Combat sports in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has many different combat sports on offer, such as boxing, with clubs for all experience levels, MMA, with various gyms catering to different needs, and Fencing, which Salle Holyrood Fencing Club mainly represents the sport in Scotland. The capital also has a bunch of different Taekwondo and Wrestling Clubs catering to various skill levels.

Boxing

Edinburgh is home to a vibrant boxing scene, where visitors can find an array of clubs that cater to everyone from beginners to seasoned fighters. Lochend Boxing Club is a well-regarded gym known for its strong community and professional guidance, producing champions since 1998 and welcoming all skill levels with a focus on fitness and discipline. In the heart of Dalry, Gorgie Fight Gym offers a diverse range of combat sports, including boxing, kickboxing, and MMA, fostering a community-oriented atmosphere and offering events and competitions. DJP Boxing Academy on Peffer Bank is a welcoming space for all ages, with classes that focus on physical conditioning, mental toughness, and technique, all led by skilled coaches.

For those interested in heritage clubs, Leith Victoria Amateur Athletic Club (AAC) has a rich history dating back to 1947, offering programs focused on skill-building, resilience, and teamwork. Meanwhile, Clovenstone Amateur Boxing Club brings a grassroots approach to the sport, encouraging youth participation and community spirit in a supportive environment. The Royal Amateur Boxing Club boasts a legacy dating back to the early 20th century and focuses on technical skills and personal growth, while Mactaggart Scott Boxing Club fosters talent with an emphasis on sportsmanship and fitness.

Mixed Martial Arts

Edinburgh has a fantastic range of gyms and clubs specialising in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and other combat sports. The Griphouse Edinburgh offers a supportive, community-driven environment with classes in MMA, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and boxing, catering to all levels. Their youth programs, conditioning classes, and adaptive training options make martial arts accessible to everyone. Meanwhile, Edinburgh MMA focuses on MMA, BJJ, boxing, and self-defence, with a practical approach to skill-building and fitness. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and flexible membership options, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to balance technique and fitness at their own pace. Higher Level Martial Arts provides high-quality training in BJJ, MMA, and Muay Thai, with a reputation for technical precision and strong community support. They also offer specific programs for kids and teens, beginner-friendly classes and private coaching.

Another option is Rick Young’s Black Belt Academy, led by a legendary martial artist, offering training in BJJ, Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, and self-defence in a welcoming, skill-focused environment. Edinburgh Fight Academy is known for its full-service approach, covering MMA, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and conditioning, with women-only classes and flexible membership plans. Ronin MMA Edinburgh provides an inclusive, beginner-friendly experience with classes in MMA, kickboxing, and BJJ fundamentals, focusing on building confidence and fitness without competitive pressure. Scottish Martial Arts Centre (SMAC) offers MMA, boxing, Krav Maga, and youth programs in a supportive and motivational environment, complete with flexible scheduling and private training options.

Fencing

Salle Holyrood Fencing Club is one of the city’s most established clubs, known for its friendly and inclusive environment. The club provides training in foil, welcoming beginners as well as advanced fencers looking to refine their skills. They also offer youth programs and beginner courses, making it a great entry point for anyone interested in picking up fencing for the first time.

Another popular option is the Edinburgh Fencing Club. The club offers training across all three fencing weapons and runs classes for both recreational fencers and those interested in competition. Known for its knowledgeable coaches, the club regularly participates in national and regional tournaments, providing a pathway for fencers to test their skills in a competitive setting. They also host group training sessions, open sparring nights, and workshops, which makes it easy to meet others passionate about the sport.

Taekwondo

Edinburgh has various clubs and gyms dedicated to offering high-quality training in this dynamic martial art. Scotland Taekwondo Academy provides structured classes for all ages and skill levels. Known for its disciplined yet supportive environment, the academy offers programs designed to build technical skills, discipline, and fitness. With dedicated classes for children, teens, and adults, Scotland Taekwondo Academy ensures a comprehensive Taekwondo experience for everyone, whether they’re pursuing recreational training or serious competition.

For those seeking a community-driven environment, Edinburgh Taekwondo Club offers a balanced approach, focusing on both traditional techniques and modern training methods. The club emphasises character-building, self-defence skills, and fitness, with sessions that cater to beginners and advanced practitioners alike. Team Tae Edinburgh provides a family-oriented atmosphere alongside a commitment to Taekwondo’s core values and high-quality training. Additionally, Capital Taekwondo offers a range of programs, including competitive training, beginners’ sessions, and tailored options for kids, making it an inclusive space for all.

Karate

Edinburgh Karate Academy provides classes in traditional Shotokan Karate for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Known for its disciplined and respectful environment, the academy emphasises technique, self-discipline, and physical fitness. They offer specific programs for children, teens, and adults, making it a welcoming space for individuals of all ages who are interested in honing their skills in a supportive setting.

Another well-regarded venue is Scotland Shotokan Karate Academy, which offers in-depth training in Shotokan Karate with a focus on personal growth, discipline, and self-defence. This academy provides a comprehensive range of classes, including beginner courses, advanced training, and family sessions, allowing members to progress at their own pace. Miyagi Ryu Karate Edinburgh specialises in Goju-Ryu Karate, a traditional style focusing on a balance of soft and hard techniques. Known for its technical precision and community-driven approach, Miyagi Ryu offers training for all ages, including kid-friendly classes and private lessons.

Wrestling

One of the city’s premier spots for freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling is Edinburgh Wrestling Club. They offer classes that range from beginner fundamentals to advanced competitive techniques. The club provides programs for kids, teens, and adults, ensuring wrestling is accessible to all. In addition to technical drills, the club emphasises strength training and conditioning, helping members build fitness alongside their wrestling skills.

At Scotland Wrestling Academy the focus is on foundational wrestling techniques, takedowns, and mat control. The academy caters to both recreational wrestlers and those looking to compete, with coaches dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space that encourages personal development and teamwork. Capital City Wrestling offer wrestling programs for a range of ages and skill levels, from kids’ beginner classes to competitive training for adults. Their sessions combine technical instruction with rigorous physical conditioning, making it an ideal setting for those serious about improving their wrestling prowess.

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