Workout Wedding Camp

My fiance and I both wanted to get in shape together for our wedding, but we had a lot of trouble agreeing on how to do it.  Up until then, our workouts were sporadic, low in intensity, and we often worked out separately at a time when we wanted to be closer.  About a month before the wedding date, we finally agreed on approaching Kombat Arts for personal training in the week leading up to the wedding.  Having taken a few kickboxing classes many years ago, I knew that Joey was knowledgable, professional, and motivating.

The Kombat Arts facility was large, bright, and well ventilated.  Our first workout was tough, but it was during the second workout when our muscles complained the most.  Joey introduced a lot of variety and kept the classes interesting - it also worked a lot more muscles that way.  Every day felt like a major accomplishment!  But our spirits were high and we got a lot of great encouragement and inspiration from Joey.  By the last day, the soreness was completely gone and I felt fantastic!

I think it was one of the best decisions we made regarding our wedding.  Not only did I feel strong and tone by the end of those tough workouts, but my overall health improved and my skin was glowing.  Best of all, my fiance and I were proud of ourselves and of each other for getting through the whole program.  An added bonus was that I had the stamina to stay on the dance floor the entire night - it's quite a party when the bride doesn't leave the dance!

There is an epilogue to this story: Joey's week of punishment also kickstarted us into a better fitness regime after we returned from our honeymoon. 

Thank you so much Joey, you didn't disappoint!  Good luck with your business, and you can thank me for the idea next time I'm in Canada!

Gina Seto

My 2nd family

When I saw the first few UFCs I was amazed how a smaller fighter was able to dominate and finish his opponents with such precise control and ease using a martial art called Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I knew I wanted to learn this style of fighting one day, but trying to finish university was tough enough so I had to put this idea on hold.

Fast forward 4 years later now working, I finally had the time to pursue this idea. After much research and word of mouth I decided to check out this small gym near my house called Kombat Arts. I was a bit nervous because I expected this gym to be full of ego and blood and guts eveywhere. Upon entering I was greeted by Joey de los Reyes and he was very outgoing and the atmosphere was very accomodating. The next week I had my first private lesson. I thought this grappling stuff would be easy, but was proven wrong real quick. I exerted so much energy on that first day that by the end of the lesson, I literally turned purple. Joey out of concern made me stay at the club for an hour to regain oxygen to my brain. After getting my color back and seeing straight I thanked Joey, but I was afraid he would say I am not cut out for this type of training. On the contrary he was still very positive and encouraged me to come back. The rest is pretty much history.

I have now been a member for 3 years and the gym has grown considerably. When I started it was only about 2,500 sq ft. Now we are in a 10,000 sq ft facility with the best instructors in the city. The student base has also grown from 50 people to over 300 and I don't see any slow down in the near future. There are 15 or so programs and martial arts available all under 1 price which is a phenomenal deal. I am learning everything from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to Muay Thai to Wrestling to Boxing. It is an amazing gym and anyone else who is a member can testify to that.

More importantly, through training at Kombat Arts I have gained a second family. The staff, instructors and students are all supportive, motivating and caring. Everyone wants to see you improve and the environment is so easy going, friendly and fun. Best of all, I have met a lot of great people who have become lifelong friends. To my family at Kombat Arts, thank you sincerely for everything you have done for me. Keep up the great work!

Gil Mesina

Proud Parent and Dedicated Student

Joey just wanted to let you know how much my son's Ryan (11) and Justin (6) along with me enjoy coming to Kombat Arts. The lessons with Hector for the boys are wonderful.  Hector’s interaction with the children is great. Joey the private session that  I take three times a week with you are very rewarding for me as my conditioning and boxing skills have greatly improved (more conditioning then boxing but not bad for a 43 year old) during the last 9 months. Joey you are a great instructor, you push me to my limit every session, and sometimes even beyond that!  Your encouragement and support is really great to hear and that motivates me to try harder.  I never feel out of place or uncomfortable at Kombat Arts; actually the opposite, very welcome and relaxed.  It is truly a great learning environment.

I have observed from my own experiences and from watching and listening to you interact with your students and staff how highly regarded and respected you are.  Joey I can only speak for me and my boys to tell you we feel very comfortable and safe training at your gym, the atmosphere is awesome. I have and will continue to recommend your gym to clients, family and friends who are looking for a unique and challenging workout and to learn some helpful skills.

Jeff Borg and Family

Thoughts from a High School Student

When I think of Kombat Arts, I think of change.  When I first started Muay Thai I approached it with little confidence, and found myself getting tired easily.  After a year, I can honestly say I approach not only martial arts but also school more confidently. I do find that I improved physically the most. I’m more fit and developed a positive mentality towards keeping in shape.

The opportunity to have private lessons with Sensei Joey has been gratifying. It’s a time to work on weaknesses and improve strengths.

The diverse instructors make each class enjoyable.  All class participants bring an optimism that ensures a good partnership.  When I’m wrapping up my hands in preparation for class, I get enthused. Muay Thai is not only good exercise, but is a release form lingering stress, and exudes a feeling of accomplishment and self- improvement.

The most important thing I learned from Kombat Arts is realizing that size and strength may get you far, but technique and modesty get you farther.

“It’s a great feeling to have everyday successes, knowing you can defend yourself.”

Celena Glanville

LEO Testimonials

In a field where appropriate training is difficult to receive, Joey de Los Reyes’ PPCT courses are a necessity to any security officer’s safety and well being. - John Ryan, Health Care Security Officer, Carecor Security

Taking these courses (Collapseable Baton, Tactical Handcuffing, PPCT, Defensive Counterstrikes and Subject Control Techniques) has given me the confidence in handling real situations while on duty in the mall. These are step-by-step thorough hands-on courses taught by knowledgeable instructors. These courses are valuable for anyone working in the security industry, as well as for anyone interested in self defense. - Anthony Romano, Security Officer, Corporation Security

I have taken numerous courses taught by Joey de Los Reyes. Not only did I find these courses to be very interesting, but also practical in the real world. I can not recommend the courses taught by Joey enough, for anyone working in the security and investigation industry. - Mike Ball, Loss Prevention Co-ordinator, Maxi & Company, Oakville

I have been involved in loss prevention for many years and having taken Joey’s course in the Tactical Handcuffing, it is refreshing to see someone like Joey de Los Reyes take the responsibility to offer realistic affordable training to the security industry. - Clayton Collins, Loss Prevention Supervisor, SCM

In the past I have taken numerous courses through the instructorship of Mr. de Los Reyes. These courses range from Pressure Point Control Tactics, Collapsible Baton, Handcuffing, Defensive Counterstrikes, and Subject Control Techniques. I have found Mr. de Los Reyes’ teaching techniques to be thorough and extensive, yet very comprehensive. Although the courses were not long in duration, the techniques were quickly and easily learned. These courses were found to be an asset to our company with regards to both the physical, as well as the legal aspects. I look forward to taking future course through Mr. de Los Reyes, and I highly recommended him to any company interested in the above noted courses. - Lucia Naclerio, Director of Operations, High Profiles Event Security Inc.

Throughout the past year and a half, I have had the distinct pleasure to attend many of your PPCT Tactical training, use of force and edged weapon seminars. Your training profile and personal knowledge of how individuals respond to situations is one of the best I have ever seen....unlike other training seminars I have attended, you also discuss the legal aspects of your actions and/or decisions. - Alex McTaggart, Associate Business Continuity Planner, AADM Consulting

The Defensive Tactics System is a complete program that has taught me handcuffing, pressure point control tactics, subject control techniques, concepts of edged weapons, and collapsible baton....Once again I must thank the Defensive Tactics Instructor, Joey de Los Reyes for teaching me how to perform my duties safely, proficiently, and without liability. - Hinesh Becharbhai, Tactical Officer, Tactical Security

As a Correctional Officer, Mr. de Los Reyes’ teachings have proven valuable. In numerous physical crisis situations his applied teachings have proven successful....I would recommended Mr. de Los Reyes to your program/organization without any reservation. - Dirk Niles, Correctional Officer, Ministry of Community and Social Services, Ontario