Our Story

For close to 20 years, we have been Toronto’s premiere North York Martial Arts School with industry-leading Fitness Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Hapkido lessons for adults and kids.

About Evoke Academy: Toronto's premiere North York Martial Arts School:

Our purpose:

To Evoke the human spirit, and unleash the courage to impact our world through the power of martial arts.

Our core values reflect what is truly important to us – a commitment to serve the community, creating an environment where people are inspired to better themselves.

From our humble beginnings since 2005, we embraced progressive teaching methods that are safe, functional, and result-driven.

In our North York martial arts school, we believe in traditional values such as respect, discipline, hard work, humility, and self-discipline. These are the makings of a martial artist.

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Programs Offered:

We offer industry-leading programs including Cardio Kickboxing classes, Age-appropriate Kids Martial Arts programs, and Adult Martial Arts in Toronto.

Families in our community also love our March Break Day Camps and Toronto Summer Camp programs for children.

Our programs are curated with progressive methods to help you gain practical skills using functional and result-driven methods to ensure a great experience in every class.

We recognize that the Martial arts offers amazing life changing benefits, and we would love to share some of those benefits with you.

How is Evoke different from the average North York Martial Arts School?

Great Customer Service.

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As a North York martial arts school, we commit ourselves to providing well-structured programs and result-driven teaching methods, clean and inspiring workout facilities, and a team of highly skilled, charismatic, and professional staff.

As a team, we are passionate about helping our members achieve their goals – from our youngest Lil’ Dragon, to our adult Hapkido or Kickboxing classes – we are committed to making everyone’s experience the best.

Experienced Professional Team

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Evoke has a roaster of well-trained staff who are accomplished martial artists, internationally certified, with years of teaching experience. They are knowledgeable, friendly, and commitment to helping members achieve their training goals.

We also believe what makes a good North York Martial Arts School is the positive and supportive atmosphere induced by the staff, and not just their professional accomplishments.

Quality: We care about that

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We hold ourselves to the highest standards of instruction. We are proud to be a part of a network of innovative and progressive schools of highly skilled professional instructors within the international martial arts community.

Although we are rooted in traditional Hapkido, Muay Thai, and kickboxing; we are innovative in our teaching methods, and continually seek new and progressive ways to us the leading North York martial arts school.

Evoke Martial Arts & Kickboxing place picture
4.9
Based on 375 reviews
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Cata Cerqueira profile pictureCata Cerqueira
13:31 02 Nov 25
The space was perfect for my 7-year-old's BD party, and all the moms were so impressed! The entertainers were amazing—kept the kids happy and engaged.
Everything was professional, fun, and well-organized.
Highly recommend Evoke team for a truly stress-free, memorable party!
Ricardo Enriquez profile pictureRicardo Enriquez
19:14 31 Oct 25
I was looking forward to have my son learn Hapkido. They have advertised Hapkido Kids classes for kids ages 8-12. My kid is 9 at the time he started. After taking 1 free trial class, the Head Instructor said that it would be better for my kid to join the Lil Dragons (ages 4-7) class instead. My initial thought about it, was "why would my kid not be in his age group?" But the instructor mentioned about my kid might not be ready for Hapkido Kids. I found it odd, why he was quick to judge my kids' readiness or ability from just 1 trial class. I gave it some time to think about it, but my kid wanted to try it anyways. He was being a good sport about being with the younger kids, so we purchased the 3-week trial. I figured he can do the 3 weeks with the Lil Dragons class the after its over, we can do monthly with the Hapkido Kids. At first, I thought the Lil Dragons was great because the kids have fun with obstacle courses, play games, and mix in a little martial arts training. But after a few classes, I felt that my boy wasnt getting much martial arts training. It was more of a glorified play day instead. My kid just recently got his Red belt in tkd and I felt this Lil Dragons class became a waste of time and money. I asked if we can switch to Hapkido Kids already but they wanted me to go through the belt process, which would have taken a long time, several months. I told them it felt like my kid is being held back. He will be 10 years old in a few months but they want him with 4-7 year olds. So we decided to just move on. We took the 3-week trial and about 3 months of Lil Dragons. Evoke shouldn't advertise Hapkido classes for 8-12 year olds. Then make your kid be in a class with 4-7 year olds. They must not be aware they make the kid feel not worthy or not good enough or whatever it is, its a waste of time and money. I ended up enrolling him to another place down the street (TJJ) It's a whole lot better.
Just some advice for Evoke, maybe you should incorporate counting in Korean associating a number with a strike, like in Taekwondo the training is with counting in Korean also. You have moments where your instructors make the kids do a bunch of random strikes but doesnt really stick. Then they have to memorize other juvenile unrealistic phrases instead. There's not enough of actually preparing the kids going into Hapkido kids, maybe you should make 3 levels of Lil Dragons. Because some of the stuff seems too kindergarten-ish. My kid never breaks a sweat in those classes. The place is big, im surprised you dont make the kids run around, get some cardo, warm up or anything. 30 min class is too short. And the talking at the beginning is too long.
One last thing I want to mention, I actually inquired about enrolling my kid about 4 years ago and you guys denied my kid because he wasn't covid vaxed.
Additional comments after owners response: We started in the summer not fall, you said in the fall we can start Hapkido kids, so when I mentioned to the other instructor he insisted we go through the belt process, at that moment I knew we were going to end our time there. He might've thought I agreed with what he said because I didnt want to argue. He sounded like a used car salesman. There was no point in trying to convince him my son is ready to be with his age group. Im not the only one not liking our 9 year old boy is with 4-7 year olds. There is another 9 year old boy there too, im just the parent that spoke up about it.
Yes my boy had fun there, like I said its a glorified play day, you got the kid playing baby shark, freeze game, etc, barely any martial arts training. You guys were wrong to pass judgement on my boys abilities, like I said he recently got his red belt, has done sparring, etc. Can you acknowledge it was a mistake on your part, you're trying to convince me to waste time and money for something we dont want. Do you not know how to make a proper Hapkido training regiment for kids 8-10 year olds? And about the vax, you made it mandatory for kids to have, it wasnt required by the gov. I was able to enroll him at MFTK
Iago Carvalho Pinto profile pictureIago Carvalho Pinto
22:28 06 Oct 25
Evoke is amazing. The personnel is always very friendly and helpful! I would totally recommend it for anyone who would like to try martial arts classes!
Karen profile pictureKaren
00:23 03 Sep 25
Very fun. A/C is great and since I have asthma, it makes it easier to catch my breath. Instructors are so kind and helpful. The classes are just challenging enough to get through while resetting from the day and motivates me to work towards improving something each time. I like how they DON’T pressure you into membership commitments right away with vague sales tactics. It was actually recommended to start a class pack to build a routine before committing to a membership plan. And yes I will be getting a membership.
Anna Maria Doumouras profile pictureAnna Maria Doumouras
20:10 13 Jul 25
This is the second year my children have attended this camp. The first year they only went for half a day but they loved it so much that they begged to go for a full day this year. Needless to say, they want to go back next year! Thank you to all the staff who made their experience memorable for the past two years, we’ll see you again soon!
Alex Pirone profile pictureAlex Pirone
00:37 11 Jul 25
Words can’t even describe how amazing evoke is. I have been doing the kickboxing classes for one month now and it has made me feel so strong in my body and mind. I have had the pleasure so far of being in a class with coach Alec, coach Tess, and Coach Elona and they are all amazing instructors. They really go above and beyond. Every class is challenging but so rewarding. Thank you!
Kim petesmithinc profile pictureKim petesmithinc
00:44 04 Jul 25
I am really enjoying kickboxing classes!! Tess makes each class about having fun and challenging yourself individually. I never have felt out of place from the very start. Dayo and Tess host a fun, friendly workout environment!!
Sharon Blemings profile pictureSharon Blemings
20:38 25 Jun 25
I joined Evoke kickboxing after a 15 year break. This program is wonderful. Miss Tess and her instructors are great, guiding you through the techniques and fitness workouts. They are very welcoming to new people taking the classes for the first time. They do not pressure you for a membership after your trial classes which is a testament to their core values. However, if you do decide to continue your fitness journey with Miss Tess and team, you will not regret it. All ages (adults) are welcome (I am 58) and you will never feel out of place.
Natalia Payne profile pictureNatalia Payne
00:46 08 May 25
I've had my 2 girls participating on Evoke's Little Dragon Program and strongly recommend it. The instructors are great with children, the classes as fun and engaging and I feel the program is also a strong reinforcement for the children to develop discipline and self-confidence. 5 stars for sure 🙂
Meghan L profile pictureMeghan L
18:00 06 May 25
My son attended a birthday party for 4 year olds recently at Evoke. The 3 instructors leading the party were absolutely phenomenal. I've never been to a party with such enthusiastic and friendly instructors...they really made the event! The space was also so bright and clean. We had an amazing time and plan to enrol in a class soon!
Lima Soudah profile pictureLima Soudah
23:13 29 Apr 25
Professional, clean and friendly staff. I have a closer martial arts academy just facing my house but I prefered this one for the mentioned reasons.
Highly recommended!
Bill C. profile pictureBill C.
18:51 29 Apr 25
Best dojo in the City...Hands Down. No egos' and very encouraging no matter were you are at. Try out the free into. class they offer. You will not be disappointed. Great for all ages.
Shehrose Rehmani profile pictureShehrose Rehmani
15:44 23 Apr 25
My 7 year old son loves his martial arts classes at Evoke and looks forward to it every week. I appreciate the high number of instructors to students ratio, the adaptable approach instructors take for the younger students vs older students.
Susan A profile pictureSusan A
15:28 15 Apr 25
I came across Evoke through a Google search. We are not in the area but can easily drive within 30 mins. I chose Evoke because of what their core principles are, the array of disciplines offered, the ease of starting at any point (my teens were both beginners) and the added benefits of what it is like to become apart of a chosen family. We chose the teen MMA and kickboxing class. My teen girls were hooked after their complimentary session! I have already seen an increase in their confidence and self-esteem. The highly skilled staff at Evoke are very approachable and make you feel right at home. I absolutely recommend this program for all teens.
Sienne Lau profile pictureSienne Lau
04:06 15 Apr 25
We recently hosted my 7yo son's birthday party at Evoke. We were blown away by Evoke's hospitality and level of service. All of the kids that attended had a blast playing ninja group games and competing in obstacle courses. We were so impressed by the instructors' enthusiasm, patience, and professionalism. They were also so helpful with party set-up and clean-up. Highly recommend Evoke, and we will most likely be back!
Steph H profile pictureSteph H
00:35 11 Apr 25
I have been attending the fitness kickboxing classes for just over a month now and I’ve been really enjoying it! It is such a great dynamic workout that includes both cardiovascular and strength training. The instructors are all amazing here too! You will get a lot out of these classes!
Eileen Zhou profile pictureEileen Zhou
01:57 04 Apr 25
Michelle Guni profile pictureMichelle Guni
15:03 29 Mar 25
I’ve been attending the fitness kickboxing classes here and it’s been a blast. I was looking for something challenging and these classes are exactly what I needed. They combine resistance training with cardio and plyometrics. Overall, the classes are super well rounded and I leave every class feeling worked. I highly recommend trying these classes out.
Lima Soudah profile pictureLima Soudah
18:37 25 Mar 25
Bryan Stein profile pictureBryan Stein
12:24 24 Mar 25
My daughter is 5 years old and loves her classes. Evoke does a wonderful job teaching the kids self defense and life skills to help them excel in life.
Jo Z profile pictureJo Z
00:52 09 Mar 25
I joined Evoke MA (KB class) last summer.
It was just to try since their location is too far from my home, I thought.
After the KB trial classes, I started to attend once a week...then twice. Now, I show up 3 times a week.
The classes are so full of energy and you mix that with fun and motivating instructors, who would not come back for more :).
I would recommend the class to anyone who is looking for a good work out in a fun environment with no judgement.
Nesrin Güney profile pictureNesrin Güney
01:01 04 Mar 25
Love this place and have had great experiences!
Brian Loevner profile pictureBrian Loevner
16:43 05 Feb 25
Evoke is a wonderful community of practice. They are a family, provide guidance, support and care while they teach martial arts. They are more than just a place to take classes. Highly recommend!
Sophia Rossos profile pictureSophia Rossos
21:10 21 Dec 24
I started Hapkido classes several months ago with zero expertise and my experience at Evoke has been incredible! Taking up a new skill or sport especially as an adult can be really intimidating but everyone has been incredibly kind, caring, patient, and supportive. I’ve learned so much, I’ve had so much fun, I feel a lot stronger and I constantly look forward to my Tuesday and Saturday classes. I highly recommend the classes to anyone who wants to try something new!! A huge shoutout and thank you to everyone at Evoke for their amazing work!! I just got my yellow belt today and I’m so excited to come back in the New Year!!
Alba Belli profile pictureAlba Belli
01:38 20 Dec 24
I highly recommend Evoke Martial Arts school. My daughters have been training here for a year and they absolutely love it. The instructors are fantastic—supportive and skilled. I've seen my girls gain confidence, discipline, and new friendships. It’s a wonderful place for kids to learn and grow!
Isaac Hall profile pictureIsaac Hall
18:06 09 Dec 24
My daughter has been attending classes here for the past two months and is loving it. The instructors are great very welcoming! I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a spot for the children to learn/practice martial arts!
Hania Durrani profile pictureHania Durrani
20:31 07 Dec 24
I've been a part of Evoke since their teen hapkido program, and as an adult in their fitness kickboxing program and there is truly no other place I'd rather go to. The environment & structure of classes at Evoke is challenging yet rewarding and I leave each class feeling stronger than before.

One of the unique things about Evoke are the way their classes are structured to provide the members with a total body workout, eliminating the need for a traditional gym. I also love how they incorporate deep breathing sessions at the end of certain workouts for a proper cool down and to get in touch with your body and build that muscle-mind connection. I have left certain classes feeling humbled by the combos, which gives me more motivation to keep going back and getting better at the moves.

Lastly, my favorite thing about the club are the instructors Miss Tess, Elona and Master Dayo who are exceptional at their jobs. They are supportive, but don't hesitate to push members to their best potential, all the while remaining kind and encouraging. As a result, Evoke has become a happy place for me that I'd recommend everybody to join, despite their fitness goals.
annabelle pikar profile pictureannabelle pikar
04:06 05 Dec 24
I don't have enough good things to say about Evoke. The teachers and students are incredibly inclusive and kind. Every teacher has a genuine care for your improvement and goals. Overall Evoke has been a great experience so far and I constantly stay excited for my next class.
Mr. Boo profile pictureMr. Boo
22:37 14 Nov 24
I started at Evoke martial arts a month ago, every class has been a blessing. Instructors are kind, understanding, professional, personable, and essentially everything you can ask for. Despite the fact I am a beginner, and my less than great attendance, I still enjoy class and retain a sense of belonging. I’m extremely thankful that I can be a part of such a great community. I would strongly recommend this establishment for anyone interested in fitness and/or martial arts.
Laila Omar profile pictureLaila Omar
19:10 14 Nov 24
The place is large and very clean and welcoming. The teachers are great with kids and knowing how to keep the younger kid’s attention. It’s a great practice for my son who is 4 and a half. He gets so excited to go every time.
Eric O profile pictureEric O
03:35 14 Nov 24
Shano Mohan profile pictureShano Mohan
15:16 29 Oct 24
Mursal Rizaey profile pictureMursal Rizaey
01:05 21 Oct 24
A great martial arts club with skilled, professional coaches that focus on proper technique while making the classes challenging and fun. The community is super friendly and supportive, don’t hesitate to join!
Mari Roughneen profile pictureMari Roughneen
00:07 18 Oct 24
Our experience with Hapkido at Evoke has been terrific: appropriately challenging and disciplined in a warm and friendly environment. There is a great community feel and cultivation of mutual respect among participants. So glad we found this program!
Namwezi Bould profile pictureNamwezi Bould
01:50 10 Oct 24
Evoke martial arts is a great place to start a martial art, I just joined a month ago and everyone is so kind, welcoming and accommodating. The teachers are great and amazing at their jobs. And overall it’s just a great place, I already feel like I have learned and understood a lot about hapkido.
Wamaka Bould profile pictureWamaka Bould
01:50 10 Oct 24
This is a really amazing place to train in hapkido! it’s just such a welcoming environment! All the students are so friendly, the teachers are very skilled and helpful. This place really knows what they’re doing! Couldn’t recommend more!
Rayb Urn profile pictureRayb Urn
01:37 15 Sep 24
Work on your cardio, increase your heart health AND learn practical applications with respect to self defence/offence and discipline. Multiple class offerings to suit your goals and schedule. A warm team building atmosphere and a sense of welcome will keep you inspired to show up to class. Watching your body transform into a lean fit fighting machine as the training days go by will motivate you to achieve more in all aspects of life. Instructors are amazing and inspiring.
Adam B profile pictureAdam B
20:05 08 Sep 24
We've attended and hosted birthday parties here and the team at Evoke never disappoint! From instructors who make sure every child has a chance to participate to keeping the pace of the parry on time, they just make it easy. Highly recommend!
Maryna Gorelik profile pictureMaryna Gorelik
23:24 29 Aug 24
Connie Sang-Eun Song profile pictureConnie Sang-Eun Song
16:40 29 Aug 24
My almost 9 yo had such a great time at Evoke summer camp in August. They were good at keeping kids busy and my kid was so excited to show us new martial arts skills everyday. Drop off and pick up were also very smooth and efficient, and all staffs were professional and welcoming. We Will definitely come back next summer.
Bridget Bolger profile pictureBridget Bolger
15:39 29 Aug 24
We sent our 2 boys for a week of summer camp and they really had a blast. They really enjoyed learning new moves and all of the staff were super nice! Thank you!
Jenna Sved profile pictureJenna Sved
22:35 28 Aug 24
Nataliya Dardan profile pictureNataliya Dardan
21:24 28 Aug 24
Roma K profile pictureRoma K
18:51 27 Jul 24
I think it’s a great place for martial arts. The instructors are great and so kind. It’s a great place for birthday parties and summer camp. In general, the place is very clean and the instructors sanitize the mats after every class. The classes are split into age groups, which I think is cool. It’s a great place to make friends. The bathrooms are clean, the mats are clean and everything is clean. It’s a great place for both adults and children to practice their martial arts.
Maisie Ferrer profile pictureMaisie Ferrer
02:45 19 Jul 24
I've been going for kickboxing fitness classes for a few months now and the experience have been amazing. Was not intimidating at all when I first joined, as the instructors have all been very nice and are able to breakdown the workouts into easily digestible steps, without compromising on the intensity. You will sweat!!!

Facilities are clean and the class often comprises of people with varying fitness level. Always a great atmosphere and everyone motivates each other. If you're looking to learn kickboxing, or even try something new while getting into shape, then definitely recommend Evoke.
Chris F. profile pictureChris F.
16:09 01 Jul 24
I have been a part of Evoke Academy Martial Arts for over 5 years, and I can't recommend it enough! The HIIT kickboxing and Muay Thai classes are top-notch, providing an intense workout that keeps you motivated and coming back for more. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, ensuring that every session is both challenging and enjoyable. The sense of community here is unmatched, and I've made great friends along the way. If you're looking for a place to train and improve your fitness, Evoke Academy is the place to be!
Jason Appleby profile pictureJason Appleby
02:12 11 Apr 24
Our son loves his classes at Evoke! He's enthusiastic and looks forward to them every week. Several of his friends have joined the classes as well. They're all 5-6 years old and we have nothing but good things to say about the classes, the instructors and the staff. Watching my son progress over the past few months has been very satisfying. Highly recommend Evoke to anyone who's children are interested in martial arts!
Paula Rodríguez profile picturePaula Rodríguez
23:53 03 Apr 24
Excellent Martial Arts Academy!
My son loves his Lil'Dragons classes. The instructors are patient, supportive, and create a fun learning environment. I've noticed significant improvements in my son's confidence and discipline. The facility is clean and well-equipped, with flexible schedules for all ages and skill levels. Highly recommended!
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A family is what we are.

Family. That is a word that shouldn’t make you cringe when you are in a community of like-minded people who make you feel at home.

Members often tell us, among other things, that the environment at the school and our amazing team distinguishes us from the average North York martial arts school.

We also believe it takes the right people to make an amazing community.

Our classes attract like-minded individuals and families who are really friendly, open-minded, caring, and supportive. It’s like a family at Evoke, and we’d love for you to become a part of it.

Well-structured Programs

Kids train with kids, and adults train with adults. Our Kids martial arts classes are even separated by age and kept small to ensure intimate personalized instruction for every child or teen.

Adult classes are also well staffed and beginner friendly allowing new members to fit in with ease and grow at their own pace.

We incorporate cutting edge training systems and teaching styles that come to life in high energy classes designed with time tested methods that make Evoke Academy one of the premiere martial arts clubs in Toronto.

These are few of many things that separates us from the average North York martial arts club in Toronto – and it’s why we feel our level of service is unmatched elsewhere.

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