Business Details
23 Years
experience
San Diego's Premier Muay Thai & Boxing Academy
Founded in 2003 in Pacific Beach, San Diego, American Boxing & Fitness has established itself as a premier destination for Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing instruction. Led by former Muay Thai World Champion Dave Nielsen, our family-owned business prioritizes technical excellence, safety, and personalized training for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Over two decades, we have cultivated a supportive community where beginners and professionals train side-by-side, fostering mentorship and camaraderie.Our expertise extends beyond fitness, having worked with elite military units, law enforcement, and championship athletes, while maintaining a commitment to accessible, life-empowering training. With certifications from NASM, WBC, and USA Boxing, we blend world-class technique with real-world application to deliver measurable results and a holistic approach to fitness and self-defense.
Services
Muay Thai
Kickboxing
Personal Training
Boxing Classes
Kids Programs
Online Training
Competition Prep
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Founded by a 7X Undefeated Muay Thai World Champion with 20+ years of coaching experience
- NASM and WBC certified instruction ensuring technical excellence and safety
- Personalized training tailored to individual goals and physical needs
- Proven track record producing elite competitors and empowering military/law enforcement
- Community-driven environment fostering mentorship and lifelong skills
Associations and certifications
- NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
- WBC (World Boxing Council) Certified Muay Thai Official
- USA Boxing Coach
- USMTA (United States Muay Thai Association)
- ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine)
What people say
World Champion expertise
Positive learning environment
Effective self-defense skills
Family-friendly instruction
Proven competition results
Services
Muay Thai Training
Our Muay Thai program builds technical mastery and physical conditioning under a former WBC World Champion. Students develop striking precision, cardiovascular endurance, and practical self-defense skills through traditional training methods. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with specialized classes for competition preparation and casual practitioners seeking authentic Thai boxing instruction.
Personal Training
Customized one-on-one sessions focus on individual goals, whether fitness, self-defense, or competition readiness. Trainers adapt techniques to clients' physical capabilities with NASM-certified methodologies. Military personnel receive specialized combatives training while civilians benefit from personalized progression plans developed by a 25-year combat sports expert.
Kids Boxing Program
Designed for ages 4-14, this program develops discipline, confidence, and physical coordination through modified boxing and Muay Thai techniques. Certified instructors emphasize character development alongside fitness, teaching respect and conflict resolution. Parents report improved focus and self-esteem in children participating regularly in our structured youth programs.
Instructor Certifications
Aspiring instructors can earn certifications through our WBC and USMTA affiliated programs. The curriculum covers technical instruction, safety protocols, and teaching methodologies under championship-level mentors. Graduates receive recognition from major sanctioning bodies while gaining practical experience working with diverse student groups during their training.
Military Combatives
SEAL Teams and law enforcement agencies utilize our specialized combatives program integrating Muay Thai, grappling, and situational awareness. Instructors with security clearance deliver realistic training scenarios focusing on rapid threat neutralization and defense against armed attackers. Curriculum has been officially adopted by multiple special operations units for hand-to-hand combat proficiency.
People
Dave Nielsen
Head Coach
Former 7X undefeated Muay Thai World Champion with NASM, ACSM, and WBC certifications. 20+ years teaching combat sports, producing professional champions and training military special forces. Holds degrees in Political Science and Business Administration from San Diego State University.
Questions
What combat sports do you teach?
We specialize in Muay Thai, boxing, and kickboxing with optional certification programs for instructors.
Is prior experience required?
No - our classes accommodate complete beginners while offering advanced technical development for experienced athletes.
Do you offer private training sessions?
Yes, personalized one-on-one coaching is available for all skill levels with customized progression plans.
Are youth programs available?
Children's classes start at age 4, focusing on character development, physical coordination, and basic self-defense.
Can military/law enforcement receive specialized training?
We provide tactical combatives programs for special operations forces and law enforcement agencies nationwide.
How do I schedule my first class?
Text 858-581-2694 to arrange a free introductory session with our championship coaching staff.
Reviews (6)
Judy Hampton
Aug 16, 2021
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LOVE this place. It's delicious, authentic, and cheap. I tried to go to the old location during the transition period and was seriously distraught when I thought they'd closed their doors forever. Luckily they just moved a few blocks away-- whew. But more about the food... We always get the American Boxing here -- I prefer the chicken (which has white meat slices), while my boyfriend goes with the pork. Both come with lots of meat, and they're only $6 for large bowls. I also love the pad see ew, and my boyfriend was a huge fan of the silver noodles and ka prao chicken-- he swears these dishes
Alejandro Santana-Vallarta
Jun 23, 2021
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Private classes with Dave are awesomehis energy and enthusiasm for teaching is self-evident and he does a lot to pay attention to your needs as a student. Hes personable, professional, and makes training fun while also getting good work done. The thing that impresses me about Dave is his ability to adjust to his students energy and offer the right balance of encouragement and challenge. I HIGHLY recommend anyone looking for a Muay Thai instructor to meet with Davehis respect for the sport and the philosophy he brings to teaching makes him a true martial arts teacher!!!
Derek Belser
May 04, 2021
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I've been training with Dave at American Boxing Muay Thai for about two months now, and I have seen major improvements in my technique from the time I began. I still have much to learn! My goals are to strengthen my body, my Muay Thai skills, and gain the confidence to walk into any gym with an arsenal of combos & methods to spar. I believe with the Dave's direction, knowledge, and his ability to push me, I'll be there. I recommend his program to anyone, from all walks of life!
Liz Lukaszewski
May 04, 2021
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We tried our son (7) in classes with Coach Dave before COVID, he wasn't quite ready to jump in so we waited. Fast forward to March 2020, he was a little older and ready to dive in. We have had only a handful of 1:1 sessions together, but I can tell it's the right time and place. Our little guy has a tendency to by shy and pull away. We want him to gain a little confidence (and coordination!). Coach Dave has been great. They established a positive relationship from day one and I can see the confidence beginning to grow. He really takes the time to to connect with kids and meet them at their level
Ciara Ramirez
May 03, 2021
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I've had such an amazing experience at American Boxing on the Bay. I was a little hesitant to join at first due to Covid19 but felt safer with classes being held outside. Although Dave was following Covid protocols by sanitizing equipment, everyone wore a mask and checked temperatures. I felt very comfortable as a beginner in the class with other experienced members. Everyone was very welcoming and Dave was on top of my every move making sure I was doing all techniques, and drills properly. It's been such a great workout for me both physically and mentally. Dave has challenged me in this class
A. D.
Apr 30, 2021
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Coach Dave is by far a master of his craft. Im new to this style of training however, Dave makes the class adaptable to all skill levels. The classes are energetic, fun, and challenging. He tactfully holds you accountable when you start giving up on yourself by enthusiastically encouraging to push beyond your perceived limits. Coach Dave is no frills, no gimmicks, the real deal, type of human. Hes who youre looking for if you want to train with the best of them. The students in the classes Ive been to have always been welcoming and treat you like family from the start.
