Reviews of Alliance Jiu-Jitsu - Kelowna (Gym)

Hannah Howarth

First Strike is a great place train and grow, or to just get a great work out in. I have gone to a bunch of the Kickboxing classes and I absolutely LOVE them, not only do you get a great workout every time but you get educated and shown techniques to improve. The atmosphere is friendly and always very welcoming. Overall I highly recommend Frist Strike to anyone.

Mike Czuboka

Can't say enough good things about FirstStrike. I've been training here for a little over a year and at 35 am in better shape now than I was in my 20s. Sean runs a very respectful and approachable gym, that is not intimidating, but will certainly put you through the paces and challenge you. I highly recommend FirstStike to anyone looking to get into shape and learn some real-world self defence skills.

Kristian Sullivan

First Strike BJJ & Muay Thai is my favorite place in all of Kelowna to be. The atmosphere is amazing, all of the people are great role models, and most of all the training is legit! I would recommend Team First Strike to anyone looking to get into shape or learn something new! There's people of all skill levels at the gym so you will always have somebody who you can partner up with. Stop by tonight, check out the club and talk to Sean, you won't regret coming in! Everyone is extremely welcoming.

Parkin'Spot

This was my first time doing any martial arts training and Coach Sean was very supportive and ran some amazing classes! The senior students were very welcoming to a newcomer and took the time to show me the ropes. Coach Ryan is always positive and great at motivating people, it’s always a great class and lots of knowledge is obtained from his lessons. The school has a very welcoming atmosphere and the coaches are backed by decades of knowledge learned from world renowned martial arts experts. Even if you are just looking to get into shape or try a different workout routine, this will definitely do all that for you. Thank you Coach Sean and Coach Ryan!

John Morgan

Sean is passionate about his gym and it shows in every interaction. Professional through and through. I was nervous to start, but quickly felt comfortable after attending my first class.

Scott Viala

Sean at Alliance Kelowna is an amazing coach and teacher. The way he breaks down techniques is better than anyone else I have ever trained under. I highly recommend Alliance Kelowna to anyone and everyone new to mma or if you have trained for years.

Brendan Hoekstra

Fantastic place to train! Instructors are talented, knowledgeable, friendly and clearly want students to excel in martial arts. Good group of people to roll with!

T K

Awesome.

Edwin McEwan

5 star plus "Black Belt” training & instruction @ Alliance Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Muay-Thai kickboxing. Highly recommend Head Instructor Professor Sean McHugh and coaching staff. They are very encouraging, patient and dedicated to your development and really know how to break down instructions to help newer students understand and learn the techniques and concepts while still providing high level curriculum and instruction to the more advanced and competitive students customized to their respective level of experience and needs. They give individual “Black Belt” attention to each and everyone of their students. They take the time to learn strengths and weaknesses in order to help improve & refine skills. Training at Alliance is always fun, mentally stimulating and definitely a great place to get a good work out for young, old, beginners and advanced students. The environment is welcoming, positive and safe. Drop in for a class or a visit today @ Team Alliance Kelowna - 5 star rating!

Al Bargen

There are a lot of martial arts clubs here in Kelowna, and I have trained at many of them. I love the experience at First Strike. I like that it's not just one style, but you can learn all ranges of combat from their stable of well qualified trainers. I think it's the only Carlson Gracie accredited school in town, so you know it's the one you have to train at. Although, I haven't taken any of the Muay Thai classes, I here they're excellent. If you're looking for a place to train, this is it. Al Bargen

Peter Plimmer

I’ve trained for 20 years in karate and a couple of years ago started doing BJJ with another instructor. When he wasn’t available anymore I went to see Sean. It’s great training there with a good group of people. If you need 1 thing from a martial arts school it’s got to be a good environment to train and learn. Sean has fostered this. If you are looking for grappling I would say stop by and check this out.

Bob Sacallis

My fav place to work out when I'm in kelowna. Quality bjj school with a quality proffsor. Can't say enough about the gym or Sean.

Ray Neto

Sensei Sean has honoured roots in the deep roots of our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and represents the World Champion Team Alliance Jiu-Jitsu here in Kelowna, BC. Sean is also such a good person and leads both great athletes and people from all ages who just enjoy training the gentle art in such a friendly and respectful environment! Couldn’t feel more blessed in finding his gym so far from home to get back to the mats after my last surgery! More than recommended to anyone in the area, OSS! ????????????????????

Thomas Kjorven

The hardest part of starting my new found love for BJJ was simply driving to the gym. Once I met Sean and the awesome community there I was hooked! It can be really intimidating to start something new, but I’ve felt nothing but support and respect from the whole team who all appreciate the journey regardless of the starting point. Thomas Kjorven

Joel JL Interiors Drywall & Insulation

Awesome learning experience . Great way to change lifestyle, learn awesome martial arts and meet great people . JL

Awakened IntoFreedom

Top level instruction from passionate professionals Bravo

Andre Carrier

Wicked place to train, this has been the first club I've gone to and I can't say enough good things about the club. Sean the Jujitsu instructor and Cody the Muai Thai instructor are extremely patient and ultimately want to see everyone succeed. A huge amount of respect resonates through all the members that attend and a great place to meet some awesome people. Give it a try!!

S. Kyle Depta

Alliance is an awesome gym with a welcome environment for people of all levels. There are plenty of flexible class hours for mornings, afternoons, and evenings. The instructors are fantastic, patient, informative, and have a true passion for BJJ. I would highly recommend Alliance Kelowna!

AntlerCöw

Sean is a great coach! Such a great positive atmosphere

Jacquie Kine

I don't have my own Google account so I am writing a review from my wife's account. My name is Jake and I have trained at several martial arts gyms over the years, the Alliance dynamic is second to none. No matter what kind of shape you're in or what experience level you're at you will be welcomed with open arms and feel like part of the team. Come for the jiu-jitsu and you'll stay for the family atmosphere. New martial arts gyms can be intimidating but Sean and the entire team do a fantastic job of making everyone who steps in the door feel at home. In the 3.5 months I have been training here it's already become like my second home. If you're looking to try something new or find a new place to train come check out a class, I bet you can't do just one!

Jesse Alexander

First Strike is a phenomenal place to train and has a great atmosphere for all levels. Sean is a very knowledgable instructor that goes out of his way to help you improve your skills. I highly recommend this place to anyone in the Kelowna area.

Chris Rowe

As a martial arts instructor, I have taken my team to First Strike to do some cross training. The instruction from Team First Strike is top notch. Sean has passion for helping people, and our community.

Chris Livingstone

Alliance Kelowna is everything I am looking for in a BJJ gym: small, friendly, good value, great instruction. The owner Sean is very helpful and easy to talk to by email or in-person. I've been coming mostly to Friday nights with Kody and he is a very good instructor. I feel like I am getting extra attention as a new student, not less. The atmosphere is very fun and welcoming. I can't wait until I can come more often!

Dr B

Team First Strike is a great place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! It has been my best experience training with instructor Sean McHugh and there is a great energy in the club. I would highly reccomend it to anyone wanting to train BJJ, MMA, or Muay Thai Kickboxing.

Val Lavigne

When I searched for a place to give classes a shot a year ago this was my first and only pick. There is a reason that the reviews are so amazing! Great atmosphere + people + instructors (who are the chilliest, most patient peeps ever), several class selections throughout the week, and the option of private lessons as well. I've enjoyed myself immensely while learning some new skills and my son, who does private lessons, is loving his time with Sean (Owner/Instructor)!

Norm Leung

Sean has made Alliance Kelowna a family friendly gym. he is an extremely focused instructor who is passionate about teaching and seeing his students improve. One of the most impressive things he has done is create a positive environment to foster open learning. Students are not intimidated when they first come in. he always greats them with a smile and makes everyone feel welcomed. You can see all this in not only himself but in the way his students also help each other grow and progress. Since he has joined the world champion team Alliance, he has adopted their teaching philosophy and adapted it to ensure his students have a solid level of fundamentals (something many gyms overlook), and you can see it in the way his students train and compete. Sean is a previous mentor to me and a good friend and regardless of your skill level, athleticism or physical health, you should check out his gym as it's a decision that you will never regret.

Michelle Jorgensen

I have had an amazing experience here. Everyone is very warm, friendly and welcoming. I go to as many classes as possible, on average 2 classes a day, 6 days a week or as often as my work/school schedule allows. I have never been treated better than I am at First Strike and I recommend it to all of my friends. Since I joined, I quite smoking, started eating healthier and I am in the best shape I have ever been in; all welcome side effects of this fantastic place! Everyone trains hard during classes, but we're always joking, playing and just having a great time with even better people. The only down side to first strike is that it eventually has to close for a few hours so we can all get some rest! I'm actually on my way over there right now for my first of 4 classes today, can't think of a better way to spend my day off than having fun with friends while training BJJ/Muay Thai!!

Arlen Jacobs

This is a friendly gym that gets you in shape and trained on the BJJ that works. Sean is awesome as a BJJ professor and as a coach. He knows what he's talking about. It matters who you train with, and where you get your black belt; Sean is legit: Carlson Gracie -> Marcus Soares -> Sean McHugh

Jeremy v10.2

Lets not mince words here. if you're looking for "an easy martial arts club" this isn't for you. The people here are all very cool. The staff are masters in their trades, and are always approachable. There are class offerings for all skill levels, and I'm yet to meet a club member whom I didn't like. It's a great place to get fit, hang out, and observe. I always leave feeling strong, and satisfied that I know a little more than I did when I walked in. That being said... I do put in some serious work every time I walk it. It's a challenge. There are no half measures here. You will never be pressured into pushing yourself too far, but there will be a fair bit of pushing on your part. It's a full workout, all of the time, every time. And... It's awesome. The conditioning, fighting techniques which are taught (in both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu) are all very practical. It only takes a few hours for one to see the difference that they could make in an actual confrontation. It's also a lot of fun to learn. Sean and John keep things light hearted, with a brisk enough pace enough to keep my heart rate up. The weight that I've lost (and am keeping off) and the defensive skills that I've learned in just 3 months have been worth all of the time and resources spent. Aside from this, it's just a great bunch of people to hang out with. Try it!

Mike O'Neill

Great professor who likes to see everyone improve. Every week I get better and better, but then so do my team mates - which is good. This club always offers a challenge and is never boring. Everyone contributes to a positive atmosphere.

Kathy Hubble/NTB FIGHT GEAR

Amazing warm atmosphere and great instruction... even visiting for first time, felt like part of the family!

C. Scott Turner

This place is very clean with modern equipment and great instructors.

Andy Tewfik

Great place. Very good place to go if you are passing through. The professor is very friendly and very knowledgeable.

Jim Purkiss

I was in Kelowna this week on vacation and stopped in for several workouts at the alliance bjj location. Professor Sean was very welcoming as well as all the people I trained with. It’s apparent right away that professor Sean not only has great knowledge but great passion for passing this knowledge along to his students. I would highly recommend dropping in if you live in Kelowna or or are visiting. Thanks again Sean. Osss!

jordan sangster

Hands down my favourite workout! I have tried many different gyms/personal trainers in Kelowna and doing 1 on 1 Kickboxing with Sean has remained my favourite! I love the intensity of it, fitness results and how much fun I have while doing it. Thanks Sean! You are the best of the best!

Jim Ranger

The culture is what makes this place amazing. On top of that, Sean has a huge passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and his instruction is thorough and detailed. People that attend regularly are quickly absorbed into the Alliance family with it's approachable and warm atmosphere. You have to walk through the doors to really experience it.

Your Jeep Guy

Sean is a very knowledgeable and very caring coach. My daughter (12) and I train there together. We have a great time and she is gaining self confidence and developing her character. I highly recommend Sean's club for both the casual enthusiast and also for the serious practitioner looking to train with a top flight team.

JungHwa Boyer

I'm not giving 5 stars because this is my brothers school. He gets 5 stars from me because he is an awesome instructor with a big heart! Any adult in his BJJ or Kick Boxing programs or a parent of a child in his kids program, will get top notch training!

Nicholas Kusmich

Just moved into town from Ontario...it's been 2 years since I trained and I was really looking to getting back to training. I researched the few schools here in Kelowna and Alliance stood out. Had my first class, then second and very quickly found a new home here. The people are great. Everyone leaves their ego at the door and come just to train. Beginners, competitors are all welcome. Sean is good peeps and has attracted other good peeps.

Kloud Marketing Solutions

Best place to train in Kelowna.

Stephen Munro

Am new to BJJ have been training at Alliance with Sean and team the last 6 weeks or so. Right off the bat felt comfortable, so much so that we enrolled our son as well. The rest of the club members in the studio are helpful, particularly with beginners like me! What a workout and quickly addicted. Great work guys!

Wesley Johnston

I've attended classes regularly at Alliance, formerly First Strike, for almost a year. Head teacher and owner Sean is as patient an instructor as you will ever come across, always willing to address any questions students have about the highly intricate and complex, never ending learning experience that is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Students of all levels of experience are welcome and will find tremendous value from training at Alliance, whether they intend to compete, learn self defense, develop physical stamina and strength or just experience a novel challenge. There's also kickboxing. Muai Thai is a phenomenal weight loss system, and provides students with combat skills proficient to seriously throw down. If you are looking for a place to train among kind, dedicated and passionate students and instructors you should drop in and try a free class... But understand that It is highly addictive :)

Peter Holgate

Whenever I visit the interior I always train at First Strike. The quality of instruction is unparalleled and the camaraderie is world class. Their facility in central Kelowna is clean and modern with lots of room on the mat to roll as well as for standup. Sean McHugh trained under Marcus Soares in BJJ and in my opinion there is no finer lineage to learn from.

Chris Leinweber

Owner/Professor (Black Belt) Sean McHugh and high level Brown Belt coach Kristian Fraser show knowledge, patience, and support for my martial arts journey and are always there professionally and personally. Nothing on Earth has affected my life as positively as jiu-jitsu, and Alliance is the place I've finally found for exploring my potential and expanding my fight game mentally and physically. For anyone curious about trying BJJ or kickboxing whether to learn to defend yourself, to compete, or to get into the best shape of your life, everyone is welcome here so be sure to jump into a class with us and see for yourself what it feels like to be part of a strong team and realize that it's so, so much more than just 'combat sports' -- it's metaphor and philosophy to carry into your daily life and reveal who you really are.

peter chenier

Great environment, Great people, Top notch instructors.

Angela Tam

The classes are high energy and fun while still focusing on technique and challenging. Sean is an extremely accommodating instructor that will tailor classes to the level of the participants. I’d recommend Alliance for both Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai!

A F

Sean (coach/owner) is so welcoming and knowledgeable! He truly cares about each person that walks in the door and their experience. He often stays long hours and is very willing to work with you to perfect a drill and just answer questions. Sean fosters a team mentality that is very supportive and the same can’t be said for all the clubs in town. The scariest part is walking through the door and it’s all a piece of cake after that!

Shawn Sayers

Alliance has one of the most welcoming communities and Sean McHugh is a great instructor. Him and the other coaches run a very great martial arts gym. Very clean and hospitable to parents and children alike. Not to mention now 12 time world champions. If you are looking for a place to learn something new and keep fit while doing it, look no further. You've found it in Alliance Kelowna.

Olivia Carter

I love training at Team First Strike! It’s a great workout and everyone is super friendly and helpful. As a team we don’t just train together, we joke around and laugh which makes everything more enjoyable. Sean, the instructor and owner, is an amazing instructor and all around fantastic guy who makes learning easy and fun. I look forward to going to Jiu Jitsu all day and always leave feeling great. I recommend that everyone give Team First Strike a try!

Aaron Boyer

Sean runs a professional workout catered directly to his audience. I am a fairly beginner level martial artist and he’s helped me focus on technique, making me feel much more comfortable and fluid in the movements. Plus he knows how to make you get a good sweat in and challenge you as well!

Mark Kohlen

Alliance is a great place to train and learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! Sean is a top level professor drawing from many years of experience. His classes are fun and challenging for all skill levels. Walking through the doors for the first time can be intimidating but the coaches and members make you feel comfortable and welcome. I highly recommend Alliance Kelowna to anyone looking to start or continue their Jiu-Jitsu journey!!

Anthony Abou Khalil

Friendly and helpful training atmosphere for kids and adults, highly recommend it to anyone looking for a place to train !

David Finnigan

If you're at all apprehensive about setting foot inside a martial arts gym, you don't need to worry when you're coming in to First Strike. It's a great atmosphere for all ages, skill levels, and innate abilities. The classes are a blast, and the level of instruction experience is top notch; you've got direct access to a black belt! Sean's fostered a pretty impressive culture; no meatheads, all camaraderie and a hunger to learn. You should take advantage of the intro month at the very least - you'll learn so much, and it's by far the most amazing, enjoyable workout you're gonna get in this city.

Brent Planz

Sean, Just a quick note to say how much I’m enjoying jiu-jitsu and to express what a great job you do with the school. I really appreciate that you take the time to go through techniques step by step and with patience – it makes it that much easier to learn the art. Everyone at class is friendly, no one has an ego, and the more experienced students are always happy to help the newer students. That says a lot about the attitude at the school, and I’m really glad that I found it. You’ve got a great thing going here. For anyone that wants top notch instruction in a hands-on martial art, in a friendly relaxed atmosphere, this is the place to be. Thanks again – looking forward to lots more training… Brent Planz

Cadence Trites

This is an exceptional place. I can't truly explain how much of a positive influence and self-esteem boost that Sean and the other instructors have provided for my son. Thank you with all of my heart!

a bengert

Great club. I came for a seminar and everyone was friendly and welcoming. Learned some new and awesome jits techniques. I'm from out of town but if I was in Kelowna, I'd be training there for sure.

Tyler Nasadyk

Great place everyone Is super friendly and happy to teach you anything you want to know. 100% repayment this gym

Chris Moeller

This is a great training studio! I started at the club with no martial arts experience and all coaches and members were super supportive while still pushing me to build new skills. The coaches are truly experts in the art. I highly recommend this club to newbies and experts alike!

Kyle and Stacy Crane

I was convinced by a friend to try classes at Alliance and I was not disappointed. The instructors are fantastic and make learning BJJ and Muay Thai fun and exciting! The environment is very supportive and makes me feel like I'm part of a family.

Nathan Thorsteinson

I was in Kelowna for a couple months during snowboard season and wanted to continue my training. I had asked my professor in WPG where I should train while I was in Kelowna, as soon as he saw Alliance he told me thats the place to go. I took his advice and was happy I did. Professor Sean & coach Kristian provide very clear and in depth teaching. A real great vibe in the academy. Great training partners from white belts all the way up to black belts. After training at Alliance Kelowna for only a couple months I truly felt inspired and noticed a real progression in my jiu jitsu game. Everyone at my club back home have noticed as well. I will definitely train at Alliance whenever i'm in Kelowna. OSS!

Brad A

If you are looking for a Martial Arts Academy to enroll your kids in, I would highly recommend First Strike Martial Arts. Both of my daughters attend the kids Jiu Jitsu class with Sean McHugh twice a week, the experience that we have had has been very positive. The big difference that I have noticed between First Strike and other Martial Arts schools is that Sean prepares the kids for real life situations that they may have to deal in their every day life. The kids learn self defense, but at the same time they are staying active, learning about respect for others, self confidence, and learning how to deal with conflicts. I have great pride that my girls are attending First Strike Martial Arts.

Margaux Tappin

I LOVE First Strike! I had never done any type of martial art before I joined this club, but Sean is such a great kickboxing instructor. He works at your fitness level and is so encouraging. I have never been a fan of going to the gym but I always look forward to my kickboxing classes! I highly recommend First Strike Martial Arts to everyone.

Raquel Washington

My experience with this gym has been amazing. Skillful and supportive instructors help me reach my goals. Not only do you get top knotch instruction, but the atmosphere always me in a great mood when I'm done. Love this gym. Thanks for being a wonderful instructor, Sean, you're a true leader.

Melissa Pawlak

This academy is a great and friendly place for all. Whenever it's your first time stepping on the mat or you've been training for years, the instructors there will help you grow. This place is very welcoming and makes you feel comfortable learning the new strange movements. I would definitely recommend this faculty to anyone interested in jiu-jitsu, muay thai or mma.

Justin Perrin

If you want to train at a club where you can feel proud to be part of the team, this is the club you are looking for. Sean the head instructor is very approachable and has created a great atmosphere to train.

Sharlene Kjorven

My kids LOVE going to class, Sean does such a amazing job , teaching the kids not only be have a good skill but to be a better person.

Jason Grenier

I first came to alliance about 4 years ago. I haven't been fortunate enough to stay all 4 but I can say with certainty that I have been addicted since the first day I walked in. Sean and the other coaches are some of the most friendly encouraging people I've ever meet, and have helped put me on the track to changing my life for the better. I feel I have gained discipline, perseverance, confidence, valuable life experience and most importantly the realization that one of the greatest forms of personal development although it may be scary at first is to always challenge yourself always be going out of your way to do difficult uncomfortable things. I will be forever greatful to Sean and his team for these lessons and experiences and I hope this helps bring some new faces on the Mats ????

Robert Gomizelj

Great place to train. Every time I'm in Kelowna I stop in and get a great workout with Sean and his staff, people are friendly, instructors are knowable.

Laura Kelly

Nothing but positive things to say! I had no prior experience and was very nervous, but Sean and the gang made me feel immediately welcome. Now I'm learning lots and having a ton of fun. I look forward to every class!

Frazer Atkinson

Incredible place, incredible people. I can't say enough good things about this facility. Sean and the team at Alliance made me feel welcome and supported from the minute I walked through the door. Would highly recommend.

Benny Stayflow

Have been to many clubs and had many instructors but the instructor at First Strike Sean, is the best I have had so far. The team are really welcoming and it is always fun and challenging. Best core workout also! So happy to be a part of this club!

Neil Penner

Great club. Friendly staff!

Susanne Hohn

My 16 year old daughter walked in the doors without having any martial arts experience. She's had a great experience training in Muay-Thai Kickboxing. The environment is welcoming, professional, and very relational and community oriented. The coaches are technically knowledgeable and great people!

Evan Hussey

Came here while on vacation from Vancouver, the facility is clean and organized and manned by an awesome instructor! Everyone on the team made me feel extremely welcome and even though I was just visiting I was looked after and given lots of attention to detail in my technique. I will be making a point to come back every time we visit Kelowna!!

Nick P

Tried the Muay Thai classes at Alliance and absolutely loved it! Great instructors, challenging workouts and a welcoming atmosphere.

Dillon Jensen

Challenge, Success, Improvement. I had trained in several academies prior to starting with First Strike, and the difference became apparent during my first class. The community at First Strike is the most inclusive, friendly, and supportive that I've ever had the pleasure to train with. From the instructors to the training area, the academy is run professionally; you feel welcome, comfortable, and every class is a joy to be a part of. First Strike offers a variety of classes for all levels of students, from beginners having never grappled or even worn a gi (uniform) to those who have been rolling for years. In addition to traditional kickboxing, First Strike offers a unique Kickboxing fitness, for those who are less inclined to hit people, and more comfortable hitting pads and sweating away those pounds! Whatever your goals, whether fitness, self-defense, or competition, First Strike has a class for you. I'll be training with Team First Strike for as long as I can!

Brock Munro

If you live in the Okanagan and are thinking about doing Martial Arts, First Strike is the place to go! I was nervous about starting Martial Arts and was intimidated to walk in the front door. As soon as I walked in, I felt welcomed. Sean is an amazing instructor who is super knowledgeable. He has created the most comfortable environment for all ages and skill levels. Classes are super fun and a great workout! I highly recommend trying a class at First Strike Martial Arts!

Matty Paters

5/5 Stars! Hands down best club in town. Immediately at Alliance I felt like family. Sean is a great instructor, he keeps things light and fun but is a professional through and through. No matter who is leading class you know you're going to learn a new skill and have a good time doing it, whether it be Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai. Taking the first step and walking through the door was the hardest part but one of the best decisions I've made.

Jeremy Matthews

All skill levels are welcome here and everyone can train at their own pace. A great place to train if you're looking to do some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (with or without a gi), MMA, Muay Thai or even just get into shape. The instructors are very accommodating - to your strengths, weaknesses, and styles that you may have - and approachable, which is reflected in everyone else who trains there. Lots of positive support and encouragement from everyone, but also great competition!!

Jaise Hodgins

Moving to Kelowna from Alberta alone was a scary experience at first but alliance jujitsu with Coach Sean and Coach Ryan and the rest of the alliance family had created a home away from home for me. I felt welcomed right from the first class and became addicted to jiu-jitsu and kickoxing immediately. I can't thank everyone at alliance enough for everything they did for me over my stay in kelowna and would 100% recommend at least paying them a visit, because once you go in you will never want to leave again!

ryland donaldson

I had never done a martial art before and I decided to sign up for a month at alliance. It was great! both the kickboxing and jiu jitsu classes were both fun and a great workout. The coaches were great, friendly, and patient with my lack of experience. Overall awesome place!

Mike E

A fantastic school for young and mature students. My son thoroughly enjoys training and learning all of the technical skills taught here. There is a class for everyone and anyone. Try this school and you will find the whole body workout you have been searching for. It is also a lot of fun! The school is safe and friendly and we have made a lot of really great friends.

Dustin little

This is a place to call your second home, to feel welcome, safe and to learn a great two great disciplines (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & kickboxing).Sean, his team and all of the students have been absolutely amazing to me from the very moment I walked through the doors and after being to many martial arts clubs that’s exactly what I was searching for! Thanks for the rounds and I’m a lifer ????

Tanya Wishlove-Stott

Alliance Jiu Jitsu has blown us away with the excellent teaching, leadership, encouraging atmosphere and beyond fantastic group of people that spend time there. Our 13-year old son has been going to classes since March of 2019, and is committed and dedicated to this practice purely because of how Sean and the incredible people at Alliance have fanned the flame of his interest with their encouragement, teaching and camaraderie. There are not enough stars available to reflect the quality of this place highly enough.

Ashley Sabeski

My boys, aged 8 & 6 have been a part of Alliance Jiu-Jitsu since the fall of 2020. After our first meet and greet with Sean McHugh, we knew this was a community that we wanted to be a part of. Sean, along with his assistant coaches are truly dedicated to offering a balance of Jiu-Jitsu experiences: self discipline, technical skills, accountability, respect and most importantly fun!! These kids are always smiling and feeling a win (within themselves) during each class. We are grateful to be a part of the Alliance team and to be learning from the best!!

John K

Alliance is a great place to learn martial arts. The atmosphere during classes was positive and friendly and Sean was always patient and clear in his instructions. Unfortunately life has gotten in the way right now so I don't have time to train but I would highly recommend Sean and his team at Alliance,

Jamey Montagner

Absolutely recommended! I went for a free drop in ( offered by Sean) and fell right into place. I compare it to a big family, everyone is routing for each other and always lending helping hands. Sean will train personally with you individually to help weaknesses and raise strengths. Don’t get it confused, yes it is great for beginners but even with 9 years experience I’m still learning daily, this is the place to be. Melissa ( his lovely wife ) is also often at the door to greet you with a smile before starting classes. 5/5 go alliance.

Mark McGillan

Great team! Great workout!!

Kasey Lane

Having been to a few gyms, I felt as though they were all the same atmosphere; people who were judgmental on how many weights you could lift or how long you ran on the treadmill. After trying one kickboxing class at Team First Strike I knew this was the gym for me. The atmosphere is very welcoming, the people who go are amazing (we call them our gym family), the variety of classes that are offered is a geat mix – all in the martial arts family from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai & MMA. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable, inspiring and encouraging. I highly recommend if you are looking for a fun place to train, Team First Strike is the place to do it – hands down the best gym in Kelowna !

Pacific Sport Okanagan

Sean has provided a welcoming and inclusive space for many entities of our organization. He has donated his space for our summer and spring camps, as well as instructed phenomenal Jiu Jitsu and self defence classes to the children. He is thorough in explaining drills, and very knowledgeable on the sport. Sean also works great with kids and always provides a positive atmosphere at the gym. The gym itself is bright and spacious. All of us at PacificSport Okanagan are grateful for the efforts he puts in to ensure a fun experience for every child, and for how easy he makes it for the leaders. THANK YOU, SEAN!!

Mar Lansky

Sean's children's classes are outstanding, my son is excited before EVERY session. In my private sessions, Sean is always professional, enthusiastic and creative in coming up with dynamic and challenging ways to learn both Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu. He is the best, period.

Sergiu Bârsa

I've been training at Sean's school for a year. I highly recommend this place. Sean and the other coaches (Kristian and Jimmy) are awesome teachers and great Jiu Jitsu practitioners. Before I joined, I was slightly intimidated by Alliance's marketing, saying that they are 12-times World Champions (11-times at that point). I was worried that the school will be oriented towards high-achieving athletes (while I was a complete beginner). Don't let that mislead you. The atmosphere is very welcoming to beginners and more advanced students alike. The teammates are very supportive of each other, regardless of your goals and level of intensity at which you'd like to train. Sean's pricing is transparent. It's all on the website, up to date. There's no long term contracts. The schedule works well for me, and I can pick and choose which days I want to come. I'm glad that I found this school.

Cyrus Badger

So glad I jumped into it a few months back, never found myself like I did with alliance. Instructors are great and everyone's friendly, all there to help eachother achieve their goals. Excited to get back into it!

dan crema

A great gym for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced there are classes for all. The owner/instructor Sean is a legit BJJ black belt whose always on the mat and the Muay Thai is taught by John, a true trainer of classic Thai techniques. After attending most gyms in Kelowna I tried First Strike and I won't go anywhere else.

jared Aulin

Training at Alliance with Sean has been everything I have been looking for and more. My fiancé and I have been working with Sean for 2 years now and to see how much we have both grown in the craft of Muay Thai has been both rewarding and fun. Sean understands how to get the best out of us through his personality and teaching style . I have been doing Muay Thai for 14 summers now and this past 2 summers with Sean has given me even more confidence and and a broader understanding in the Art of Muay Thai. Whether looking to join a class or to do private sessions, Alliance Jiu Jitsu in Kelowna is where its at!!

Norris Wass-Little

I joined about a month ago with no experience and its been nothing but fantastic! Sean is a great instructor! Its been super fun learning a new sport and going completely out of my comfort zone. Sean and everyone in the classes as made it a very welcoming environment and an easy transition! Would recommend to anyone wanting to come :)

Stefan Timotic

I stopped by to visit while I was in Kelowna. I normally train at Alliance in Coquitlam. The coach is very knowledgeable and the team was very friendly. I learned a few useful techniques that I incorporated into my game from just one morning class. There was plenty of mat space and they also do kick boxing. I highly recommend this gym. See you guys again when im back in Kelowna.

Hayden Gordon

I've been through 4 classes with sean the instructor this week I am a total beginner I feel like I'm learning very quickly and I'm haveing the time of my life hats off to sean I cannot reccomed alliance enough fun clean well kept school!

jackson glada

From my first class to present, alliance has been an excellent place to cultivate my love/obsession with jiujitsu and muay thai. Every instructor walks the line between meeting you where you're at, and pushing you past that point. Is it fun? Yes. Is it hard? Also yes. it's exactly what you need. See you there.

Justin Wong

First Strike is a great place to learn BJJ. Sean and the team are super friendly and are very welcoming to newcomers. I can't recommend them enough.

Adam Markin

Sean is a great instructor who clearly has a passion for what he does. This club has a great laid back atmosphere with great people for the best price in town.