Valhalla Mixed Martial Arts, owned by Head Coach Gail King, is a gym that stands out for its focus on both physical fitness and mental empowerment. Specializing in kickboxing and boxing, Valhalla MMA provides an inclusive environment for everyone—from beginners to seasoned athletes—looking to build strength, confidence, and community.
A Welcoming Environment for All
For Gail King, the idea behind Valhalla MMA came from her own experiences as a female athlete in martial arts. “I wanted to create a space where people could feel comfortable, leave their egos at the door, and train in a positive, supportive environment,” King shares.
The gym’s mission is to foster a love for combat sports, develop athletes, and cultivate a welcoming community. Founded in October 2020, Valhalla MMA has weathered significant challenges, including the pandemic, but has persevered through its dedication to both fitness and personal growth.
Core Values That Drive Success
Valhalla MMA operates on a foundation of core values that include discipline, respect, perseverance, and integrity. These principles not only shape the training environment but also the day-to-day operations of the gym. King emphasizes that creating an inclusive atmosphere where all members feel supported, whether they are beginners or seasoned athletes, is key to the gym’s culture.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience
Opening the gym during a global pandemic was not without its difficulties, particularly with the lockdowns and imposed restrictions. “It was a tough journey, but it taught me the importance of community and staying focused on our vision,” says King. Despite these setbacks, Valhalla MMA continues to thrive, with a growing membership base and a commitment to providing top-notch coaching and support.
Valhalla’s Unique Offerings
What makes Valhalla MMA stand out is its emphasis on creating a supportive, ego-free environment. Newcomers can participate in a free trial class to ensure the gym is a good fit for them. “The trial class works both ways,” King explains. “We want to make sure the person feels comfortable with the facility and coaches, and we also want to see if they’re a good fit for our community.”
The gym offers a variety of classes designed to suit different fitness levels, and with a focus on building community, members regularly support one another in their fitness journeys.
Community Engagement
Valhalla MMA’s relationship with the local community extends beyond the gym’s walls. The gym regularly hosts open houses and is involved in charity work, including sponsoring the Cambridge Humane Society and organizing kickboxing events for the public to enjoy.
By supporting local businesses and organizing social events, Valhalla creates an atmosphere where members feel like part of something bigger than just a gym. King notes, “It’s all about building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging, both inside and outside of the gym.”
Success Stories and Long-Term Growth
Valhalla MMA has seen numerous successes, from helping members achieve personal fitness goals to seeing athletes like Mariam Lami rise to the top as a National Kickboxing Champion. These success stories, paired with the gym’s strong emphasis on mentorship and personal development, have solidified Valhalla’s place as a premier fitness facility.
Looking forward, King is excited to continue growing the gym’s competitive teams while expanding its community. “We’re excited about the future, and we want to make sure everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome, valued, and supported,” she says.
A Note on MMA and Safety
It’s important to note that MMA can be a physically demanding sport, and participants should always train under the guidance of certified coaches to ensure safety. Valhalla MMA takes safety seriously, with all coaches certified in recognized programs and strict protocols in place to ensure the well-being of their athletes.
For more details about Valhalla MMA and to inquire about classes, please see below:
Gail King
Head Coach / Owner
Valhalla MMA
Address:
131 Sheldon Drive, Unit 4
Cambridge, ON N1R 6S2
Phone:
T: 226.386.4779
Website:
Valhalla-mma.com
Follow us on Instagram:
@valhallamixedmartialarts
