Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Toronto
Established in 2003, Horizon Martial Arts has been a cornerstone of Toronto's Beaches community, offering expert instruction in Kempo Karate, Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts. Founded by Sensei Mark K. Evans, a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 35 years of experience across disciplines like Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and KAPAP, we prioritize traditional foundations blended with modern training methods. Our programs cater to all ages, from Lil Dragons (ages 3-5) to adult fitness and competitive fighters, ensuring personalized growth in a supportive environment.As a Certified WAKO Club Member, we provide world-class coaching for amateur and professional athletes, including UFC veterans. Our commitment to safety, discipline, and practical self-defense techniques has made us a trusted choice for families seeking holistic martial arts education.
Services
Karate Classes
Kickboxing Training
MMA Instruction
Self-Defense Seminars
Youth Programs
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of martial arts expertise from certified black belt instructors.
- Our curriculum blends traditional Kempo Karate with modern combat techniques.
- Family-friendly programs for ages 3 to adult with proven self-defense methods.
- Certified WAKO coaches train competitive fighters from amateur to UFC levels.
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and safe skill progression.
Associations and certifications
- WAKO (World Association Of Kickboxing Organizations)
What people say
Patient instructors
Visible progress
Family-friendly environment
Expert coaching
Practical techniques
Services
Lil Dragons Karate
Our Lil Dragons program introduces ages 3-5 to martial arts fundamentals through engaging 30-minute classes. Combining fitness games, basic Karate techniques, and character development, children build confidence and focus while learning safe, structured movement. Certified instructors use age-appropriate drills to develop motor skills and discipline in a positive environment.
Adult Karate
Adult Karate classes focus on technical mastery and practical self-defense applications for all experience levels. Students train in traditional Kempo Karate forms while incorporating modern combat strategies. Our black belt instructors emphasize proper biomechanics, stress-response training, and progressive belt testing systems to develop well-rounded martial artists.
Kickboxing Training
Mixed-ability Kickboxing classes combine pad work, bag drills, and conditioning for fitness and competition preparation. Participants learn striking techniques from Muay Thai and Western boxing while improving cardiovascular endurance. Certified WAKO coaches provide technical feedback to optimize power, speed, and defensive positioning for recreational and competitive fighters.
Self-Defense Seminars
Women's Self-Defense seminars teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios through 90-minute workshops. Participants practice striking fundamentals, pressure point targeting, and escape strategies from common grabs. Instructors emphasize situational awareness and de-escalation tactics alongside physical defense methods in a supportive, non-intimidating learning environment.
Fight Team Coaching
Certified WAKO coaches prepare athletes for kickboxing and MMA competition through specialized sparring sessions and fight strategy development. The program includes technical refinement, strength conditioning, and competition rules education. With proven success producing champions at amateur and professional levels, our team training develops fighters' physical and mental readiness for the ring.
People
Sensei Mark K. Evans
Owner/Head Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate with 35+ years of experience across Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and KAPAP. Certified WAKO coach and former NASKA competitor, specializing in blending traditional martial arts with modern combat applications for all skill levels.
Lou Milonas
Senior Coach
50-year martial arts veteran with multiple black belts in Karate, Kung-Fu, and Jiu-Jitsu. Former professional competitor with 200+ fights across disciplines, now mentoring amateur and UFC athletes. Certified WAKO coach with expertise in fight strategy and combat sports conditioning.
Peter Franchi
Fight Team Coach
3rd Degree Black Belt under Lou Milonas with 30 years of teaching experience. Specializes in Muay Thai and MMA techniques, combining exercise science knowledge with practical fight training. Certified WAKO coach who has cornered numerous championship-level fighters in kickboxing and mixed martial arts.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We primarily teach Kempo Karate and Kickboxing, with techniques integrated from Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and KAPAP for comprehensive self-defense training.
Are there programs for complete beginners?
Yes! Our Lil Dragons program starts at age 3, and adult classes welcome all experience levels with personalized instruction from black belt instructors.
Do you offer competitive fight training?
Yes, as a Certified WAKO Club, we provide specialized coaching for amateur and professional fighters with proven success at championship levels.
What equipment do I need to start?
Karate students need a uniform ($115), while kickboxing requires gloves and wraps ($60). We provide loaner equipment for first-time participants.
How are class schedules structured?
Term-based programs run September-June with prorated enrollment. Kids classes available weekdays after school, adults train evenings and weekends.
Do you offer self-defense workshops?
Yes, women's self-defense seminars teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios. Private group sessions available upon request.
