Xin Dojo

Xin Dojo in East Finchley, London, was founded in 2022 by John Hickey, whose journey from a troubled youth to a dedicated martial artist shapes the gym’s ethos. After training extensively in amateur boxing, Chinese kickboxing, and enduring rigorous camps in China and Thailand, John competed professionally in Muay Thai before a serious back injury redirected his path towards coaching and rehabilitation. Drawing on his studies in sport science, physiology, and biomechanics, he developed a spine rehab course and True Energy Yoga, integrating health and martial arts into a holistic approach. The name Xin, meaning heart or mind, reflects the gym’s focus on enriching life through consistent training. Training at Xin Dojo centres on Muay Thai and kickboxing, with a structured syllabus and clear progression through belt gradings. Classes remain small to provide personalised coaching, ensuring students receive detailed feedback and steady advancement. In addition to the core striking disciplines, the gym offers MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, yoga, and strength training, accommodating a range of interests and skill levels. There are specialised sessions for women and children, highlighting the gym’s commitment to inclusive training environments. The coaching team includes Illiar Sbragi Kasimov, who blends his karate black belt experience with Muay Thai and MMA striking techniques, emphasising defensive skills and conditioning. Operating daily from early morning until late evening, Xin Dojo maintains a focused atmosphere in its dedicated martial arts space, which also features weight training facilities. Visitors can take advantage of a free trial week with no contract obligations, reflecting the gym’s confidence in its community and coaching quality. The gym’s approach combines traditional martial arts discipline with modern sports science, aiming to support both fitness and competitive aspirations within a well-rounded and accessible training programme.

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