Looking for the best boxing gyms in Antioch? Whether you’re hunting for competitive training, kids’ boxing classes, or a high-energy fitness boxing program, this guide breaks down the five most recommended boxing spots in and around Antioch, CA with what makes each one worth visiting, practical details, and tips for choosing the right gym for your goals. The list below is based on local listings, gym websites and community reviews.
Key takeaways
- If you want serious boxing training or a friendly fitness-focused class, Antioch has solid options ranging from old-school boxing rooms to family-friendly programs.
- Boxing Essential and Ground Up Boxing are two local gyms focused on boxing-first training and youth programs great for both competition and fitness.
- If you need a multi-discipline studio that includes boxing-style striking and cardio boxing, Maximus Martial Arts and nearby Battlefit offer structured classes and strong youth programming.
- Read the “What to look for” checklist before you visit: coach credentials, class types (open gym / sparring / youth), equipment, schedule, trial classes and community vibe. (Checklist included below.)
Why choose a boxing gym?
- Full-body conditioning that improves strength, endurance and coordination.
- Structured coaching to learn technique safely (jab, cross, hook, footwork).
- Community motivation group classes keep you consistent.
- Youth programs teach discipline, focus and confidence.
Boxing is an accessible way to burn calories and build mental toughness, whether you want to spar or simply get fit.
How I picked the top 5
Selection criteria I used (so you know this isn’t random):
- Local reputation and visibility on major directories (Yelp / Google).
- Clear class offerings (open gym, kids/youth, competitive, cardio boxing).
- Accessible location inside Antioch (or very near, for communities that regularly cross city borders).
- Trainer presence / active socials or website with scheduling info.
1) Boxing Essential Best for community + beginner-friendly boxing
Boxing Essential has a strong local profile as an accessible, family-friendly boxing gym that welcomes beginners and runs youth classes and open sessions. Their first class is often advertised as free, which makes trying the gym low-risk.
What you’ll find
- Group classes for adults and kids.
- Trainers with amateur/pro experience (local fight experience and USA Boxing affiliations noted on social pages).
- Short intro classes and open gym windows so drop-ins can try a session.
Practical info
- Typical address listing: 1908 A St, Antioch, CA.
- Call or check their social feed for class times and special events.
Who should try it
- Newcomers who want an encouraging space.
- Families looking for youth boxing in Antioch.
2) Ground Up Boxing Best for skill development and youth programs
Why it stands out: Ground Up Boxing emphasizes skill development and structured sessions for both adults and youth. The gym publishes schedules, contact info, and a youth program on their site, a strong sign of organized programming and reliable class times.
Highlights
- Youth boxing program designed to teach fundamentals and confidence.
- Personal training and open sessions for different fitness levels.
- Location: 1022 W 4th St, Antioch (check website for up-to-date schedule and trial offers).
Who should try it
- Parents looking for organized youth development through boxing.
- Boxers focused on technical improvement and one-on-one coaching.
3) Maximus Martial Arts Academy & Combat Sports
Maximus is a long-standing martial arts academy that includes boxing-like striking and kickboxing programs; they serve Antioch and surrounding communities with structured classes and a family-friendly environment. This is a great choice if you want cross-training options (boxing + martial arts).
Highlights
- Program variety: martial arts, kickboxing, self-defense and boxing-style striking.
- Free trial lessons promoted on their site useful for testing the class vibe.
- Address and contact: 3444 Deer Valley Rd., Antioch (verify current hours before heading out). (maximuscombatsports.com)
Who should try it
- People who want boxing conditioning plus broader striking arts.
- Families and kids (Maximus runs youth schedules).
4) Team Salguera (and community boxing teams)
Team Salguera appears in local listings as a coach-led program with a focus on athlete development, often favored by people who want competitive training rather than fitness-only classes. If your goal is amateur competition or serious technical growth, coach-led teams like this are worth exploring.
What to expect
- More emphasis on fighter skills, drilling and potentially sparring.
- Smaller teams focused on progression and competition.
Who should try it
- Amateur fighters and teens/adults seeking competitive coaching.
5) Nearby options worth driving for: Battlefit Gym & Rockets Boxing Academy
Some of Antioch’s most active boxing classes or boxing-adjacent gyms operate very close by in Brentwood, Concord and Pittsburg. If you have flexible travel, these spots consistently show up on “best boxing” listings and often have specialized class times or stronger facilities.
- Battlefit Gym (Brentwood) full gym with boxing/kickboxing classes; good schedules and class variety.
- Rockets Boxing Academy runs community-focused sessions and often appears highly rated for kids’ classes; check their social for open gym times.
Who should try these
- People who value facility size, additional equipment, or specific class hours not available inside Antioch proper.
What to look for when you visit any boxing gym in Antioch
- Coach qualifications (amateur/pro experience, certifications).
- Class types: separate beginner, cardio, sparring and youth options.
- Trial policy (free first class, drop-in rates).
- Equipment quality: heavy bags, speed bags, ring availability.
- Community vibe: supportive vs. ultra-competitive (what you prefer).
- Cleanliness & safety: mats, first-aid kit, supervised sparring.
Bring gloves and hand wraps for your first visit. Some gyms rent or sell basic gear.
How to choose goals-based guidance
- Fitness & fat loss: choose gyms that advertise “cardio boxing” or group classes geared toward conditioning.
- Technical boxing / competition: pick a coach-run boxing club with sparring and fight prep.
- Kids & teens: search for youth programs with age-separated classes and background-checked instructors.
- Mixed martial arts interest: choose a martial arts academy that includes boxing/kickboxing hybrid training.
4 quick tips before you go
- Call or DM the gym to confirm class times schedules change seasonally.
- Ask about beginner-specific classes if you’ve never boxed.
- Wear training shoes and bring water; some gyms require wraps/gloves for hygiene.
- Look for trial offers (many gyms offer a free first class).
FAQs
Are there boxing gyms in Antioch for kids and teens?
Yes, several gyms in Antioch list youth boxing programs (Ground Up Boxing and Maximus Martial Arts explicitly advertise youth classes on their sites). Always ask about age ranges, class separation by skill level, and coach-to-student ratios.
How much does a typical boxing class cost in Antioch?
Prices vary: many gyms offer drop-in rates, monthly memberships, or family packages. Expect drop-ins from about $10–$25 and memberships that scale for unlimited classes. Contact a gym directly for the most accurate pricing.
Can I spar my first week?
No responsible gyms will not allow unsupervised sparring for new students. Most gyms require a baseline of training and coach approval before pairing you for sparring.
Which gym is best for serious competition?
Coach-led teams (like Team Salguera and other boxer-coached programs) typically focus more on fight prep, sparring and competition than fitness-only classes. Schedule a private consult or trial to discuss fight goals with the head coach.
Conclusion
If you want an easy, welcoming place to start, Boxing Essential and Ground Up Boxing are top local options that combine accessibility with structured classes. If you want cross-training or martial arts plus boxing-style striking, Maximus Martial Arts is a smart pick. For competitive training, look into coach-run teams like Team Salguera or nearby specialized gyms such as Battlefit and Rockets Boxing Academy. Visit a gym with the checklist above and take a free trial class where available that will tell you more than any review.
