City of Champions

San Diego, California (Mid-City)
5.0 (24 reviews)

What We Like

  • Diverse martial arts training
  • Beginner to competitor levels
  • High-quality training equipment
  • Experienced, qualified instructors
  • Age-specific kids classes
  • Clean, organized facilities
  • Positive, encouraging environment
  • Flexible class schedule
  • Free trial class offered

What to Consider

  • Sunday hours closed
  • El Cajon Blvd location

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there punching bags available?
The gym features leather heavy bags and 6' Thai bags.
Is it beginner friendly?
Programs are available for adults and children of all skill levels from beginners to competitors, and the gym is great at getting beginners up to speed.
What training style does the gym focus on?
The gym focuses on training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Strength & Conditioning.
Who are the trainers?
Dustin Thornton is the head coach and teaches the Jiu-Jitsu program; other instructors include Adrian Morilla for Muay Thai and Dan Carlson for Strength & Conditioning.
What types of classes do they offer?
They offer group classes and private training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Strength & Conditioning.
What kind of equipment do they have?
The gym has high-quality training equipment including Swain/Dollamur mats for grappling, Fighting brand sports equipment, leather heavy bags, 6' Thai bags, kettlebells, battle ropes, tires, pull-up bars, squat racks, and York bumper plates for Olympic lifts.
Is the gym clean?
The facility is clean and organized.
How much does membership cost?
The membership price is reasonable.
What's the vibe like?
The gym is friendly, welcoming, encouraging, and fun to be around.
Does the gym get overcrowded?
Class sizes are more manageable than big full-service MMA gyms.
What are the sparring policies and how often do members spar?
Everyone respects each other, rolls hard, and keeps each other safe.
Does this gym prepare boxers for competitions?
Training focuses on helping members achieve competitive goals.
Do they offer programs for children or teenagers?
The kids program offers age-specific classes for children 4-5, 6-8, and 9+ years old.
What experience or certifications do the coaches have?
Dustin Thornton is a black belt under Joel Tudor and multiple-time world champion.

About City of Champions

City of Champions is a comprehensive martial arts and fitness gym located in the heart of San Diego, California. Situated at 6360 El Cajon Blvd. in the College Area, this facility offers a wide range of training programs designed to cater to individuals of all ages and skill levels. From beginners taking their first steps into martial arts to seasoned competitors striving for excellence, City of Champions provides a supportive and challenging environment for everyone.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently located on El Cajon Blvd. in the Mid-City area of San Diego, City of Champions is easily accessible to residents throughout the region. Its prime location in the College Area, near San Diego State University, makes it a popular choice for students, faculty, and community members alike. The gym's address, 6360 El Cajon Blvd., is well-known, and the facility is easy to find, ensuring that members can readily incorporate training into their daily routines.

Facilities and Equipment

City of Champions boasts a well-equipped facility designed to optimize the training experience for all members. The gym features high-quality training equipment, including Swain/Dollamur mats ideal for grappling and groundwork. This specialized matting provides a safe and comfortable surface for practicing Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling arts. The gym is also equipped with Fighting brand sports equipment, renowned for its durability and performance. Leather heavy bags and 6' Thai bags are available for striking practice, allowing members to develop their punching, kicking, and kneeing techniques. For strength and conditioning, City of Champions provides kettlebells, battle ropes, tires, pull-up bars, squat racks, and York bumper plates for Olympic lifts. The facility is designed with a focus on safety and comfort, featuring 1" form mats on the floor to minimize joint impact during training sessions.

Training Programs and Classes

City of Champions offers a diverse range of training programs, catering to various martial arts disciplines and fitness goals. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a core offering, with classes for both adults and children. The curriculum focuses on grappling, submissions, and positional control, providing students with a solid foundation in self-defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu. Muay Thai classes teach the art of eight limbs, incorporating punches, kicks, knees, and elbows. This program is designed to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, and striking skills. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) training combines elements of various martial arts, including Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and boxing. This comprehensive program prepares students for both self-defense and competitive MMA. In addition to martial arts, City of Champions also offers Strength & Conditioning classes designed to improve overall fitness, strength, and endurance. These classes incorporate a variety of exercises, including weightlifting, bodyweight training, and cardiovascular conditioning.

The gym offers both group classes and private training sessions. Group classes provide a structured learning environment, allowing students to train alongside their peers and benefit from the guidance of experienced instructors. Private training sessions offer a more personalized approach, allowing students to receive one-on-one instruction tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Kids Programs

City of Champions is committed to providing high-quality martial arts training for children of all ages. The kids program is designed to be fun, engaging, and educational, teaching children valuable life skills such as discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Age-specific classes are offered for children in the following age groups: 4-5 years old, 6-8 years old, and 9+ years old. These classes are tailored to the developmental needs of each age group, ensuring that children receive appropriate instruction and guidance.

Coaches and Staff

The success of City of Champions is attributed to its team of highly qualified and experienced coaches. Dustin Thornton serves as the head coach and teaches the Jiu-Jitsu program for adults and children. He is a black belt under Joel Tudor and a multiple-time world champion. His extensive experience in competition and instruction makes him a valuable asset to the gym. Adrian Morilla is the instructor for Muay Thai, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in striking arts. Dan Carlson leads the Strength & Conditioning program, helping members improve their overall fitness and athletic performance.

Atmosphere and Community

City of Champions is known for its positive and supportive training environment. The gym fosters a sense of community, where members encourage and support each other in achieving their goals. Training focuses on helping members achieve both fitness and competitive goals in a positive atmosphere. The gym maintains an active Facebook community, providing a platform for members to connect, share information, and stay up-to-date on gym events.

The facility maintains a clean and organized environment, contributing to a positive training experience. The gym strives to create a welcoming atmosphere where members feel comfortable and motivated to push themselves to their full potential. Respect, discipline, and camaraderie are emphasized, fostering a strong sense of community among members.

Additional Information

  • Free Trial Class: City of Champions offers a free trial class for new members. This allows prospective students to experience the gym firsthand and determine if it is the right fit for them.
  • Open 7 Days a Week: The gym is open seven days a week, with varying hours to accommodate different schedules. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday hours are 6:00am-10:00pm. Tuesday and Thursday hours are 9:00am-10:00pm. Saturday hours are 9:00am-3:00pm. The gym is closed on Sundays.

Conclusion

City of Champions is a premier martial arts and fitness gym in San Diego, offering a comprehensive range of training programs for individuals of all ages and skill levels. With its convenient location, well-equipped facility, experienced coaches, and supportive community, City of Champions provides a unique and rewarding training experience. Whether someone is looking to improve fitness, learn self-defense, or compete in martial arts, City of Champions can help them achieve their goals. The gym's commitment to quality instruction, positive atmosphere, and community engagement makes it a standout choice for martial arts enthusiasts in the San Diego area.

Contact Information

6360 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115

Location

6360 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115

Hours of Operation

Monday 6AM-9PM
Tuesday 9AM-9PM
Wednesday 6AM-9PM
Thursday 9AM-9PM
Friday 6AM-9PM
Saturday 9AM-3PM
Sunday Closed