Best martial arts centers in Indianapolis: find options near you

My 8 and 6 year old boys did a week of summer camp and loved it! Master David answered all my questions and really helped make me feel comfortable dropping them off that first day. Master An really did a great job teaching them in the evening classes. I feel like they really spent a lot of time trying to help my begginers learn the basics of the class. It feels like a great family run business! You can really tell that the students and teachers work hard and have fun. I’m sure we will be going back when our schedule allows.

I went to Master Choi’s class on Monday and had a blast. Mr. Choi, Master Choi, and Master Ahn are amazing teachers! Im 32 and a beginner! Never once, did I feel out of place. They were very patient with my learning curve and taught me kicks and punches with a partner using pads. It was safe and a great price to get signed up with affordable gear! The work out is amazing for body positivity! Cant wait to continue my Tae-kwon-do journey!

I have two neurodivergent boys and we have had a really hard time finding an after school activity. But the Choi family has done so much for my boys. They have gained: confidence, self control, along with fine and large motor skills. I will forever be grateful for all their hard work!!

Choi Martial Arts Academy has been absolutely incredible. They are so good with my kids- helping them get stronger mentally with the after school program to physically and emotionally stronger with taekwondo training and everyday conversations. They recently went to the Spring Break Camp and came home every evening exhausted and excited to go back the next day.

We knew for a long time that we wanted our son in some type of martial arts & I spent a long time researching the different styles & schools in Indiana. Finding Choi Martial Arts Academy has been a true Blessing for our family! Our son Loves Taekwondo & he has a Blast with his fellow classmates & his Amazing instructors! I am that mom who watchers her kid like a Hawk & the way the Choi Family instruct the kids is just Beautiful! They make it Fun & teach the kids many different important lessons on rules, respect, kindness & how to protect/defend themselves if needed. The Choi’s also offer after school programs & different classes for the kids when they’re not in school.
We are Honored to be learning from the Choi Family & our son asks to go Every Day!! I’m Thankful for them & the fellow families too! Everyone has been just lovely & all the kids help eachother learn & grow too!
If you’re thinking about joining & just not sure contact them & come try out a class! The 1st class is Free & see if your kids even likes it….& Parents can join too!!
Signing up our son is 1 of the Best decisions we’ve ever made for his mind & body! ✌️

Our family loves this place. They run their business very efficiently and are great with all ages.

We have a four year old who has really done well and a seven year old who really enjoys improving his skills. Master David is very kind and patient and is full of positivity that he spreads to the kids every chance he can. Master An is an amazing teacher and does great with our four year old.

It’s been a great experience and we will keep coming back.

Thank you!

We started with Master Choi Taekwondo in November with no experience and we are glad we chose this place. I’m taking the same class as my child so we don’t have to wait for each other. The teachers care about the students and the environment is welcoming. Taekwondo is hard and makes me so tired and sweaty and sore but it’s part of the price to pay for learning martial arts. My son has gone to one of their camps too and he had fun and I felt that he was safe here. I would recommend them.

We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Geist Martial Arts! Our daughter is small for her age, and we were initially worried about bullying at school. After researching various karate classes, we found Geist Martial Arts and were impressed. From the very first class, it was clear that this was the perfect fit. Fast forward two years, and our daughter is now about to earn her black belt!

The Byrd family has created an exceptional environment that goes beyond teaching karate—they foster a true sense of community and family. They are incredibly skilled, accommodating, and supportive, making every child feel confident and empowered. Geist Martial Arts is hands down one of the best karate schools in the area!

This is the very first martial arts class my son has ever attended! My son has been coming here for a few years now and is very happy!
We really loved it here since day one!
Mr. Byrd and everyone else here makes class very fun and engaging everyday. He has a very unique fun way to instruct a class. Everyone here is very nice! My son feels safe and special here! We really love Geist Martial Arts and we highly recommend you bring your child here.

The Byrd’s were a huge part of my now 22 and 20y/o son’s youth. Can’t say enough wonderful things about them and their studio. My boys are confident, respectful and, are in the road to a great adult life due to the influence and skills acquired at Geist Martial Arts! Thanks you…, we are forever grateful!!

I can’t say enough great things about the Byrd family and the program they run. Mr. Byrd does an excellent job of teaching discipline, perseverance, and self control in a fun way that resonates with the kids. My children have been a part of this program for almost a year and they continue to get excited about karate. Highly recommend!

Let’s start off with saying my kids love Mr. Byrd and all the instructors. Mr. Byrd adds a little humor into his teachings, keeping the kids engaged. He also teaches them about having self control, determination when it gets hard, and other lessons that matter in their daily lives..all while providing them with skills in self defense and confidence. Another benefit is they don’t make you sign a contract, gracious with payment times when needed and they are flexible with class times (we are a very busy family and they have allowed us to attend a different class level when needed since the times worked better for us). I also love that they genuinely like to give back to the community. I wish all businesses ran the way they do. I could go on, but come find out for yourselves.

All 3 members of my family have earned black belts at Geist Martial Arts. My daughter was the first to join, as a “Tiny Tiger” at age 4. I was last, in September of 2020. This upcoming summer, we will have been a part of the Geist Martial Arts family for 10 years as my wife is still on her journey at 3rd degree black belt.

It’s been wonderful for all of us and valuable to each of us in different ways. For example, as a hater of exercise, classes kept me engaged and practicing longer than anything else I’ve tried. The individual modifications to exercises, accountability of a small environment where the owners and instructors care about each person, and the individual attention to specific aspects of progress mean that I was able to stick with it long enough to reach my starting goal of reaching black belt. Unlike my wife and daughter, I spent almost the entirety of my journey through the color belts in my 40s and a hundred pounds overweight.

My favorite thing that I have yet to mention is the affordability (go to as many classes as you want per month AND each additional student in a family costs less) and that there is no contract required. There was zero way I would have signed a contract to put a 4 year-old in any activity.

I’ve seen so many kids of all types of backgrounds succeed here. But the only common thread I’ve seen between people who haven’t succeeded at Geist Martial Arts is if they’ve given up. As long as they keep trying, I’ve never seen a child or adult not make it to black belt. And it’s so much fun, the kids almost never want to quit!

We are coming up on a year of lessons at Geist Martial Arts and I cannot say enough good things about this place and the people who are there! I work in the world of informal education in one of the best children’s museums in the world and I can say without a doubt that Mr. Byrd is one of the best teachers I have watched. Every teacher here is amazing! I love that my son can experience not only wonderful adult role models, but also children who are teachers he can aspire to be like. Geist Martial Arts is not only awesome for learning taekwondo, but also learning how to be a good human with confidence, integrity, and the ability to never give up! Not to mention how accessible this place is! You really should come try it out!

My 12 year old daughter really enjoys her lessons here! They’ve helped greatly with her discipline, given her goals to work toward, and have taught her valuable self defense techniques! These classes have given her much more confidence in herself. I’m very grateful to her instructors for the attention and dedication they put into preparing their students. These are priceless lessons I believe are important for every child to know. My daughter has gained new friends, some awesome skills, and knowledge that she will be able to apply in any challenging situation for the rest of her life. We’re so glad we chose the right place for martial arts lessons!

I recommend bringing your child or yourself to the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club, because it is a great and safe place for you and your child to learn and to become better at your fighting skills. I put my daughter in a class almost a year ago and she loves it. My daughter got better at her fighting and defense skills. The teachers are very professional, they take time to teach the kids the very best way they possibly can. Everybody is so nice, they make your child feel comfortable and tell them if they’re doing something wrong so they can learn the right way and get better at what mistakes they did. – Dad

My opinions about the Martial Arts Club classes are very good, there is nothing boring or bad about it. You make new friends and new classmates that you get to introduce yourself too, it’s really fun to make new friends that you can work together with AND practice/learn with.
When I went to my first class, I was very nervous but everyone there was nice and they showed love to me. It felt like getting introduced to a kind, caring, loving family. The people who teach you are also very nice they show you the right ways on how to do things and how to fix mistakes. I personally love it here and I’m sure you or your child will too! -Crystal (Child in class)

I really enjoy the time that I’ve spent here, its been really fun making new friends as well as learning new things. Since I started my confidence has boosted big time. All the exercises we do are very fun and beneficial. The instructions are very clear and I’ve benefited from being taught discipline. I’ve been given tons of special attention where I needed it. Overall this place is amazing.

My child struggled with social emotional skills for a long time impacting school and behavior. May 2024 (age 6yo) we decided to sign up in the Little Warriors group with Coach James. After a few weeks of constant training we noticed a change in academic performance, discipline, attitude, and overall behavior. The improvement has been remarkable from being retracted and insecure to socializing with bigger kids, having a voice, plus improving self-esteem. I trust Ray and James, I believe in their teaching method because I’ve seen results. They are honest, upfront, real, and determined to bring out the best in your child. Indianapolis Martial Arts Club is more than a school is a lifestyle. Thank you James and Ray for all your effort and consistency.

I interviewed for acceptance into Sarkine’s Total Warrior a few months ago and it’s been one of the best investments in my life. They start off with an interview process as they’ve stated don’t want to allow rude or overly rough people into the gym, which I highly respect since I wouldn’t want to work with cruel people while training to fight either. Ray and James, the instructors, really work with you and help you build discipline, muscle, and power all while helping you become the best person you can be.
They practice thoughtfulness, team building, and technique. I’m in the best shape of my life and I feel like my fellow warriors are my friends. Going to training is a highlight of my week and I always look forward to learning more from Ray and James. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience. I seriously trust them with my life and feel like I’m safe training with them and everyone else in the gym too.

Awesome gym. My son changed for the better after joining this gym. They have taught him responsibility, discipline and patience. Leveling up is not easy and because of this, he’s learned that nothing great in life comes easy. 100% recommend.

Joining this club has honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It not only teaches discipline and useful martial arts skills but also provides a supportive environment that makes learning enjoyable. The class has an amazing atmosphere—no matter how stressed or tired you feel when you arrive, you’ll always leave with a smile and a sense of accomplishment. Both coaches are incredible; they’re not only highly skilled and professional but also extremely friendly, approachable, and welcoming to everyone.

This is a place where you’ll have fun while sweating it out, pushing your limits, and discovering what you’re truly capable of. You’ll get the chance to learn a variety of martial arts techniques that are practical, effective, and applicable in real-life situations. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, build confidence, or simply try something new, this club offers the perfect mix of challenge and enjoyment. It’s more than just a class—it’s a community that helps you grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. Joining has truly been a life-changing experience, and I can’t recommend it enough.

I have driven past this dojo for several years and always thought about signing my daughters up for classes. Ten months ago I finally signed up for an introductory class. They offer parents to sign up for a minimal monthly fee so I joined as well. I never anticipated that I would enjoy these classes as much as I do! I wanted my daughters to build confidence, learn self defense and for us to learn something new together. We all enjoy attending and are building new skills with every class. Every instructor is passionate about teaching and make the classes enjoyable. I can’t speak highly enough about the owner, the instructors and student leaders. This is a wonderful community to be a part of and I am so glad we joined. I just wish we would have started years ago!

I have been a part of the Family Karate Academy for 2 years now. It has been an amazing time meeting new people and learning new skills. I have had the greatest pleasure training under some of the BEST instructors (Kyoshi Piper, Kyoshi Tuggle, amd Renshi Galan). From day one I have always felt welcomed and included. As an adult it has been great for my mental and physical health to start training in the martial arts. There is nowhere else I would want to train. Every opportunity I get to tell people about my karate journey I take it, and every time I always recommend Family Karate Academy whether it’s kids or adults!
Thanks to everyone who makes it an awesome time!

We have been going to Karate for about 7 months now, at first it was self defense only for my two teen girls. They enjoy so much we have continued to go and are thrilled for our younger son to go! We highly recommend any and all ages to go! We enjoy watching and they enjoy attending.

My daughter has been attending classes here for almost two months now. She absolutely loves it! The Sensai’s are amazing! They are very knowledgeable and skilled. They hold the students to a certain standard which definitely furthers their sense of pride and responsibility. The dojo is clean and the perfect size for classes, not too big, not too small. There is a front area to sit if you have other children not attending classes with TVs so you can still view what’s going on in class. They offer flexible schedules, allowing us to choose how many times she attends classes and on what days. Very affordable too! I looked at several different dojos and am very happy I picked this one! By far the best, in my opinion.

This was our 3 year old’s first experience with organized sports. He loves it! The classes are disciplined but fun. The kids, regardless of age, are held to high expectations and, as a result, my son takes karate very seriously. The opportunities to earn stripes and prize tickets incentives him and after each class he is proud of the skills he has accomplished. We appreciate the flexible class offerings as well as the way that the class leaders interact with the kids: it is so apparent how much they love working with the young ones and making karate a great all around experience. Only good things to say! Thank you Ken Piper & co (especially Israel, a big favorite!).

When our son asked about karate a year and a half ago, we visited about half a dozen dojos in the area. We chose Family Karate because of the flexible scheduling that allows us to choose which days we attend each week, including a Saturday morning option. Since we have three active kids, those schedule options have been critical for our family and allowed us to keep up our son’s interest even on busy weeks.

Now that we’ve been at the dojo for almost two years, however, there’s so much more we appreciate! Our son (8 years old) is in the youth program and is learning self defense, sparring, katas, and weapons. This is not just a show up and progress program, but the senseis provide individual attention to make sure everyone in the class is mastering each requirement and moving forward. Classes foster an environment of respect, but the senseis are also kind and make sure the students are having fun. Classes are mixed age, but students are matched with similar size and skill level opponents for sprawling.

Our son is learning respect, discipline, as well as the basics of karate. He has even attended one tournament where he won 2nd and 3rd place for his kata mastery in his age group against students from different dojos in the region. We couldn’t be happier!

We love it here
Do it! Invest in yourself and it does amazing things for kids

My daughter lost her mother and therapy works okay but this this is like therapy on steroids she is so much happier now and it’s more confident and energetic

Do it
Don’t hesitate

They are amazing instructors

I tried out the 6am-7am boxing class and had a great time! The coach was experienced and did not have an ego. My cardio has been crap and I about puked but the coach, nor the other participants made me feel like an idiot for it lol it was a great workout and I’ll definitely be back. Furthermore, triumph has an app for your phone that you can use. It has all of the different membership options on there. Honestly this gym has some of the best prices I’ve ever seen for a martial arts gym.

If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would in a heartbeat!

I’m a 17-year-old girl, and I’ve been training at Triumph Boxing & Martial Arts for a few months now. I can honestly say it’s been a fantastic experience. The staff here is incredibly kind and welcoming, making it easy to feel like part of the gym family right away. It’s so easy to feel awkward or out of place at a gym, especially a boxing gym, but that’s not the case here. Not only are the coaches attentive and supportive, but the people at the gym are genuinely kind and welcoming, creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere.

What really sets this place apart, though, is the coaching. Unlike other gyms where coaches just watch you from afar, here the coaches truly invest in your progress. They don’t just let you go through the motions — they work with you one-on-one, offering valuable corrections to help you improve with every session.

I also had a situation where I had to pause my membership two weeks into the month because I was going out of town. When I came back and wanted to resume, Taylor not only honored the two weeks I had paid for but also gave me an entirely new full month. That extra effort and consideration really showed me how much they care about their members.

Overall, Triumph Boxing & Martial Arts is a top-notch gym, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gym with dedicated coaching, a supportive environment, and exceptional customer service.

Amazing gym. Everyone here is like family. Seeing and working with these people is the best part of my week!

This is your sign to check out your new gym! Triumph is the best gym to attend to. The coaching staff and members are all amazing! Whether if you’re brand new or a pro fighter, this gym meets everyone’s needs and is welcomed to all! Ask for Coach Sean, Dubois, Kenny, Taylor, or Devon for more details!

A great place to learn martial arts and grow as a person! The coaches at Triumph are passionate about their respective disciplines, and it’s apparent in the camaraderie among members.

I’ve only been once so far but I can say for sure I will be coming back. This gym seems to foster a positive environment without judgment, the couches and students alike just want everyone to succeed.

Definitely check it out if you’re interested in martial arts, no matter your fitness level they will meet you where you are and be supportive.

This gym is great! I love the environment that the coaches and the members create in this gym!! As soon as you walk in the door you are welcomed by everyone and encouraged to join the “triumph family”. The instructors are great about meeting you at your level and helping you grow and not just putting you into a system. They each take time to help you perfect the skills so you can effectively advance and get the most out of your workout or training. If you have ever wanted to try a combat sport I highly recommend starting at triumph!

The most fantastic humans lead this organization. Kid classes are fantastic. Your child will build physical strength, learn rhythm, culture and what it means to be apart of a strong, supportive community. Can’t recommend enough.

Amazing capoeira. Super nice and friendly teachers. Very clean new space. Great for kids or adults for a new hobby or fitness or to be a part of an amazing community!

We LOVE this studio/dojo!! We got to take a few classes while we were here visiting and LOVED it! The instructors are so talented and amazing with the kids. The class was all different levels and ages and no one was left out as the instructors modified the class for each individual child.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND if you’re interested in learning capoeira or if you’re an experienced capoeirista.

Incredible space, amazing people. Both instructors are super welcoming, as well as the students. The best place for Capoeira in Indy!

Amazing community and instructors! Grupo Capoeira Brasil Indiana makes everyone feel welcome while teaching authentic capoeira, music, and culture. A fun workout and a great family to be part of!

Excellent staff, good teaching, appropriate pacing, encouraging atmosphere, attractive studio. All good things to say about my trial workout here!

Great class! Good progressions of movement and made me sweat! It was fun to break down the movements with a small group that was working hard.

Level 10 Martial Arts isn’t only a place where you can kick and punch, it’s a confidence builder and helps with self esteem and has the most amazing people there. 10/10 must recommend. I love the atmosphere and so much positive energy as you walk through those doors, and the first time you bow onto the mat, your life changes forever.

Started my son here 4 years ago, by far one of the best decisions our Family has made!

His struggles with toe walking, balance, inability to jump rope, run, do sit ups etc resulted in poor self esteem. The Drs told us to expect this as his “norm”-even with therapies & other interventions his Neurological diagnosis would prevent his ability to be “better”.

Defeated, I met Mrs. Associate Master Tucher whom had already observed Jax in Little Ninjas being taught by her husband Master Tucher (owners). She not only gave me the assurance that I needed but gave me hope that my son could continue being a martial artist — no matter what they had to do to help him.

Master Tucher teaches Jax self control and standing up for himself while also balancing keeping him in line. Jax is reminded that he matters — that he IS someone. It is obvious that Master Tucher and his wife care about each and every student. I truly believe they are doing what they were put on this earth to do.

After being here 4 years, I continue to be amazed by all they do for everyone in Level 10 family.

My son is now walking flat, able to jump, kick, and was invited to join the black belt club. He continues to grow emotionally, psychologically, physically and is becoming skilled in martial arts (now an orange plus belt) beyond what I ever thought possible.

They never stopped believing in my Jax and I’ll forever be grateful. To say I recommend Level 10 Martial Arts is an understatement.

I cannot wait to see all my son accomplishes in the future. Thank you LTMA.

Level 10 is a great experience and a great place to trust to train your kids. I love their focus on health and knowing that passivity is better than fighting. They are easy to communicate with and treat you like family!

My daughter goes here! She loves it! I can see a difference in her, it’s only been a couple months. It’s low key, not over crowded. Small classes and then those classes are broke up into smaller groups to learn different things. The people who run this are extremely nice, laid back and very knowledgeable. We just love this place!

Highly Recommended!!! We looked at several schools and from the time we walked into Level 10, the energy was high and fun! We met Associate Master Tucher and a few parents and we were all in! I am 56 years young and come with physical challenges. Master Tucher and the leadership team has helped me overcome a lot of those! Not only am I stronger, healthier but also mentally and spiritually in a much better place! They go out of their way to work with all age groups and physical abilities!!! We know we made the right choice here it is a year later!

If your child is even halfway interested in trying martial arts, this is where you want them to be. It is more than a community; it is family. Level 10 has afforded us the opportunity to parent our 11-year old in countless ways (I.e. handling disappointment appropriately, patience, performance and goal-setting, self-awareness, perseverance, etc). We definitely recommend Level 10 and are beyond grateful for it.

We have seen improvement with our son even at home after only 3 sessions. We will continue coming here. These guys teach not only Martial Arts, but most importantly respect, discipline and self discipline.

I can’t say enough good things about this gym. My friends and I needed a place to train, Drew welcomed us with open arms into the gym. He is an amazing coach with so much experience. He is patient, kind, and will help you level up your Jiu Jitsu to places you didn’t think possible. The community and gym culture here is fantastic. It’s a very relaxed place that is welcoming and full of people who support each other. I 10/10 recommend Champlin Jiu Jitsu. Thank you, Drew!

Champlin Jiu Jitsu is top-notch. Professor Drew Champlin gives incredibly detailed instruction that’s easy to follow and effective. The team is welcoming, skilled and completely ego-free… an amazing place to train and grow. Highly recommend!

I love training at this gym. It’s a great place to learn as well. Offers a safe space to make mistakes without making anybody feel bad or less. Great environment where you will feel like you’re training with friends the minute you walk in. Very clean and respectful as well. If you’re considering BJJ, this is definitely your place!

Champlin Jiu-Jitsu Academy has been my son’s home for BJJ for the past 2+ years. The kid classes are incredible and provide excellent support for learning both the how and the why of BJJ techniques, as well as educating about the rules of competitions. Drew Champlin is a solid instructor and coach and has a team of amazing folks working alongside him.

After watching my son learn so much in his first year, I started attending classes and have really enjoyed the journey. The gym is clean and welcoming to all skill levels. I’ve met so many great people on the mats. The class schedule at Champlin is also really plentiful. Additionally, Drew frequently hosts seminars from some of the best BJJ athletes in the world.

This is a great gym to get started at, or to join to further your development. If you have child interested in learning jiu-jitsu, this is the best place in town to get them started.

I recently moved here after the military and have been looking to get back into BJJ. On one of my rare days off, I dropped into Champlin Jiu Jitsu for an open mat and had an awesome experience. Drew is such a great guy—he took the time to chat with me, ask about my training background, and make me feel welcome right away. The gym and mats are spotless, the environment is competitive, and there’s clearly a ton of talent here. Drew was very attentive and checked in with me throughout to make sure I was good. If this gym wasn’t so far from me, it would definitely be my home gym. Thanks, Drew

One of the best decisions of my life was selecting Drew Champlin and Champlin Jujitsu in my journey of learning this martial art. The culture of this gym is truly unbelievable where those who have more experience are always given back. It’s an environment where everyone wants you to succeed and get better. And by the way if you think you are old and can’t start learning something new, it’s only an excuse, because at 61 yoa this gym has literally transformed me.

Training here is a great experience. Drew owns the place and teaches all of the classes. He is a world class black belt and is dedicated to working with experienced fighters and beginners alike. Everyone who trains here is so friendly and helpful you’ll soon feel right at home. Also a great workout, you’ll be fitter than you’ve ever been in your life.

This gym is truly special, they are very welcoming and attentive along with a great staff. They are friendly and make you feel welcome while pushing you beyond your physical limits. It is the perfect gym for both new people and athletes that want to compete, they will not disappoint!

Love! started coming Feb 2023-present for boxing and it’s been so great. I have felt so welcomed by the staff and classmates. Coach Jon is so encouraging and quick to teach his students and help them improve. I broke my ankle in 2020 and still have issues here and there, sometimes I can’t be super mobile on my feet in class, but Coach Jon works with me and I still get a great workout and don’t feel left behind. I respect and enjoy learning from all the coaches and owner. I feel a lot more confident in boxing and my strength now. It’s a cool supportive community! Thanks CCMA!

Solid MMA gym, this place delivers. Logan and Alex are experienced and hands-on, always pushing you to improve whether you’re a beginner or seasoned fighter. They offer a range of classes from striking to grappling and jujitsu. Overall, a great spot to train and grow your skills at.

Being new to this kind of sport i felt completely comfortable and welcome walking in on the first practice. This place feels like a second home after just your first couple visits. Everyone supports each other regardless of who you are or how experienced you are. The trainers have great energy and work with you 1 on 1 as well as in a group. They will supply gloves and pads or you can bring your own! All you need to get started is a step through that door.

Came here on a whim as a last-ditch effort to find some grappling in Indy. Did grappling in college, but with COVID and moving around for work, it’d been a while since I had been in a room where I could train well and enjoyed the team environment.

Ian immediately met me with “welcome home brother.”

Since then, I’ve made lots of friends and trained with many amazing coaches full of knowledge. Here are specifics for folks considering the gym:

– There are a range of athletes/fitness levels, all are welcome wherever you are in your journey. Whether that’s getting in shape, having fun, or pro athlete/fighter.

– The coaches here study contemporary metas for MMA, grappling, and wrestling. And they study how to teach. If you come to class wanting to learn, you’re going to pick up skills faster than you think, and it’s going to be the techniques that work at the highest levels!

– There are numerous coaches who go to competitions with their athletes. And they will have studied your rolls/know your game and how to best support you as an individual athlete.

– The classes offered are growing in number, helpful for different working schedules.

– It’s not one of those “don’t ask an upper belt to roll with you” schools. As someone from a judo background who appreciates a certain level of formalities, I’m happy to trade that approach (and its excessive toxic versions) for a team of respectful athletes and coaches who work hard, but are genuinely friendly, and frankly, very goofy off the mats.

I’m grateful I strolled into CCMAF and it’s been one of the best things about moving to Indy. Definitely stop in for some free trial classes and you might find yourself saying the same thing!

Great gym with even better people! Everyone from veteran members to new members are extremely friendly and approachable. The coaches genuinely want to see you improve and will take time drilling small details on new techniques. I have no fighting experience but I have a came long way thanks to the coaches and members here at Circle City Martial Arts. Joining this gym will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make!

Great gym! Super welcoming to all levels with incredibly technical and patient coaching. I dropped in for the Saturday morning kickboxing and no-gi classes, and let me tell you—these guys put in the work! The gym culture strikes the perfect balance between hard work, fun, and technical learning. Whether you’re just starting or an experienced fighter, this place is awesome. I can’t wait to come back! Hands down, one of the best fighter/MMA gyms around.

The coach is awesome, he is so great with the kids. My boys are learning so much, not just Jiu-jitsu but being part of a team, respect, and good sportsmanship!!! I highly recommend this place to everyone.

I dropped in and trained for a class while travelling for work. There was a very hospitable, and welcoming atmosphere. The instruction from Marcello was excellent. Everyone I rolled and drilled with showed excellent technique and proficiency. Very tough competitors and confident in their skill set, all while showing great respect for their training partners. If you are looking for a top quality gym to train at in the Indy area, I strongly recommend this gym. Marcello and Jonathan appeared genuinely invested in their students’ progress. I don’t feel you could go wrong making the choice to train here!

I met Marcello three years ago during one of his seminars and Marcello changed the way I trained Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He is one of the best instructors I have met. I really enjoyed the great atmosphere and energy of the seminar. I visited his academy and was blown away but the high level of training. I also really enjoyed the company of his students in indianapolis, who made me feel very welcome and really helped me with my training from the the newest white belt to the oldest black belt they all were incredibly friendly and helpful. Brett Evans from Johannesburg,South Africa

I had wanted to start training BJJ for the past few years, but I always had an excuse- work, time, money etc. I finally started doing some research about a few gyms in the Indianapolis area. I needed a gym that would accommodate my weekday schedule, have weekend classes, plenty of parking, close to the freeways, in a non Industrial zone, friendly students, and an experienced knowledgeable staff. I found everything at BJJ Coach Indy. Marcello is truly a world class instructor, he has students from South Africa to Brazil. He patently teaches the WHY in addition to the HOW. I was also impressed with the number to quality training partners available on any given day. Everyone at this club form the staff (Leo) to his senior students (Jon) are there giving tips on how to improve your techniques. My only regret is not starting a year ago.

Great workout, and great partners! As a karate studio owner, I know martial arts excellence when I see it. Marcello is a gifted teacher who knows how to coach both the brand new students as well as those who have been training for decades.

It seems like once per month at least, people from around the country pay him to come to their cities to teach 1 or 2 day seminars, but I get to learn from him twice per week… every week… He also travels back home to Rio De Janeiro to spend time with his fellow BJJ masters. Every time he comes back to Indy he is always very excited to show us the latest and best strategies for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This is why I chose to learn from him. Thanks Marcello for helping me improve my ground game. See you in class Thursday!!!

We enrolled our two older boys 11 and 6 in classes recently. The price is very affordable and the the class options are very flexible. They love it and have already learned a lot. The coaches are great and really help the boys give there best without making excuses.

The place is clean the people are friendly and the price is good.

I dropped in to train while travelling. I paid the mat fee for one night of classes. I called several days before to ask about the classes for one night. Left a message. I was promptly called back later that evening. I think John is the gym owner. He was very good with giving me information and very welcoming.

Like I’ve seen in other reviews, Marcello was very welcoming. He spent a good deal of time with me. I’m a drop-in two-stripe white belt, so that says a lot. The instruction and drills were sound. I was paired with a blue belt that could work with me. When we rolled, Marcello picked partners. I was paired with a blue belt for one round and a white belt graduating to blue belt the next Saturday for the next round. Good experienced guys. They were sound in their BJJ. Gave me fits. Higher level belts should give fits to guys with lower belts. I have gone to other gyms where this wasn’t the case for me. All good rolls. And good attitudes. They were patient with me at my experience level and conditioning. The attitudes and soundness of the students tell a wealth about the coach. The second hour, Marcello asked if I would like to stay for the advanced class. I did, and Marcello rolled with me. Again, a good experience. I don’t get to roll with Black Belts very much. Good learning experience.

Some things you may consider… Many gyms require that the students purchase gi’s through the school. Keeping everything uniform. Everyone in this gym had the same gi patches reflecting their school. Nothing wrong with this. You just need to consider the added cost if this is a requirement. Also, I remember seeing a complaint about committing to a one year deal. This isn’t uncommon for any gym membership. If you want the best pricing, you have to commit to a longer contract. It helps the gym with their financial planning and will cost the member less in the long run. But if you sign, you are committed.