WHO WE ARE
A serious competition gym
with a clear Pathway for beginners
We combine expert coaching with a science-based approach to help every athlete train with purpose. Our smaller gym means more personal attention, whether you’re just starting out or preparing to compete. Our competition team and classes are capped. Once they're full, no new members are accepted.
Why choose us
Prepare like a pro
24+
EXPERIENCE
24+ years coaching experience across MMA, Muay Thai, boxing and BJJ.
30+
VARIETY
Over 30 classes a week across striking, grappling and conditioning, from beginners’ MMA to dedicated fighters classes.
Team
Environment
Our team is invested in each other. Ego not required. All hands on deck when you compete.
"Spectacular achievement is always preceded by unspectacular preparation."
The line David runs the gym by. (Robert Schuller)
Our story
Two decades
on the mats
Wilkes MMA started with a passion that took hold in 2002 and never let go. Coming from a soccer background, our founder and head coach David Wilkes discovered kickboxing through school. One new sport became a lifelong commitment to training, competing, coaching and helping others find their own place in martial arts. After years spent working across the industry, from coaching and managing a gym to developing programmes and supporting fighters, the opportunity came to take a new direction. In 2014, that vision became Wilkes MMA. The goal was clear: build a place where people could train hard, get fit, strengthen their physical and mental wellbeing, and receive coaching from people invested in their progress. That commitment runs through everything we do. Fighters deserve coaches who put time, care and belief into their development. Beginners deserve a safe, welcoming environment where they can build skills and confidence. Kids, families and everyday adults deserve that same attention, whatever their starting point. We believe high standards and a supportive culture belong together. We take the training seriously. We take your goals personally. Whether you're preparing to compete or stepping onto the mats for the first time, you deserve to be looked after and challenged to grow. That's what we're building at Wilkes MMA. And it's what we bring to the mats every day.
What members say
Hear from the team
"I've been training BJJ at Wilkes for over two years. The facilities are great, the staff are friendly, the coaches are amazing, and everyone who trains there is family. My time here has been one of the best moves for my fitness — the coaches are experienced, helpful and will get you results."
Ronald R.
Google review
"Wilkes MMA has a great atmosphere for training. It's not just meatheads trying to knock each other out — great coaches mean you get great training."
Doug D.
Member since 2017
"At Wilkes there's no arrogance. Only knowledge, accountability and a genuine, personal interest in seeing you succeed, whatever your goals are."
Stephen E.
Member since 2014
"Wilkes is an awesome place to train. The gym has a strong family culture, and as soon as you walk in you can feel the positivity and energy. The jiu-jitsu coaches are brilliant and help every student on an individual level. From beginners right up to competition level, this is an amazing gym."
Justin V.
Google review
"Training at Wilkes has completely changed who I am mentally and physically. I know I can achieve anything I set my mind to and the team will help me achieve it."
Aria F.
Member since 2022
None at all. Our coaches will be there to help you every step of the way. More experienced athletes can apply to join the competition team here.
Yes. Your first 7 days are free. Book your first class and we'll get you sorted for the rest of the week when you arrive.
To start, just shorts and a t-shirt (no metal zips or studs). If you have equipment, feel free to bring it. We can help walk you through everything you need to get started.
Yes. Boxing for Fitness is a full striking workout with no sparring, so you get fit and learn real technique without the contact.
Yes. Beginners drill technique first, sparring is controlled and optional, and coaches put you with the right partner.
Your first 7 days are free, so you can try us properly before anything else. After that, memberships are flexible and depend on how often you train. Book your first class or send us a message and we'll walk you through the options.
Absolutely. Our members are men and women of all levels, training together across MMA, BJJ and fitness.
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