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Thornbury Guests Martial Arts - The Self Defence Experts

272 Dundas St, Thornbury VIC 3071, Australia

5.0 (124 reviews)

Photo Gallery

A group of martial arts practitioners are practicing with long wooden staffs in a training hall.
A female athlete is shown mid-punch during a boxing training session with a large punching bag in the background.
A trainer with a beard is demonstrating a technique to a student in a martial arts setting with boxing bags in the background.
An interior shot of a Jiu-Jitsu gym featuring blue mats, white walls, pull-up bars and framed artwork.
Two individuals are engaged in a grappling exercise on blue jiu-jitsu mats.
An overhead view of a martial arts gym floor with boxing bags and jiu-jitsu mats, featuring tables and chairs set up for training or instruction.
A group of children in martial arts uniforms are practicing a jumping exercise on mats in a gym setting.
A group of children are practicing martial arts with wooden staffs in a dimly lit industrial space.

About Thornbury Guests Martial Arts - The Self Defence Experts

Guests Martial Arts is a long-established Thornbury school on Dundas Street, teaching self defence and martial arts to all ages in a recently renovated, purpose-built training space. Founded in the late 1990s, the school draws on a deep instructor team whose combined experience spans Japanese Jujutsu, BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai, Silat, Vovinam and Taekwondo.

The teaching philosophy is grounded in individual progress rather than competition, which is why families return year after year. Parents describe children who grow in confidence, coordination and discipline, while adults value the practical self-defence skills and the fun, supportive atmosphere. Programs are carefully structured by age, from Ninja Stars for the youngest students up to dedicated teen and adult classes, with fitness kickboxing offering a high-energy option for those chasing a workout.

With experienced, encouraging instructors and a strong sense of community, Guests Martial Arts suits everyone from five-year-olds taking their first class to adults wanting genuine self-defence skills or a fitness outlet. It is an especially good fit for families seeking a welcoming, values-driven environment where steady improvement is celebrated.

Classes & Programs

Japanese JujutsuBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)MMAMuay ThaiSilatVovinamTaekwondoSelf-defence and women's self-defenceFitness kickboxingWeapons training (Bo staff, sword, Jo)Kids programs: Ninja Stars (5-7), Samurai Warriors (8-10)Teen programs: Junior Adults (11-14), Young Adults (15-17)Adult classes

Trainers & Coaches

Craig Guest Owner and Principal Instructor +

Craig began training in Japanese Jujutsu in 1990 and established the school around 1998. He leads an instructor team with more than 200 years of combined martial arts experience.

Facilities & Amenities

700 square metres of open training space Recently renovated facility Latest training equipment Jiu-jitsu mats Boxing bags Pull-up bar Free weights Seating for 65+ spectators

Who It's For

Children from age 5 (Ninja Stars)Teens building confidence and disciplineAdults wanting practical self-defenceWomen's self-defencePeople after a fitness kickboxing workoutFamilies seeking a supportive environment

Membership & Pricing

Free trial 4 classes plus a free uniform (valued over $100)
Fitness Kickboxing trial 4 classes with boxing mitts for $19.95

* Prices from the studio's website and may change — confirm before joining.

Location

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer a free trial? +

Yes. New students can try 4 classes plus a free uniform valued at over $100. A separate Fitness Kickboxing trial of 4 classes with boxing mitts is available for $19.95.

Do you have classes for young children? +

Yes. Age-based programs include Ninja Stars (5-7), Samurai Warriors (8-10), plus junior and young adult teen classes.

Are there classes for adults and self-defence? +

Yes. Adults can train across styles including Jujutsu, BJJ, Muay Thai and MMA, with dedicated self-defence and women's self-defence options.

Is there a fitness option rather than full martial arts? +

Yes. Fitness kickboxing offers a high-energy workout and is popular with members wanting fitness as well as skills.

Pricing Information

Contact for pricing

Contact for pricing

Estimated starting price

• Pricing varies by plan and commitment

• Casual day passes often available

• Ask about free trials and student rates

Gym Information

Location Type

N/A

Style

martial arts, jiu jitsu, group fitness

Google Rating

5.0 ★

Location

VIC

What to Know

  • Arrive 10–15 min early on your first visit
  • Bring a towel, water bottle and clean shoes
  • Check timetables and book classes ahead

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Gyms in Melbourne

Thornbury Guests Martial Arts - The Self Defence Experts is one of VIC's fitness studios, offering professional training services for all fitness levels. Located in 272 Dundas St, Thornbury VIC 3071, Australia, this studio provides high-quality training and fitness services for both beginners and experienced athletes.

As part of the Melbourne fitness community, Thornbury Guests Martial Arts - The Self Defence Experts contributes to the local fitness scene. Whether you're looking for personal training, group classes, or specialist coaching, this studio offers a professional and welcoming environment for your next workout.