Business Details
Your Premier Martial Arts & Fitness Center in Barrie
Empire Martial Arts & Fitness was founded on the principle of creating an inclusive, non-intimidating environment where individuals of all skill levels can develop physical and mental strength through martial arts. Our facility in Barrie, Ontario, combines state-of-the-art amenities with expert instruction across disciplines like Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, and Wrestling. With over a decade of collective teaching experience, our instructors prioritize personalized growth, fostering self-confidence, self-defense capabilities, and community. We emphasize family-friendly programming, ensuring accessibility for children, adults, and families to train together. Our 8,000-square-foot space features specialized equipment, including a full-sized octagon and Zebra matted areas, supporting both competitive and recreational training.The legacy of our founder, Kru Achilles Meridis, continues through our commitment to inclusivity, discipline, and lifelong learning. Students benefit from structured classes that balance rigorous physical training with character development, including resilience, respect, and teamwork. Regular competitions and social events extend the sense of community beyond gym hours. Our focus on hygiene, modernized facilities, and adaptable training programs ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all. By integrating traditional martial arts values with contemporary fitness science, we empower individuals to achieve their personal best in a supportive environment.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Muay Thai
Boxing
Wrestling
Fit Factory
MMA Training
Self-Defense Classes
Family Programs
Competitive Coaching
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instructors with over 10 years of teaching experience in multiple martial arts disciplines.
- Our 8,000-square-foot facility features top-tier MMA equipment and dedicated training spaces.
- Family-friendly programs ensure accessible, inclusive training for children, adults, and families.
- We emphasize character development alongside physical skills, including discipline and teamwork.
- Regularly updated curricula integrate traditional techniques with modern fitness science.
What people say
Amazing instructors
Great facility
Improved confidence
Family-friendly environment
Excellent training partners
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Our Kids Martial Arts program (ages 5-13) builds discipline, respect, and self-defense skills through structured, engaging classes. Students develop physical strength, coordination, and confidence while learning foundational martial arts techniques. The curriculum emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and character development in a supportive, family-oriented setting.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes focus on ground fighting, submissions, and positional control for all skill levels. Training includes gi and no-gi techniques, sparring, and strategy to enhance grappling proficiency. Students improve flexibility, endurance, and mental focus while mastering practical self-defense applications.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai instruction emphasizes striking with fists, elbows, knees, and shins, alongside clinch work and footwork. Classes build cardiovascular fitness, power, and defensive agility using pads, bags, and partner drills. Students learn traditional techniques and modern adaptations for competitive and self-defense scenarios.
Boxing
Boxing programs teach fundamental punches, footwork, and defensive strategies to improve speed, coordination, and endurance. Classes include bag work, sparring, and conditioning drills tailored for beginners and advanced athletes seeking competitive or fitness-focused training.
Wrestling
Wrestling training develops takedowns, clinch control, and ground dominance through technical drills and live practice. Focus areas include strength, explosiveness, and tactical decision-making to enhance MMA performance or competitive wrestling skills.
People
Kru Achilles Meridis
Founder
Kru Achilles Meridis founded Empire MMA with a vision of inclusivity and lifelong learning. He fostered a culture of respect, hard work, and community, leaving a lasting legacy through his dedication to martial arts and student development.
Jason Blackwood
Instructor
Jason Blackwood, a BJJ black belt with 15+ years of experience, specializes in Boxing and Muay Thai. He joined Empire MMA a decade ago, blending technical expertise with accessible teaching to empower students of all levels.
Adam Halkewyez
Instructor
Adam Halkewyez trains under Kru Achilles and Kareem, focusing on Muay Thai technique. With five years of dedicated practice, he emphasizes precision and practical application in fitness and martial arts instruction.
Questions
What martial arts disciplines do you offer?
We offer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Wrestling, and Kids Martial Arts programs for all skill levels.
Are your classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Our instructors teach all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, with personalized guidance and adaptable techniques.
What are the facility features?
Our 8,000 sq-ft facility includes a 3,500 sq-ft Zebra matted area, full-sized octagon, 20 heavy bags, showers, saunas, and strength-training equipment.
Do you have family-friendly programs?
Yes, our family-oriented classes allow children, parents, and siblings to train together in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
How can I sign up for classes?
Visit our website or contact us directly at 705-728-8885 to enroll in classes or schedule a trial session.
