Reviews of CJ Martial Arts & Fitness (Gym)

Amelia Thomas

I was brand new to martial arts when I wandered into CJ last year. Immediately I was hooked, and coming almost every day! As my life got busier, and I started school, I wasn't able to attend as many classes. However I would find myself thinking about how much I had learned at the hands of Cara, Jordy and their colleauges, and how much they made me feel like a part of the "family," and inspired me to keep going, even when my muscles felt like they couldn't take another punch. Both of them really know what they team are doing, and have created an atmosphere that welcomes people of all skill levels and ages. Also, I have been an athlete for almost my whole life, playing mostly team sports such as basketball and rugby - and some of their classes have been the most intense workouts of my life! You will be amazed by the pair of them not only as gym owners, but as people! The have certainly earned my loyalty!

Steven Bowers

I've been training here for about a year in both BJJ & Muay Thai. CJ Martial Arts has a competitive yet friendly atmosphere, challenging drilling/technique classes and top-level affiliation and instruction. With emphasis on fitness & proper technique, CJ has a competitive record of competition wins in provincial tournaments. Every class is unique, and they regularly have high level seminars with BJJ black belts under West Coast BJJ & Alliance.

Dylan lovstad

Best Fitness in town.

steve logan

This is a terrible place , definitely not helpful, the people are not friendly at all ! I would not recommend this place to anyone at all !

Mckenzie Kolt

CJ's is the best hands down. In every category they conquer. I have been trying to get back in shape after my second child for 4 years. Cara had me losing pounds and inches in only a couple weeks. The knowledge shared is so powerful as it enables students to continue their 5 star life styles out of the class as well for that 24 hour fitness lifestyle. The workouts kick your butt and the motivational atmosphere gets you to your goals. Don't worry if you are not already a martial artists everyone is given the same respect as if they have been in the gym for years.

Clint Cooper

Great group of people with a very nice facility and an extremely comfortable learning environment.

kianna lemon

Best martial arts studio on the island in my opinion, my child is in the youth kick boxing and loves it!! It has affordable rates, the most amazing staff and wicked atmosphere! Love this gym!

Matt Beckett

Everyone there is fantastic, very welcoming for beginners! We ended up enrolling the whole family - myself, my wife, and 2 kids aged 7 and 4 The kids classes are great and have been very good for my children's development in terms of self control, discipline, respect, and inter-personal skills.

Emma Johnson

Sorry I was trying to put a five up there❤️❤️❤️

RespectivelyMe

Welcoming to everyone, No matter how out of shape. The owners are extremely friendly and helpful, The people there form a light family.

Belle Pierce

This place is so amazing. I'm so glad I found it, the environment is just so pleasant, I always feel welcome and like a friend at CJs. 10/10 would recommend if you're looking for a supportive, fun workout environment

Shannon Salsman

Awesome as always!

Myla Yeomans-Routledge

After many tries at going to the gym, getting personal trainers and various other forms of fitness, CJ Martial Arts' has turned into the perfect workout I needed. This has been the first form of fitness I have tried that I actually could see and feel body improvement in weight loss and strength after only a couple weeks - while improving self-defence as well. The classes are intense, hard and always changing so you're never bored and an hour class flies by! Giving it a try with a Daily Deal, walking through the door felt a little intimidating based on how media portrays martial arts on TV but my experience was quite the opposite. The environment was safe, all the instructors are easy to talk to and the students are the same. Cara and Jordy listen to your comfort level and advise you of the best class to start dependent on if you prefer a smaller class, larger class or women's only; there are so many classes offered at all different times anyone will be able to make some! I have been taking the Muay Thai classes at CJ Martial Arts for only a couple months now and I already feel I am a part of a new group of special people that all share this unique interest, not to mention that all my clothes are becoming too loose and baggy to wear!

Ashton Louie

Cj martial arts has been the best time I had also feels good to be back in training and learning new techniques

Candice Raines

I joined CJ Martial Arts with an Island Daily Deal. I was hesitant at first, however, by the end of my deal I was hooked and eagerly signed up to continue Muay Thai. Cara and Jordy are amazing. They have created such a welcoming atmosphere. Everyone is friendly and supportive and the workout is amazing. I have learned new Muay Thai skills and each day is a chance to learn new skills and improve on what was previously learned. If you're hesitant about trying it out I highly reccommend checking CJ Martial Arts out, you will not be disappointed!!

Gyles Doolan

Nothing but a great time at CJ Martial Arts & Fitness. Having a bad day? Drop by for a great workout and enjoy yourself with some friendly and encouraging people!

Alexa McArthur

Cara and Jordy insprie me to keep going. Starting with BJJ in April and added in Muy Thai later on in the year was amazing! Everyone is so friendly and kind. Everyday when I wake up, all I can think about is going to CJ Martial Arts and Fitness! I'v learned a lot about my self and how to defend myself for situations. Almost 1 year al Cj's and many more to come :)

Liam Perison

Friendly staff, friendly students, great workouts every single time. Their rates are affordable and totally worth it. I always leave being a little happier after every class!

Eric Thomas

Enjoy every second of learning Muay Thai at CJ Martial arts! Everyone is super friendly and helpful, they describe the techniques very well and motivate you to push yourself. I only wish I joined earlier!!

Smokin Georges

An awesome gym run by wonderful people! Been working out with Cara now for several months and I have to say she is exceptional! If you are looking for a great place to work out, look no further, this is the one!

Mike M

Best overall Martial Arts academy in Nanaimo where you can learn how to use self defense and sport techniques for stand up striking and ground fighting. There is a great family vibe and the instructors are incredible people on and off the mats.

Crystal Hadley

Both my boys go and they really enjoy it . Best place for young kids to learn confidence and routine. Highly recommend.

Dion Rickwood

I can't recommend them enough, I've tried out BJJ and Muay Thai Kickboxing with them. I personally prefer Muay Thai but both instructors are professional and friendly. They're also not afraid to push you where you need to go. Try them for yourself, they have free classes. What do you have to lose?

Trycinda Hartling

I was a bit nervous getting into martial arts, but everyone at CJ martial arts is amazing. I walked in and was immediately part of the family, a family that wants you to succeed!

Pamela S

Decided to try their Muay Thai classes after walking by their building for a while. Both Jordy and Cara offer you a safe, fun and intense training environment that encourages holistic fitness goals as well as improving your skill in Muay Thai. All the other participates are friendly and welcoming, heighten the overall experience. I have made some amazing friends as a result as well as improved cardio and strength training. Will be here for a long time!

Joey Stalin (JoeyStalin)

A West Coast BJJ, and now Alliance Jiu Jitsu affiliate, CJ Martial Arts & Fitness is a great place to study a martial art like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No Gi Grappling, or Muay Thai and is truly a place for Mixed Martial Arts training. The atmosphere is fun and inviting. And thanks to affiliations with Black and Brown Belts from the Mainland and north Island, techniques are always evolving. The instruction you get from Jordy and Cara is top notch. They love martial arts and teaching it, and it shows. Their training has helped me improve my overall health and outlook on life. They've even helped me win a few medals, in Muay Thai and BJJ, here and there as well. But that certainly takes a backseat to: the better physical shape they've helped me achieve, the discipline and focus that comes with training, the boost in self confidence martial arts provides, and friendships built through training in such a great environment. So if you're looking to get in shape, take your workouts to the next step, improve on existing skills, raise your confidence, or just try something new, I highly suggest you stop by CJ Martial Arts & Fitness!

Chris Ferguson

Lets see if this unbiased review magically disappears like the last one!

Rebecca Fairweather

Cara and Jordy are very knowledgeable and friendly. I felt immediately welcome in the school and I learn something every class.

Stacy Miller

My review for CJ's Marial Arts is awesome . My Daughter is excited to train each time because the teachers and the establishment is top notch . I highly recommend anyone to come check it out!

James T

No Egos just training. Love it!

Don W

Cara and Jordy are not only super professional in everything they do but more importantly they are genuinely good people that create a positive training environment for students of all levels.

Stone McCauley

Being new to the Island, I was looking for a gym to continue my martial arts journey. After a few classes at CJ's I essentially knew I didn't need to look any further. The friendly atmosphere between teachers and classmates is refreshing in contrast to other gym's I have trained at. The knowledge, and experience, of the instructors allows you to feel confident in any form of guidance provided to you. There are many class times available, so training during the day or at night is no issue, and the prices are more than fair. In conclusion, I would personally recommend CJ's to anyone who is looking to join a gym whether you are new to martial arts or you have experience.

Aaron Jabs

CJ's has been my home away from home for about 5 years now. It is the most positive training enviroment that I have ever been apart of. The classes are welcoming and the instruction is fantastic.

Brittany Mac

I started attending CJ in August 2014 by purchasing a daily deal. I was hesitant about trying muay thai kickboxing but had been interested in it for some time so I chose to purchase the deal and give it a shot. From the first time I attended CJ, I felt welcomed and supported by everyone. Cara and Jordy are very supportive, especially with beginners. Both Cara and Jordy consistently support all the participants to give their best everytime. I will definitely continue attending CJ for years to come!

Leah Becker

I have been going to this gym for almost 3 years now and not only do I love the martial arts and the workouts, the people are amazing! I’ve made some wonderful friends, I get an awesome workout, and have learned to kickbox, you couldn’t ask for more from a gym!

Nata Sha

I've been going to CJ's now for 7 months and absolutely love it. Being new to Canada, not knowing anybody, no friends no family, I found myself alone and very lonely. Husband was doing great at work and the kids loved school. Since I found Kickboxing it has changed me so much. Not only physically but also mentally. At first, I was quite intimidated to join Martial Art- assuming there would be all these guys and ladies with awesome figures looking down on some one like me , who hasn't done any sports for over a decade and wasn't particularly fit! How wrong I was!!! This gym, everybody from the owners to the staff, the people coming in to do Kickboxing and BJJ are all amazing. I was getting motivated by total strangers, which I found very heartwarming. Things like ' I believe in you, come on just a little bit more' coming from someone I didn't even know gave me that extra push. And then a high 5 once finished, I just made a new friend. So easily! Coming here has been my saviour! This goes out to everyone...please do try it. Dont be scared of your physical shape, remember round is a shape aswell;), or be intimidated, like I was. You work at your own pace and get a great workout, all while having soo much fun. And if it's weight loss your after, I lost weight for the first time in over 15 years. In fact I love it so much I made my kids join aswell. CJ you are amazing and your staff is above all else!!! Love ya:)

Nanaimo CDC

CJ Martial Arts is an ongoing supporter of the Nanaimo Child Development Centre and has appeared with their Little Dragons and Little Warriors recently on our Telethon. A great facility all around!

Maggy May

Friendly staff and students. My favourite place to be:) I learn something new everyday from the skilled instructors and I always enjoy the intense workouts. Thanks cj!

J Grant

Excellent legit gym. Great help!

Anna Wessell

If you are looking for a welcoming and respectful environment in which to practice martial arts, this is the place for you. My son started Young Dragons classes at the age of 13, and quickly progressed to the adult classes in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Although he was by far the youngest person in the class, he was always encouraged and supported by his instructors and classmates. I had never pictured myself doing martial arts until my mum (age 65!) bought us each a 6 week pass, which we used to try out the Ladies Only Muay Thai classes. At times I was incredibly frustrated and discouraged, struggling to learn the techniques and concepts, but was never made to feel "less than" anyone else due to my beginner status. As instructor Cara says, "Everyone should be working at the same level: their personal best." Since then I have focused on continual improvement, and tried the BJJ classes during the bi-annual class-a-day challenge, participated in co-ed classes, and earned my Level 1 certificate, which will allow me to start sparring. My son and I can attend classes together, which is great, as it can be hard finding an activity to share with a 16 year old boy! Thank you to Cara, Jordy, and all our classmates for your support and inspiration!

george bailey

If you are seeking a 'fight club' training atmosphere where ego gratification and violence are considered redeeming , then C.J.MMA is not for you. If you want to be part of a true 'martial arts' club that fosters personal growth and improvement in a welcoming , challenging and team oriented training environment , then C.J.MMA is for you. Jordy\Cara and their staff are more than capable of assisting you in your quest for self-enhancement.

John Mackenzie

I have been a member of CJs for about 6 months and I love it. The classes are awesome for both fitness and actual effective self defence skills which was the reason I was interested in joining in the first place. The owners Cara and Jordy provide a safe and friendly enviroment and are straight up awesome people. I find the club attracts similar people as everyone that is a regular is friendly and fun to train with. My 6 year old daughter is in the Young Warriors program and absolutely loves it as well. Can't recommmend CJs enough! Come check them out!

Merry Chan

If you're interested in challenging yourself and learning something new then CJ Martial Arts and Fitness is for you. You don't have to be obsessed with MMA or the UFC to fit in and enjoy your experience. The instructors are knowledgeable, friendly and motivating. The students are helpful, welcoming and inspiring. The atmosphere is fun, safe and challenging. All of this describes the culture and what you can expect as part of the team. Beginners and experienced people alike are encouraged to work your hardest and that's why it is such a great place to train. Jordy and Cara build on their knowledge daily so that they can empower their students with great technique and the fitness to support it! The classes are never the same, and a great challenge no matter your fitness level. I strongly recommend CJ MARTIAL ARTS and believe it is Nanaimo's BEST martial arts gym.

mat huff

Cara and jordy welcomed me into their club while I was traveling for work. I had a great time, awesome atmosphere, excellent instruction. Highly recommended!

Cathy Ginchereau

My adventure with CJ started a little over a year now and boy I never expected to love Muay Thai as much!! The coaches are just awesome, professional and clearly love what they are doing. CJ is more than a gym it's a big family !! I highly recommend to all levels to come and try a class, you'll see for yourself!!

Chris Hadley

Great people great enviroment Im always eager and looking forward to the next class :)

Sarah Gadsden

Before finding CJ Martial Arts i was in a bit of a funk, i couldn't stick to one gym or one workout plan, but now i find after a hard or stressful day i crave the CJ's. its Hard but in a great way. every class is something new and different. Cara and Jordy are so helpful and kind. i don't feel at all intimidated in anyway. its a great environment, great students, great teachers. Thank you Cara and Jordy for all you do.

Lisa Lipiec

Great gym, and great people. I have been working out with Cara for 6 months. She is very motivation, and fun to work with. Very pleasant and friendly but always makes sure I get a great work out and ensures results!