Art of 8 MMA has honestly been an amazing place for me. The coaches are supportive, patient, and truly care about everyone getting better. The atmosphere is welcoming and respectful, and it really feels like a team where everyone pushes each other in a positive way Training here has helped me grow a lot, not just physically but mentally too. I’m really grateful to be part of this gym and the people in it. I highly recommend art of 8 for anyone interested in learning martial arts

I can’t recommend this Muay Thai gym enough. The environment is incredibly positive and motivating, and it’s a great place to train no matter your experience level. The coaches are patient, knowledgeable, and always willing to take the time to help you improve. They break things down clearly and genuinely care about your progress. The members — especially the senior fighters — are very welcoming and supportive. As someone who started with zero experience in combat sports, I was nervous at first, but everyone made me feel comfortable and included. Since joining, I’ve developed so much as a fighter and gained skills I never thought I’d have. This gym truly feels like a team.

I've had a women's only class membership (8 classes a month) for the past month (so I'm relatively new) but I can confidently recommend their classes! Both the coaches and classmates are very supportive and make it a warm and welcoming environment for new members. I haven't been active for approximately 4 years. Therefore it's naturally been challenging but I'm able to go at my own pace without compromising results. 10/10 recommend!

Great place, awesome people and an unbelievable workout! Just joined and I am really enjoying learning the art of Muay Thai. Coach Martello and all the rest of the coaches are amazing.

Art of 8 is amazing! Everyone is so inclusive and welcoming. It’s an overall great vibe as soon as you enter thru their doors. Simply amazing all around! Keep up the great work, you’ve created something so special in this community!

I started at Art of 8 in March of 2025 and I am so glad I did. I am so thankful to have chosen the best place for my first ever martial arts gym. As someone who can be socially anxious, I never felt unwelcome walking in on my first day or any day after that. Not only are the coaches extremely understanding and patient, they hold you accountable and push you every single day to be the best you can be. This is what everyone needs when it comes to a coach! No question is too silly and they give you the freedom to learn at the pace comfortable for you and your abilities. Those who have been there for a long time don’t hesitate to bring you under their wing and the place fosters an overall sense of community and kindness, not competition. I would recommend this gym to anyone out there looking to begin or continue their martial arts journey. I have seen an increase of confidence, determination and even physical strength and ability in myself since starting here.

Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy is a fantastic organization run by some really skilled and kind people. No matter what your age or skill level you will be made to feel welcome and supported here.

I've been here for the last four years, and I keep wanting to come back. The environment is extremely welcoming and is great for a recreational sport. If you wish to learn the competitive side this is also the place to go, you will be pushed beyond what you think you can do and it will not only build your physical strength but your mental too.

At nearly 50 years of age, having been out of the fitness scene for 10 years since having my daughter, I was apprehensive about joining a martial arts academy. I was an avid kickboxer in my twenties and have been in and out of several gyms and clubs, around the GTA. When you haven't put your own needs first for such a long time, it can feel intimidating to take that leap and do something physical, just for you. But am I ever glad that I found Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy!! It had been about twenty years since I last put on a pair of boxing gloves and now, six months later, I cannot get enough! Art of 8 is truly unique in that they are personally committed to your success, whether your goal is to get fit, get stronger, learn to defend yourself, train to compete ... their commitment level to you is the same. They want to support your goals and you feel that with every single class and training session. Their schedule enables me to fit training into my busy schedule and thanks to their dedication to empowering the next generation, my daughter now trains at Art of 8 with me once a week as well! The classes are outstanding - a great workout with tremendous support, deeply empowering, all while having a whole lotta fun! We don't often finish a class without laughter! The vibe at Art of 8 is so positive, supportive, and feels like a family. Miss Janeque and Kru Martello are extraordinary people who earn the mutual respect of their members. Their Academy is a success because of their integrity, authenticity, and attention to every single member. Not once have I ever felt intimidated, self-conscious, nor alone in my personal journey. I cannot recommend this place enough. And I will never work out or train anywhere else!

Great club, amazing community. Highly recommend!!

Great family atmosphere! The place is clean and well taken care of. (Even better in the new location) Always walk in to a room of happy faces. We love the discipline, hard work & confidence that happens when we drop our kiddo off. Thank you for all you do.

Art of 8 has become a second family to all of us. Not only teaching my children the technique and skills of Maui Thai and kick boxing but also kindness, respect, values of a team and so much more. If your looking for more the just a gym we highly recommend them. Thank you Kru, Miss Janique and boys for making us all always feel welcomed. Jasmine and Teairra

I've been going to Art of 8 since April 2022 and everyday I go it feels like a home away from home. Kru Martello and all the other coach's at Art of 8 are experienced and knowledgeable in the sport of Muay Thai and K1, they will help you to meet your goala whether that's fitness or compation all while having a great time. I cannot recommend this Gym enough.

I love going to classes and the sprints with the team runs. I have learned a lot and because of Art of 8 I want to open my own gym when I am older. I am 11 years old and LOVE Art of 8!

My children are in competitive taekwondo and train regularly, but I wanted them to have extra training outside of their taekwondo school to enhance their footwork, cardio, speed, and strength. After searching for a personal trainer, I finally found Art of 8. From my first conversation with coach Martello, I knew he would be an excellent fit! My kids have been with Art of 8 since February 2024, and they've been enjoying their weekly sessions with coach as he invests time and effort into their training plans. He is a coach who truly cares for and supports his athletes. His wife, Janeque, and their sons also make the experience even better! We're so grateful to have met this beautiful family - we truly love it here!

I’ve been attending Art of 8 Muay Thai since March 2022, and it has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my physical and mental well-being. The coaches are phenomenal—caring, helpful, and always making sure you feel capable, no matter your skill level. The classes focus on fitness, proper form, and personal goals, creating a well-rounded experience. From the moment I joined, I felt an immediate sense of family and community. Fellow members were welcoming and always willing to offer support. Now that I’ve been attending for over two years, I feel confident in helping new members during sparring or circuit training, continuing the cycle of support that made me feel so welcome when I first started. Beyond training, Art of 8 truly shines as a community. There are monthly celebrations for life milestones, family game nights, seasonal holiday parties for members’ families and friends, and special learning events with guest coaches. Competitions and contests are regularly organized—too many to list! All of these make this martial arts community feel like family. Katie #iLoveItHere

After being out of Muay Thai for years, it’s been an awesome experience at art of 8 getting back into the sport.

If you want to see a positive change in your life mentally and physically join Art of 8. I have never joined any martial arts in the past. The trainers are amazing, they push you to do better and you’re only in competition with your self!

Instructors Amazing , Facilities amazing ! Positive experience every class.The women’s classes are empowering and inspiring . The Self confidence I see in young women taking classes is outstanding. You go into class to be the best you ! My cardio / strength and physical abilities in and out of class have significantly changed since joining Art of 8 . I walk out of class satisfied I worked hard and improved myself , With a smile on my face because they are invested in everyone that walks through their door.

For the longest time, I've wanted to learn a martial art. It has been a goal of mine since I was young. However, I was never sure which one or where to go. The time being right, I finally decided to take on the task. After looking online at some options, I decided to give Art of 8 a try. Now, many months later, I've come to realize it's been one of the best decisions I've made. Art of 8 is a phenomenal gym, the coaching is top class, and the atmosphere is friendly and upbuilding. For anyone looking for somewhere to train, whether beginner or advanced, look no further than Art of 8.

Art of 8 has helped me become more confident in my abilities. The coaches are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.

I’m just getting back into martial arts after a long break & I couldn’t be happier with my decision to join Art of 8! Kru Martello & Janeque make every class not just a great workout but lots of fun! They are professional & kind & inspire everyone!

My daughter loves classes! what could I say more?

I love this place, everyone is so friendly a wonderful atmosphere. I attend with my father and I'm learning so many skills in Muay Thai. I'm learning discipline, confidence and respect. I'm so excited i can't wait for my next class. I like to thank Janeque, Kru Martello and Jay Christoph for all your hospitality and for making me feel so invited 😊

My son’s experience has been nothing but amazing. What started out as a march break camp drop in turned into an immediate membership. Although the coaches are teaching a full class they make sure to take the time with each individual all while adding fun to the class. You can really feel respect within the community of students, my son felt welcomed immediately. I have already seen a change in my son’s technique and confidence after only being there for a few months. Would highly recommend!

I am so grateful to have found Art of 8. My sons have developed confidence and strength while training there. I never have to convince them to go because they feel super comfortable with the coaches and other students. I appreciated the online booking system they use. Easy to use, no confusion of when classes are. Highly recommend.

Everyone her is very friendly and very inclusive, I started here 2 years ago and I have competed in 9 fights winning 7. I’ve learned many things at art of 8 and have built many great relationships here.

One of the best places I have ever trained. I have been there for some time now and I'm gaining so much experience. Everyone is so friendly, I absolutely enjoy being there. My daughter trains as well and she is having an amazing time learning the art of Muay Thai. She also enjoys (kru) (instructors), and everyone in the class. We highly recommend it, you'll have an awesome experience.

Empowering Journey at Art of 8 Rating: 5/5 Discovering Art of 8 has been life-changing. As a woman, stepping into the world of Muay Thai was intimidating, but the supportive coaches quickly made it feel like home. In just four months, I've gained strength, confidence, and a sense of community. The coaches' expertise and enthusiasm make every session both challenging and enjoyable. Art of 8 isn't just a gym—it's a place where you can grow, connect, and thrive. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a transformative experience!

Wonderful Team atmosphere! A safe place for my teen daughter to make new friends and build confidence. Coach Martello, and Janeque have a family vibe here and really motivate and enspire their students. She found skills she didn't know she had! Thank You❤️

A ton of fun, and a great community of people

Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy is a phenomenal place to train and learn. I had no previous experience in any type of martial arts, but Kru Martello and the more experienced class members were patient and helpful. Janeque was also very helpful in answering any questions I had and responded in a timely manner. I just finished my 1 month introductory period and I already feel stronger and more confident with the skills I have learned. The Facility is a clean environment and everyone there is respectful and welcoming. It didn’t take long for me to feel like I was a part of the Team. The Classes are challenging but fun at the same time. You are encouraged to push yourself but are also instructed to know your limits and you are not punished or called out for not being able to keep up with others. It’s a truly wonderful environment to learn, grow and challenge yourself.

Went to try a class. I have been training martial arts my entire life and was told I had to buy a $120 four week adult membership just try a single beginner class. Felt very transactional, and not welcoming. Unlike all the spaces I’ve ever trained in. Pretty disappointed as it looked like a great gym to try.

Art of 8 Muay Thai gym is the best place for all round martial arts development. My boys have been students in the Youth program for approximately 1 year and they absolutely love their coach Jai-kristoeff. He is firm, supportive and a great leader; all while balancing fun in their class. I appreciate the positive representation he displays for my boys. Hence, I had to sign-up and begin training as well. The adult program is just as phenomenal. The leadership, support and firm guidance from Kru Martello is the key to my success thus far. I have learned so much already and looking forward to learning much more. Even in a full class, Kru ensures to focus on everyone and provide instruction to assist you with your development. This is great because you don’t feel lost and on your own in a group setting. The community of participants is also amazing as everyone is eager to help and ensure you do your best. If you’re serious and/or want to learn about Muay Thai; and ready to be your best, Art of 8 is where you need to be!

I have been a student at Art of 8 for a year and a half and I have enjoyed every moment! The routines are challenging and informative. I always feel that I have a great workout and I learn something new! Kru Martello takes the time to explain each movement, walks you through the lesson, and overall the energy is upbeat and positive. Supporting a local business who is passionate about what they do in and out, and really takes the time to genuinely get to know their students and be involved in the community is amazing. I live about 25 minutes from Orangeville with many other gyms just down the road, but I have had such an amazing experience with Art of 8, that no other place would feel like home. Start your Martial Arts journey today. You wont regret it 🙂

This was a great experience for me. Everyone is very welcoming. The coach is very good, and tried to involve me with the class, and was very approachable. I am looking forward to continuing in this gym. If you are someone thinking about joining this gym u should go for it.

The Art Of 8 Academy is a great facility where you learn the fundamentals of Muay Thai, increase your metabolic capacity, strength and skill. The studio is kept very clean and you are always greeted with kindness and a big smile. No matter your fitness or skill level the facility promotes respect, inclusivity and unity. Kru Martello & Khun Janeque are there to help, explain, demonstrate and/or adjust any moves to best suit individual needs. The Art of 8 is a great ‘community’ and I highly recommend this facility to anyone regardless of experience or fitness level.

Art of 8 has become family to us over the past year. They are more then just a business. Myself and my 2 daughters look forward to this escape from the every day chaos, with their structured classes they teach us discipline and confidence. If you are looking to learn Martial arts and join more then just a gym this is the place hands down.

Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy is a welcoming, kind, and supportive environment; which hosts a strong family dynamic. I have been training here for almost 2 years and it has drastically changed my life for the better. Kru Martello is very helpful and focuses on growth and personal development, while simultaneously prioritizing safety. I absolutely recommend training here, there are a variety of classes depending on skill level and intensity. Overall Art Of 8 Martial Arts Academy is a truly amazing place and I am very grateful to be able to train here.

The trainer of art of 8 martial arts is an amazing person. He's very friendly and great with his students including his wife and two kids. You are very friendly with everybody that attends The trainers are amazing and all the students are very friendly. I highly recommend it

This Muay Thai academy is filled with students of all ages and skill levels. I joined this place not having any back ground in Muay Thai or martial arts and I was welcomed with open arms by the team. Kru Martello, Janeque, and Rob make you comfortable and will work with your journey whether that's just for fitness or working towards getting into the ring. Highly recommend coming and checking this place out!

Whether you are completely new to martial arts, just want to get a great workout in, or if you’re a competing athlete wanting take your skills up a notch definitely come in and have a chat with coach Janeque or Kru Martello. From the moment you walk through the front doors you feel welcome no matter what level you are at. Janeque made sure to answer all of my questions when signing up. They have a great app which makes booking, tracking , and cancelling your classes a breeze. The gym is extremely well kept , clean and tidy. All of the equipment is spotless every time you go to class. Classes are super fun and challenging for all levels and ages. Kru Martello and the coaches Rob, Janeque and Jai-Kristoëff will always make sure you stay motivated and are always pushing you to improve at your pace. Every single class I go to whether it’s a Muay Thai technique, boxing or strength and conditioning, there is always a lesson to take back home with me. I have noticed a huge improvement on my overall fitness as well as technique since joining in July of 2022. A big THANK YOU to the 8team for great ,fun workouts and always making sure we are learning/ practicing this incredible sport safely. 🙏 10/10!!

Best gym in the world!. And the world is a pretty big place so that says a lot.

This was a great experience and I highly recommend it for people who are looking for a total body workout and mental challenge. Janeque and Kru Martello are experts!

My son has been a student here, and I am happy to share our positive experience! The leadership and growth mindset fostered at Art Of 8 are truly exceptional. From the moment we walked in, the warm and supportive environment created by the instructors and staff was evident. The coaches' dedication to instilling a positive mindset in every student is commendable. The instructors not only teach the art of Muay Thai but also impart invaluable life skills. They encourage students to push their limits, embrace challenges, and develop their confidence and resilience. The training sessions are well-structured and engaging, and the instructors exhibit a wealth of knowledge and experience. They break down techniques step-by-step, patiently guiding students through the learning process. It's evident that they genuinely care about each student's progress and growth.

Top notch coaches and top notch facility. My 13 year old son attends classes here and he loves it. His confidence has grown, he comes out of class with a big smile, feels great and looks forward to the next one. The environment Martello and Janeque have created is welcoming, encouraging, fun, fair and inspiring. Free trial class. Very fair pricing. I highly recommend Art of 8!

My mother made the perfect decision to enroll me at Art of 8 academy. I've seen nothing but growth and positive progression. I've always wanted to compete on a martial arts competition team and Art of 8 academy made this possible. Now I stand as Dufferin County's First female National and Provincial champion, also securing a spot with Team Canada. Thank you Art of 8 for making my dreams come TRUE!!!

I started going to Art of 8 because of my goal of having a well-rounded fitness regimen I don't always see when going to a regular gym: physical health, mental health, discipline, and doing something fun and out of my comfort zone. So far, all of my classes have fulfilled those expectations. I also like the group setting—the sense of community, lack of judgement, and feeling from training with others adds to the whole experience. Martello and Janique are also super nice and I'm way happier to spend my money at a small business where they actually care. I'm excited to keep on this routine and see more progress!

Book a trial class now! What an amazing community to be apart of. I have felt extremely comfortable attending Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy since day one. Kru Martello, Coach Rob and Janeque have great energy. Each class you learn and build different techniques, it’s awesome. Great way to practice focus and release your workday stress. The women’s classes are empowering and are always filled with laughs! Their member portal is very user friendly. You can book your classes online, view your completed sessions and shop gear. Also the Christmas party was really fun and the food was soo good! Overall I have been really enjoying my time at Art of 8 and look forward going to each session!

Super motivating environment for training! I felt very welcome right from the start. The instructors support me in pushing my own growth edge-- classes are a great combo of being challenged to work hard, receiving positive encouragement (no matter what your fitness or skill level is), and learning and tweaking techniques. And the group vibe is inspiring and fun. Try it!

Art of 8 is an amazing place to belong to. When you walk though the doors it’s not just another gym and another work out. You become apart of the community, it’s like a second family. Coach Martello welcomes everyone with open arms. No matter the experience level everyone there tries to help each other out; to improve, weather your goal is to compete or just get a good sweat on. Everyone should try martial arts at least one in their life, and there is no better place to do it than Art of 8.

Love going to Art of 8! Such a great team and great people! if you’re looking to grow your personal skills and gain strength, this is the place to go!

Coach Martello is great! He is very professional, knowledgable, makes lessons fun and engaging and is a great guy! If you are looking for a serious-but also fun martial arts academy, art of 8 is for you! 10/10. Also the online classes through zoom are amazing!

Such an amazing place!! They have a such a strong sense of community and very Professional, you can tell they really care about their students and get to know them. My kids love coach Martello. Janeque is so kind but delivers a killer workout. Whether you are looking for something serious or just wanting a great workout this is for you.

Art of 8 is absolutely incredible. From the moment you walk in the door until you leave your are left in awe. The confidence, respect, self worth, life skills, knowledge, core values these students are taught is something you have never seen before. I highly recommend this academy! The confidence they have provided to my 11 year old is truly incredible! Thank you to all the hard working coaches and staff for making this such an incredible environment! 💛

Couch Martello and his Team are incredible. They make sure to provide not just excellent training but also support, teach self-discipline and make sure kids learn to respect others.

Amazing family friendly place. The owners are lovely people and Kru Martello is amazing with kids of all ages! My son loves it there!

Love this place! This academy is very professional and what I love the most is that the Coach's all know each students name whether even of they are new. They make the experience personal and notice each Trainees and what they are doing well in and what they need assistance with. Great place to put your kids in for discipline and much more!

My son is thriving in his program. The training and values being taught are really helping him in and outside the gym. Our family highly recommends Art of 8

Trained at art or 8 for a few days and was not impressed. Martello was teaching us defence but wasn’t teaching us how to fall properly when the opponent was sweeping us. This resulted in me completely destroying my shoulder. I can no longer do over head movements and I have to spend tons of money on physiotherapy now. This happened over 6 months ago and I’m still recovering.. I can only do boxing/ Muay Thai for 15 minutes total before being in tons of pain.. Not to mention a membership is extremely expensive and they’re not even an hour long.. they also blocked my Instagram for no reason.. pretty unprofessional.

This is a special place. The community coach Martello and his family have created at Art of 8 is truly welcoming and amazing to experience. It's a place to learn, reignite your beginner's mentality and push your limits. They offer a free trial, do yourself a favour and give it a try!

I was very happy with my experience at Art of 8 Martial Arts Academy. Coach Martello and his team were great with my kids! I must also mention that I really appreciated Janeque’s warmth. She always made my boys feel extra welcome and comfortable, especially when they were having a tough day. I would highly recommend them if your looking for a martial arts academy. Thanks guys! Keep up the amazing work!

Just joined this great place with my son. The atmosphere is welcoming respectful and fun. I am happy to find a location that values community health and family. I recommend to everyone

We had a birthday party for my son. It was so much fun! Well organized reasonably priced, overall great experience!! I would highly recommend!!!

My kids love learning Muay Thai here! Such a great place for families. The owners are very kind, genuine and provide such a great atmosphere for everyone to learn, not just martial arts, but so many valuable skills to use in life! Highly recommend!

This place is great! Coach Martello explains everything so well. He keeps classes entertaining as well as informative, and you never feel out of place. It is a very family oriented place to be, and everyone is so welcoming and helpful! I love class, and always look forward to the next one!!

Could not recommend Art of 8 any more highly. I’ve been taking their women’s Muay Thai classes for only two months and already notice such a difference in my fitness level and confidence. The Ao8 team have created a welcoming and supportive environment. This is one of the best gyms I’ve had the pleasure of joining. You will not be disappointed here.

Art of 8 is such an amazing academy! The level of teaching and respect the show from the students to the their parents is like no other. So happy to have found this Academy as our son is truly in his happy place when he arrives! Thank you Art of 8!

Would HIGHLY recommend attending Art of 8. The team is experienced, caring and knowledgeable. This school is not like others, you are learning practical skills for self defense combined with intense conditioning.

Coach is amazing! Great facility.10/10

This is the best! This has helped me out so much fitness wise and mentally. It makes me set good goals and try my hardest to reach them. I'm only 3 weeks in and I can't wait to get to my next class every time I sign off. -Aiden, 11 years old

I felt welcome from my first interaction with Martello. I have no experience with Martial Arts, Martello breaks it all down. He pushes you, but understands personal limitations. It's fun and a great stress reliever, you work at your own pace. The only competition is within yourself. As far as Covid, the space is clean, sanitized, its a great safe space. I want to also mention I'm 56, and am loving it

My son loves it and it gives him focus and release his energy

Very clean facility and a teacher who is top notch. So glad I signed my son up here.

I’ve been looking for something like this for awhile. Martello is very patient with me and everyone else. The whole team at Art of 8 is great. So glad I joined.

Martello and art of 8 team are amazing and super professional! We were hesitant to sign up my nephew, he doesn’t show interest in almost any activity and gets distracted very easily, but we signed him up and we are amazed how much he loves going to his class! It has helped him to stay focused and been more disciplined. We also notice he feels more confident and sleeps better (after taking out all that energy) Also, the communication with Martello is amazingly good and quick! He is always around to answer any questions! I definitely recommend them!! 🙂

My son loves coming to Art of 8! Martello has helped him to be disciplined, he is challenged daily and he was also able to get in shape. Safe environment surrounded by good people and good vibes. I encourage everyone to try a class you won't be disappointed.

Great social and mental development for the kids

I love this place!! The environment is very friendly and welcoming, classes are energetic and challenging, students are supportive with each other, and coach Martello is an excellent instructor, always paying attention to each student and giving individual feedback on how to improve your techniques! I honestly can’t recommend Art of 8 Arts Academy enough!!

I highly recommend Art of 8. My daughter absolutely loves going and coach Martello is amazing with her and is willing to help with anything. She has overcome so much since being with Art of 8. Even with covid I feel safe in bringing her. They follow all the proper protocols.