Miguels Boxing & Fitness Gym

Fantastic experience: I want to share my experience with Miguel's boxing institution because my teenage daughter goes there and she's so happy and my self sport the best distraction for teenagers and they make sure that they have a good time there And not only that they work with professionalism The kindness and flexibility they have is super supportive As a mother of teenagers, we are always worried about our children. They are attentive to our needs. I recommend 100% to adults, children and teenagers. Elizabeth

Fantastic experience: Miguel’s is cool. If you’re intimidated, don’t be. If you think you’re the wrong shape/age/gender/sexuality/fitness level for a boxing gym, you’re not. There’s all sorts here - proper boxers, first timers - no-one’s judging, no one’s patronising. It’s friendly, diverse, clique-free… The first two classes are tough, after that you’re hooked. Give it a go.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been going to Miguel’s for about 5 years & I love it! The women’s only & mixed beginners classes are great & times are convenient. Everyone is really friendly & I’ve never felt out of place or intimidated being a beginner & not particularly serious about it. It’s fun but also a great workout! I also really appreciate prices have remained the same for years.

Fantastic experience: Been coning here for years and absolutely love it. Good classes, great trainers and always a strong workout. Would highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: I have been attending Miguels boxing gym for over two years now and it is the friendliest gym I have ever attended. It caters for all, all shapes, all sizes, all ages, all fitness levels and is so inclusive. I never thought boxing would be for me but how wrong am I. I love boxing training and PT sessions and while I may never actually go in for a fight with an opponent, I have great respect for all those those who do. Front of house is the amazing, warm and friendly Keisha who welcomes all and always has a smile. One feels like you are part of a close knit community. I can't recommend Miguel's enough.

Fantastic experience: Been attending for over a year, lost 30Kg. Good trainers and customer service

Fantastic experience: Been doing the boxing classes here for a while and absolutely love it! Everyone is so friendly and there's always a good vibe! Let alone the classes themselves are great! 10/10 would recommend

Fantastic experience: Probably the best value and quality workout I’ve had in any gym in London in the last 10 years. Terrific staff make the place an enjoyable place to be

Fantastic experience: very friendly team... special thanks to Paula who put us through our paces

Positive experience: I think there’s a of lack of structure in their classes that’s maybe down to poor communication and or/that not being clearly given by some coaches. It’s very easy to observe people looking kinda of lost not knowing what to do or where to go (boxing class)

Fantastic experience: I really enjoyed the personal training sessions with Dennis, i was able to lose weight and feel stronger. If you want to get fit please join this Boxing Gym.

Fantastic experience: Have just joined this boxing gym and I'm so impressed with everything about the place, from the people to the gym it's self. We done a PT class for 1 hour with K and he was fantastic! 100% would recommend if you want to learn boxing or get fit whilst learning boxing

Fantastic experience: Excellent boxing gym - really welcoming and a great workout. Definitely recommend the personal training; thank you to Brian and the whole team!

Fantastic experience: Watched my grandsons in a sparring contest. The atmosphere was great , family minded. Kids had a great time and ate some seriously good goat and rice. Proper muscle food and a good price . Staff and helpers were lovely. I would definitely go again .

Fantastic experience: Miguel's is my favourite place in London! London can sometimes feel lonely and isolating and Miguel's is a real community. The atmosphere is so friendly, welcoming and encouraging no matter what level you are. I joined after moving to Brixton and hadn't done any exercise in a long time. Since joining, I now go every week, 3-4x a week. There's also classes on throughout the day so it's very flexible no matter what your schedule is. If you're thinking about getting fit, trying boxing or somewhere to work out, come and join the community at Miguels!

Fantastic experience: Great club, experienced trainers, good atmosphere, and talented boxers.

Fantastic experience: Great facilities and atmosphere

Fantastic experience: Nice

Fantastic experience: Miguel’s has a banner up in the bag room saying “London’s Friendliest Gym” and they’re not wrong. I’m a big guy and had rarely used the gym before so I had some trepidation signing up to the beginners’ boxing class, but I felt completely welcome and respected from the start. The instructors strike a really good balance of being friendly while pushing you hard. The place is clean and provides good quality equipment including boxing gloves if needed. I’ve seen none of the toxicity or intimidation that can put you off these places and would hugely recommend it to anyone wanting to get involved in exercise through boxing.

Fantastic experience: Great gym and great atmosphere

Fantastic experience: I just went back to Miguel’s in Feb 2023, I lived in Denmark Hill around 2001-2003 and went to train there before moving away to the US. I was back in London for the first time in years last month and hadn’t seen Steve who runs the place, for about 20 years. I popped in to say hi and see how things were. It’s amazing how the gym is set up and while I still train at a boxing gym here in New York, we don’t have anything quite like Miguel’s, at least not in Manhattan. If you are reading this and just want to get fit and healthy in a very positive environment, Steve and Miguel’s is THE reason I still train in boxing gyms to this day. I don’t fight at all but I think a boxing work out is one of the best to stay in shape. It was Steve and his fantastic energy and personality that got me hooked back in 2001 or 2002, whenever it was I randomly wandered in to see if he had any free weights I could use. He told me if I wanted to get in shape, I’d come to the right place. I’ve still never gotten into as good a shape as I did when I trained with Steve but boxing as a way to stay healthy can’t be beat. I WISH I still loved nearby to this London institution, and if you’re lucky enough to be remotely close, don’t hesitate to go on in. Steve, it was such a pleasure to see you again briefly and to meet you daughter, and granddaughter. It was lovely to meet everyone at the gym and get shown around, thanks for a great trip down memory lane and it was absolutely amazing to see the place so busy and well set up. The next time I’m in London I’m coming for a workout, 100%! Keep well mate, and thanks again!

Fantastic experience: I recently switched from my usual boxing gym near Dulwich to Miguel's and I can definitely say, I wish I'd been coming here all along. Miguel's is amazing, the staff are so friendly and welcoming, the place has a real community feel. The boxing classes are taught to a very high standard and workout every inch of your mind and body! Will definitely be continuing to come here and would recommend to everyone!

Negative experience: I came here with my friend to do a 1-2-2 boxing session. Our coach was encouraging and a genuinely nice guy. The facilities are also impressive- it’s very clean and bright for a boxing gym! However, prior to the session, I asked on two occasions how much the class was since it’s not listed on their website, nor, at the gym. This was dodged on both occasions. Their 1-2-1 sessions are £35 and like most other boxing gyms I’ve been to, the pt session is the fixed rate. At the end, they ended up charging me £50. I didn’t want to sound difficult but I did politely enquire about why it was that much. I was told that “£50 is not a lot “ and that I would be “saving money because usually it’s £70 for two people.” The lady at the desk just passed the buck and said I should just speak to “Miguel”. I didn’t really appreciate the rudeness of the man at the front desk (it was quite mocking) or leaving out how much it was until the end. It was a shame because my friend and I had a great time before I spoke with the member of staff. It ruined how we felt about the session. Obviously, whether £50 is a lot or not is subjective and £70 for two people doesn’t make sense when you get half the attention from the coach- you’d rather pay £35 for a 1-2-1. Overall, I hope the staff at reception don’t treat their customers like this again as it’s very off-putting when I’m just trying to bring up an issue. There was no need to be impolite. Please could you also be honest and upfront about costs in future? Sorry if I’ve spelt this wrong but Nimi (our coach) was very good! We’d give him 5 stars if we could. :)

Negative experience: Awful just awful

Fantastic experience: Great boxing club! Exceptionally warm and welcoming, dedicated staff who know what they are doing. Great place to train at, make new friends and learn new skills

Fantastic experience: Honestly can't recommend this place enough it's a South London institution! Been training for over 6yrs on and off with Keith's Tues & Thurs boxfit classes. It's unpretentious, down to earth good folk who run a great gym and classes and create a welcoming vibe (and great value) just hoping now I'm leaving London I can find my 'new Miguel's' in the new city! Warning tho these classes are hard work, and they'll push you properly to your limits if you want it!

Fantastic experience: Love love love this place! I have been going to the women’s boxing class with instructor Keith and I LOVE it! He helps you learn good technique and makes sure all the beginners know what to do when they join. Everyone’s super friendly and welcoming - normally feel nervous going to a normal gym but here I feel really comfortable and they really push you to train hard in a good way! It’s the only place I feel like I have a proper work out and look forward to going every time. Highly recommend! Thank you!!!!

Fantastic experience: Great friendly gym! Classes are always great and open to all levels - will miss being able to go there! A weeknight HIIT class would be a great addition!

Fantastic experience: Best boxing gym in London. I go to one of the Monday under 18’s sessions. It’s only £5 to get in. If you don’t have gloves they provide some there. The staff are all very welcoming to all people. They do sell some boxing gear for good prices too. Highly recommend if your in the area.

Negative experience: Attended a Beat Obesity Boxing (BOB) class and I wouldn't recommend. It started of well with some different techniques but most of the session was on the cardio machines, which were quite worn down. Disappointed that cardio seemed more of the focus. I'd definitely try 121 boxing lessons rather than BOB next time as it would be a more focussed session.

Fantastic experience: Great environment, fantastic range of classes and equipment. Family and SEN friendly ❤️

Positive experience: I have been coming to the wellbeing boxing sessions on Saturday afternoons for years. Always enjoyable

Fantastic experience: Lardaaamerrrci!! It hurts to type but I'm gna firm it out of love for you. Bruhh, Beginners class and mi deeead!! No merci in the room, pure passion and dedication in that building yana. Let's start with the intro... boom, book classes on line, 10 quid to go from Gollum to Dwayne The Rock Johnson..bargain. Equipment is provided, gloves that is, don't roll up looking for a free Mayweather outfit (bring your own). Card payment on arrival...classy. Staff welcoming and on point, there's a variation of classes so check the website! Changing rooms decent, and two separate rooms running simultaneously... efficient. Okay back to the workout... no pain no gain literally. But weirdly enough no pressure. The vibe is so friendly the energy in the room is CAN DO. Somehow between around 20 people everyone gets a look in...professional. Trainers know their job inside out. Il defo be going back once my body returns to the present. Until then book asap trust me.

Fantastic experience: it is an excellent gym. very well organised. The owner and team are professional, kind and supportive. They tried to facilitate the needs of the young person in every way. I will definitely be coming back again and again

Fantastic experience: Great place to train. Boxing classes for children are amazing. The coaches are engaging and train the children well. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Great atmosphere, great equipment and great community.

Fantastic experience: This is a Great Gym. The staff and coaches are fantastic.

Fantastic experience: My favourite place to be! Love all of the trainers, they all have something so different yet so valuable to offer. Everyone is super friendly and you feel so at home! My son loves his boxing classes too & he adores his coaches. Really special place! So glad I found it, can’t imagine life without it now.

Fantastic experience: Great workout nice people

Fantastic experience: The best work out I've ever had

Fantastic experience: Loved it!

Fantastic experience: Quality boxing gym with a great, helpful environment

Fantastic experience: Great facilities. Very freindly and welcoming staff with lots of experience. If your looking to get fit or get in the ring give Miguel's a go!

Fantastic experience: Have been going to this gym for a few weeks. Great atmosphere, friendly trainers and very reasonably priced. Would recommend!

Fantastic experience: I am so happy this gym has reopened. Such friendly yet professional staff who all know their stuff and really give sound advice when asked. The price of the classes are excellent value and highly recommended , in my humble opinion .

Fantastic experience: Best boxing gym in London love it

Fantastic experience: Very good gym staff are very friendly everyone makes you feel welcome training is 10/10 I've learnt alot i will continue to go there love it

Fantastic experience: Miguel's boxing & fitness... Excellent customer service, child friendly place... the trainers are amazing and very patient. My son was going to a more local gym but erm, let's just say there loss. Anyway he loves it here at Miguel's and will continue to keep going as much as possible. Thank you and keep up the GOOD work!!!

Fantastic experience: Fourth week now. Worth booking their PT sessions in bulk. Love the fact the you get trained by different Coaches as they all have a different style of CV and technical. 100% would recommend this gym.

Negative experience: they have bad attitude in gym not professional at all

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Miguel's for just under a year and I can no longer imagine life without it! I have been involved in sports on and off for my entire life, but the training that you receive at Miguel's is amazing. The classes are great and actually make you work really hard and my PT sessions with Dennis are the best I have ever had. Dennis is great at motivating you and makes you want to be better. All the staff are really friendly and welcoming. I cannot recommend this place enough.

Fantastic experience: I absolutely love this place. Have only just started going . Have done a combination of classes or PT, all of which have been outstanding. It’s a real gritty proper boxing gym but atmosphere is electric and it’s super super friendly and fun. Loads of women go, I’ve seen kids there too. I wish I’d discovered it sooner in my life . It’s just what I’ve always been looking for . I’m hooked!

Fantastic experience: Miguel's is a brilliant gym, all the trainers are super professional and get the balance right between challenging you and encouraging you. The classes are varied and fun and the atmosphere is always friendly . I highly recommend this boxing gym.

Fantastic experience: Great trainers/PTs and classes. Has helped boost my confidence & self esteem - would definitely recommend

Fantastic experience: Before lockdown I enjoyed boxing training at this gym. Being a woman with mobility issues I have not always been welcomed at gyms in the past, especially boxing gyms. But Miguel’s is brilliant, and Sammy the trainer helps me find ways around things I cannot do to ensure I still get a good workout. He helps to keep me motivated and really knows his stuff. Really glad I found a friendly and inclusive place where I can actually enjoy a workout. Can not recommend enough!

Fantastic experience: Great place !! First time being back after being in lockdown , very impressed by the regulated conditions and sanitation areas . Friendly and fun atmosphere overall.

Fantastic experience: Amazing gym!!! First session when I arrived everyone was super friendly and made feel very welcome. This had to be said as ive been to a few that really didn't give off the same atmosphere. Anyone new at the sport or old, this is the gym you would want to go too!! Big up to Miguel's Gym!!

Fantastic experience: For the first time in my life I love wearing gym clothes because I know i'm going to miguel's! The staff is amazing, they are always welcoming, everybody says hello, they make you love boxing.. I feel better since I go there spiritually and in my body, I will always recommend this place to everybody!

Fantastic experience: Very good gym, trainings for any level, coaches are friendly and have a lot of knowledge, I recommend!

Fantastic experience: Friendliest boxing gym in London. Great trainers and unpretentious. A must if you genuinely love boxing

Fantastic experience: I love this gym. I've been going to Miguel's boxing gym for over 3 years and I never had a bad workout. The gym provides a one of a kind combination of high level fitness and a great social atmosphere. This combo motivates you even more to keep up the gym going habit. I love that the gym supports local causes, for example £1 classes for people looking for employment. You can definitely progress at this gym. The trainers will push you hard to support you in achieving your fitness goals. Over the years I've changed to different classes, from beginners to white collar & sparring. As I work in healthcare finding time for regular sessions was at times challenging. However, the owner has always been very flexible and helpful with matching different deals to my availability. I can’t recommend this place enough.

Fantastic experience: Truly is London’s friendliest boxing gym. With talented, motivational and supportive trainers who are always there to help you reach your full potential. Amazing classes that push you beyond your limits - wherever you are on your boxing journey, this is the place for you!

Fantastic experience: Amazing Amazing place. I am just starting boxing but i am blown away by the people at Miguel's. Great trainers, great vibe...the warmth is as authentic as you cant get. And the workouts are incredible. Boxing is their passion and you end up having a deep respect for this sport, its discipline and the trainers at the gym! You get so into it, that you forget that you are working out!

Fantastic experience: If you're hesitating about starting boxing or going to Miguel's then I encourage you to ignore that feeling and go. You will not regret it. I started as a complete boxing novice 3 months ago and was a bit nervous stepping foot into the gym for my very first session. That disappeared almost immediately. The coaches are all so lovely, fun and passionate about what they do. There is such a good atmosphere in the gym and the classes are great too. Miguel's has become somewhere I love to go and a really important part of my weekly routine. You will not regret joining this gym!

Fantastic experience: Migeul's Boxing Gym is a fantastic place for personal training or group classes. All the coaches are really experienced and give you a fun but challenging workout every time. There is no better place than this in South London, great value, great workout and great people!

Fantastic experience: This is quite possibly the best gym in all of London. I've been coming for over 2 years now, and the sense of community is amazing. The trainers are professional, committed and more than anything just so fun! You can never leave miguels and not feel amazing! You can come at any level and progress. The gym have helped me recover fro a serious knee operation and am back punching quicker than I ever imagined. could not recommend more!

Fantastic experience: I've been going to Miguel's boxing gym for over four years, and I love it. The coaches really help make this gym stand out. They're some of the friendliest (and most inspirational) people you could meet. I've done the fitness classes and the White Collar classes and couldn't recommend them enough. Boxing at Miguel's has not only improved my strength, fitness and, of course, boxing skills but it's also helped grow my confidence. As someone who was once new to London, Miguel's provided me with a sense of community and friendship. Would give 10 stars if I could!

Fantastic experience: Great boxing gym. Really friendly & kind. My kids love it there.

Negative experience: white collar session was a waste of time

Negative experience: Very unsatisfied. White collar boxing sessions are supposed to be for all abilities. I've never done boxing of any sorts before, and after a 2hr session feel like I've learnt nothing. The instructors spoke to me for about 30 seconds in total and the majority of the session consisted of running around the block 6 times. When I returned to the gym they had already left to go to the next part of the training without leaving any instruction of where to go or what to do. I won't be returning because I can run around the park on my own for free

Fantastic experience: Great facilities. I went there for a boxing class for my kids and it was really good. The staff there are knowledgeable and really help to the max

Fantastic experience: I've been going to Miguel's Boxing Gym for a year and a half for PT sessions with a friend. We absolutely love it and would recommend it to anyone. We always have a good workout - a mix of boxing and circuits, and have improved our fitness. All the staff are very friendly and professional, and we always have a lot of fun!

Fantastic experience: Miguels is such a friendly and supportive place to box. I've been doing PT and not 1 session has ever dissapointed me. I highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Really recommend Miguel's Boxing! It's extremely welcoming and all the trainers are incredible - the classes are great and so are the personal training sessions - I've been going for about a year and a half now and don't see myself leaving anytime soon!

Fantastic experience: Boxing gym with trainers who know their stuff and push you. Friendly and welcoming - all levels welcome!

Fantastic experience: Friendly and motivational staff who help you get fit and relieve work stress!

Positive experience: I used to do 5 years in other club but came here once and Miguel's is better my muscles where hurting and reminded my self of everything after a long break £3 per day but its proper good

Fantastic experience: HOME!!!

Positive experience: I had visited it on 5/1/ 2010

Fantastic experience: I've been to Miguels for over 2 years now doing PT and classes. The friendly team and the interesting and challenging (but to my level) physical activities meant i wanted to keep going back weekly and more. I've never been fit, and I've never had an interest in physical activity. The PT sessions with various professional trainers and boxers got me to a level of fitness i've never had. I've developed muscles and feel really goo d about myself as well as being able to be more active. The beginner classes were brilliant and i recommend going alone or as a group.Tuesday's are more challenging than Thursdays, but start with Thursday and aim to get to Tuesday level!!! The trainers and team are amazing. They have been a constant support, challenging me at my pace and level, but also keeping the sessions fun and friendly. Gyms always advertise themselves as 'friendly' but Miguel's goes above and beyond to be your friend, and to get to know you. After 2 years at Miguels I come away fit, toned, added friends and wanting to continue boxing and keeping fit. I strongly recommend this gym for anyone seeking boxing or fitness and friends in their lives

Fantastic experience: The trainers and all the other clients really do make it London's friendliest gym! I started boxing for my mental health; running was boring, yoga was brilliant but not vigorous enough. I needed an exercise I enjoyed in a place I felt comfortable. When I bought my nephew inflatable boppers for Christmas and I started ‘boxing’ with him, I thought about boxing classes and went to my first session in January 2017. It turns out it’s the best exercise I’ve ever done. On my first session, I started the warm-up (which is 3 rounds of footwork drills on a truck tyre) and lasted 10 seconds - literally - before I had to stop and catch my breath. Ab exercises hurt my neck; I later realised it was because my stomach muscles were too weak to take the strain. I had no strength, no stamina. 19 months later and I feel strong; my neck no longer hurts when I do ab work, I can do sprint circuits without feeling like my lungs are about to fall out of mouth, I can push harder for one rep, 5 seconds more, 5kg than I thought I could because the trainers know your mind gives up faster than your body and they encourage you to do better. And you only improve by slowly increasing the difficulty. I can’t imagine a week without exercise now, which is definitely not something I would have said before I joined Miguel’s. Cannot recommend highly enough!

Fantastic experience: Fantastic place to learn the art of boxing. The training is as tough as you want to make it - and you really do get out of it what you put in. I always used to join a gym, train for a month or two and give up from boredom. I have been coming here for over three years and I still leave each training session exhausted and happy.

Fantastic experience: Great gym, but full of Arsenal supporters who keep messing up the speed ball. They have just got a punch machine too. Loads of bags and a small gym area downstairs. I've been going there for years. They need better changing facilities, but they don't have the space so wash at home.

Negative experience: In my first session I thought that I would be given beginning help to help my technique. However I was made to stand for 1 hour watching others box. Horrible.

Positive experience: Went to the mixed beginners class. There is not any support for people that ARE BEGINNERS. You don't have somebody that doesn't know how to punch, punch a sack from the first few minutes. No warm up, no techniques taught. Maybe they think that people know. Also, I could not feel comfortable with the trainer shouting to me to drop 5 or go lower down while doing push ups. It's good that you try to make people stronger and more determined, but when you say beginners, be prepared for people that don't know the basics. Due to lack of support, I wont be going back.

Fantastic experience: I've been doing personal training at Miguels for nearly 2 years. In that time I've lost nearly 3 stone in weight and my energy levels have increased dramatically. Learning to punch both bags and pads whilst being brought very close to death by Miguel's trainers :-) has impacted greatly, my ability to handle stress in both my personal and business life. I constantly tell all my friends and family to experience this gym and can only recommend Miguel's to anybody looking for a great all round physical workout - where you can also if you wish, learn the art of boxing from highly trained fighters,

Fantastic experience: The best boxing club i have ever seen, the only problem with me is distance. I wish if I cloud live closer.

Fantastic experience: Been there years ago with my sons and I’m thinking of going back again to fit of my stomach !

Fantastic experience: Best gym i’ve been to, highly skilled team who push you to your max but with a smile at all times! I’ve been going for over 3 years and love the variety of fitness classes alongside learning the technical side of Boxing. Whatever level you’re at Miguel’s is a diamond find. Ali

Fantastic experience: I've been having PT's every week at Miguel's for about 6 months. I'm an ex gymnast and dancer and had never been into an environment like that before so was very nervous before going....I needn't have been. The owners, trainers and boxers are unbelievably friendly and kind and the standard of training is world class. My fitness has improved more than I ever imagined and each session is different, I learn something new each time. I look forward to going each week and would recommend this beautiful spot to anyone regardless of age or physical ability. <3

Fantastic experience: Been going to Miguel's for PT for three months. It's an excellent place - the staff are really good and friendly and it caters to lots of different people. I feel way better since going in loads of ways. Would recommend it to anyone.

Fantastic experience: The most interesting & diverse gym I've ever been to. Super friendly customers and staff and the quality of the training is second to none. If in doubt, just try a session! You won't regret it! Superior to ordinary gyms in every way.

Fantastic experience: Really great gym and everyone there is really friendly, even though they work your really hard!

Fantastic experience: As a beginner, I was initially unsure what to expect when I first joined but everyone at the gym is really friendly. I have worked with a number of different trainers which has been good as each trainer has a different style which keeps things varied.

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Miguel's boxing Gym twice a week for personal training since February and it's more than just your usual boxing club: not only is the equipment excellent and the trainers very professional and knowledgeable, but the atmosphere is wonderful and friendly and it's only one more incentive to make your training even more effective. I feel like I am part of a family, everyone now knows me by my first name and I feel very welcome every time I walk through the gates - it makes me want to train harder and push myself more. I definitely recommend the club 1000%!!

Fantastic experience: Joining Miguel's boxing gym is one of the best things I have ever done. All of the trainers are so dedicated and generous with their talent. It has completely changed my outlook on exercise and being around so many passionate and inspiring people is contagious.

Fantastic experience: Best Gym!!! Y'all should come and train !!!!

Fantastic experience: Well there's not many places which change your life but Miguels is one of them for me. I had always loved boxing as a sport, ever since my Grandad first showed me Muhammad Ali's fights on the TV, but as a young kid I wasn't sporty and was always too intimidated to even think about boxing.Then, in my twenties, I was far too busy drinking and smoking to consider it. It wasn't until I gave up drinking in my mid thirties and started to exercise and cycle that I suddenly decided I wanted to try it before it was too late. And so on one summer day in 2012 I walked into Miguels, terrified. And on one level I was right to be. Learning how to box was tough and incredibly demanding physically. But Miguels was the best place possible to learn. I was trained on that first day by the owner, who remains one of the loveliest guys you could ever meet, and a female coach who has since become a very good friend. They were so friendly and encouraging, even in those days when I genuinely couldn't tell my left hand from my right, that I slowly built up my confidence and skills until the point where I was actually able to spar in the ring. I had originally thought I would probably just go along for a few sessions, enough to get a taste, and then return to my pre-boxing life of cycling and occasional trips to the gym. But I loved the atmosphere at Miguels so much, including all the coaches of such different ages and backgrounds, and the mutual support of the other boxers, that I ended up going at least twice a week for two years. The crowd who goes is incredibly mixed - every background, race, age, ability, sexuality etc - so its a place where anyone can fit in. As a result of my time there I became infinitely fitter, gave up smoking, and discovered a passion and confidence which remains with me to this day. Unfortunately I can't go any more - I moved to Cambodia to work with a children's charity here. One of the very few things I miss about London is Miguels and whenever I'm back in London I go there and see the old gang. But the passion must have stayed with me because one of the things I now do in Cambodia is coach young adults with a chronic illness how to box. Watching them develop and fall in love with the sport, just as I did at Miguels, is so rewarding, and its made me realise just how much i got out of being at Miguels and how much I learnt. J

Fantastic experience: A jewel in South London's crown. The crew here will push you to your limits of fitness whilst you learn to box hard.

Fantastic experience: I have been boxing for over 2 years and been training at Miguel's for 5 months and I can honestly say that they are my favourite gates to walk through. I changed gyms because I needed a new challenge and Miguel's has certainly given me that. My boxing/technique, my fitness, strength and stamina has all improved. I feel a different boxer since I started training there. All the trainers are exceptional, so willing to pass on their knowledge and help you to achieve whatever your goal may be. But, what I really love about Miguel's is its diversity, anyone is welcome and that for me has been a life line. It serves its community in the true sense of the word. Many of my friends have followed me there because they want some of the Miguel's medicine. It is a gym full of expertise, support, soul, fun and laughter. I would not go anywhere else, I really do feel at home there.