
Back to Basics Martial Arts & Fitness: Welcoming coaching for Muay Thai, boxing, and BJJ on Newbury Street.
Back to Basics Martial Arts & Fitness is a welcoming Boston gym on the 3rd floor of 338 Newbury St, offering Muay Thai, boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Praised for clean facilities and practical, high-rep coaching from Jeff and Roger, the gym fosters a warm, ego-free atmosphere with flexible memberships suitable for all levels.
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Expert-led training focusing on strikes, defense, footwork, and sparring techniques for all levels.
Practical instruction in grappling, positions, and submissions in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment.
High-rep, controlled sessions to improve technique and strength for martial arts and fitness.
Customizable plans to fit your schedule and training needs, with no long-term commitments.
Safe, respectful sparring sessions and social activities to build camaraderie and skills.
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Overall rating
Dana Jackson
Excellent gym! The coaches are encouraging, they genuinely care about your progress and your goals, and you will get the best workout in all of Boston! Highly recommend!
Abigail Driscoll
Hazie G
I joined Back to Basics at the end of summer last year, and from day one Jeff and his team of coaches have been incredibly welcoming, accommodating, and approachable. The classes are thoughtfully designed to build your skill set step by step, so it doesn’t matter if you have zero prior experience. The progress I’ve made—thanks to Jeff’s hands-on adjustments and the consistent coaching from the entire team—has been invaluable. These guys are absolute pros. All of the coaches actively fight, so they truly know their craft (you’ll occasionally see a black eye or two in the studio, which says it all). I found the studio to be not only a safe place to train, but also a lot of fun, with great music that keeps the energy up. They also offer a free Jiu-Jitsu class for women every Sunday at 10am, led by Victoria—Jeff’s wife and a brilliant coach—an absolute badass. If you’re curious about Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, or boxing, I highly recommend giving Back to Basics a shot.
Raul Guliev
Coach Jeff and the entire team at Back to Basics are truly exceptional. I’ve trained in multiple martial arts disciplines in three different countries, and I honestly have never seen a gym that blends individual arts into a complete MMA system as well as Back to Basics does. Jeff is incredibly knowledgeable across striking, grappling, and MMA, and he has a rare ability to build a strong, technical base while still pushing you to grow fast. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced fighter who wants to compete seriously, he can help you level up in every area. What really stands out is the culture he creates. Martial arts can be an individual sport, but Jeff makes it feel like a true team — a supportive, family-like environment where everyone is encouraged to improve and help each other. He genuinely cares about his students and takes the time to explain details the right way, making sure people actually understand and progress. No matter your age or your goals, you can learn and evolve here. I can’t recommend this gym enough. Thank you, Jeff, for everything you do for all of us — Back to Basics is something special.
Sophie D
I am new to this kind of stuff but vic (Victoria) made me feel so special and welcome in the Sunday women’s only class. It so hard to find places like this in the crazy world we live in. They truly take the time to make you feel safe and learn so much! If your a beginner like me and was nervous to start your fitness journey this is the place for you!! Thank you Victoria!!
Valentin
Best martial arts gym I’ve trained at in the US!!! With 10 years of Muay Thai experience in France and several fights under my belt, I can confidently say this is by far the best gym in Boston. Warm welcome, skilled and supportive instructors, and flexible membership options - everything you need for great training. Thank you, Jeff, and the entire Back to Basics team!