidden

I can not recommend this gym highly enough. My wife and I started coming a couple months ago (she in the womens kickboxing class and I in the Muay Thai foundation class). Neither of us had any martial arts experience and we were not exactly doing much of anything to stay in shape (does dog walking count?). We first came to the gym with hopes of improving our self-care and to participate in a new and challenging discipline. We both signed up for the two week trial and were hooked almost immediately. Each class pushes you hard and the coaches offer top notch instruction. I especially appreciate their enthusiasm, humility, and ability to motivate. This gym is perfect for West Philly and there is a wonderful, diverse group of participants with varying ambitions about their training. Walking into a gym can be intimidating but this place is welcoming from the start. This is not your typical "meat head" gym. Participants push one another to improve in a supportive way and there is a strong sense of community when you are at the gym. The coaches emphasize the "art" of muay thai meaning you will learn appropriate technique and form in a safe and controlled environment. My initial concern, before joining, was the cost, but this place is worth budgeting for. I am now a happier and healthier person and I plan to train here as long as I am in the Philadelphia area. Definitely come check it out if you can.

James Smith

I was introduced to Charlie and Kate the day after a good friends fight and since that day I made sure I would be apart of whatever they did in regards to opening a martial arts gym. They are the kindest, smiliest people you could meet. I didnt know much about Muay Thai other than I liked martial arts in general. I have fallen in love with the sport because of these folks. Charlie and Kate offer classes such as: womens kickboxing, foundations classes, effective practice (more advanced), childrens classes, advance fighting, sparring, and lastly Peoples Muay Thai. Peoples Muay Thai is for individuals, such as myself, in the LGBTQAI community. This isnt just for that community but also allied individuals! I found myself feelings well adjusted to the gym to go to any class after taking this particular class. They have opened doors and nurtured a community of varying types of individuals whom I have befriended -- everyone from advanced students to new students are willing and able to learn from each other. Kate and Charlie are also continuing their education on the sport and trying to become the best coaches around, and it shows! Ive never been so happy to get punched and to punch back. Chok Dee!

Mandi Bom

As someone who is new to this martial art, I feel the Coaches do a great job demonstrating, teaching body awareness, and then assisting to correct your form. It is clear they are knowledgeable and experienced fighters. Initially it was Womens muay thai kickboxing which caught my eye after a foot injury. I hoped to replace running with these classes and get into some kind of shape again over time... I had no idea that Id soon join all levels sparring class, be taking foundations classes regularly, and finding myself genuinely interested in learning about the art of muay thai - from watching fights to reading about it, etc. Pretty neat stuff! The Coaches have worked hard to cultivate a community which is representative of west philly which provides a welcoming atmosphere. Not only are they supportive, but also, the members of the gym are motivating forces! Its a place to be comfortable in your own skin no matter what level you are, background, age, etc and challenge your physical abilities. Truly thankful this gym is in my neighborhood. As an added bonus the music is on point m/

JB Brager

I love 8 limbs academy, I never had any interest in joining a gym or pursuing martial arts because I thought it would be sexist and macho and horrible and I am lazy. 8 limbs has provided a safe space for queer and trans people and women to train, learn new skills, and get in epic shape. All of the coaches are really passionate and committed and really rub off on you--its hard to stay away. I feel sad when I go on vacation because Im losing mat time. Ive never in my life pulled myself together after a long day to go to the gym, until I found Muay Thai, and I dont think I would have fallen in love with any other gym or any other group of coaches. No matter what level you are at, you feel like part of a team. Youll leave totally sweaty and sore and super proud of yourself and maybe having been punched in the face and psyched about it. Also they play sweet tunes and are hilarious and sometimes there are hangouts with board games and youll make a lot of friends.

Laurie -old email address- Sather

Muay Thai is for everyone! Whether you are an experienced fighter or have never done anything remotely like martial arts before, 8 Limbs Academy is the place to train. Even though we all work out together, everyone works at their own skill level. People come for all reasons, some are serious fighters, some just want exercise or try something new, and others like me wanted to lose weight (and have!). There are students of all ages (the kids classes are amazing!) and come from all backgrounds and fitness levels. All of the coaches are top notch. Each provides helpful instruction and encouragement. The coaches really push you to push yourself to work as hard as you can. As an added bonus, the coaches are also the nicest people and have cultivated the greatest, most supportive community I have ever experienced.

Neal Santos

No amount of stars can really rate this place, and yet this school is much more than just a place. At the heart of 8 Limbs Academy are great instructors and students alike who genuinely want you to learn the art of Muay Thai Kickboxing. The coaches have an uncanny ability to gauge each students skill level and interest and have your growth as their top priority. No matter what skill level, age, shape or physical capability you grow along with everyone else. Theres no intimidation: everyone enrolled in school comes from all walks of life and has something unique to offer to the overall community. This is the best place to achieve your fitness goals, meet new people and be a part of a greater community thats fast becoming the fighting soul of West Philadelphia.