Seattle Boxing Gym

"I loved this place and want to keep supporting it, until this evening at my beginner boxing class that was instructed by Joey, who needs to get his attitude checked. He was condescending, unwelcoming and unnecessarily rude. If you can put up with someone who possesses toxic masculinity, then maybe this is the place for you. (Mind you, I tried a complimentary class with another awesome instructor (he was of Asian descent and shorter; unfortunately, I don't remember his name and couldn't find him on the website.) I've tried other boxing gyms in Seattle and I still preferred the Seattle Boxing Gym (SBG) given its authenticity and no-frills vibe, until today, December 12, 2023.)) I arrived early for the 4 p.m. Tuesday class, so I proceeded to warm up doing cycling (since I have been recovering from my ACL surgery and can't do jump ropes yet). The bicycles were hidden in the corner, so I had to keep leaning over and checking to see if they were starting the class soon, since I don't have my phone handy. I saw some people gathering in the middle of the gym but I wasn't sure if that was the class (since there were a few people exercising already at the gym), so I hopped off the bike and approached the instructor, Joey, and asked if this was the beginner class. He looked at me annoyed and said "Yeah, what about it?" I mean, jeeze, very welcoming to a simple question from someone who's obviously going to join the class. I proceeded to clarify nicely with a question, asking if it was starting soon. Throughout the lesson, the music was blaring loud and I could barely hear him. He also spoke fast and in jumbled words. So I did some of the moves wrong, which he corrected, which was fine. The exercises and drills were tough and effective, which I liked. Then, toward the end of the class, I thought we were going to do some cool-down exercises, which I did before with another instructor at SBG. When he said let's do some burnout, I thought the cool-down exercises were what he meant (mind you, this was my second class over the span of a few months.) He asked the class a question which option of burnout we wanted. I thought we get to choose our own version of cool-down. I spoke up and said I prefer to do ab exercises, to which he looked at me stone cold in the face again like I was about to punch him or something, "I am the instructor." Ok... It's like, I was not trying to challenge you dude, chill out, ffs. There were plenty of other ways to respond to what I said. There was unnecessary hostility created, which I did not appreciate. With my first complimentary class with the other instructor, I was left feeling strong, uplifted and empowered. But after this class with Joey, I just felt dismissed and put down. He was unnecessarily rude with innocent questions. Maybe he was in a bad mood, but I know for sure I don't want that energy while learning an intimidating sport. Maybe some people don't mind his style, but it's not for me. I get that some boxing instructors have that blunt, devil-may-care style, but hell, this isn't some seedy underground boxing gym in the middle of the Bronx. It's supposed to be friendly and open to all beginners of different abilities and background.There's really no rhyme or reason to treat people like this. I don't know if I will come back honestly, which is unfortunate. I even told a friend to come with me, but now, I am not so sure about the referral. But if I (or we do), I will make sure he isn't teaching the class, which sucks, because as a paying customer for this expensive drop-in class ($27 after tax), I shouldn't have to walk around egg shells, avoiding instructors and afraid I might say the wrong thing. And are other instructors like him? Is that the culture SBG is creating? Why would I waste my money for an hour of being berated?"

"This place is a gem! It'll get you excited about boxing irrespective of your age or fitness objectives. Their team is awesome and will push you to your limits. Excellent opportunity to learn as a newbie. The professionals share the same gym, so you decide what you're ready for."

"Great service really enjoyed going before the second shut down happened my son and I did one on one separate training. At first they didn’t seem enthusiastic about training a kid which turned me off a lil bit but after the first few weeks everything was great I still have 3 sessions left but no one can tell me if I can use them still since it’s been so long which sucks but otherwise a good boxing gym."

"Well equipped, amazing staff, group and personal classes, as well as my favorite open gym time. Love this place, and highly recommend for any new students. Come here and enjoy boxing just like I do!"

"Started going there couple weeks ago. Great trainers, the fact that they still compete and sharing their experience is very motivating. I am tired and sore afterwards but I enjoy going there every time."