After retiring from a seven-year career in mixed martial arts, Dwayne Hinds knew he had to find a career that would let his passion for fitness shine through.

That’s why the Niagara-on-the-Lake resident has opened a new gym at 256 East & West Ln.

Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Hinds began his MMA career fighting in barnyards with no professional influence, eventually graduating to fight and train in over 10 countries across the world.

“I wrestled in high school and university in the U.S., and then got into judo. I actually watched one of my buddies from judo fight and thought, ‘I can do that,'” said Hinds.

Now, he’s bringing that passion and experience to his new venture, located inside Caughill Automotive (where the mechanic still works).

Hinds offers a variety of fitness programs to members, including strength conditioning classes, personal and group training, personal and group kickboxing lessons and kids kickboxing lessons.

Hinds said he hopes to make exercising fun for people who struggle to find enjoyment in the activity.

“I don’t think anyone is motivated by burpees, bicep curls and squats,” he said.

“Linking fun with skill development so people look forward to coming to training, that’s the goal.”

Hinds finished his MMA career with two losses and 13 consecutive wins as a professional fighter in 2015, later opening a gym in Trinidad and Tobago before migrating to Canada in 2019.

“I’m just happy I get to go back and do what I love,” said Hinds.