Steel MMA & Fitness
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Steel MMA & Fitness
Our facility is open and ready to serve you! We're taking in a limited amount of new members so let's get you started today. Whether you want to burn off your quarantine 15, learn self defense or working towards your first competition we've got you covered. We continually adjust our programs to the state guidelines and the needs of our community.

However, one thing is always the same, you're going to burn a ton of calories, learn a structured curriculum and have fun doing it. Steel MMA is a place for all. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, you want to become a professional fighter, an amateur fighter, or if you just want to learn the art of striking.
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With a nearly 4,000 square foot facility conveniently located off of SR 52 in Tierrasanta at 5910 Santo Rd. Founded with a genuine interest in bringing a positive and technical approach to martial arts, Steel MMA and Fitness hosts national and world champions across multiple disciplines to serve the greater San Diego Community.
Our community is modeled around the idea that both technical development and fitness goals can be achieved in one fast paced, but welcoming program. The primary keys to this are students that enjoy being challenged, knowledgeable instructors, and a facility that trains students in a manner that is both progressive and recognizes that different experience levels require different training methods.
Steel MMA & Fitness has an incredibly large competition team for it's size which demonstrates our absolute dedication to our members. We have athletes that have competed in nearly every major striking organization in the country and continually develop fighters from the ground up. We host a diverse competition program which offers apprenticeship opportunities to train coaching tracks as well.
We're incredibly grateful for our numerous sponsors that have allowed our team to thrive since the creation of Steel MMA in Teirrasanta. For gyms building competitive athletes (especially with a large amateur division) the works is primarily coach funded. With your sponsorships we have been able to not only grow but thrive in the competitive arena.
Whether you're a professional fighter or it's your very first day we have a class and a coach for you. Make a life changing decision and give martial arts a try today. Check out our growing Youth Muay Thai program and see why parents are raving about our classes. From fitness and confidence building to self defense and competition our classes will keep you child engaged and teach them valuable life skills.
Reviews (25)
Alan G.
Alan G.
Jan 25, 2022
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Recently went to this gym while visiting from out of state and I loved it. Nice facility, clean, great coaches, and an overall friendly and welcoming environment. If you'd like to improve your game definitely also consider booking a personal session with Magalie, she's one of their pro fighters. She was very knowledgeable and helpful. I see now why so many good fighters train at this gym, I will definitely be coming back to train here when I'm in the area. One of my favorite gyms I've been to.
Julie Butts
Julie Butts
Jan 18, 2022
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My family has been going to Steel for over three years. The coaches are professional and inspiring. The lessons from the Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu sessions have been more than the basic skills, my children have learned life lessons in these classes. They have gained confidence and made great friendships. The adult classes are just as amazing. We are very fortunate to be a part of the Steel family. I highly recommend this gym and have referred countless friends and families.
Brendon Raftery
Brendon Raftery
Jan 11, 2022
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After having trained at this gym for 6 years now, and having tried many other gyms in the San Diego area, I can confidently say that Steel is the best striking gym I have ever been to. They offer Jiu Jitsu, Fitness & Kid’s classes as well, which are all taught by outstanding, knowledgeable instructors, but if you’re looking to learn Striking Martial Arts, you wont find better coaches, or better curriculum being taught, in my opinion. My skillset improved dramatically since stepping foot in this gym and working with the Head Coach, Carl. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere was something I noticed
Kevin Conover
Kevin Conover
Jan 10, 2022
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Best in class gym with some of the most passionate and dedicated instructors and ownership in the business who truly care about their students.
Peter Kotter
Peter Kotter
Jan 06, 2022
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This is a horrible gym. Letting people get knocked out in sparring sessions and even encouraging it. 1 star
Rick S.
Rick S.
Jan 03, 2022
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Critical: Professionalism
Very good gym to go to if you're in the mood to KO some amateurs as warm up!
Jarryd V.
Jarryd V.
Dec 10, 2021
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Coach Carl and Coach Hiro were awesome to learn from. The way they break down technique is amazing and this attention to detail on the first day I visited sold me instantly. Besides the technical aspects of their coaching, they also push you to be a better version of yourself which was always something I truly appreciated. Not only are the coaches awesome, but everyone at the gym was very welcoming and friendly. The gym offers a multitude of classes throughout the week that can fit your schedule and at an affordable price. They also have showers which were convenient if you wanted to get a quick
Jacob S.
Jacob S.
Mar 21, 2021
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I think I've found my home here at steel. Coach Carl is AMAZING teammates are AMAZING life is slowly starting to become more AMAZING now that Covid is starting to die down!

I'll probably write a more comprehensive review but I just had to get this out of the way! Been here since Oct. 2020
Sarah Mendiola
Sarah Mendiola
Dec 30, 2020
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You can feel the enthusiasm for the martial arts when you walk through the doors! Owner and head coach Carl loves what he does and is truly invested not only in his gym but also in each and every client and fighter. This is a family friendly gym with a large youth jujitsu and Muay Thai program. The gym is kept very clean at all times and you will feel comfortable in the atmosphere here. I have been training here for three years now and never thought i would compete but the team here helped and supported me on my journey to make it happen not just once but twice! While you dont have to fight to
Angelo Escobar
Angelo Escobar
Aug 04, 2020
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From the moment I inquired on classes with Miss Z, and even after taking my first class with coach Carl, Steel MMA made me feel very welcomed at their academy. I was visiting San Diego for a week and this is by far the #1 thing im gonna miss the most. Here we have an authentic, friendly training environment with everyone trying to make each other better.
Everyone should have a reason to exercise... Whether it’s to just get into shape, or to train to be a fighter, but whichever path is decided Steel offers enough classes structured for adults and kids to meet their goals. Don’t fear, If you
Kimberly H.
Kimberly H.
Feb 26, 2020
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The Program Director is very responsive to helpful with questions. Coaching staff are so passionate and welcoming. Coach Carl is a great teacher who is so knowledge about the Muay Thai art. There are many classes offered on the schedule. Bathrooms and showers are available on site. You just have to try it out for yourself.
Aaron M.
Aaron M.
Sep 23, 2019
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Incredible customer service, awesome price, excellent classes, and I was amazed how flexible they were with working around my time in San Diego.

I would become a regular if I was living in San Diego, but each time I am in town I will certainly be dropping in and recommending to my friends.

All of the classes were awesome and I think this is my favorite coaching I've ever had (also awesome strength/conditioning classes).
John-Michael G.
John-Michael G.
Sep 11, 2019
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Coach Selena! Thank you for the intense workout on Monday. Alot of respect for getting the best workout out of me. I was definitely sore, but I'm stretching out and looking forward to class tonight.

For all you don't know.......

You Can't Spell LEGENDARY,

Without LEG DAY!

Rock on Coach
Brett R.
Brett R.
Feb 15, 2019
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Joined Steel the Monday after getting whooped in open sparring the Friday prior. After the humbling it was obvious I needed much more Muay Thai training. I was 45 and was welcomed by literally every member, coach and pro fighter. Everyone was more than patient and happy to take the extra time to help me get up to speed with the classes. Since Steel teaches MMA I decided to try out Jiu Jitsu and it was a life changing decision. The martial art and in particular the coaching has me literally addicted. The class sizes range from 6-25+ with smaller class sizes in the afternoon. Incredibly individualized
Felipe Aparicio
Felipe Aparicio
Nov 23, 2018
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Best gym in San Diego. The coaches are very helpful and passionate to get you to be a better version of yourself. No matter what skill level the coaches will make you feel special. Everyone is really nice and friendly. Very family oriented you feel at home here. Wether you want to lose weight build cardio or just develop some skills this is the place to be. There competition gym is so legit. Try the place out learn some martial arts or just get fit.
Dyllan W.
Dyllan W.
Apr 25, 2018
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I have been going to Steel since late November 2017, and I have absolutely no regrets. The variety of classes, great coaches, and good people that go everyday make it seem like a second home. The variety of classes allows you to push yourself and try new things out of your comfort zone
Steve A.
Steve A.
Apr 20, 2018
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Great Gym in Tierrasanta! Muay Thai
Boxing
MMA

and

Jiu Jit Su right from the World Champion Baret Yoshida!
Noelle V.
Noelle V.
Dec 08, 2017
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I loved training here!! Everyone was so nice and welcoming. Never did I ever feel out of place or judged. It was also great that it felt that it was important for them to know not just my face but my name as well. Membership prices were reasonable and I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a place to train
Chris Q.
Chris Q.
Jun 29, 2017
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When I'm traveling, I have been lucky enough to try out different Muay Thai gyms from different cities and countries. But I have to say Steel MMA has been one of the best places I was able to participate in!

I was visiting family in the San Diego area a few days and managed to take some classes here while I had some free time. I was able to take both the beginning and intermediate classes. The moment I walked in I was greeted by one of the coaches and directed to the right direction. The beginning level Muay Thai class was engaging and the stuff the coach was showing absolutely made sense
Stefan E.
Stefan E.
Jan 02, 2017
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I love this place. I moved here almost 3 years ago, and am so glad I joined this team. The Steel team and coaches provide such a great opportunity for growth, whether you're a beginner just looking to learn some basics, or a veteran who wants to up her/his game. I've been training under Coach Carl Gebhardt for over 2 years now, and I do PT's with him as well. His understanding of striking is like nothing I've seen before. He understands striking like a master chess player understands chess, with multiple layers and phases throughout a match/sparring rounds. His style reminds
Jason Q.
Jason Q.
Oct 19, 2016
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I highly recommend Steel MMA!! I have SO much fun every time. The atmosphere is perfect. It feels more like family than anything else. There is a great balance of guys, girls and children all having fun learning Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu. Everyone is super friendly, respectful and helpful. You are probably going to meet either Mike (one of the owners) or Zoarel walking in for the first time. They are totally ready to answer any questions about Muay Thai or MMA and will make you feel more than welcome.

I have an analytical mind and like to ask LOTS of questions. "Z" has always been super
Emily Bigelow
Emily Bigelow
Sep 02, 2016
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I can't stand 24-Hour Fitness because it's so busy and you have to come almost a half hour before any class in order to get a spot. I wanted to find a gym that had fun classes that would also give me an incredible workout. Now, I'm not one to sit on any machines, I only do classes, so when I found Steel MMA, it was perfect! What I love about Steel MMA's classes is that the workouts work EVERY PART OF YOUR BODY and it's such a fun way to release stress. Believe me, I'm not a fighter which I think some people don't realize that you don't have to be to join a MMA gym. It's a functional workout that
Adam A.
Adam A.
Jul 28, 2016
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I have been shopping around for a new place to train Muay Thai in San Diego when I came across Steel online. I got a free guest pass and tried out there intermediate class at 11pm... Man was I surprised at how legit they are! 1.5 hrs of straight technique, drills, and light sparring. Coach Carl is amazing and has so much to teach. I enjoy his coaching style because he always tries to find ways to better your technique. The staff is extremely friendly and professional. You can tell that they love what they do and they have a true passion for martial arts. I am so excited to be a part of a team that
Kevin C.
Kevin C.
Jul 06, 2016
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I can't say enough great things about the entire coaching staff and team here. I've been training Muay Thai for over a year and a half with them and haven't looked back. Like others have said, even though this is a new facility, these coaches have been a huge part of the Muay Thai/Jiu Jitsu/MMA community in San Diego for many many years.

People of all different age groups and skill levels train here, and we're all one big family. Everyone checks their ego at the door. We train hard, but it's a ton of fun and the goal is always to help each other learn and improve.

If
Felice G.
Felice G.
Jun 30, 2016
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Steel MMA and Fitness may be a 'new gym', but let me tell you this place has some serious roots. The owners and coaching staff live and breath martial arts, they are very passionate about teaching technique and skill in a fun environment. The staff are skilled at working with every level of individual, athlete or not, novice or pro, you will learn a lot from the knowledge and skill these guys have to offer. The environment is inviting, and if you are at all interested to see what Steel MMA is about, stop by and drop in on a class. The rates are very competitive, the classes are scheduled