Fantastic gym with excellent instructors who are true warriors in every sense. They are friendly, dedicated, and genuinely passionate about helping people of all abilities improve their fitness, health, and overall lifestyle. The atmosphere is welcoming and supportive, making it a great place to train whether you’re a beginner or experienced. The club offers a variety of classes which will help you to work on a specific goal. I would highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to challenge themselves and become fitter and stronger.
Olga Silmo
August 2026
I signed up for the May Boxing Beginners course and it’s exceeded my expectations by some margin. Classes are great, and as many others have said in the reviews, there is a real community spirit in the space, which speaks volumes for the staff. Lily and Ana are super positive, incredibly helpful and instructive and push you with knowledge and good humour. Thanks everyone at the Club!
Graham Currie
May 2026
5 Stars
Paul Preacher
February 2026
5 Stars
Jack O’brien
February 2026
After belonging to multiple gyms over the years, this is the best gym I’ve been to. There are few gyms where you are greeted so warmly – everyone who works there knows your name – and a real sense of community that I was not at all expecting. The owners, John and Lily, both work hard to make it a welcoming, accessible space for everyone – all ages and skillsets and fitness levels, from the over 60s to children and everyone in between. The coaches are excellent and always willing to give pointers and help, the classes varied and never boring, and the gym is well equipped – no waiting around for machines. As a result I really look forward to going to the gym and have met some great people. So many women there in particular have discovered a love of boxing (and competed) or built confidence in class and developed their strength training and fitness beyond expectations, in a caring and motivating environment that is also FUN.
Heather Tomlinson
January 2026
This gym has been a huge positive in my life, giving me structure, focus, and a healthy outlet when I’ve needed it most. The coaching team are outstanding, supportive, patient, and always putting health and safety first. They’re especially strong in their support of female boxing, creating an environment where women are encouraged, respected, and properly coached.
The culture is welcoming, friendly, and motivating no matter when you train. The gym is clean, well equipped, and offers a brilliant range of classes with consistently high-quality coaching. The community outreach and work the team do to build health and positivity beyond the gym is inspiring and says a lot about their values.
John and Lily always take the time to help with nutrition, training programmes, and technique, and you can tell they genuinely care about your wellbeing.
An exceptional gym run by people who truly care.
Kerry Thomson
January 2026
Excellent gym with great classes for different levels. Staff are all really nice and the coaches are great. Would recommend for anyone keen to get into boxing or build skills further!
Simon Donald
January 2026
Fantastic gym with great community feel and encouraging coaches. Feels very welcoming and learning a lot each time I take a class.
Michael Brogan
January 2026
Highly recommended to any age, many classes you can choose which is suits you. Very friendly team.
Sherwood Nurullaev
November 2025
My son really likes attending boxing classes. Coach Ruzi sets a good example for the children and, above all, teaches very well. Every staff there is very nice and helpful always. I highly recommend these classes to everyone.
September 2025
Everyone here is so nice! The classes are also tailored to fit all levels. One of my main concerns before joining was whether I was going to be fit enough to cope with the training, but the classes adapt to everyone’s level. I always feel supported and have never felt out of my depth.
Victor Blanco
August 2025
Great boxing gym, fully equipped with weights, bench, cable machine etc. Looking forward to re joining when I come back to Edinburgh!
Jonathan Macleod
July 2025
I’ve been here for more than half a year and it is really a lovely place to do boxing
Ines Thorg d.C.K
July 2025
I’ve been in and out of boxing gyms for the last few decades, and Port o’ Leith is a rare find. You get all the grit and quality coaching of a proper old-school gym combined with a welcoming sense of inclusivity and community. The coaches all know their stuff, and there are loads of classes to pick from, so it’s a great place to train hard and learn the craft.
Alec Martin
July 2025
I was first introduced to John and Lily back in 2018, in London when I did my first fight camp for a charity event. The level of training, was above and beyond anything I had experienced. Having gone on to win my first fight at Train2Fight, this led me onto to doing more bouts. Boxing became a way of life, and so much more!! When I moved back to Scotland, I went straight to Port O’Leith Boxing Club, to rebuild fitness, overall health, and to start fighting again. I recently did my first fight in 6 years, and won! I have always found John, Lily, and the coaches/staff to be really invested, going above and beyond to ensure their members get the best possible experience/outcomes from the classes, fight camp and training available. At Port O’Leith Boxing Club, it’s not just about boxing, there’s a strong sense of community, friendships/family! There’s something for everyone too, supporting the wider community. I cannot thank John, Lily, coaches and staff, enough for their support. I wouldn’t be where I am without you! Cannot recommend enough!!
Katy Doolan
July 2025
I joined Port O’ Leith Boxing Club at the end of Summer 2024, and I honestly can’t recommend this club highly enough! John and Lily have put together not only a brilliant gym, but an amazing staff too. The quality of the coaching is fantastic – all the staff are not only incredibly knowledgeable, welcoming and encouraging, but also passionate about providing the best experience for all their members. This atmosphere is also exemplified by the members who share a clear sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. There’s a good social scene with fight nights, POL games, and other activities arranged by the club on a regular basis. I’ve been a member of a number of gyms over the years, and I honestly mean it when I say, this tops them all by a country mile! If you want to get fit and strong, while having a laugh and doing the odd burpee – or ten – this is your spot.
Andrew Boushell
July 2025
Amazing facility and community. The coaches all know their stuff and the front of house team are helpful and friendly. The classes are challenging in the right way and you always leave feeling great and having learned something new!
David Allan
June 2025
Really friendly boxing gym welcoming of people at all levels. Classes are jam-packed, with excellent instruction, and great vibes.
Andrew Goldberg
June 2025
Started the basic boxing class and wish I done it sooner. Great gym, great owners and great facilities. I look forward coming to class
Robert Vint
June 2025
Highly recommended
Sherzod Nurullaev
May 2025
This is a great place to join in whatever is your goals, fitness defense or whatever. And you can always have a taster section what gives a wee experience , I really enjoy it in my son as well Is only 9 years old . They do have a great and knowledge team.
Nuno Campbell Almeida
March 2025
A friendly gym with lots of different classes for all abilities. It’s a fun way to lose weight and get fitter.
March 2025
Been coming to Port O’ Leith Boxing since October and honestly, it’s brilliant! The trainers are fantastic—authentic, fun, and somehow always know exactly how to push you without it ever feeling like too much. The group is super friendly, and no matter your fitness level, you’ll feel right at home. It’s amazing how many different fitness levels there can be in one class, yet everyone gets exactly what they need. The coaches strike the perfect balance, pushing everyone at their own pace without any judgment—whether you’re a total beginner or have been training for years, you’ll get a solid workout. My fitness has improved loads, and The Games was an awesome way to meet even more great people. If you’re thinking about trying it, just go for it—you won’t regret it!
Paul Holmes – February 2025
Signed up late 2023. Been doing different things at the gym (advanced, skill 1, conditioning, power and strength , and yoga) and myself getting better physically, mentally and emotionally. Massive thanks to yous, staff (esp Nicola), coaches and fellow boxers.
Edited: ahm southpaw and hae a memory of a goldfish…either advanced or skill 1, it’d be better if some combos would be simplier, sometimes I lose track and keep saying apologies to the sparring partner.
Pok Chau – February 2025
Every single coach here is amazing. Im really glad I found this community. I just moved here from Hawaii and it was rough at first but since joining this club I feel more at home. I feel so healthy and I love taking the classes and going to the events. Thank you to the coaches and staff for everything.
Erica Bufunda – February 2025
I joined this gym in March 2024 and have trained 2 or 3 times a week since, it is brilliant. The coaches are the right blend of motivating and challenging and each one brings something different. I have trained in a couple of Boxing and Kick-boxing gyms over the years but my progress and confidence has grown quickly since training here.
The gym is modern and well equipped and there is a good variety of lessons at different times of the day.
A boxing gym sounds like an intimidating place and this is the antithesis of that, friendly supportive with a great sense of community about it where training is hard work but lots of fun.
Craig Garland – February 2025
Just finished the beginner course and it was fantastic. I learned a lot more than what I did in the past in previous gyms.
Lily and Rachel are patient and guide us through each movements. They adapt everything based on disabilities, and it make us feel really included within the group.
It’s also a great place to meet new people.
I’m looking forward to learning and boxing some more. 💪
Sarah Laforets – February 2025
Signed up for the boxing basic course and loved it so much I joined as a full member. The progress seen over the course of 4 weeks only proves the experience of the coaches.
Definitely recommend for those looking for something new to challenge themselves 💪
Natalia Meydkowska – February 2025
I completed the Boxing Basics Course. It was fun and challenging and the club is full of friendly and welcoming people!
Myles Webster – February 2025
If you want to get fitter, learn how to box, meet people or take part to a fight camp and an actual boxing fight this is the place to be! Once you are in is very hard to leave, I guarantee you that!
I joined the gym over a year ago and I thought i would last a month,but once you are in you start loving it and you cant leave! I was never a fit person, never exercised before and I found a really amazing gym to start! Now I am stronger much fitter and I know how to punch!
The coaches are very attentive and the staff in general always helpful and kind. There are many options in terms of classes to choose – conditioning, strength and power different level boxing classes and some sparring sessions of course! There is an app you can book in advance and makes it easier to plan the classes depending on your schedule.
The most amazing part about it though is the community. You feel welcomed and supported, everyone loves to be there and no matter your goals you get to meet all these amazing people and always go and leave with a smile!
P.S Thank you John & Lilly !
Armela Brama – January 2025
I’ve trained at Port O’ Leith for 3 years now it’s been the best thing I’ve done since moving back to Edinburgh. PoL is such a welcoming gym and I’ve met great people but it’s also a gym where you are worked really hard, learn a skill and get amazing coaching and advice – irregardless of the classes you plan to join and whatever your goals are in the gym! The classes and atmosphere here are the best I’ve experienced at any gym – and the coaches are amazing, personally they have supported me through a major operation and physio period and made all the changes I needed to still get into classes and back in the gym asap!
Jenni Lynch – January 2025
Fantastic coaches and community at POL! Great workout, great people, and a really welcoming and inclusive environment. An easy 5 stars
Jill Laspa – January 2025
Simple by far the best gym wherever is for making you stronger healthier happier more fit or actually getting you into boxing whatever your needs POL got you covered
Marcin Szczygiel – January 2025
Everyone is so friendly, welcoming and it’s a really great place to get a solid workout and learn to box too. If you like being part of a great community whilst getting fit, I highly recommend Port o’ Leith Boxing Club.
Nadia Petriconi – January 2025
Amazing gym. Started off with boxing basics (with no prior experience of any combat sports) in September 2022 and never looked back once. Regular classes, friendly staff and a sense of community. Physical and mental health has soared and I owe it to this gym.
Tomas Gerrard – January 2025 2025
Punching for parkinson’s- brilliant class that is
motivating and adaptive – designed with an excellent understanding of what benefits us Parkies and why. Port o Leith boxing really knows what community is about. An excellent gym, welcoming and fun. It takes special people to create a community such as this. Everyone of the staff and volunteers are rockstars. Thank you for the great classes.
D S – January 2025
Amazing place, do not hesitate to go if you are a beginner! Special thanks for Lily and her unstoppable energy.
Guillemette Kammer – January 2025
My son started here a few weeks ago and he loves it. Great team. Great value for money and he can’t wait to go twice a week when his lessons come up.
Matthew Wilken – January 2025
Excellent class, the trainers are amazing will definitely keep the boxing up,I’m getting fitter all the time great laugh as well very supportive and welcoming team
Ian Mcdonald – November 2024
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everyone is nice 🤗
equipped gym
Aniko Sutyinski – November 2024
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Signed up for the post-natal course and enjoyed it so much I joined as a full member. A really inclusive, supportive environment for all ages and abilities. Definitely recommend for those returning to exercise or looking for something new to challenge themselves.
Fredericka Morrison – October 2024
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A friendly gym with lots of different classes for all abilities. It’s a fun way to lose weight and get fitter.
Katherine Lyall – September 2024
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I have been training at the gym for around a year now. I love it and don’t know where I would be without it.
I feel supported, encouraged and respected by the trainers and now feel more confident in myself.
I can walk in the gym and get a fist bump, chat and sometimes even a hug from fellow trainees. Socially it is incredible. I have made some great friends there.
I feel this particular gym is as good for my mental health as it is for my physical health.
I only wish I had discovered such a place years ago!
Damon Mitchell – September 2024
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Since joining almost two years ago ..I can wholeheartedly say what an incredible place and gym Port o leith boxing club is! I was sceptical about going ..with no prior knowledge or experience of boxing . All my judgements were demolished through the friendliness of staff and huge support of my fitness journey. Amazing staff and facilities! It has changed my life and perception of what Boxing and the positive impact it has on your physical and mental health. I would highly recommend anyone to take the leap . You won’t regret it!
Leather Cave – September 2024
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Come to get fit, stay for the community. An amazing gym full of amazing people. Come along and try Port o Leith Boxing Club, you won’t regret it.
Steven Laverty – September 2024
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Great coaches, clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere. Would highly recommend! Best boxing gym in Edinburgh
Craig Campbell – September 2024
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I just love this place! Great coaches who are extremely knowledgeable, friendly and motivating. Superb and varied classes and a modern gym. Best move I made was joining and I would happily recommend it.
Craig Duffield – September 2024
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The best boxing gym in Edinburgh. I used to train private for a bit in another country so I was actually a little tensed and skeptical about how good a “group” boxing class will be. However, I have to say I was proved wrong. Each and every session was amazing and always a valuable learning experience. The coaches are top tier, especially Coach Connor and Coach Marcus with whom Ive trained the most. They pay close attention to each and everyone ensuring that the moves are performed with the right technique. The staff are also friendly and welcoming.
If you’re looking for only a gym for weight lifting this may not be the best choice. But if you’re looking to train for boxing this place is well worth it without a second thought
Hilton – August 2024
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“ts become my regular hang out to forget about work and learn something new. Its a seriously good boxing gym!
Jack Waygood – August 2024
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Went for a taster session and absolutely loved the place! The gym is large, clean, welcoming and well equipped. I will definitely be back
Lucia Z – August 2024
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I’ve been attending Port O’Leith for almost two and a half years now, having joined only one month after it opened and have nothing but positive things to say about this gym.
I’d been interested in getting into boxing for many years and making that step has turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m currently the fittest I’ve ever been and have found a sport that I look forward to getting involved in every week.
The trainers are fantastic, paying attention to each and every member of the class. The facilities are top notch, and there’s a great range of classes at all times throughout the day.
If you’re thinking about joining this gym then I very much encourage you to do so – you won’t regret it.
Ryan Stobo, June 2024
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“he best boxing gym I’ve found – lots of classes, great coaches and a real sense of community.
Abi Baross, June 2024
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Incredibly friendly gym. No posers. No wannabe bodybuilders. No cut price instagram fitness influencers. Just friendly down to earth people learning boxing and/or trying to keep fit.
I joined for the boxing basics having never been to a boxing gym before and tbh I found the idea of going to one intimidating. I was completely wrong though, it wasn’t intimidating at all. Highly recommended.
Scott Johnstone, May 2024
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Great gym. Fantastic atmosphere
Lennox Scoburgh, May 2024
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I started beginners classes in Jan 2023 and never looked back! I have loved going to this gym, the quality and enthusiasm of the instructers is infectious, the team spirit is fantastic, the variation in different classes at different times is great. John, Lily and the team have built a really special place and I’m sad to be leaving (only because I’m leaving Edinburgh!!). All the best for the future.✨️🥊✨️
T.G, March 2024
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Professionalism, great service. These people really know what they’re doing. My son loves the boxing sessions at Port O Leith Boxing Club. I recommend AAAAA+++++
Bartosz, February 2024
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Can’t recommend this place enough. I started out on the postnatal punchers course and it was such a great way to get back into exercising, plus being able to bring my baby along made it so easy! I progressed onto a new mum membership and have been going twice a week all through my maternity leave. Gutted I can’t keep going after I return to work in Jan! I hope to go back in the future.
Jen Ogilvie, January 2024
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*****
Stephanie Heck, January 2024
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Moved to Edinburgh not so long ago and jumped into a few boxing clubs across the City – this is the best gym by a distance.
Quality of coaching varies from beginners all the way up to advanced level, with the focus from the coaches very bespoke to the class and individuals within it.
It’s incredibly smooth to book classes (all can be done online) and the schedule is varied between fitness, boxing and yoga work to cover all bases.
But what really separates this place from other gyms in general is the community – everyone is here to learn and this comes through in the everyday ethos. Really good place to be for a proper workout.
Will lord, December 2023
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Professionalism, great service. These people really know what they’re doing. My son loves the boxing sessions at Port O Leith Boxing Club. I recommend AAAAA+++++
Bartosz, November 2023
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What an incredible gym – such friendly staff, great set-up on equipment, plus Coach Rachel was the best!
My sister and I are from the States and were traveling thru Edinburgh. I have my first fight in November and reached out to Port O’Leith BC to see if I could train with them while in the city. They set me up with 2 PT sessions with Coach Rachel, who put me thru some heavy cardio and challenging skill drills. I loved it and it helped keep me in shape while on holiday. Communication with the gym thru Instagram was👍🏽👍🏽. If I lived in Edinburgh I would absolutely join this gym.
Diane Santos, September 2023
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Awesome gym in a great location, coaches and staff are super friendly and knowledgeable and the classes are fun, dynamic and have helped me push my limits, improve my fitness and become more disciplined. A great place for beginners and more seasoned boxers alike.
Faisal Al-ghita August 2023
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Brilliant coaches, classes and people. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to improve their fitness and join a community. I always look forward to going here.
Caitlin Richie, July 2023
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Great place to train. Friendly professional coaches, a wide range of classes and class times and a welcoming community. I joined in April 2022 and usually get along 3-4 times a week – I’m a lot fitter than I was a year ago and not a half bad boxer now too!
Tony Macpherson, June 2023
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After years of bouncing around between gyms and trying different programmes, I am so happy to have landed here at Port O’Leith. It’s an incredibly inclusive space that caters to people of all ages. Safety is paramount to the team, which I really appreciate! Thanks to all the wonderful coaches I feel myself progressing past previous physical barriers in just a few months – all while having a blast! Highly recommended.
Julia, February 2023
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Signed up in April 2022 having never done any boxing before. Trainers are great, classes are varied, and everyone is really friendly. If you’ve not boxed before or just want to get fit, this is the place to go.
Michael, February 2023
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I look forward to training!!! Port O’ Leith is an amazing boxing club and community. I’ve been training there since September, and I am fitter, stronger and healthier. I trained with all the coaches and they are all very professional, capable and they push everyone to the limit- with a watchful eye to make sure no one gets injured. It’s also very inclusive with classes for juniors, general, old age, menopause, post-natal and even boxing with Parkinson’s. I can confidently highly recommend joining Port O’ Leith boxing club, regardless of boxing or fitness level.
Yasmeen, January 2023
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Been a member since completing the boxing basics class in June, and wow my fitness levels are the best they have ever been, such a supportive caring community of people. Couldn’t recommend the club and everyone there enough
Josie, January 2023
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Love this place! Brilliant for de-stessing and getting fit. Significantly fitter than when I joined. Great coaches and members. Can’t recommend enough!
Marie, January 2023
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Definitely the best boxing gym in Edinburgh! The classes are fantastic, the equipment is top quality and the whole Port O’ Leith community is so welcoming. If you’re thinking about giving boxing a try this is the place to do it
Ali, January 2023
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Had an awesome boxing blitz class with Kieran (the legend). First time since joining in May that I actually thought I was going to bring up my breakfast. Told him this and he was gutted that I didn’t. Thanks for a great class, dude. Maybe next time! I would just like to add on that when you arrive during the day you will be welcomed by another legend by the name of Tino. He is part of the management team and is always welcoming to all the members. Tino is the “go to guy”. He is friendly and very knowledgeable about the gym and events coming up. Tino was the legend that when I was punching the bag on my own asked if I fancied doing some pad work. If you have any questions, he is the man!!
Brendan, November 2022
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I am new to boxing and was in Edinburgh for a short window hoping to find a place to work out. Found Port O’ Leith online and emailed them. Tino and Winse were super responsive and quickly worked with me to schedule a couple of day/times to workout. I got to work with Marcus who is a great guy with strong experience in technique and training. He made the workouts fun, adjusted them to my experience level and offered some great tips that really helped! They have a great training set up and great folks. I highly recommend for local or out of town people of any experience level looking to work out, meet quality people and get better. Enjoy.
Kevin, October 2022
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Stellar Boxing Blitz class today. Kieran pushed the Burpees and made the class super tough. The afternoon classes are so handy when you work shifts and can’t always make the evening classes. Top job Kieran
Brendan, October 2022
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A great Strength and Power class with the Gaffer. As always John is very knowledgeable and kind with his advice. Gives you the confidence to push yourself that little bit extra. Nice one John
Brendan, October 2022
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Love the gym, love the people, love the points
Fletch, October 2022
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Loving the smoothies!! Just what you need after an amazing session!!
Belén, October 2022
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Delicious smoothies
Fletch, October 2022
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“First night was brilliant. I’m a complete beginner and pretty out of shape but I was made to feel very comfortable, and everyone was super encouraging. It’s the first time I’ve really enjoyed a fitness class (or felt comfortable in a gym.) I’m really excited about going back and getting stuck in
Bonny, October 2022
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The staff are amazing, very supportive and friendly. The classes are very well run and established, there’s always something different going on; it’s never the same which makes it fun and keeps it interesting. The facilities are fantastic. I have nothing but nice things to say about every single member who attends the gym also, it really is its own community.
Bobby, September 2022
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This is by far the best boxing gym in Edinburgh. The venue is super clean, tidy, organised and pleasing to the eyes. In comparison to many other gyms, you may find that you feel like Floyd Mayweather walking through the front doors. Thank you, John and Lily, for the club that you have both built for this local community. I simply cannot get enough of it, God bless team Portie!
Bobby, September 2022
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Outstanding facilities, coupled with excellent coaching staff and a friendly environment make this a must for those who want to train hard, train well and train safe in a cool venue.
Lily and John and their team have a created something very special here. PERSEVERE!
Kevin, August 2022
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I have completed the one-month boxing basics course and I couldn’t be more delighted. Needless to say, I will continue training, having fun and learning the sweet science in such sweet place.
Ruben, July 2022
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This gym is a dream come true: there are different types of classes -including Yoga-, and all of them are very well structured; the facilities are spacious and spotlessly clean; and all the coaches are patient, professional and passionate. On top of that, having the opportunity to have a beverage or a protein shake before training and take a shower after working up a sweat is simply something I didn’t expect to find in a boxing gym.
Ruben, July 2022
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Highly recommend! Lovely, friendly, encouraging coaches running challenging, fun classes. Super clean, spacious gym. Started with Boxing Basics in March and continued my membership since then – a great community to be a part of!
Carly, July 2022
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What a place! If you’re looking for a great workout with top notch facilities and passionate staff in a friendly, welcoming environment then look no further. The effort every member of the team puts into every session, from front desk to the owners, really speaks to the passion for the sport, for fitness, and for community that this place embodies. Workouts that make you sweat AND put a smile on your face. Don’t hesitate to give Port O’ Leith Boxing a try… you’ll be back!
Richard, July 2022
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Amazing place to go to if you want to improve your fitness and learn how to box. Very friendly atmosphere, great coaches, nice gym with good choice of new equipment. Lots of different classes to go to at different times.
Michal, July 2022
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Aside from the normal boxing classes you’d expect, you’ll find the wee boys and girls in juniors, the new mums with the bairns in the crèche, the ladies of a ‘certain age’ with the hot flushes-sharp punches, the punching for Parkinson’s and the old age punchers – couldn’t think of more inclusive & welcoming space. Lily, John and all the fantastic team have brought boxing to masses – brilliant work outs, big punches but even bigger smiles.
Vicky, July 2022
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Since doing the Boxing Basics course I couldn’t ask for more from Port O’Leith. They have built an amazing, supportive community and I’ve really noticed my skills and fitness improving steadily. Highly recommended!
Angus, July 2022
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Brilliant gym, a real community feel, very friendly, I have had great results since starting and my fitness has really improved by going to the classes. If you want to improve your fitness and learn how to box, try this gym, best gym in Edinburgh
Dave, July 2022
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Friendly well-equipped gym, good range of different classes and free use of equipment for members. Great place for all levels, beginners to fighters. Recommended
Rachel, July 2022
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Great place. Friendly and inclusive. The trainers are very patient.
Stacey, June 2022
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The Team is fantastic, every single one. Classes are dynamic and great workouts.
There are lots of different classes that you can attend, I’m only doing skills at the moment because of childcare but hoping to “spice it up” during the summer.
Always really good atmosphere and a great laugh, although they make us work hard, Lilly and John have no mercy. 100% recommend it!
Ana, June 2022
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I started with the basics class, which was amazing! Everyone is so friendly, even if you just started you don’t feel left out. There is always someone to chat with or ask for help with movements, exercises. Even when I’m not in a good mood I know I’m going to feel myself better if I go there. Also I made so many friends as an introvert it an achievement unlocked.
Anita, June 2022
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My daughter has been attending the Port of Leith junior boxing classes twice a week and it is definitely her favourite sporting activity of all time!! Even if she is shattered after school, she always wants to go. I don’t think she has missed a class yet!! She is in the 10-14 age group taught by Rachel, who is just lovely, and works them hard whilst making it lots of fun!! She has also been taught by Marcus, and John the owner….both also just fantastic personalities! The kids do a mixture of skills, bag work and they also get in the ring, it’s still non-contact at this age. They have also just started a Saturday class for the Juniors with Marcus, so no doubt we will be doing that soon too! There is a nice seating area and cafe right next to the ring/training area, so parents can stay and watch if they choose to! Highly recommend, this has been so good for my girl! The adult boxing also looks great, lots of hard work, but lots of smiles and laughs!
Sofia, June 2022
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Great place and amazing, very nice team. full professionalism. I recommend and thank you very much!
Adam, June 2022
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I wanted to box when I was younger but always felt a bit intimidated by boxing clubs and never dared to start. This is where the Port O’ Leith boxing club is so fundamentally different. I am five months in now and I can with all honesty say that it is such a welcoming and encouraging environment, that acknowledges you as an individual and respects that everyone has their own journey. You always feel welcome here! The coaches have been a fantastic support. Their encouragement and note of your personal progress (even in a big class) is fantastic. Joining this boxing club has done so much for my confidence, my health (both physical and mental) and overall fitness. I can’t stress the benefits enough. Regardless of where you are in life, or in your fitness journey, this club has a class for you. If you need a change (and you’re tired of going for lonely runs in the park like me) this is the club to join!!
Jennie, June 2022
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Great Gym with a great atmosphere. The instructors make you feel at home from day one as well as pushing you to get the best you can be!
Cici, June 2022
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“Joined the post-natal punchers back in February after having an all clear at my 6 weeks postnatal check-up. I was glad to find a boxing class offering babysitting service. Having had PGP during pregnancy and not being able to do any sorts of exercise or even routine daily tasks I was really looking forward to strengthening my body. I started with gentle, modified movements that suited my fitness level. Lily made sure to push me a little further as I progressed but making sure of me not hurting myself in the process. She’s a trainer who’s knowledgeable, awesome and fun to be around. 5 months into my training I feel stronger, more flexible and ready to level up.”
Ildiko, June 2022
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Don’t know why it’s taken me so long to do one of your classes, Lily – but today was the day and I thoroughly enjoyed it, thank you! I won’t leave it so long next time.
James, June 2022
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I have been with the club for around 5 months now and cannot imagine giving it up now.
I have always been a bit apprehensive about going to the gym and my family all laughed at me when I told them I was thinking of taking up boxing, but I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone – I have no regrets! Working from home is pretty boring, so it is great to meet and chat to the regulars in the morning and evening classes. Lily, John and the other coaches are all super friendly and all the front of house team are a good laugh and make the effort to say hi to you…plus they make good coffee.
Peter, June 2022
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Joined in April for the Basics class and really enjoyed learning the moves and getting into an exercise routine. Have continued with Level 1 and mixing it up with the blitz and conditioning classes. The club has created an amazing welcoming community with their trainers, FOH staff and the members – cannot speak highly enough about the place!
Shirley, June 2022
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I was apprehensive about trying boxing as I held all the prejudices about the stereotypical “boxing gym”. Whatever your fears, don’t be afraid! The people are friendly and encouraging and they work you hard! The gym looks modern and smart. I am 42 and have just started. I used to be a good runner but now I am a terrible runner and that depresses me. At 42 and 3 weeks after starting at Port O Leith Boxing, I am the best at boxing I have ever been in my life and that motivates me! I am really glad I gave it a try and I encourage you to try to it too!
Steven, June 2022
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Did the beginners course in May and have continued since. Really enjoyed learning new skills, getting fitter and the welcoming vibes
Johnny, June 2022
“Just finished my 2nd boxing basics class last night. I have never boxed in my life or even stepped into a boxing club before so I was pretty nervous. However, since meeting the staff who are all really friendly and kind, I have enjoyed every moment. John is just great as a coach. He made me feel very relaxed with his genuine personality. Having said that he runs a physically intense class that gets the heart rate going. The other members of the group are super friendly, and you are left with a feeling of team work. This is a gym where you are expected to put the work in which is a great motivator. I truly cannot wait until the next session. I have tried loads of other gyms before and quickly got bored of them. This place will get you fit quick, make you feel inclusive and do wonders for your confidence. I would recommend it to anyone. I am 50 years old so don’t let age hold you back.”
Brendan, May 2022
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“Signed up for the Boxing Basics course at the start of March and have continued my membership because I enjoyed the gym so much. All the coaches are great and put you through your paces! The environment is very positive, welcoming and I have met new, friendly people. Would encourage anyone and everyone to join!
Josh, May 2022
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I decided to join Boxing Basics course a couple months ago and loved it since day one! After that first month I had no doubt I wanted to continue my membership.
All the staff and coaches are extremely friendly and talented. They provide fun, dynamic and very welcoming classes. I would encourage everyone to try it and join the community!
Meritxell, May 2022
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Excellent smoothies
Ali, May 2022
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Brilliant boxing club. Really great, fun people!
Ali, May 2022
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Writing this review after yet another amazing class at the club. Lily, John and their team are so supportive, professional and personable. The classes are challenging, and you are pushed to give your max but in a very encouraging way. As a result, you always feel great afterwards. Boxing has done so much for me both physically and mentally. No matter your level or personal ambitions, Port O’ Leith Boxing Club’s staff truly make you feel like you belong there! I just love it
Charlene, May 2022
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Can’t recommend Port O’ Leith enough. All the staff and members are so friendly, welcoming and great at encouraging each other. The coaches are brilliant at pushing you but still making all the classes fun so you want to keep coming back. I have an injury at the moment and Lily has been amazing at adapting some of the exercises for me so I can still join in. If you’re thinking about giving boxing a go, this is definitely the place to try it!
Ali, May 2022
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I went to the Hot Flushes, Sharp Punches class last night, which was my first time at Port o’ Leith Boxing Club. What a genius, inclusive idea! And a lovely bunch of friendly women to train with too. Rachel the coach had exactly the right level of energy and enthusiasm for the class too. She was knowledgeable and skilful whilst remaining friendly and approachable, and most of all fun. That can be a really hard balance to strike whilst teaching. I had a great time even though I am absolutely exhausted this morning and am struggling to get up and down stairs at work, I’ve booked for next week already!
Avril, May 2022
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After watching Rocky IV, I knew that in the absence of an 80s montage, I would have to join a boxing gym to become an elite fighting machine. While I have some way to go, Port O’Leith has been fantastic in helping me learn the basics in a really friendly and welcoming environment (except stern looks when slacking between sets. Apparently slacking isn’t cool in boxing). Strongly recommended for anyone looking to give boxing a try at any level.
Chris, May 2022
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Excellent coaches, a great space, and a really friendly & welcoming community. I really enjoy the classes and learn something new every time I’m there.
J.B, May 2022
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Cannot recommend highly enough! They have changed my son’s life! His confidence has increased, his physical fitness is soaring, and he is happy again. Lily promised me before they opened that they wanted to help……and they were true to their word. Thank you!!!!! Friendly people, very welcoming, positive energy through and through. Cannot rate them highly enough.
Katina, April 2022
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The trainers are great. Great service. Great reception
Stephen, April 2022
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“Fantastic setup, thoroughly enjoying the classes from John and Lilly, would encourage you to pop along and try it out. To quote John “….you’ll soon shift that extra timber if you keep up the work…” he certainly runs a great and motivating class!”
Steve, April 2022
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Absolutely brilliant and huge space, for all ages and abilities! The kids boxing coaching sessions are amazing, the coaches work them hard, but in a really fun and enjoyable way! My daughter loved her first session and was keen to get back for her second session of the week. The staff are friendly and kind, and helpful when it comes to any questions you may have. Highly recommend this club! Just what the area needed!
Nina, February 2022
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