Business Details
29 Years
experience
Expert Martial Arts & Fitness Training in Harrogate
Established in 1997, Kao Loi Gym has become a cornerstone of martial arts and fitness training in Harrogate. Our team of highly qualified instructors, led by Head Coach Pierre Mahon, brings decades of combined experience in Muay Thai, MMA, and personal training. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming environment where individuals of all ages and skill levels can develop technical proficiency, physical fitness, and self-confidence. Our curriculum combines traditional martial arts principles with modern training methodologies, ensuring comprehensive development for recreational enthusiasts and competitive athletes alike.With state-of-the-art facilities and a proven track record of producing championship-level fighters, we remain committed to delivering exceptional coaching while prioritising client safety and personal growth. Our accreditation by the English Muay Thai Federation and recognition by the Kru Muay Thai Association underscore our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in martial arts education.
Services
Muay Thai Classes
MMA Training
Personal Training
Fitness Classes
Self-Defense Workshops
Junior Martial Arts
Sparring Sessions
Advanced Technique Classes
Grading Preparation
Ladies-Only Muay Thai
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of experience in martial arts instruction
- Our head coach holds 14th Khan Master level recognition
- We provide tailored training programs for individual goals
- Our facility features comprehensive combat sports equipment
- We maintain a proven track record of championship-level athletes
Associations and certifications
- Kru Muay Thai Association
- English Muay Thai Federation
What people say
Friendly atmosphere
Skilled instructors
Confidence building
Great support
Excellent coaching
Services
Muay Thai Classes
Our Muay Thai classes develop technical proficiency in traditional Thai boxing techniques. Students learn striking methods using fists, elbows, knees, and shins while developing physical conditioning and mental discipline. The curriculum follows a structured grading system from beginner to advanced levels, incorporating both practical application and cultural education about Muay Thai's heritage.
MMA Training
Comprehensive MMA training combines Muay Thai with wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals. Sessions focus on striking, grappling, and ground fighting techniques while maintaining safety protocols. The program caters to both recreational practitioners and competitive fighters seeking to develop well-rounded combat skills through structured drills and controlled sparring.
Personal Training
Tailored personal training sessions address individual fitness and martial arts goals. Coaches create customised programmes covering technical development, physical conditioning, and mental preparation. This option provides focused attention for clients seeking specific outcomes in self-defense, weight management, or competitive performance across all experience levels.
Fitness Classes
High-intensity fitness classes combine martial arts techniques with cardiovascular conditioning. Participants engage in circuit training using ropes, bags, weights, and balls to improve endurance, strength, and coordination. These sessions offer a dynamic alternative to traditional gym workouts while developing practical self-defense skills in a group environment.
Self-Defense Workshops
Six-hour self-defense workshops teach practical techniques for personal safety. The curriculum covers situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and physical defense methods against common attack scenarios. Designed for adults aged 16+, these sessions provide foundational skills that can be further developed through regular training programmes.
People
Pierre Mahon
Founder & Head Coach
Professional sports coach with 25+ years experience in martial arts and fitness training. Holds a Diploma in Exercise and Fitness, Sports Psychology qualifications, and 14th Khan Master level recognition. Specialises in Muay Thai instruction and athlete development.
Paul Foster
Assistant Head Coach
25-year Kao Loi member with English Muay Thai Federation accreditation. Completed in-house coaching qualifications and safeguarding training. Specialises in working with all skill levels while maintaining competition judging expertise.
Ciaran Smith
Coach & Personal Trainer
Experienced Muay Thai practitioner with 25+ professional fights and two British Title belts. Offers personal training for fitness and technical development in Muay Thai and Kickboxing to all ability levels.
Sarah Gibbs
Coach & Personal Trainer
25-year Kao Loi member with dual expertise in martial arts instruction and primary education teaching methods. Specialises in junior coaching and women's empowerment through Muay Thai training.
Nathaniel Kalogiannidis
Coach & Personal Trainer
Level 3 qualified personal trainer with extensive martial arts experience. Competes in Muay Thai and Kickboxing while offering training for fitness, skill development, and competitive preparation across all age groups.
Questions
What martial arts disciplines do you teach?
We specialise in Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts, with additional expertise in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, our First-Timers Session introduces all necessary techniques and class options for newcomers with no prior experience required.
Do you offer children's martial arts programmes?
Our Kao Loi Kids classes cater to ages 7-15, teaching Thai Boxing in a safe, structured environment following UK Sport guidelines.
Can I train for fitness without competition?
Absolutely - our Fat Buster fitness classes and non-competitive training options focus purely on physical development and stress relief.
What equipment do I need to start?
Basic training requires gloves and appropriate clothing. We offer all necessary equipment for purchase including MTG gloves and shin pads.
Are private coaching sessions available?
Yes, one-to-one personal training sessions are available with all our qualified instructors for tailored skill development.
Videos
Reviews (2)
Jazzmin Lusher
Sep 02, 2018
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I felt totally out of my depth starting a whole new skill but Pierre was fantastic in reassuring me and catering specific session plans to what will benefit me and my journey with muy Thai the best. My confidence grew within only a few sessions and taught me how fantastic muy Thai is. I cannot wait to continue to work with Pierre in the future to progress with martial arts. Highly recommend
Toni Charles
Aug 06, 2013
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I've been training at Kao Loi now for almost a year. I wanted to do something a bit different to get myself fit as I always hated going to a gym. I love training there, it's hard work but fun at the same time, it's a great atmosphere and everyone there is friendly, and Pierre is great to work with. I would definitely recommend Kao Loi to anyone who wants to try something a bit different!
