★ 5

Wally Jones has created something genuinely special at Southwest Portland Martial Arts and CrossFit Hillsdale. I’ve known him for only a few years, but in that time I’ve come to appreciate how unique his leadership, attitude, and teaching style are. Before joining, I’d heard plenty of stereotypes about CrossFit. That it was overly intense, competitive, and full of ego-driven athletes trying to out-lift each other. Wally’s gym couldn’t be more different.

From day one, he made it clear that this is a space built on collaboration, respect, and personal growth. Wally fosters an atmosphere where you’re encouraged to go at your own pace, focus on form and technique, and celebrate progress — not perfection. He emphasizes lower weights and correct movement over brute strength, and that simple philosophy keeps people safe, builds confidence, and creates a lasting love of training.

Wally’s coaching style is constructive, humorous, and deeply human. He gives feedback that makes you better without ever making you feel small. He’s the kind of coach who’ll crack a joke mid-workout to keep spirits high but also knows exactly how to tweak your form so you get it right the next time. Even on days I don’t feel like working out, his energy and encouragement make it worth showing up.

What’s equally impressive is how Wally treats people. He’s accepting, thoughtful, and leads by example in the way he treats every person who walks through the door. Whether it’s handling an awkward situation with grace, like gently escorting a confused stranger who wandered into class... or picking up garbage left in the parking lot just because it’s the right thing to do, he embodies integrity in small, everyday actions.

Wally’s not trying to be anyone other than himself. What you see is who he is. No performance, no pretension, just genuine kindness and a sharp sense of humor. That honesty creates a community where people of all backgrounds feel welcome.

If you’ve ever been hesitant to try CrossFit because you thought it might be intimidating, Wally’s gym will change your mind completely. It’s a place where effort is celebrated, individuality is respected, and laughter is part of the workout. Simply put, Wally Jones has built one of the most welcoming and grounded fitness communities you’ll ever find.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a part of the Crossfit Hillsdale family for nearly 15 years. There are people on both the crossfit and martial arts sides who have been members for 5+ and 10+ years and many more who are newer. Lara and Wally have long run an incredibly inclusive, locally-owned, family-run business that is welcoming, fun, and positive. This gym, which includes both Crossfit Hillsdale and SW Portland Martial Arts, is also very community-minded - both within the gym itself and as part of SW Portland.

There are a wide variety of options here (crossfit, yoga, multiple martial arts styles, camps, youth programs, and more) to fit your interests and workout needs.

Challenging workouts, expert coaching, no hassles, no globo-gym vibes, welcoming to all - and of all skill and experience - and run by good folks.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the world’s best gym. All humans are welcome just as they are, the coaching is world class, the exercise fun, challenging, and scalable, and the community is exactly what the world needs more of. If I were Catholic, I’d petition for Sainthood for the owners. Except then they might have to suffer as the saints, and that’s not what you wish on people you like.

Source: Google

★ 5

We love bringing our baby here for Sing, Sign, and Play! We’re also looking forward to more kid stuff and an introduction to martial arts as she gets older.

Source: Google

★ 5

I challenge anyone to a sparing match who has anything bad to say about this gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

My 4yo and 7yo kids love coming here and the instructors are fantastic.

Source: Google

★ 5

Wally and Lara use their background as educators to create an awesome and engaging learning environment for my kiddo. They incorporate lessons on social-emotional well-being and respect into there martial arts. My daughter is really thriving here.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so, so, so glad that this gym is in my neighborhood and that I took the chance to try them out. The instructors and fellow students are all warm, sociable people. I walk away from class learning something new every time, with a smile on my face! Been training martial arts for many years... This gym (read as: its people) stands out and are truly special. Give them a shot, first week is free, so nothing to lose, try out all their MANY different types of classes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Thanks for being so welcoming! My son loved your summer tween/teen camps and I love that you offer such a cool, diverse range of affordable options!

Source: Google

★ 5

I started doing CrossFit a few months ago, and going to this gym was one of the best decisions I made last year. It’s very beginner-friendly. Everyone is nice and chill. I see people with different levels of skills and experience here, but it’s not intimidating at all for a beginner. If you’re thinking about going to CrossFit classes but are still hesitant, I say just give it a shot! I also tried a few kickboxing classes and BJJ classes here. I had absolutely no experience with martial arts, but I had fun with the classes and I learned a lot.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter went there for nearly two years, she has extreme social anxiety and have a hard time attending group classes. The teachers there were very kind and patient. It really gave her some confidence and helped her to cope better with social situations. I'm grateful for her time there and I definitely recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Updated 9/3/23 - I've been going to BJJ classes for 3+ years now and I can't recommend this gym highly enough. And now in one big convenient space.There are so many options for classes. I love the yoga class as well. Come try a free week!

What a wonderful place, with the best people! I was super nervous about going since I’d never done any martial arts before and I didn’t have any idea what to expect (or even what to wear). But everyone made me so welcome. I tried the free week and was instantly hooked. I never thought I’d do something like Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but it’s so much fun and great exercise. Great pricing and many classes to choose from, as well. If you’re considering learning something new, definitely drop by to try this place out! Wally is fantastic and the other coaches as well. April’s women’s class on Saturday is also a favorite of mine and a great way to begin.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter has been taking lessons for nearly a year and we LOVE Southwest Portland Martial Arts! The classes are a great value and my daughter's confidence has noticeably improved. She especially enjoyed the movement camp this summer and the hip-hop classes in the spring. Lara and Wally are great at working with kids and we plan to be enrolled for years to come!

Source: Google

★ 5

My boys loved their summer camp experience here! The staff is so kind and wonderful with kids. Both my sons are neurodiverse and they navigated their needs beautifully!

Source: Google

★ 5

They’re so thoughtful and developmentally appropriate in the offerings they have; so grateful to have them in our community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place. Fun people. Challenging workouts without ego or hassles.

Source: Google

★ 5

The best gym experience I've had. A community of wonderfully kind and supportive individuals led by coaches with your safety, success, and overall well-being at front-of-mind. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Friendly, relaxed, and supportive. I avoided crossfit for years based on my sense of other places' vibe for intensity over safety, but this one seems focused on ensuring proper form, self-paced improvement, and avoiding injury -- all with upbeat and energized instruction. Plus lots of classes and great value!

Source: Google

★ 5

We love SW Portland Martial Arts. My son started when he was 4 in the height of covid, because he needed to get his energy out and I felt that SW PDX Martial Arts was taking all covid precautions seriously. They gave us a free first session to see if it was a good fit, which was fabulous. I love that it’s run by people who are invested in the community and understand children and their movement needs and most importantly their development. I highly recommend trying this martial arts practice out.

Source: Google

★ 5

Update: Two years on, we love SW Portland Martial Arts. Our kids have gained skills and confidence beyond anything I imagined when we started. They're learning what it means to work hard at something over time, and their belief in their ability to do so carries over into other aspects of their lives. Hats off to Lara and Wally for maintaining this awesome learning environment.

Original review post: My kids recently started doing martial arts here. What sets this place apart is that Lara and Wally are really attentive and effective teachers who connect well with my two shy kids through intentional, thoughtfully structured lessons. In my experience with kids' activities, this is quite unusual. I can tell they put a lot of effort into maintaining a positive learning environment, and this effort is reflected in the details. I feel lucky that we have this place in the neighborhood.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a welcoming gym for any skill level and there are a variety of available class times.

Source: Google

★ 5

We are honored and grateful to be a part of the SWPDXMA community. Lara and Wally are exceptional professionals and care deeply about what they do and it shows in every aspect of their business. I have recommended SWPDXMA to every single one of my friends, especially those seeking the highest quality martial arts instruction and just an overall healthy and community-oriented environment for their children and their families.

Source: Google

★ 5

I recommend this gym in the highest possible terms. I've gotten the best weightlifting instruction of my life in this setting (bar none ;) ) and the welcoming, supportive energy of the gym is exceptional. The classes are challenging yet scalable, and just plain fun.

Source: Google

★ 5

We had a small group event for team building and the place was perfect. We had enough room to spread out and was at very little risk of injury the way the instructors tought. They tought and practiced practical applications for easy defensive body movements that can make a difference in a bad situation. It was fun and empowering.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have never been an athletic person so starting out later in life, I needed a supportive, patient and judgement-free work out spot. This gym offers all that and so much more. I love it for the community aspect too- seeing the same knowledgeable instructor has helped tremendously and bonding with other gym members makes coming to class fun and exciting. Good safety protocol during Covid is another plus.

Source: Google

★ 5

Lara and Wally run a great gym. Lara is positive and patient with my son who has lots of energy and impulsively. The classes are helping him gain confidence and body control in an indoor, group environment. All safety protocols are in place. Thank you for your kindness and support!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

We've gone to SW Portland Martial Arts for a few different classes and events over several years, and always have a good experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

CrossFit gym with a martial arts spin (their other business) seen during stretches and skills training, and, in this COVID era, more safety measures than other nearby gyms I've noticed- at times doing online videos, outdoor workouts, and, when allowed, indoor (spaced and ventilated) workouts

Source: Google

★ 5

Best neighborhood gym ever. Don't be afraid to peek in and see what's going on. So many different classes for all skill levels.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is unlike any other CrossFit gym. Instead of training like a maniac who won't be able to move tomorrow, you learn how to train smart and learn awesome skills! There are people of all ages and skill levels who train here and I swear I spend almost as much time training as I do giggling, so that is a plus. Also, Wally and Lara have made some huge changes for cleaning to deal with the pandemic and everyone is respectful about wearing masks.

Source: Google

★ 5

We have been taking classes off and on with this gym for years. They are high quality people and truly care about the community. We have been so impressed during Could, the safety precautions that have been put in place. The communication from the gym is wonderful. We definitely feel safe with our kids there. There is continuous cleaning after each class. Facemasks are required and everything is socially distanced. Temps are taken before class and hand sanitizer is given freely. To top it off Lara is an amazing teacher who knows children and really personalizes the experience for all kids. She works with your child not against them. She is understanding and well versed in special needs. We are extremely happy at SW PDX Martial Arts!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been doing signs and artwork for SW Martial Arts for years now and is just amazing! Great communication and prompt payment every time. Looking forward to many years in the future. Good luck and fortunes to you and your company!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are new to Crossfit, this gym is very inclusive and will not overwhelm or push you too hard. If you are a Crossfit veteran, you will find a welcoming community here. Also, COVID-19 update: The gym has gone above and beyond to keep its members safe. If you are anxious about returning to a gym, rest assured that Crossfit Hillsdale has done everything it can to ensure a clean and safe experience. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son took boxing lessons with Wally and really enjoyed them. He found Wally to be a great coach - flexible, knowledgeable, and upbeat.

Source: Google

★ 5

The owners and coaches are doing an excellent job with anti-Covid safety precautions. Lots of distancing, cleaning, and temp-checking. They are doing everything they can and doing it right so that everyone stays healthy and gets a great workout!

Source: Google

★ 5

I know compared to other larger CrossFit gyms, it may not look like much, but what CrossFit Hillsdale lacks in square feet, it makes up for in heart. Wally and Lara have created a space where everyone is welcome. Joining CF Hillsdale almost three years ago changed my whole life for the better. It shifted my focus from pounds and inches lost to “what can I learn to do next?”. This gym is full of the nicest, funniest people you’ll ever meet and no one takes their shirt off when they work out. I know CrossFit can feel intimidating but if you’ve been wanting to try it, drop in to the free Sunday class with Wally. You won’t regret it. He’s LITERALLY my favorite person I’ve ever met. And I promise he won’t make you flip a tire.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been attending classes at SWPMA for a year now and I couldn't be happier with the patience and attention that they show my son. He's a timid kid(he's 5 years old...almost 6 now) and both Lara and Wally have been wonderful coaxing him onto the floor and getting him to participate. It's been really special to watch him flourish and see his confidence grow through movement and participation. Thank you, Lara and Wally for your kindness and loving teaching manner with our children.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love SWPDX Martial Arts! It’s the friendliest gym in town. Owners, Lara and Wally are truly passionate about sharing their expertise in martial arts and CrossFit with everyone who walks into their gym. They offer a free week so you can try a variety of classes for both kids and adults.. When I walked in 7 months ago, hoping to gain some confidence and strength, I immediately felt that this was a safe place for me to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. My son also trains here in the kids program. I really admire the way Lara and Wally work with the children - teaching respect by showing respect. All the coaches I’ve trained with at SWPMA, Wally, April, Dave, Matt, and Quinn, are fantastic! They are detail oriented and emphasize safety for you and your training partner.

Source: Google

★ 5

Wally runs a fantastic gym at CrossFit Hillsdale. The community he creates is there is worth everything to me. While there's a lot of laughter and we work hard, there's no macho vibe infiltrating the place. We'll compete against each other, there's no doubt. But, nobody is interested in winning. We encourage and support each other to do our best. After all, the only competition is with ourselves. We help each other do the best we can within our own abilities. I knew after my first visit that the community at CrossFit Hillsdale was worth every penny of the monthly dues. The great workout only enhances the experience there. I'd recommend Wally's gym to any and every one.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great variety of martial arts classes offered from mo duk pai to jiu-jitsu, systema and boxing. Classes are often never the same and focus on different techniques and drills. Knowledgeable instructors teach both the art and the practical applications. The gym shares the space with crossfit classes if you're interested in a fitness regimen too. The downside is crossfit gets the better class times in my opinion. However, it's worth it if you can make the class times as there is a real positive community of people training at SW PDX Martial Arts. Also it's super family friendly if you have kids that are interested in martial arts too. You get your first week free so if you're curious you can't go wrong just showing up and checking out a few classes to see if you like it.

Source: Google

★ 5

I trained BJJ here for a year. Can't say enough about the teaching, the classmates, and the learning environment. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a neighborhood gym to join. Wally is a great instructor, and he and Lara are great to work with. It was also an honor to train under Bill Bradley.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great Olympic weight lifting instruction. Pretty great atmosphere too.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to this gym for 4+ years and I love it. The owner and primary coach of the CrossFit classes is knowledgeable and helpful. All skill levels are welcomed and incorporated into the workouts. I was new to Crossfit when I first started — I love that I can get in a good workout in one hour, it’s never the same, and someone else does the programming. Pricing is lower than most CrossFit gyms in the Portland area.

Source: Google

★ 1

The classes were built for 2 to 4 year olds. I sent my son here and he said it was horrible

Source: Google

★ 5

Quality instruction, reasonable rates, practical skills, and a fun/challenging environment to train in. What more could you ask for? From kids to adults, there's a program to meet your needs. From martial arts to CrossFit, try an entire week of classes for free and see what you think. This is a great community to be a part of!

Source: Google

★ 5

Everyone at the gym has a great attitude and Wally is a great instructor, 5/5.

Source: Google

★ 5

My partner trains here and has been training in this martial arts system for years and I was curious to find out what it was all about. I had always wanted to try a Martial art but I found the prospect of coming in to this kind of school intimidating. When I came in to visit for a class it was clear there was a structure and a protocol for everything. Once I got past the basics of etiquette I found the group was very welcoming the teacher was patient and the class was more physically challenging than I expected. The space is small but everything I needed was there. Including sparring pads, martial arts sticks (whatever those are called)

Source: Google

★ 5

Whatever your reasons for pursuing martial arts, choosing the right school is vital to your success. When I began training at SWPMA I was fairly new to martial arts and skeptical about choosing a school. I'd heard that martial arts schools tended to either be too lax or too militaristic, neither of which was what I was looking for.
I found Sifu Wally and the other students at SWPMA to be patient and accepting, but also encouraging and challenging, in just the right amounts and at just the right times.

Source: Google

★ 5

A friendly and supportive place to get an amazing workout! Everyone is super-nice and all fitness levels are cheerfully and skillfully accommodated. The coaches are great and the atmosphere is fun. Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

Southwest Portland Martial Arts is a fantastic place for kids and adults to study martial arts. There are a variety of programs, from Mo Duk Pai to Crossfit and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and owner Sifu Wally Jones is a fun, patient, effective and knowledgeable teacher. Additionally, co-owner Lara Jones has a program upstairs just for small children. I would recommend it for anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a frequent out of town guest, I have dropped in on various classes over the past several years, while unfortunately never becoming a member. Every single experience has been a positive one and I would highly recommend CrossFit and CrossFit Hillsdale to everyone.
As someone who is intimidated by the average weight lifting setting, I found CrossFit Hillsdale to be the opposite of every previous experience. Wally works one on one with the newbies and helps to develop proper technique in order to avoid injury. The rest of the class is supportive and will jump in with tips and pointers. I felt welcomed and encouraged, two hugely important things for me when picking a gym.
The gym itself is comfy and clean, smells good and is nicely located for my needs. I don't have a single complaint and would recommend this gym to anyone of any fitness level that is looking to stay healthy, find friends, and have a good time. I only wish that I could move it to my next city of residence. Give it a shot and you won't regret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is a hidden gem. We have two kids in Kung Fu training with Sifu Wally and not only does he work them hard, he is an incredible model of patience and discipline. His ability to motivate and engage kids is an absolute marvel — they love it, they love the experience with him, and they come home exhausted. Could not be happier!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son, Ben, started kung-fu lessons here about 5 years ago, and now, my younger son, Henry, has begun lessons. We love Sifu Wally's firm but kind approach, and he is a fantastic, patient teacher! In fact, we drive from Beaverton because of our high regard for his classes. The kung-fu program is affordable and there are no hidden costs for belts, fancy outfits, testing fees, or tournaments (which are only $10!). My whole family is thrilled to be associated with this school!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love the kids program for my 5 y/o son! Wally & Lara are great--they keep things moving so the kids aren't sitting at all! I love that each class is different and focused on a different "trait" like honesty, respect, etc. Best of all, there is no pressure on the kids or the parents!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google