Valhalla Academy of Martial Arts

Here is my 1 year review as of this January. I train about 3 — 4 times a week. When I started, I weighed in at 254 pounds. I have lost 47 pounds since then. I have competed in 3 tournaments (my longest match was 22 minutes at a submission only tournament) and metaled in 2 out of 3. I made many new friends and have had a great time in the last year. The thing that stands out about this school is the people that train here and their willingness to help you out. For example, if you need help with take downs, come during open mat and work with Eric or Curtis (ex wrestlers)… If you need help with throws, talk to Sabrina and Anthony (mad Judo Skills). There is no knuckleheads here (you would be promptly asked to leave if you were one) and white belts /​beginners are treated with respect… Come by and try a class. It’s free! You will have a good time and meet some really cool people.

Coming from the Royce Gracie network I was afraid the instruction level would not be what I was accustomed too. I had many reservations about joining another school and was contemplating driving the 2 hours each way to continue training with my first school, Capital MMA. However, after speaking with a few people regarding the head instructor, Andrew, and researching the schools lineage (Carlos Gracie Sr; Carlos Gracie Jr.; Rigan Machado) I knew the only thing left to do was give the school a shot. My boys and I are now happily settled into Valhalla and our instruction is coming along amazingly. Andrew pushes you, challenges you to rise to full potential, yet makes it fun and enjoyable. His knowledge and technical skills with regards to BJJ, Muay Thai and CSW (Combat Submission Wrestling (which reminds me of no-​gi BJJ, only more combative) are top-​notch. I cannot speak to the other MA forms (Jeet Kun Do, Filipeno Style (weapons) and Savat), yet, because I have no reference point for them, but so far what I have learned for these styles is very fun and a welcome addition for my self-​defense toolbelt. This isn’t a McDojo… let me assure you of this! If you are in the area, stop in!!!