UPRISE MMA began as Way of the Warrior Training in 2008 with the goal of high quality instruction in a fun and safe environment. Every student receives hands on training from top coaches. UPRISE MMA will help you achieve your goals while learning effective self-defense and combat training while getting in the best shape of your life.
That warrior spirit and zest for life inspired Pete on a life long journey into the world of martial arts and eventually to the opening of Way of the Warrior Training in 2008 and eventually UPRISE MMA. There will be confidence and conditioning drills to help improve the students motor skills, flexibility and agility.
That warrior spirit and zest for life inspired Pete on a life long journey into the world of martial arts and eventually to the opening of Way of the Warrior Training in 2008 and eventually UPRISE MMA. There will be confidence and conditioning drills to help improve the students motor skills, flexibility and agility.
Reviews (27)
Owen Finnegan
Jan 14, 2022
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Michael W.
Aug 04, 2021
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Called this gym on 8/4 around 10:15am to ask a few questions about their hours and programs. The guy that answered the phone wasn't very pleasant or accommodating, and he hung up on me without saying a word. Just rude and not at all helpful. You're running a business, and you want to draw people in, not repel them. I guess I'll keep looking for a gym because this probably isn't the place for me. If a guy can be rude over the phone to a potential client, that says a lot about the business.
Patrycja A.
Apr 20, 2021
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Uprise is so much more than a gym.
When I moved to LA, I reached out to and tried out a few MMA places, but my experience with Uprise - from the first contact with the owner Pete over email - was by far the best. First, I really respected Pete's approach: he offers a free week trail and is very transparent about pricing. The matts are clean - they get cleaned and sanitized between MMA and BJJ classes. People are asked to use the sanitizing wipes to clean the pads after they've been using them, and you can use them to clean your gloves and shin guards as well. The Muay Thai and MMA classes
When I moved to LA, I reached out to and tried out a few MMA places, but my experience with Uprise - from the first contact with the owner Pete over email - was by far the best. First, I really respected Pete's approach: he offers a free week trail and is very transparent about pricing. The matts are clean - they get cleaned and sanitized between MMA and BJJ classes. People are asked to use the sanitizing wipes to clean the pads after they've been using them, and you can use them to clean your gloves and shin guards as well. The Muay Thai and MMA classes
Gio Tavanlar Iv
Jun 27, 2020
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It is the burst of scent that greets you when you pull open that glass door that i found most moving about my ecperience visiting this place. Makes you wonder what has kept you from having this... this ripe energy... this awesomeness around you all day long, and 365. This is how i imagine i would think if i ever set foot in here instead of the Yumyum store nearby. 👏 Discuss ⏳
Eric Johnson
Jun 26, 2020
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Great gym, but a small hygiene issue. Good selection of classes at all times, members are all very nice and friendly. All the coaches seem very knowledgeable and willing to help students of all levels.
My only gripe with the gym is that a lot of people walk off the mats without wearing their shoes. Some even go to the restroom without slippers or shoes (disgusting) and then walk back on the mats. Although they have members that clean the mats before some classes, that doesn’t help when people walk off the mats and then walk back on tracking dirt and restroom fluids back onto the mats where we
My only gripe with the gym is that a lot of people walk off the mats without wearing their shoes. Some even go to the restroom without slippers or shoes (disgusting) and then walk back on the mats. Although they have members that clean the mats before some classes, that doesn’t help when people walk off the mats and then walk back on tracking dirt and restroom fluids back onto the mats where we
Ahron Townsley
Nov 19, 2019
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Uprise MMA is the best gym I’ve trained at. The gym has an incredible Muay Thai program. The level of instruction is top-notch, the pricing of the gym is very reasonable, the facility is clean, and the people are friendly. Overall its great place to learn Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, or MMA. I highly recommend this gym.
M. T.
Oct 10, 2019
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I've been training at Uprise for 6 months now (Muay Thai - 3x/week). Before that, i've had 5 years in Taekwondo and 1 year each in Karate Kyokushin+Aikido. Though not a pro at all, i definitely know what a true and good martial art gym must have:
-A knowledgeable and caring coach
-Committing, experienced and nice partners
-Adequate equipment in good condition
-Affordable pricing
-Manageable class schedule
Uprise MMA has all of these. Period.
And if you still don't trust me, you can always do the 1-week free trial to see for yourself.
-A knowledgeable and caring coach
-Committing, experienced and nice partners
-Adequate equipment in good condition
-Affordable pricing
-Manageable class schedule
Uprise MMA has all of these. Period.
And if you still don't trust me, you can always do the 1-week free trial to see for yourself.
Michael T.
Aug 28, 2019
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Very CLEAN matts. Today I took my first jiu-jitsu class there (more on that later). I watched the tail end of the intermediate Muay-Thai class led by Pete Panos. As soon as the class was finished over 3 students thoroughly cleaned the matts. The first student swept the entire area with a industrial size duster and then two students cleaned followed. One held an industrial size swiffer looking thing while the other student led with a spray solution of some sort. They covered every square inch. I know, I watched. And they did it with such joy and care Mr. Miyagi style. - When it was time for the
L. A. Jennings
Aug 07, 2019
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This is a fantastic gym, filled with friendly people and a wonderful Coach! I came in for while Thai Pad session while traveling and I was immediately welcomed and felt like family. I’ve trained at numerous MMA gyms over the years, and Uprise is one of the hardest workouts I have had in a long time. I can’t wait to visit L.A. again to train with Coach Pete.
Ingrid Avila
Jul 31, 2019
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What an amazing gym !,before coming to uprise mma i was going to a crossfit gym but i wasnt a 100% happy there because most of their coaches including the owners would make me and a few other people feel less,somwtimes they would get there and focus on certain people or just talk to them ,not even a hi or anything.this gym is way different since the first day i got there you can feel a great environment! From a hey or a smile when u get there to a good job when u leave ,no matter how big or small the class is the coaches always go around and and help everyone equally,i just feel at home when im
Julia S.
May 31, 2019
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I do not like to exercise but my aged body tells me I have no choice. I then tried few things in last couple years but never stick to any. That is typical me with exercise. Lol ... By chance, I went to check out the beginner class at Uprise MMA. Everyone is so friendly, encouraging, and respectful. Coach comes around often to give key points. I didn't feel a bit awkward even in my first class and learned a lot. I told myself I could go twice a week, then one week later I started to go three time a week, then ... I am now addicted to it and can see myself going long term. I finally find a
Andrew G.
Feb 07, 2019
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COME AND GET YOUR FIRST WEEK FREE!!!
I have to point out that the atmosphere around here is very friendly, very approachable people, so far no egos. What surprised me was how nice the coach was. Typically a lot of MMA gym coaches come with the impression of "you need me I don't need you l" attitude or they think they're a badass and act disinterested. But here it's pretty awesome.
PROS -
1. Various martial arts from mma, Muay Thai, Jiu jistsu, wrestling
2. Fair prices and I love the month to month contract options
3. Very clean and everything is pretty organized
I have to point out that the atmosphere around here is very friendly, very approachable people, so far no egos. What surprised me was how nice the coach was. Typically a lot of MMA gym coaches come with the impression of "you need me I don't need you l" attitude or they think they're a badass and act disinterested. But here it's pretty awesome.
PROS -
1. Various martial arts from mma, Muay Thai, Jiu jistsu, wrestling
2. Fair prices and I love the month to month contract options
3. Very clean and everything is pretty organized
Sean Kohnen
Aug 31, 2018
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Great gym. Fantastic instructors and a friendly, welcoming environment for both experienced players and people new to combat sports. Good mats, a cage, plus weights, bags, etc. so you can get a full workout. If you're looking for a sports community and an awesome martial arts training center on the west side, this is your spot.
Angelo S.
Jul 19, 2018
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Andy V.
Jul 03, 2018
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Uprise MMA is a great place to train whether you're someone who wants to increase your general fitness or an aspiring amateur fighter. I've been training here for almost two years and still look forward to coming in every day. I joined with no martial arts background and started with Muay Thai. A few months later I started BJJ and now I train both. I've even competed a few times in BJJ!
The environment is laid back but respectful. For BJJ, we do not require one color gi or make you purchase the team gi/rashguard, you can wear whatever you want as long as it's clean. Although
The environment is laid back but respectful. For BJJ, we do not require one color gi or make you purchase the team gi/rashguard, you can wear whatever you want as long as it's clean. Although
Number
Jun 30, 2018
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Angelo Salvador
Jun 26, 2018
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I was looking for an MMA gym a month ago for fitness and training. There was a lot in the area but only UPRISE MMA has the schedule to work with mine. I tried out the free class for 7 days and joined after the trial. Coaches are hands-on, focusing on your technique. Members are friendly and will help you out too. Recommend UPRISE MMA.
Kenny T.
Oct 11, 2017
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I have been training at Uprise MMA for a few months now and still love everything it has to offer. Before picking Uprise as the right gym for me, I had visited a handful of other Muay Thai/Brazilian Jiu-jitsu gyms for their free trial period. These gyms included Dynamix MMA, Westside Training Center, Uprise, and Boxing works. Dynamix and Boxing works both offered one free class while Uprise and Westside Training both offered a full week for free. I did like Westside training as it was walkable from where I currently live, however they only offer 3 Muay Thai classes a week.
I ended up choosing
I ended up choosing
Heavy C.
Oct 03, 2017
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I was turned away as I have to wear foot inserts/ shoes due to back pain. I spoke to the head instructor (I think) about my condition and was told I couldn't go on the mat because of "rules" that exist around going bare foot. Sucks to know they don't provide any flexibility to people with injuries/ physical issues. Other mma/boxing gyms told me it wouldn't be an issue as long as I wore clean boxing shoes.
Broc J.
Dec 29, 2015
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What can I say. The Jiu Jitsu instructor Gustavo is a multi world champ in gi and nogi. He is a black belt under Fabricio Werdum, and is very technical with his instructions as well as patient with new students.
Pete, the Muay Thai/Striking instructor is very humble and friendly. He helps everyone from 9-5er working people that want to take up a new sport for fitness to hardcore people that want to compete in Kickboxing tournaments.
The vibe here is like a family. There is no ego when we train. The less macho mentality is open to women and children students. Sometimes we go out to watch
Pete, the Muay Thai/Striking instructor is very humble and friendly. He helps everyone from 9-5er working people that want to take up a new sport for fitness to hardcore people that want to compete in Kickboxing tournaments.
The vibe here is like a family. There is no ego when we train. The less macho mentality is open to women and children students. Sometimes we go out to watch
Orlando D.
Oct 27, 2015
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I came to this gym with no background in martial arts and not knowing what to expect. I really wanted to try BJJ but never went for it. I am mostly experienced in the BJJ classes, so this review is about my experience on BJJ at WOTW.
When I first came to Way of the Warrior I felt an awesome vibe from everyone in there, Pete is a really nice and patient guy who is always willing to help you. I started with the BJJ beginners classes with Gi and No-Gi. Little by little I moved on to the intermediate and advanced level classes taught by Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Gustavo is an awesome instructor and
When I first came to Way of the Warrior I felt an awesome vibe from everyone in there, Pete is a really nice and patient guy who is always willing to help you. I started with the BJJ beginners classes with Gi and No-Gi. Little by little I moved on to the intermediate and advanced level classes taught by Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Gustavo is an awesome instructor and
Max V.
Sep 17, 2015
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I had been interested in trying out boxing/Muay Thai to try and get back in shape in a way that was fun and engaging. After trying out a few places all over LA, I can decidedly say that Pete is the best there is.
Pete is a really chill guy who's passionate about his craft and it shows in his dedication to his students. I felt like I learned more with Pete than any other place I tried. He does a great job of setting a challenging pace, but listening to your needs and interests. Its instantly clear he's a knowledgeable trainer that has a 1001 ways to get you working and all of them are
Pete is a really chill guy who's passionate about his craft and it shows in his dedication to his students. I felt like I learned more with Pete than any other place I tried. He does a great job of setting a challenging pace, but listening to your needs and interests. Its instantly clear he's a knowledgeable trainer that has a 1001 ways to get you working and all of them are
Gerald F.
Feb 24, 2015
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I'm no bruce lee, however I would love to be. If bruce lee was still physically alive he would be MMA's biggest advocate.
With the growing audience and popularity of MMA, a seed to take a martial arts class was implanted. I took a karate class in college, one session of BJJ with a friend, however I did dare call myself a martial artist.
I went to go shopping for a place where they offered both hand-2-hand combat with some courses on bjj - I think to be an overall fighter in today's world - you have to know both - striking and ground.
For myself, I went strictly for the Muay
With the growing audience and popularity of MMA, a seed to take a martial arts class was implanted. I took a karate class in college, one session of BJJ with a friend, however I did dare call myself a martial artist.
I went to go shopping for a place where they offered both hand-2-hand combat with some courses on bjj - I think to be an overall fighter in today's world - you have to know both - striking and ground.
For myself, I went strictly for the Muay
Paul W.
Feb 15, 2015
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I started at Way of the Warrior by doing the 1 week free trial period. I ended up going to beginner Muay Thai classes (BJJ is also offered) and really enjoyed it. First off, as a beginner all you have to do is show up. Gear is available for you to use. I found everyone in the class to be really friendly, and the instructor Pete to be welcoming and great at introducing students to Muay Thai. I was clueless, and didn't know how to properly throw a punch or kick. Even though I was in a class with probably 10 other students, Pete gave me a ton of individual attention and was patient and clear
Trevor M.
Feb 14, 2015
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Chew L.
Jan 01, 2015
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I've been thinking about writing a review for Way of The Warrior for a while now but it didn't happen because life got in a way. I finally found some time to sit down and write about this gym. I never trained, exercised, worked out, or even gone to the gym seriously before let alone training in any kind of martial art. One day I was walking my dog and saw the gym and I thought that I wanted to give it a try. Since then I never looked back. Even though I don't have any experience in martial art at all, Pete made it very easy for me to understand. Pete makes sure that everyone
Paulo D.
Dec 31, 2014
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Been coming here for almost two years now for both muay thai and jiu jitsu.
Although I had some previous jiu jitsu experience this is the place where I got my blue best from Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Intermediate jiu jitsu classes on Tuesday and Thursday are very good. Sensei Gustavo always starts by making sure you have the basics down before adding anything flashy to your game, which I greatly appreciate.
Although I had no previous muay thai experience it has become my favorite martial art. Kru Panos is extremely knowledgeable and is always drilling fundamentals in both the beginner and intermediate
Although I had some previous jiu jitsu experience this is the place where I got my blue best from Sensei Gustavo Gasperin. Intermediate jiu jitsu classes on Tuesday and Thursday are very good. Sensei Gustavo always starts by making sure you have the basics down before adding anything flashy to your game, which I greatly appreciate.
Although I had no previous muay thai experience it has become my favorite martial art. Kru Panos is extremely knowledgeable and is always drilling fundamentals in both the beginner and intermediate
