Why choose Evoke Martial Arts:
Evoke (formerly T.H.A – Toronto Hapkido Academy) distinct herself by bringing a fresh approach to a martial arts world that is saturated with misleading stereotypes, subpar operations, or outdated methods.
At our Toronto martial arts school, we are on a mission to train for a difference.
Functionality, safety, and fun.
These are at the core of all our programs. We challenge the typical martial arts school experience.
Beyond tournaments and medals, fighting ability and self defense, or aesthetic rituals; we focus on the very essence of what martial arts training is all about – You.
Our Purpose:
To Evoke the human spirit and Unleash the courage the Impact our world through the power of martial arts.
Our operational values:
We are honest, personable, and kind.
We love what we do and have FUN.
We create a community that is family like, inclusive and safe.
We operate responsibly and are fiscally healthy.
We are fit: mind, body, heart and soul.
We are neat and clean; we make our environment better.
Our ongoing personal development is driven by black belt principles of humility, excellence, leadership and mastery.
Reviews:
Excellent
Sharon B.
I joined Evoke kickboxing after a 15 year break. This program is wonderful. Miss Tess and her instructors are great, guiding you through the techniques and fitness workouts. They are very welcoming to new people taking the classes for the first time. They do not pressure you for a membership after your trial classes which is a testament to their core values. However, if you do decide to continue your fitness journey with Miss Tess and team, you will not regret it. All ages (adults) are welcome (I am 58) and you will never feel out of place.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Sharon. We are thrilled to have you back in classes with us. You are amazing! See you on the mats.
Rayb U.
Work on your cardio, increase your heart health AND learn practical applications with respect to self defence/offence and discipline. Multiple class offerings to suit your goals and schedule. A warm team building atmosphere and a sense of welcome will keep you inspired to show up to class. Watching your body transform into a lean fit fighting machine as the training days go by will motivate you to achieve more in all aspects of life. Instructors are amazing and inspiring.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Ray. We are grateful to have you as a part of our martial arts family these many years. Thanks so much for the feedback and review.
Michelle G.
I’ve been attending the fitness kickboxing classes here and it’s been a blast. I was looking for something challenging and these classes are exactly what I needed. They combine resistance training with cardio and plyometrics. Overall, the classes are super well rounded and I leave every class feeling worked. I highly recommend trying these classes out.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Michelle. We're happy to hear you're loving the kickboxing classes. See you on the mats!
Connie Sang-Eun S.
My almost 9 yo had such a great time at Evoke summer camp in August. They were good at keeping kids busy and my kid was so excited to show us new martial arts skills everyday. Drop off and pick up were also very smooth and efficient, and all staffs were professional and welcoming. We Will definitely come back next summer.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Connie. We're happy to hear they had a great time at summer camp. It was lot of fun, and we look forward to having them back again next year. Many thanks!
Natalia P.
I've had my 2 girls participating on Evoke's Little Dragon Program and strongly recommend it. The instructors are great with children, the classes as fun and engaging and I feel the program is also a strong reinforcement for the children to develop discipline and self-confidence. 5 stars for sure 🙂
Response from the owner:Thanks, Natalia. Our deepest appreciation for the feedback. We're really happy seeing your girls take well to the classes. Many thanks
Susan A
I came across Evoke through a Google search. We are not in the area but can easily drive within 30 mins. I chose Evoke because of what their core principles are, the array of disciplines offered, the ease of starting at any point (my teens were both beginners) and the added benefits of what it is like to become apart of a chosen family. We chose the teen MMA and kickboxing class. My teen girls were hooked after their complimentary session! I have already seen an increase in their confidence and self-esteem. The highly skilled staff at Evoke are very approachable and make you feel right at home. I absolutely recommend this program for all teens.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much, Susan. We are really happy to hear that your girls are taking well to our teen martial arts classes. They are doing really great, and we are excited to see the progress they are making. Thanks again for choosing us to share this amazing journey with your family. Cheers..
annabelle P.
I don't have enough good things to say about Evoke. The teachers and students are incredibly inclusive and kind. Every teacher has a genuine care for your improvement and goals. Overall Evoke has been a great experience so far and I constantly stay excited for my next class.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Annabelle. We sincerely appreciate the feedback, and excited to know you're enjoying the teen martial arts classes. You're doing great, and we are so proud of your progress. Many thanks.
Alex P.
Words can’t even describe how amazing evoke is. I have been doing the kickboxing classes for one month now and it has made me feel so strong in my body and mind. I have had the pleasure so far of being in a class with coach Alec, coach Tess, and Coach Elona and they are all amazing instructors. They really go above and beyond. Every class is challenging but so rewarding. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the feedback, Alex. We are thrilled to hear that you're loving the fitness kickboxing classes. See you on the mats.
Bryan S.
My daughter is 5 years old and loves her classes. Evoke does a wonderful job teaching the kids self defense and life skills to help them excel in life.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Bryan. We are happy to hear your daughter is loving her Lil' Dragon classes. Our deepest appreciation for the feedback. Cheers...
Sienne L.
We recently hosted my 7yo son's birthday party at Evoke. We were blown away by Evoke's hospitality and level of service. All of the kids that attended had a blast playing ninja group games and competing in obstacle courses. We were so impressed by the instructors' enthusiasm, patience, and professionalism. They were also so helpful with party set-up and clean-up. Highly recommend Evoke, and we will most likely be back!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Sienne. We are happy to hear that they kids had a great time at the karate birthday party. It was a lot of fun for us too, and we look forward to him joining us for classes in the future. Many thanks.
Vera Z.
I signed up 2 weeks karate camp for my daughter, she really enjoyed the time there, the staffs are friendly and fun, highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Vera. We're really happy to hear that they enjoyed summer camp. We are grateful for the opportunity to share this fun experience with her. Wishing you all a wonderful rest of summer.
Hania D.
I've been a part of Evoke since their teen hapkido program, and as an adult in their fitness kickboxing program and there is truly no other place I'd rather go to. The environment & structure of classes at Evoke is challenging yet rewarding and I leave each class feeling stronger than before.
One of the unique things about Evoke are the way their classes are structured to provide the members with a total body workout, eliminating the need for a traditional gym. I also love how they incorporate deep breathing sessions at the end of certain workouts for a proper cool down and to get in touch with your body and build that muscle-mind connection. I have left certain classes feeling humbled by the combos, which gives me more motivation to keep going back and getting better at the moves.
Lastly, my favorite thing about the club are the instructors Miss Tess, Elona and Master Dayo who are exceptional at their jobs. They are supportive, but don't hesitate to push members to their best potential, all the while remaining kind and encouraging. As a result, Evoke has become a happy place for me that I'd recommend everybody to join, despite their fitness goals.
One of the unique things about Evoke are the way their classes are structured to provide the members with a total body workout, eliminating the need for a traditional gym. I also love how they incorporate deep breathing sessions at the end of certain workouts for a proper cool down and to get in touch with your body and build that muscle-mind connection. I have left certain classes feeling humbled by the combos, which gives me more motivation to keep going back and getting better at the moves.
Lastly, my favorite thing about the club are the instructors Miss Tess, Elona and Master Dayo who are exceptional at their jobs. They are supportive, but don't hesitate to push members to their best potential, all the while remaining kind and encouraging. As a result, Evoke has become a happy place for me that I'd recommend everybody to join, despite their fitness goals.
Response from the owner:Thanks Hania. It's hard to believe its been this many years already. We still remember your first teen martial arts class 🙂 It is so great to have you be a part of our adult kickboxing family. Thanks so much for the kind words and positive feedback. See you on the mats!
Sophia R.
I started Hapkido classes several months ago with zero expertise and my experience at Evoke has been incredible! Taking up a new skill or sport especially as an adult can be really intimidating but everyone has been incredibly kind, caring, patient, and supportive. I’ve learned so much, I’ve had so much fun, I feel a lot stronger and I constantly look forward to my Tuesday and Saturday classes. I highly recommend the classes to anyone who wants to try something new!! A huge shoutout and thank you to everyone at Evoke for their amazing work!! I just got my yellow belt today and I’m so excited to come back in the New Year!!
Response from the owner:Congratulations on your new belt rank, Sophia. Thanks so much for your kind words and feedback. We look forward to the next phase in your martial arts journey for the New Year. See you on the mats!
Roma K
I think it’s a great place for martial arts. The instructors are great and so kind. It’s a great place for birthday parties and summer camp. In general, the place is very clean and the instructors sanitize the mats after every class. The classes are split into age groups, which I think is cool. It’s a great place to make friends. The bathrooms are clean, the mats are clean and everything is clean. It’s a great place for both adults and children to practice their martial arts.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Roma. We're really happy to know your child enjoyed their summer camp experience. Being neat, clean, and making our environment better is one of our company's operational core values 😉 Thanks for the positive feedback. You inspire us to keep doing our best. See you on the mats!
Anna Maria D.
This is the second year my children have attended this camp. The first year they only went for half a day but they loved it so much that they begged to go for a full day this year. Needless to say, they want to go back next year! Thank you to all the staff who made their experience memorable for the past two years, we’ll see you again soon!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Anna Maria. It's so great having your kids back at camp with us again this year. We are happy to hear that they had a great time, and also grateful for the opportunity to share this fun experience with them. See you next year! Many thanks.
Namwezi B.
Evoke martial arts is a great place to start a martial art, I just joined a month ago and everyone is so kind, welcoming and accommodating. The teachers are great and amazing at their jobs. And overall it’s just a great place, I already feel like I have learned and understood a lot about hapkido.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the feedback, Namwezi. It's really great having you in the Hapkido classes. We're excited to know you're also enjoying your classes. See you on the mats!
Lauren F
I've been going for kickboxing fitness classes for a few months now and the experience have been amazing. Was not intimidating at all when I first joined, as the instructors have all been very nice and are able to breakdown the workouts into easily digestible steps, without compromising on the intensity. You will sweat!!!
Facilities are clean and the class often comprises of people with varying fitness level. Always a great atmosphere and everyone motivates each other. If you're looking to learn kickboxing, or even try something new while getting into shape, then definitely recommend Evoke.
Facilities are clean and the class often comprises of people with varying fitness level. Always a great atmosphere and everyone motivates each other. If you're looking to learn kickboxing, or even try something new while getting into shape, then definitely recommend Evoke.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the feedback, Maisie. We're happy to know you're enjoying the kickboxing experience at Evoke. Stay awesome! Cheers...
Bridget B.
We sent our 2 boys for a week of summer camp and they really had a blast. They really enjoyed learning new moves and all of the staff were super nice! Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Bridget. We're happy to know your kids had a great time. Summer camp was a lot of fun, and we hope you'll join us again next year. Many thanks.
Kyle
I started at Evoke martial arts a month ago, every class has been a blessing. Instructors are kind, understanding, professional, personable, and essentially everything you can ask for. Despite the fact I am a beginner, and my less than great attendance, I still enjoy class and retain a sense of belonging. I’m extremely thankful that I can be a part of such a great community. I would strongly recommend this establishment for anyone interested in fitness and/or martial arts.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the feedback. We are excited to hear that you are loving your classes. See you on the mats!
Kim P.
I am really enjoying kickboxing classes!! Tess makes each class about having fun and challenging yourself individually. I never have felt out of place from the very start. Dayo and Tess host a fun, friendly workout environment!!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Kim. You're amazing, and we happy to hear you are enjoying the classes.
Steph H
I have been attending the fitness kickboxing classes for just over a month now and I’ve been really enjoying it! It is such a great dynamic workout that includes both cardiovascular and strength training. The instructors are all amazing here too! You will get a lot out of these classes!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Steph. We're happy to know you're enjoying the kickboxing classes, and sincerely appreciate your feedback. Thanks for being awesome. See you on the mats!
Mari R.
Our experience with Hapkido at Evoke has been terrific: appropriately challenging and disciplined in a warm and friendly environment. There is a great community feel and cultivation of mutual respect among participants. So glad we found this program!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Mari. We are also really happy to have you with us. Thank you so much for the kind words and feedback.
Wamaka B.
This is a really amazing place to train in hapkido! it’s just such a welcoming environment! All the students are so friendly, the teachers are very skilled and helpful. This place really knows what they’re doing! Couldn’t recommend more!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Wamaka. We are thrilled to have you in our hapkido classes. Really happy to know you are enjoying your classes. See you on the mats!
Meghan L
My son attended a birthday party for 4 year olds recently at Evoke. The 3 instructors leading the party were absolutely phenomenal. I've never been to a party with such enthusiastic and friendly instructors...they really made the event! The space was also so bright and clean. We had an amazing time and plan to enrol in a class soon!
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for the feedback, Meghan. We had a lot of fun and are happy to know the kids did too. We look forward to having your family again at our academy. Many thanks.
Jo Z
I joined Evoke MA (KB class) last summer.
It was just to try since their location is too far from my home, I thought.
After the KB trial classes, I started to attend once a week...then twice. Now, I show up 3 times a week.
The classes are so full of energy and you mix that with fun and motivating instructors, who would not come back for more :).
I would recommend the class to anyone who is looking for a good work out in a fun environment with no judgement.
It was just to try since their location is too far from my home, I thought.
After the KB trial classes, I started to attend once a week...then twice. Now, I show up 3 times a week.
The classes are so full of energy and you mix that with fun and motivating instructors, who would not come back for more :).
I would recommend the class to anyone who is looking for a good work out in a fun environment with no judgement.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Jo! It's so great to have you in our kickboxing classes. We really appreciate your kind words and feedback. See you on the mats! Cheers...
Sahar Y.
It was a great experience with Evoke, they have friendly staffs and they work with you in their best. Thank you
Response from the owner:Thanks, Sahar.
Adam B
We've attended and hosted birthday parties here and the team at Evoke never disappoint! From instructors who make sure every child has a chance to participate to keeping the pace of the parry on time, they just make it easy. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Adam. We sincerely appreciate your kind words, and are happy to know your family had a great experience. Wishing you all the very best on the new school year. Many thanks!
Bill C.
Best dojo in the City...Hands Down. No egos' and very encouraging no matter were you are at. Try out the free into. class they offer. You will not be disappointed. Great for all ages.
Response from the owner:Aww. Thanks, Bill. We really appreciate the feedback. So happy to know that you are loving our classes. Many thanks
Mursal R.
A great martial arts club with skilled, professional coaches that focus on proper technique while making the classes challenging and fun. The community is super friendly and supportive, don’t hesitate to join!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Mursal. We are excited that you're enjoying the Muay Thai classes. Your kind feedback is really appreciated. See you on the mats!
Laila O.
The place is large and very clean and welcoming. The teachers are great with kids and knowing how to keep the younger kid’s attention. It’s a great practice for my son who is 4 and a half. He gets so excited to go every time.
Response from the owner:We are really excited that your son is loving their Lil' Dragon classes. Thank you so much for the feedback.
Lima S.
Professional, clean and friendly staff. I have a closer martial arts academy just facing my house but I prefered this one for the mentioned reasons.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
Response from the owner:Thanks Lima
Brian L.
Evoke is a wonderful community of practice. They are a family, provide guidance, support and care while they teach martial arts. They are more than just a place to take classes. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Brian. We sincerely appreciate your kind feedback. Happy to have you as a part of our martial arts community.
Isaac H.
My daughter has been attending classes here for the past two months and is loving it. The instructors are great very welcoming! I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a spot for the children to learn/practice martial arts!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Isaac. We are happy to hear that she's loving her Lil' Dragon Karate classes.
Alba B.
I highly recommend Evoke Martial Arts school. My daughters have been training here for a year and they absolutely love it. The instructors are fantastic—supportive and skilled. I've seen my girls gain confidence, discipline, and new friendships. It’s a wonderful place for kids to learn and grow!
Response from the owner:Your girls are amazing! Thanks so much for your kind words and feedback.
Andrea M.
My son had a great week, I would highly recommend this camp. The staff were professional and did a great job keeping the kids entertained.
Response from the owner:Hi Andrea. Thanks so much for the feedback. We had a lot of fun and happy to hear your son did too. Cheers...
Chris F.
I have been a part of Evoke Academy Martial Arts for over 5 years, and I can't recommend it enough! The HIIT kickboxing and Muay Thai classes are top-notch, providing an intense workout that keeps you motivated and coming back for more. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring that every session is both challenging and enjoyable. The sense of community here is unmatched, and I've made great friends along the way. If you're looking for a place to train and improve your fitness, Evoke Academy is the place to be!
Response from the owner:Thanks, Chris. It's hard to believe it's been 5+ years already. We appreciate your kind words and generous feedback. It's an honor to have you as a part of martial arts family. See you on the mats!
Shehrose R.
My 7 year old son loves his martial arts classes at Evoke and looks forward to it every week. I appreciate the high number of instructors to students ratio, the adaptable approach instructors take for the younger students vs older students.
Response from the owner:Thanks, Shehrose. That means so much to us. We are really excited that you're having a great experience and that your son is enjoying their classes. Many thanks
Evoke Difference
Service
Our members mean a great deal to us, and we are fiercely determined to help you, or your child, reach your goals.
We’re open 7 days a week, and offer a variety of membership options to suit your schedule or budget.
Team
Evoke team of coaches and instructors are accomplished martial artists, experts in their fields, passionate, and always at hand to help you.
Facility
We have two generous workout floors fitted with padded top of the line surfaces, a lounge area, change rooms, and washrooms.
Maintaining an inspiring, neat, and clean environment is one of our brand absolutes.
Programs
All classes are well-structured, great for beginners, and progressively challenging. Kids train with kids, and our adults’ workout with adults.
We also have a virtual library of video tutorials, meal guides, downloadable resources to compliment your training.
Community
Members love the community vibe at Evoke for its inclusivity, support, and family-like environment.
This is a place where you will always feel welcomed and inspired to keep coming back.
Lineage
We are part of a much bigger family, and members of international governing bodies for martial arts professionals.
One of them is the International Kyung Mu Hapkido federation with roots as far back as the 40s and post-world war jiujitsu in Japan.
By now you’ve probably done your homework; you’ve read our reviews, checked us out on social media, or perhaps spoken to someone about who we are. How about taking the next step and give us a try.