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cincinnati jiu jitsu

10 Best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gyms in the Cincinnati Area

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Are you a passionate practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) searching for the perfect gym to hone your skills in the Cincinnati area? Look no further! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, finding the right BJJ gym can make all the difference in your training journey. To help you in your quest for excellence, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 10 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gyms in Cincinnati.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has gained immense popularity worldwide for its practicality, effective self-defense techniques, and incredible physical and mental benefits. With its emphasis on leverage and technique rather than brute strength, BJJ offers a unique training experience that caters to people of all ages and fitness levels. The Cincinnati area is home to a vibrant BJJ community, with numerous gyms offering exceptional training programs taught by experienced instructors.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the ten best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gyms in Cincinnati. We’ve carefully curated this list based on factors such as reputation, training environment, instructor credentials, class offerings, facilities, and the overall community atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a gym with a strong competition focus or a more recreational approach, there’s something on this list for everyone.

Prepare to discover a diverse range of BJJ gyms that excel in providing top-notch training, fostering a supportive community, and helping students achieve their goals. From state-of-the-art facilities to welcoming and inclusive atmospheres, these gyms offer the perfect blend of expertise and camaraderie.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list and explore the 10 best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gyms in the Cincinnati area!

Also, check out our article about attending your first BJJ class

Powell MMA and Fitness

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Powell MMA’s mission is clear—to make high-quality mixed martial arts (MMA) training accessible and affordable for everyone in the Cincinnati/NKY area. This gym combines traditional and innovative martial arts methods, ensuring structured, exciting, and cutting-edge training sessions. They offer all their members Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, and Muay Thai training. They have BJJ classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students.

With a team of experienced instructors with a wide range of expertise, PMMA Gym is dedicated to guiding students at every stage of their martial arts journey. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps or a seasoned professional seeking to enhance your skills, this gym welcomes individuals from all experience levels.

Club MMA

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Since its establishment in April 2008, Club MMA has grown exponentially, from a 3,000-square-foot facility on the west side of Cincinnati to now encompassing over 11,000 square feet of space. This expansion has allowed them to offer various in-house martial arts and fitness programs.

Club MMA believes martial arts is about physical techniques, personal growth, and improvement. Regardless of your background, everyone is welcome at Club MMA, where they strive to build a stronger and better community together. Join Club MMA and embark on a transformative journey of self-improvement.

The head coach and owner is Jeff Robison. With over two decades of experience in martial arts, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Having trained in numerous gyms across the globe, he has gained valuable insights and a well-rounded perspective on various martial arts styles. He is a second-degree black belt in BJJ.

Carlson Gracie Northern Kentucky

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At Carlson Gracie NKY, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu takes center stage as the academy’s primary focus. Under the leadership of Professor Aaron Thomas, a respected Carlson Gracie Jr. black belt, students can expect top-tier training and instruction.

As a black belt under the renowned Carlson Gracie, Professor Aaron Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. With over ten years of experience as an instructor, Aaron has honed his understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to a remarkable level. His unique application of BJJ principles in mixed martial arts (MMA) sets Professor Aaron apart. By integrating his deep knowledge of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the demands of MMA, Aaron has developed a comprehensive skill set that transcends traditional boundaries. Known for his old-school approach and infectious positive vibe, Aaron can guide and transform his students into proficient practitioners of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Vision Fitness & MMA

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A great jiu jitsu academy you can visit in the Cincinnati area is the Vision Fitness and MMA Center. This academy offers martial arts and fitness classes and has covered you if you want to add healthy habits to your lifestyle. They offer gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu classes for all ages and levels, and on top of that have wrestling and striking curriculums.

The head coach is Jeremy Pender. Jeremy’s impressive track record speaks for itself—over 40 professional MMA bouts under his belt, and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu earned under the guidance of Shawn Hammonds. With experience fighting across the globe and in multiple weight classes, Jeremy stands out as one of the most experienced veterans in the area. As an instructor, Jeremy’s detail-oriented approach sets him apart. He possesses a deep understanding of every technique and position taught, ensuring that students grasp the intricacies of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Jeremy’s commitment to comprehensive instruction empowers his students to develop a strong foundation and excel in their practice.

BOSS Martial Arts

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At BOSS Martial Arts, their mission is crystal clear—to assist individuals in unlocking their true potential. The gym is founded on the belief that every person possesses greatness within, waiting to be unearthed. With a strong focus on personal development, BOSS Martial Arts is committed to helping individuals develop in every aspect of their lives. They offer BJJ, Taekwondo, and MMA classes.

The head coach is Britanny Skelton, also known as ‘Coach Goda,’ a highly skilled martial artist with an impressive background. Holding a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and a green belt in Judo, Brittany showcases a diverse range of expertise. With 15 years of experience in Taekwondo, 11 years in both BJJ and Judo, and five years of coaching high school wrestling, Brittany’s dedication to martial arts is evident.

Lineage Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense

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Buster Maness and Corey Ryan share a special bond beyond the typical cousin relationship—they are more like brothers. Growing up together, their shared passion for martial arts led them on a remarkable journey. Buster and Corey initially competed in wrestling during their younger years, laying the foundation for their future endeavors. In 2008, Buster began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey, and Corey followed in 2009, reflecting their close connection.

Buster achieved his black belt in 2017, followed by Corey in 2021, under the guidance of Jeff Robison, through the lineage of John Will and David Meyer. Their journey instilled in them a deep love for BJJ and a desire to share their knowledge and passion with others. In 2022, Buster and Corey joined forces to establish Lineage, a platform representing their shared vision for teaching BJJ. United by their love for the art and a commitment to passing on their expertise, they aim to create an inclusive and empowering environment for their students. The academy offers classes for kids and adults.

Dark Horse Martial Arts

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At Dark Horse Martial Arts, inclusivity and personal growth take center stage. This is a gym where you are encouraged to come as you are and give your best effort. Regardless of your skill level, the dedicated Dark Horse Martial Arts team is committed to helping you improve and expand your skill set with each training session. They offer Brazilian jiu-jitsu and kickboxing classes.

The owner and head coach is Joshua Horsley, an Army veteran and lifelong martial artist whose passion for the arts runs deep. Currently holding a Brown Belt in Jiu-Jitsu under the esteemed Professor Ramiro Mota (Brasa), Joshua’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been shaped by the expertise of his instructor.

Nishime Martial Arts

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With over 50 years of collective experience, Nishime martial arts academy in Cincinnati, OH, proudly holds the esteemed position as the tri-state area’s premiere training facility. Offering a comprehensive range of martial arts disciplines, from traditional Karate to modern Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, they cater to adults and children, ensuring a well-rounded training experience for all.

The head coach is Jason Nishime. Jason started training BJJ in 2008 and is a black belt under Shawn Hammonds. He also cross-trained in Muay Thai, Karate, and MMA.

Gracie Cincinnati Jiu-Jitsu

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Gracie Cincinnati Jiu-Jitsu’s mission is to instill the confidence that enables students to live more fulfilled lives. Through exceptional Jiu-Jitsu training and a welcoming community, they provide an environment where common goals for mental, physical, and emotional growth can be shared. Jiu-Jitsu, to them, is more than just a self-defense system. It is a lifestyle that promotes physical fitness, mental fortitude, teamwork, and developing enduring personal character. Their classes offer simple and easily learnable techniques that leverage principles of leverage, weight distribution, and timing, enabling individuals to defend themselves effectively, regardless of size or strength. They offer training for kids and adults of all levels.

The owner and head coach is Randal Burton, a certified Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, mentored under the guidance of Jim Kelly. With over 14 years of martial arts training, he possesses a wealth of experience in various self-defense systems. Randal has trained alongside world-renowned martial artists and has successfully competed globally.

Limitless Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Fitness

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As an affiliated academy of the Vitor Oliveira Fight Team and the Grappling Fight Team (GFTeam), Limitless Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu proudly upholds the rich lineage of Oswaldo Fadda’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Known for the quality and authenticity of their training, all of their instructors and association members trace their roots back to this esteemed heritage.

The owner and head coach is Robby Malof, a dedicated practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a Black Belt under the guidance of 5-time World Champion Vitor Oliveira, Robby’s expertise and skills are unmatched in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area. With a passion for martial arts that dates back to 2006, Robby has extensively trained and competed in various disciplines. In 2014, at 22, he founded Limitless BJJ after completing his studies at the University of Cincinnati.

Final Thoughts

The Cincinnati area boasts an impressive array of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gyms that cater to practitioners of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced student aiming to compete at the highest level, the gyms on our list offer exceptional training experiences.

Remember, choosing the right BJJ gym is a personal decision that depends on your goals, preferences, and the kind of community you wish to be a part of. We encourage you to delve into the details of each gym, visit their websites, and even try out a class or two to see which one resonates with you the most.

So, equip yourself with a gi, tie your belt, and get ready to experience the excitement, discipline, and transformative power of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at one of these exceptional gyms. The Cincinnati BJJ scene is waiting to welcome you as you take your first step or continue your BJJ journey.

My name is Milos! I am the owner and head coach of Fort Jiu-Jitsu! Feel free to visit us!