Lovely! Came for the Mixed Martial Arts curriculum with a focus in wrestling and boxing, stayed for the people. I spend most of my free time at IFA right now, and can't think of a better place to do so. Lotta new friends with good knowledge on kicking ass. Everyone has a spare moment for you and a generous drilling attitude. Started with grappling, added striking and MMA, and now I'm in the Combat Conditioning class. Love each. The conditioning is a great send off into the weekend. Incorporates compound movements and yoga, which I appreciate. Solid spot. read more

Frank is the real deal. I subletted from him for several years for my Kenpo Karate school before getting my own storefront. He teaches great classes for a variety of fighting art styles. He also has a great business sense and gave me lots of great advice for my school when it was in its early years. read more

I've been training at IFA for a couple of months as a total newbie and I really love the atmosphere here. All of the students are really down to earth and I think that creates a great environment for training. So far I've really enjoyed the boxing classes and am looking forward to trying some Jiu Jitsu. As I scan through the reviews that have been posted over the years I definitely agree that the owner, Frank Benn, has great attention to detail and a passion for teaching MMA (not to mention a great taste in music). The workouts are challenging but I always come away with new knowledge and a feeling of accomplishment. read more

Training at IFA saved my life Frank set the bar high. You can't find a gym like IFA anywhere in the U.S. (yes, I've tried) I trained at IFA for a few years when I lived in Austin. A good friend of mine that trained there spoke highly of Frank's methodology and environment. My history of martial arts was limited to TKD, so MMA sounded enticing but a completely new world to learn--especially as an adult. I walked in, bought hand wraps from Frank, and got to work. As a beginner, I appreciated the warm welcoming, guidance from other students, and instruction from Frank. I could tell from my first boxing class, "If I want to be as good as these guys/gals, I need to show up for every class." I signed up for boxing that same day. Before I knew it, I was enrolled in every one of Frank's classes: Boxing, Grappling, Combat Conditioning, and Eskrima/Kali (FMA). I enjoyed the classes, people, and results so much that I found myself spending 7 days a week at IFA. It became a lifestyle, and Frank was very supportive. I often found myself bummed at the end of classes because it was over, and would leave the gym at night eager to start again the next evening. Frank teaches real life skills. IFA isn't your typical gym. If you want to be somewhere that "looks UFC" and waste your money on useless lessons, go somewhere else. If you're looking to truly learn to protect yourself, join IFA and attend all of Frank's seminars. There are bad people in this world, and history repeats itself. Unfortunately, I've had to apply what Frank taught me in real life. His training saved my life. I'm not on this earth to fight people, but to protect myself. Where TKD failed me, IFA didn't. Interestingly enough, I don't even think I was that great of a fighter--especially in comparison to those I trained with. I was just persistent, showed up to every class, and practiced/trained the most I could. That's the first thing I noticed about people that were good at that gym--they had consistent attendance and had been students of Frank for years. Those real life scenarios combined with my persistence are a testament that what Frank teaches, works. You just have to put in the effort. Rome wasn't built in a day and you can't become a good fighter overnight. I feel the Top Control Seminar Frank held during my time there was the most impactful. The things he taught that Saturday combined with participating in his grappling class are what I've had to use in real life. Personally, I'm not much of a striker, but the repetition from Frank's boxing class has given me agility and cat-like reflexes. (Seriously, I still duck/weave/pivot, even from flies) My goal from the moment anyone displays a threat is to get them on the ground and into submission. That's my personal strength and preference, and that's exactly what I gained by training in boxing and grappling. I don't think you can have one without the other, but you can find what your strength is by trying. I thought boxing would feel more natural to me at the beginning, but it turned out that grappling was more natural. I stuck with both, and I'm glad I did. Frank cares about his students. If you invest the time, he'll invest in you. I have not met another instructor like him, and I'm fairly confident I never will. I'd go back to train if I still lived there. Recommendation: Go to IFA, try every class, see what you like, and show up every day. Put your mind to it, and put in the work. What you learn in one class or seminar could save your life. read more

I've been training here for a few months as a complete newbie. This academy is owned and run by Frank Benn. It's an independent, small academy, because Frank Benn prefers a good student/instructor ratio and doing all the instruction himself. Frank is really passionate about mixed martial arts / teaching and it shows in how thoroughly he trains his students. He's been training in MMA for 30 years, way before the UFC started, so he knows it all. If you are shopping around for an MMA academy, ask the head instructor how long he's been training in wrestling, in boxing, in muay thai, and in BJJ. Ask how often he gets on the mat and spars with students. Then come to IFA and ask Frank Benn. On Mon/Thur/Sat, we train in boxing, wrestling, muay thai, Filipino stick fighting, and on Tues/Fri, we do combat conditioning for strength and stamina. Contact me if you have any questions. read more

Integrated Fighting Arts Academy - Martial Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

I ve workout in all kinds of gyms including MMA gyms throughout my life. Never have I had such a negative experience in attempting to join a place. I signed up on their website, scheduled a class, spoke to the owner on the phone, blocked the time to workout, yet told upon arrival that the gym does not let people come off the street and just workout. When I said I schedule and workout and spoke to him, he said he knew yet did change his disapproval. Apparently this is not a gym that wants to service the public. I m in good shape but maybe I looked the wrong way or the owner was having a bad day or something but I was clearly not wanted there. This was baffling. I dont believe the reviews on this gym because regardless of the quality of the gym, no one wants this type of experience. I go to a gym to relieve stress, not to add stress to my day by just trying to join a place. read more

I took a 3-month boxing course here a couple years back, and that was after checking out a number of other boxing/kickboxing and/or martial-arts courses around town. Most of them seemed more focused on the cardio/exercise aspect and would have you punching or kicking a bag, but I wanted something that actually taught you how to fight, since a bag can't exactly hit back! So that's what eventually led me to IFA, and I was glad I'd taken the time to keep looking, because they have it all! Not only was it a great workout, but you'd pair up with a partner in class and actually spar. The class was very thorough and went over stance, footwork, ducking/weaving, proper ways to make a fist and punch, combat conditioning, and so forth. And that was just for the boxing classes -- they also teach Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Filpino knife/stick-fighting, and more. They pretty much cover the gamut of everything you might need to know to defend yourself in a fight. Although my fitness interests eventually shifted away from fighting, I still look back on my class here with fondness -- not the least of which because I met a number of great people there. There is definitely a sense of closeness and camaraderie at this gym, so I continue to keep in touch and stay abreast of their latest events and postings through their Facebook page. IFA also holds periodic women's self-defense seminars, one of which I attended recently. It was not only an excellent refresher on boxing, but delved into elements of Muay Thai and grappling/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as well, to offer an overall array of techniques that might help you out of a bad situation. As with the boxing classes, there's actual partnered sparring, so you're not just listening to someone lecture -- you're learning by doing. The seminars are free, and an excellent lead-in to the regular women's self-defense classes they host on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The owner/instructor, Frank Benn, seems very passionate about empowering people not just in a fight, but in life in general. 5 stars, all the way! read more

UPDATE: I'm still training at this gym and still loving it!! The classes are high-quality and very helpful. So glad I have this community in my life! I really appreciate that Frank has made such an effort to keep all gym members safe during the pandemic. Everyone wears a mask all the time, the fans are running to circulate the air, and people make a real effort to social distance. I wouldn't feel comfortable going back to a fully indoor gym at this time. But, this feels as safe as possible. read more

Frank is a MMA savant, he's a really great instructor and a great guy. Out of all the gyms I've been to, I've never had some one teach me Jiu Jitsu/Boxing strategy so well. Frank really gets into the nitty gritty of why you need to know things and how to best think about/approach a fight. Really love training here!! read more

I went to IFA for a free intro-seminar for women's self-defense! It was AWESOME. We learned so much in just a few hours, I can imagine an actual class is even more invaluable. Frank was informative, welcoming, and very realistic. He answered everyones questions and was thorough in his answers and demonstrations. His staff/members even hung around after a regular session to help all of the attendees learn in a hands-on (IRL) way! Shout out to Sean - THANK YOU! Very appreciative of this event and I'm looking forward to the opportunity for more! Pro-tip - follow them on Facebook to keep up with events. Frank also posts videos on here that are relevant to what you learn in class! read more

I cannot say enough good things about IFA. I trained there for about a year and was forced to leave because of scheduling issues and a move to New York City. First, excellent instruction. Unlike most fighting gyms, there is a meticulously crafted curriculum and it is taught by the founder of the gym. Frank is an excellent instructor and he has been refining the classes for literally decades. Also, Frank will quite likely be one of the smartest people you will ever meet. Second, meets your needs whatever they may be. You can train in wrestling/BJJ, boxing/kickboxing, and Filipino Martial Arts (knife and stick). You can train in one, two or all three programs. The programs are great whether you are there for competition training, self-defense, or just to get in shape and have fun. Third, great training partners. Unlike many boxing gyms, you will not be fodder for the gym's prize fighters. Everyone is there to learn and to be taught. You will be paired with people who are on your level or who are happy to go down to your level. The goal is to build your skills and your confidence, not to get your ass beat - unless of course, that's what you want. I recommend this gym to anyone who has ever had any interest in training as a fighter. read more

FRIDAY NIGHTS ARE COMBAT CONDITIONING NIGHTS!!! **NOTE: This is actually a FIVE STAR review disguised as a three star because this site is weird about putting up five star reviews (seriously, check out how many amazing hidden reviews there are).** Like the idea of a solid cross fit regiment, but have too much self respect for your physical well being? Well, YOU'RE IN LUCK!! Every Tuesday and Friday evening, IFAA has our combat conditioning sessions, meticulously designed to help increase your strength, improve your endurance, build up the important muscle groups needed to throw heavy punches and excel at grappling, and PREVENT INJURY!!! And best of all, IT'S FREE!! Free with the enrollment of any one of the other classes taught at IFAA. You can chose from escrima, kickboxing, grappling, or all three! We train each of these classes multiple times a week, and by being enrolled in just one of these courses, you also get the joys of joining a great group of people to make you suffer in the best possible way to make you a better fighter for NO EXTRA CHARGE!! What else do you get with your enrollment? Only the chance to train with the best living library of boxing and martial arts technique and history this side of anywhere: Frank Benn! Frank has been training, studying, and teaching various forms of martial arts for over 30 years, and has formulated an intense and complete curriculum focused on not what looks pretty and flashy, but what actually works and will save your a$$ in a fight. If you have a question about boxing strategy, or jiu jitsu technique, history, or just want to play "Who would win between X and Y?", Frank will fill you in on so much knowledge, your head will burst! What's also great and unique about Frank is that he takes an active and genuine interest in all of his students. In every class, he takes the time to talk with everyone, address issues he sees with their form and problems they may be having, and is always willing to answer any questions a student brings forward. And he's always willing to get on the mat and spar. YOU CAN NOT GET THAT KIND OF PERSONAL ATTENTION ANYWHERE ELSE!!! I have been training at IFAA since April 2012, and I can not express how amazing this place is. The instruction in top notch, the work out is intense, and we have always managed to bring together an amazing group of people who are intelligent, hard working, and strive to make ourselves and our partners better. We've been taking advantage of this beautiful weather by training in the park these days, so bring yourself a blanket and come watch us work if you're curious. Or if you're interested, put on some shorts, come lace up some gloves, and come learn from the longest running, most knowledgeable instructor this town has to offer! I guarantee you will not be disappointed! read more

I can't tell you what your experiences at IFA will be like; all I can tell you is how my journey has been so far. It was a Wednesday night last year around August. I was inebriated and eating pizza at 3 in the morning watching UFC reruns. 230+ pounds, a resting heart rate of 85+, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, chronic reflux, and all kinds of neck+back problems. Within the first 6 months at IFA, I lost over 25 pounds (and still counting) and had a consistent resting heart rate below 58. My neck+back became more pain-free by getting stronger, and my blood pressure was the lowest it's been as an adult. Oh, and no more reflux or apnea. My friends, family, and girlfriend have noticed the positive changes I've gone through, not just physically but also mentally - I used to be an angry, road-raging, fight-starting a-hole, and now I've become a pretty balanced and mellow guy. And after almost a decade of weight gain and other chronic health problems, I feel like I have a new lease on life. Regarding fighting skills, this is the only place I've ever trained at where I've made such significant headway in learning how to defend myself. I've trained at a few different places over the years, and they've all benefitted me in one way or another...but when it came time to spar, I got dominated more often than not. This was largely due to, as head instructor Frank puts it, needing to learn how to navigate through the "muddiness" - or chaos - of fighting. I've improved more in this area than I have in all my previous years at other schools. I credit Frank, who is one of the most intelligent people I've ever met, for the guidance and for pushing me physically in the right way. I also credit the other students at IFA. I can't say enough about how great the gym culture is. No douchery, no egos, none of the BS I'd seen at some of the other gyms I'd been to. Just a bunch of down-to-earth, welcoming, and helpful group of guys and gals of all ages and experience levels. The more experienced students are on par with the skill and knowledge level of instructors at other schools, and they have patiently helped me work on one flaw or another - even sometimes in the middle of sparring. (Two quick notes on sparring: people go as light or hard as you want; the senior students hold back against those of you who are less experienced to facilitate your improvement.) If it's anything I would recommend to you, I would say that taking a free trial class didn't give me the full picture of what IFA is all about. It took at least 3 months for me to really, really get it and start really reaping the rewards that come with training here. But do come by and try out a free class as the first step - it could possibly be as big of a profound life-changing experience as it has been for me. read more

Great place to train. Currently taking the Boxing/Kickboxing class as well as the Jujitsu class. Frank has always been very attentive to questions that anyone asks of him and teaches in a way that makes sense. The best part of it is that he teaches YOU. It isn't a senior student that is left to teach the class while he sits back. He is actively teaching and going through the exercises with you. Along with the training classes, there are two conditioning classes to help strengthen core muscles and ups your endurance. Never have had a conditioning session that I was not sweating profusely from. I also love the atmosphere of the people there. Always willing to help and train up together instead of trying to hurt one-another just to win. read more

I'm giving it three stars ONLY because I heard that this site filters five star reviews unless the business pays Yelp to show them. So this is really a five star review. I was told specifically not to try it this way, but, damn it... I want my say. I'm a female beginner boxer and wrestler... never threw a punch in my life before coming to IFAA. After three months, I'm in great physical shape and actually feel amazingly competent when sparring. Frank and even the other students are patient and respectful, always willing to show the move one more time until you've got it. The academy has a friendly atmosphere, welcomes all fitness levels, and my gender has never been an issue. That image-obsessed, macho-macho-man culture you may find other places is not present here. Frank even spends a lot of time on self-defense tactics that are useful for everybody, but especially women. I can tell you though, from watching Frank spar with guests, even if you have years of experience with jujitsu and/or muy thai, he can still teach you moves. I am looking forward to training at IFAA for a long while yet because a) I know I'm never going to be bored and b) it is way more fun and useful than going to a gym. read more

Absolutely top notch academy! I trained here for 2 years and learned incredible life skills in my time at IFA Academy. Frank Benn has been teaching mixed martial arts in Austin for over 15 years. He knows the game inside and out. He is an incredible instructor with a tremendous wealth of knowledge and is willing to share it. I could not recommend this place enough. If you want to learn to fight, and you live in Austin, you would be doing yourself a disservice by training anywhere else. Nick read more

When most of us think of coaches, we imagine someone that will push you so hard and so ruthlessly that you're driven to tears. It's very rare that a coach can drive you to laughter and you find yourself improving because of it. The IFA atmosphere is very driven and focused but it's also a home. Coach Frank is someone who not only strives to know everything he can about the art, but also builds on what he knows. As a woman training in martial arts, you're usually seen as someone passing through for a couple days of a cardio kickboxing work outs, but here I'm a fighter just like the rest of the people training and I throw the guys around as much as they throw me around. Everyone has a pace they learn at and I've never seen that respected more than at IFA. The more experienced people are always ready to stop and slow things down for you. I love it here and I plan to train at IFA for a very long time, so stop by and visit us! read more

IFA is THE school to go to if you want to learn how to fight. IFA is the best boxing, kickboxing, mma, Filipino martial art and bjj school that I have ever been to, which is why I have trained there with Frank for over 10 years. The head instructor, Frank, is a life long student of martial art with decades of experience in all of the programs he offers. IFA is the only school I have been too that teaches the tactics and strategy of fighting in addition to technique, and the technique is taught at a higher technical level. At IFA, the question 'Why?' Always had an answer. In addition to the technical program, the conditioning program is fantastic, and absolutely brutal, especially on the combat conditioning classes. Come and fight to get into shape, and stay to get in shape to fight. read more

IFA is unlike any MMA gym in Austin. Frank (the owner/instructor) is welcoming, intelligent, and clearly passionate about his craft. His teaching methods are fantastic -- he encourages questions and discussions alongside hands-on learning. A variety of disciplines are taught at IFA (striking, grappling, conditioning, women's combat, etc) and are available throughout the week. The number of students in each class is smaller than what you would find in other gyms, which is great because you get more one-on-one time with the instructor. You'll find no sense of machismo at IFA... the veteran students are helpful and supportive, eliminating any sense of intimidation for newcomers. I'd give this place 10 stars if I could. read more

I have been training here in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a few months now and thus far I have improved all aspects of my game; whether its my wrestling, top control, or guard work. There's a few aspects that really appeals to me when it comes to training in BJJ. The first one is that the instructor is thorough in everything he teaches and is willing to explain why everything functions as it does. Another great aspect is that every day we spar standing up, a great aspect that you don't get at every BJJ academy. Also the price for classes is at a competitive rate and is definitely worth trying out. So come on by it's a great class to either start or continue your training in BJJ, Kickboxing, or the Stick and Knife class. read more

Things at IFA started off really well -- I felt the workouts were really intense, I got in better shape, and the instructor devoted a lot of time to the students. Most of the people at the gym were also really nice. However, as time progressed, I noticed that classes would be interrupted with 10 - 15 minute lectures (seriously) about topics such as not being late, how IFA is the best gym in Austin, and how only the most dedicated train at IFA. I saw a few people get berated for minor things. The instructor also has his own belt system, and, perhaps more importantly, cross-training at other gyms is highly discouraged. Most gyms have an open and encouraging atmosphere, which I definitely prefer -- and find highly valuable for improving my skills. I haven't been there in awhile, so perhaps things have changed, but this gym was definitely not for me. read more

I'd put a 5 star review, but I'm afraid it wouldn't show up. So this is a 5 star review disguised as a 3 star for YOUR sake so you can read. First off I'd like to say that I went to another gym to test-train, and while it was an intense work out and encouraging to be around such aggressive guys, there was a sense of disrespect in the air. When I walked into IFA, I really did quickly feel at home, like this was the kind of place I wanted to train it. You wouldn't suspect some of these guys to be the kinds of fighters they are, being as nice and respectful as they are. Everyone taking the time to make sure you're doing things right.. It's pretty amazing, actually, the brother/sister hood that goes on there. I've never done any kind of trained fighting, and I always thought that I was some kind of tough guy because of all the scrapping I did and time I've spent in rough places. My first week at IFA was extremely humbling. I'd realized that everything I thought about myself didn't apply to people who really knew how to fight. I got banged up pretty good, but only because they have a rule "You'll get sparred with as hard as you spar" and I went in pretty heavy and got hit heavy as a result. This encouraged me to slow down, and really learn what I was doing.. and has it been working! The repetition training is exactly what I need, and it's shown its fruit. The first time you slip a jab or weave a cross and counter with your own cross, hook, or combo you're going to feel awesome! You'll see that what you've been doing is actually working and then you'll be hooked! Sparring almost every class is super beneficial and after making sure my sparring partner is ok after a landing a good hit, I leap for joy inside only for it to be squashed when I catch a left hook in the face that makes me dizzy for a second. Of course, like I said, they will match your level of power and won't fight you outside of your limits or capabilities until you're ready and willing. Hot-headed Brawlers beware! The workouts are good, I always leave satisfied in that department. Intense burnouts and long series of grunts and yells are what it takes to get through a session. - Erik And as for Frank? Very knowledgeable guy with a lot of time spent in the industry and around his passion. I believe he truly cares about the direction of his students, and looks for those to be committed back to him - exactly what a coach should be like. I've grown a deep respect for him in the two months I've been here. He won't pamper you, though he isn't an ***hole either, he will tell you like it is that there needs to be improvement to encourage, and if you're doing it right he will tell you as well. Either it be to train, for community, to compete, whatever you might want to do - this is the place to do it. I'm very satisfied with my time at IFA, and will be continuing to come back. read more

I have always wanted to find a place to learn self-defense techniques and fighting skills. I would recommend IFA to beginners like me and advanced practitioners of martial arts alike. As a woman, I feel completely comfortable training and sparring with my male peers at the gym. These are close contact environments, and I trust all of my friends here. Everyone is respectful and professional during training. I have never felt compelled to spar if I wasn't feeling up to it on a particular day. I think it's imperative that women learn to defend themselves with their own bodies rather than a gun or mace. You may not always have access to that in a fight. It's particularly important for people living in a big city to know what to do in a bad situation. When I joined, I didn't even know how to throw a punch, much less defend myself against an attacker. I've still got a lot to learn, but I feel so much more confident and capable now. The classes offered/curriculum are well thought out. The classes are "integrated" as you can see how different classes (boxing, wrestling, knife fighting, cardio/conditioning) interact with one another. I've taken the boxing, combat conditioning, and wrestling/grappling classes and really enjoyed myself. It's so much more than just a good workout! It's history, technique, and current events all wrapped into one. It all flows together nicely for a well-rounded and always relevant curriculum. I should also note that I love the people here. We've become very close over the months. I've been a member for about a year and plan on continuing my membership. read more

I trained with Frank at IFA Academy for two years, and could not have asked for a better experience. Frank is not only an extremely talented martial artist with decades of fighting in multiple disciplines, he also has an encyclopedic knowledge of fighters, techniques, and any other aspect of martial arts you could ever possibly want to know about. He's a total nerd, and it's amazing. You'll be hunched over, gasping for breath and dripping sweat between rounds during his Combat Conditioning class (INCLUDED in tuition, by the way, which is unheard of in these days of nickel-and-diming McDojos), and he'll drop a quick history of different types of left hooks, who used which ones effectively, and what type of hook you should use given your body type and strengths. You'll get a thorough mind and body workout as an IFA student. So that's Frank. The other great reason to join IFA is the excellent group of people that are IFA members. It feels like a family--everyone is really supportive, which was really important to me. Sparring with some of Frank's more advanced students, some of which have been training with him for 5-8 years, is a treat, almost like getting a private lesson. I'm a woman, and I've never felt more physically strong, so well conditioned, and like I was learning so much than when I was training with Frank. I've moved back to my native California and am training with another gym, but I really do miss my days at IFA. I was offered a fight after just 3 months of training with my new gym, which I attribute to the skills and conditioning I picked up at IFA. Give it a try, it's definitely worth it. read more

Great place to learn how to legitimately fight and get in the best shape of your life. I've been training here for about 7 months. Just like college or anything else, you'll see the most improvement with serious dedication. When I first joined, I didn't even know how to strike or defend against strikes. Now, my former self wouldn't stand a chance against my present self in a fight (grappling and/or kickboxing). So, why learn how to fight? Why not just go to the gym and workout? Traditional workouts only make you strong at certain movements and won't make you tough. You'll think that you're tough, but you really aren't. A trained fighter can easily take a much heavier, untrained opponent. Okay, why do I need that ability? Well, why do you lock the door to your home or car? Try not doing that and see how you feel. You don't want someone to take your stuff, right? But, what about your life? What if someone decides they don't want to take your stereo, but they want to take your life? There's no door to lock when you're walking around. I grew up thinking that the world was a fair place, and that I'd be safe if I "stayed out of trouble." That's what I naively thought until someone decided that they wanted to fight me a few years ago. He had no reason to. There doesn't have to be a reason. Because I had no training at the time, I was completely at his mercy. Suddenly, by chance, some stranger was choosing whether I was going to walk away healthy, injured, or not at all. That's not fair, but that's reality. Now, I can honestly say that some random thug no longer has such a simple choice. But, you don't have to end up in a precarious situation to benefit from the training you'll receive. Just being capable of shutting down someone's ability to hurt you will drastically increase your sense of security in everyday life. Not only that, but you'll inevitably end up in fantastic shape. Thereby, your chances of living longer and healthier are much greater. That's why I believe this training is not only practical, but essential. read more

So I have been training at Integrated Fighting Arts Academy for a little over a year and a half now. My experience here has been downright life changing. Before I started training here, five years prior I had trained close to nine months at this BJJ Academy in Tucson, AZ. I was frustrated when no one took the time to show me what I was doing wrong or show me key details I was missing that would make or break techniques let alone teach me tactics and strategy to overcome opponents. I was also yearning for learning grappling for self defense applications as well as tournament applications, and the other gym I had trained at just focused on sport jiu-jutsu application. At IFA they are awesome at preparing you for real world fighting scenarios and competitions alike. When I found Frank Benn and IFA Academy I knew I had stumbled upon gold. Not only is Frank one of the most experienced grappling instructors I know, he is far best the most technical grappling instructor I have ever met. Not only is the grappling class the best, the kick boxing and stick and knife class are phenomenal. I do all three and I never feel I know enough, it is so incredibly comprehensive! I have found a program that I have always dreamed of to help feel confident and secure with the matters of addressing all realms of armed and unarmed fighting. Not to mention that if you sign up for one of the curricula you get to attend to combat conditioning classes with no extra charge. These classes have for sure put me into the best shape of my life. I went from weighing a soft one hundred and fifty pounds to a solid one hundred and sixty five pounds, and my goal being one seventy. The people you will find at this academy are by far some the best Human beings you will ever meet! We train at your level so you'll never feel like your thrown in among the sharks. The more senior students definitely take care of the newer ones and never hold any information or details back, we want to turn newcomers into training partners who will push us to get better; Iron sharpens iron! If you are looking for an MMA Academy, Self Defense,learning real world fighting skills, and / or fitness this is the place! look forward to seeing you on the mat and in sparring! Joe Luis Martinez read more

I've been at IFA for a little over a month, with no previous fighting experience and am really happy so far. One of my hesitations in joining a fighting gym was that everyone would have that 'tougher-than-you' attitude. My experience at IFA has been the exact opposite. There's no inflated egos and lots of personal interaction. You'll be pushed and knocked around a bit (which is what you want), but you'll also be coached, critiqued, instructed and encouraged as well. There's a full spectrum of skill levels there too, so there's little risk of hitting a ceiling and staying stuck at that level. read more

Its not hard to find a martial school the hard part is.... finding a good one. I trained in The IFA academy for about 2 years, and i can honestly tell you the IFA academy isn't just good, its outstanding. Very few teachers are as comprehensive of Martial Arts theory, history and understanding as Frank is. If you are looking for practical effective Martial Arts application. if you want anwsers to real time dangerous scenarios..... Call The IFA. Oran read more

IFA is a unique gym, run by a unique man, and has an environment where you feel as though you are part of a team that wants everyone to succeed. Among martial arts instructors Frank Benn stands out because he is a true scholar of martial arts and has a great program for integrating various fighting disciplines. I am 61 years old and not in great physical condition. About six months ago decided that I wanted to start training in a martial arts program. Years ago my family and I participated in TaeKwonDo and Hapkido and really enjoyed these disciplines. But I was looking for something different this time. I wanted something practical with great physical conditioning. Before starting at IFA Academy I visited five, pre-screened based on their web sites, martial arts schools in the Austin area. I found some schools reminded me of puppy mills where puppies are mass produced in an assembly line designed to maximize profits not develop quality breeds. Of course there is nothing wrong with profits, but I choose to participate in a program where the business model is based on a core conviction of a better methodology to build a great program. I was concerned that at my age and poor physical condition I would not fit in. I can now say that there is some great talent among both young and old students at IFA and there is a sense of team work where the more experienced students support the development of those with less knowledge and ability. It is not easy - but I really enjoy the people and the environment. read more

I've been going to IFA for about 6 months and every class gives me new things I can use. I attend boxing and grappling classes, as well as conditioning. As a woman, I was apprehensive about starting to train fighting skills with men, but everyone is helpful and respectful. Everyone is there to train and improve their fighting skills. The instruction is excellent -both informative and giving real life applications and examples. I highly recommend this school if you are wanting to train how to ACTUALLY fight. Come by and check it out! read more

I enjoy it. the sparring really gets me pumped.and you can set a good learning pace without the fear of getting knocked out. I thought my cardio was good. until a did one round of sparring. it can be addicting.the instructor is honest and the classes very affordable. read more

Top notch training at Austin's original mixed martial arts academy! I have been part of the IFA family for 6 years. Even when my training was sporadic, I was always welcome back home with open arms(usually got my ass-kicked due to the lack of training and conditioning).:) An all adult academy with not politics, no BS, and you cannot buy your stripes, you earn them on the mat. Frank Benn is a meticulous instructor who understand all aspects of all combat situations and can help you fix any problem in your game. With 25+ years instructing and trained to be an instructor, every class is a college coarse in which you are learning from Engineering, History, Science, Psychology, and Mathematics professors all in 1. As with any college coarse its highly recommended you take notes...... as the best students take notes. As anyone who knows.. knows.... the devil is in the details... its the difference between failure and success!! Top notch training at Austin's original mixed martial arts academy! I have been part of the IFA family for 6 years. Even when my training was sporadic, I was always welcome back home with open arms(usually got my a$$-kicked due to the lack of training and conditioning).:) An all adult academy with not politics, no BS, and you cannot buy your stripes, you earn them on the mat. Frank Benn is a meticulous instructor who understand all aspects of all combat situations and can help you fix any problem in your game. With 25+ years instructing and trained to be an instructor, every class is a college coarse in which you are learning from Engineering, History, Science, Psychology, and Mathematics professors all in 1. As with any college coarse its highly recommended you take notes...... as the best students take notes. As anyone who knows.. knows.... the devil is in the details... its the difference between failure and success!! I have learned the importance of the history, psychology, and science of combat due to his instruction. All classes (Stick & Knife, Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Brazilian Jujitsu) are presented and taught in real world situations which includes REAL contact sparring. The all adult atmosphere (some younger students have been accepted based on maturity.)consists of a diverse group from working professionals to college students (men and women) that are accommodating, yet will whoop yo ass! Frank never holds back any secrets or techniques, has rolled with the best and will ROLL with ANYBODY. I highly recommend this place I now call home. More information at Ifaacademy DOT com or better yet Youtube IFAACADEMY. See the real for yourself! read more

Incredible MMA academy. Frank is a not only a great martial arts practitioner, but an incredible teacher and one of the smartest people I have ever met. He takes the time to explain each technique thoroughly and doesn't let his students leave with a half-assed education. It's a great academy for giving you a complete understanding of how fights work in real life, not just in simulations. At IFA you will spar at every single training which is something I really enjoyed compared to some gyms, because the only way to really learn to fight is to actually fight. I trained in each of the classes he offers (Muy Thai Kickboxing, Submission Grappling, & Stick/Knife fighting) and was always amazed at the shear amount of knowledge and passion Frank has. The students I trained with were great as well. The gym has a no-nonsense attitude where people leave their egos at the door and work their hardest purely for the sake of bettering themselves. I highly recommend this gym to anyone with an interest in martial arts, fitness, self defense, and how the human body works. read more