REVIEWS

I've been going to THA for about 2 months now while having no prior martial arts knowledge, being physically inactive for the last 3/4 years and 40 lbs overweight. I was a bit nervous to start because I feared being injured and also not being able to keep up with others in the class. I jumped right in to the Muay Thai and Hapkido programs, my fears quickly disappeared. Yes, the classes are challenging but that's the point. I started slow (1-2 classes/week) and was surprised how quickly I was able to work up to 4-5 classes/week). The friendly, supportive and nurturing atmosphere allowed me to forget about being embarrassed if I couldn't grasp a technique right away, and instead focus on actually learning things the right way at my own pace. All the instructors and other students are always mindful of everyone's skill level and limitations so any fear of injuries also quickly vanished. I would highly recommend Toronto Hapkido Academy to anyone interested in martial arts, in getting and staying fit/active and challenging themselves daily both physically and mentally. The environment is 100% non-aggressive, non-combative and everyone is there to learn, help others learn and have a lot of fun in the process. Most importantly, everyone from the instructors to the students are absolutely amazing and work as a family. It's definitely been a life-changing experience so far even in 2 months; I've directly improved my mobility, energy, strength, skill, confidence & discipline. I can't wait to pass my first belt test!

We started our Hapkido experience with the Lil' Dragons program for our two girls. They loved it instantly! Master Dayo and the other instructors make the leaning fun and rewarding. In every class I not only see them learning the physical steps of martial arts, but also self discipline and team work, in a fun and caring environment. My girls are so proud when they come home with their new belt stripes that they have earned, but beyond the belt progression, they have learned life skills such as how to properly cope with and manage bullying behaviour (even at their young ages). They have a teaching approach that keeps the kids attention, laughing and learning all the way. I was so inspired I started taking adult classes myself!

I had been here for 3 years. I find many new friend. I am a girl this class made me gain my confident. Also, this class help me to focus and I really enjoy to doing kickboxing. In addition I lost weight in this class, and this community welcome to everyone, which made me feel like home. I am thankful to this class that help me in my life.

Evoke is such a welcoming group! I usually don’t do group fitness because I’m worried about looking like I have no clue but I didn’t feel that way at all at Evoke. I started off at their outdoor classes and moved into indoor classes and enjoyed that even more. Everyone is very kind and inviting; the instructors and very helpful and work with you to help you improve. Others in the class who are more advanced even come help and give tips. I’m excited to come back, it’s definitely a family vibe than just a “group class”. Thank you for such a great experience so far!

I have to say - I think this club, environment and classes are both challenging and invigorating. Tess and the other instructors understand that skills and fitness levels vary - so while encouraging all class participants to push ourselves, they recognize that each person learns at their own pace. Attention to technique is also important and the instructors will take the time to focus on this without making individuals feel inadequate. For adults looking to increase their fitness or achieve weight goals - in a supportive and non-intimidating environment- Evoke Martial Arts is the place to do it. Highly recommend.

Love this place and love Master Dayo and Miss Tess. We have one boy in "Little Dragons" and one in "Kidz." I go to Adult Kickboxing which is the best workout i get because it incorporates agility, strength, and cardio. Everyone is upbeat and it helps me get into the workouts. I like the combination of upper and lower body. Along with changes in my diet i've lost 30 pounds so far this year. Can't say enough good things. Thank you!

My son has been a Little Dragon since September and always looks forward to his time at Evoke! The staff are incredible. They are professional, knowledgeable, attentive, and encouraging. They focus on building confidence and being responsible citizens and have created a warm and safe space for learning. Highly recommend!

This kickboxing class is definitely tough and sweaty but worth it when you're surrounded with people who support you and motivate you to push yourself harder. At the end of the class you'll leave with great pride and satisfaction!!

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!

This is an amazing martial arts school! My daughter has been taking classes here for a few months, and from t he very first day we were amazed by how good the instructors are and how kind, welcoming, and fun they make their lessons. There is a very clear sense of respect going both ways, of the fact the instructors care about each and every kid learning to do hapkido, and of constant encouragement to try and persevere and continue to get better. You can see the instructors enjoy and have fun teaching these kids, and you can see the kids respond to that. It's wonderful to watch the little ones master skills they didn't have, and it's great to see them take to heart the habits and ways of thinking that they talk about at the beginning of each lesson. In short, this place is something special, and we're grateful to be a part of it. I would strongly recommend this for anyone wishing their kids practice and develop their physical abilities, and to practice focus, respect (of self and others), discipline, hard work, kindness, patience... the list goes on. Thank you! and please keep doing an amazing job!

I have been training at THA for the past 5 years and it is has the most wonderful team of instructors. They are supportive, motivating and extremely knowledgeable. Throughout the past number of months the THA team has done an incredible job switching classes to their online platform to accommodate their students and help everyone during these uncertain times. I look forward to heading back to the school for in person classes soon!

I started at Toronto Hapkido Academy four years ago as a 33 year old who was feeling pretty out of shape and who had always thought that martial arts would be fun, but had never made it past 2 or 3 classes at any school I had tried. Well here I am four years later having achieved my 1st degree black last November and teaching classes to the kids and juniors. When I look back on my time at THA it is nothing short of amazing. Dayo and his team have been supportive, nurturing, welcoming, pushed me to my limits and beyond, and have become my fast friends. My wife and both my kids have joined me there and have loved it. I would not hesitate to invite anyone to come and experience the fun and challenge at THA.

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!

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!!

I have been kickboxing for about 8 months at THA. I LOVE it. Great community, great instructors, and I've lost weight. First workout regime I actually enjoy doing. I have had zero previous martial arts training, mostly working out at regular gyms. The first while is tough, but you get into the swing of things, and feel yourself improving. Great group of people, total range of ages and fitness abilities.

If you’re looking for a fun, stress-free place to host your child’s next birthday party, we highly recommend Evoke! We hosted 15 classmates for Tommy’s 6th birthday, and from the moment we arrived, everything was ready to go. The studio was set up with tables, and Mr. Theo and Ms. Layla took charge, keeping the kids engaged the entire time with obstacle courses, ninja challenges, martial arts activities, and nonstop fun. The best part? All we had to provide was the pizza. Evoke handled the setup, activities, and entertainment, making the entire experience incredibly easy for us as parents. The 2-hour party was perfectly organized, with plenty of time for pizza, cake, and celebrating with friends. The highlight for Tommy was getting to break a board at the end of the party! Having the entire studio to ourselves made it feel private, safe, and relaxed for both the kids and parents. We’re so grateful to be part of the Evoke family and thankful for helping make Tommy’s 6th birthday such a special and memorable day. ❤️🥋🎉

My husband and I have been attending the kickboxing fitness class for 5 months now and we absolutely love it! Not only I can see that my body has been changed, but also it became a fun hobby my husband and I can enjoy together. We had so much fun at kickboxing class, we started Muay Thai trial just 2 weeks ago too 🙂 I highly recommend T.H.A Martial Arts&Kickboxing if you are looking for something fun and exciting to do with your family member!

Could not be happier with THA. My 6 year old son has been a Lil' Dragon for almost 2 years now and the benefits from the program have been immense. The instructors are constantly instilling important values with the kids (family, respect, focus, discipline) and they are very knowledgeable in how to communicate to the young kids. For anyone looking for a kids martial arts program, I highly recommend this.

The best place to train and experience friendship under supervising of professional coaches. The ambiance is a home. They gonna mail you a handwritten postal card after joining which was so impressive for me that they didn't print a typical card and just put the address on an already printed sticker, they put effort and they write something by hand for me! That made a very good feeling for me! Keep going folks and it's my pleasure to be one of you!

Have been going here for the Muay Thai classes. The team is absolutely amazing!!! Very supportive, provide clear instructions and help for the classes, friendly and kind, and know you by name which I believe shows how much they care. The place itself is very clean, bright, and overall suitable for the classes. I do a biweekly membership and it's definitely worth it if you can go consistently, otherwise they offer class packages too. I really enjoy going here and would recommend anyone considering a place to join here!

Evoke is a wonderful space for my 10 and 15 year olds. Leia is always looking forward to her Hapkido practices and is a big fan of her instructors. Amir loves the Muay Thai classes. The environment at Evoke is the perfect combination of supportive and disciplined. I highly recommend Evoke to anyone who is looking for a great martial arts studio. Nas

My children have been coming here for martial arts for four years now and I finally decided to try it out myself. Instructors go above and beyond and are always kind and friendly. My kids are as comfortable with the staff as they would be with our own family.

I have been coming for a month now and have been doing the cardio kickboxing classes and I just love it! The instructors are very personable and they push you in all the right ways. I look forward to coming each week and feel amazing after. These classes really make you work hard but at the same time you have fun. Can't say enough great things about this place!

Both of our kids joined Evoke Little Dragons at age 5, and it has been an incredible experience for our family. Through martial arts, they’ve learned discipline, focus, and commitment, but even more importantly, kindness, respect, and resilience. Each class begins with a character trait of the week, which sets the tone and helps kids practice these values in a fun, meaningful way. The instructors are skilled, patient, and engaging, making every lesson enjoyable and educational. Beyond just martial arts, Evoke is a supportive community where kids grow not only physically but also emotionally and socially. We’re so grateful to be part of it!

As a mom of 3 I found it hard to motivate myself to get out there and try something like this. I thought it would be boring and I wouldn't stick to it. Boy was i wrong.. this place is amazing they make you feel so welcome and I look forward to each and every class. They are on your side no matter what. There is no looking down on people just genuine people helping eachother out! Love this place and I can't wait till I can reach my goal! Myself and my friend try to make it every night!