EDBA - Eric Diamandstein’s Boxing Academy - Balaclava (VIC)

5 /5 Georgie Meehan: I have had an awesome experience at EDBA since I started training there 4 months ago. Eric is incredibly knowledgeable and a 10/10 coach - he has a great ability to be able to break the skills/the science of boxing down into smaller pieces and to really help you understand the why behind everything. I have learnt so much since I started training with Eric and Im really excited for the improvements to come! Eric has also created a great culture at EDBA where everyone works hard to improve together and also has fun at the same time. Would really highly recommend EDBA if you are wanting to take your boxing to the next level!

5 /5 Savannah Pashen: I came across EDBA while looking to improve my cardiovascular fitness and it didn’t take me long before I was obsessed with boxing and was training at every chance I could get. I can 100% guarantee it has everything to do with not only Eric as a coach, but also the other members at the gym. From the moment I walked into EDBA I was thoroughly impressed with everything, I felt welcomed and comfortable. The gym itself is top-notch, with high quality equipment and everything you need to start boxing. Eric is knowledgeable and approachable, and of course incredibly skilled, dedicated and passionate about boxing. One of the things that impressed me the most about EDBA was the energy and vibe that Eric brings to the gym, I can honestly say I haven’t come to a session where I haven’t laughed at least once and that is one of the reasons I enjoy training at EDBA. Of course there is a time and a place to be serious but I also feel it it just as important to have fun. It is so heartwarming to see the strong bonds and connections formed by the members at EDBA. There is a real spirit of encouragement and support that radiates from the gym and is it so encouraging to watch the members cheer each other on and motivate each other to improve. As a newcomer, boxing can be extremely intimidating, but from the moment I walked through the door I immediately felt welcomed and valued. I have been training with Eric for just under a year and I can honestly highly recommend EDBA to anyone looking to get into boxing or to take their advanced skills to the next level. Eric has a great attention to detail and knows how to give precise and clear instructions on how to correct and perfect your technique. No two training days are the same and Eric coaches you establish and strengthen a broad range of skills including technique, pad work, bag work, footwork, conditioning and sparring (optional). The combination of having an incredible coach, an elite facility to train in, and a supportive and welcoming community makes EDBA truly one of a kind.

5 /5 Dion Oryzak: You know that old cliche of the gruff boxing coach with high standards who always gets the best out of those hes training? Well, its like Eric walked straight out of a movie script. Tough love is a bit of trope, but Eric embodies it. Expect to get the full Rocky training montage (minus chasing chickens around the yard). Expect to give 100% in every session (whether you want to or not). Expect pain, blisters and being shouted at (in the best way). This is not a group fitness class, though fitness is a guaranteed byproduct. Eric teaches (and requires) proper boxing technique. If youve never boxed before expect to spend the first ten or so sessions in front of the mirror learning fundamentals of footwork and stance. Sparring is totally optional (though honestly its the best part), and if you do decide to partake in sparring its always under Erics supervision to keep it safe yet challenging. The occasional blood nose or cracked rib notwithstanding. Personally, I went from never having boxed before, and not knowing what to expect, to attending every day. Often twice per day. My personal record is three in one day. Like the proverbial battered housewife, I cant help but keep going back. Inside tip: Unless you want to do fifty burpees, just remain humble, never walk in late, and dont pet his dog without asking. If you have any questions, direct them to Eric and he might consider answering them.

5 /5 jason butler: If youre looking for the best boxing gym in Balaclava/St Kilda, EDBA is the place to go. Owned and operated by Eric, EDBA offers top-notch boxing training with a focus on technique and personalized coaching. Erics attention to detail and commitment to each students progress is second to none. Whether youre just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, EDBA provides a welcoming and professional environment where you can truly excel. Don’t waste your time anywhere else—EDBA is where you want to be for the best boxing experience in Balaclava/St Kilda.

5 /5 David Zelenkov: EDBA is an incredible boxing gym for all levels. Erics expertise, attention to detail and passion for boxing and coaching really sets him apart. Eric makes you feel welcomed from the moment you step foot into the gym, showing a genuine interest in your boxing development. He makes sure to spend time with each and every person in the group class, giving tailored advice so that youre constantly improving. Classes are incredibly fun, challenging and always different. Honestly cannot speak higher of EDBA!