Great teacher and environment very skilled aswell…read more F.

One of the best schools around the Youngstown/Pittsburgh area…read more I first started training with Coach Mike Demko as far back as 2003. His wrestling and jujitsu (Eric Paulson certified black belt) was so impressive that I drove from downtown Pittsburgh each week to train with him. Very dynamic techniques and drills, perfect for self defense or competition. He trains and coaches jujitsu competitors, MMA fighters, women's self defense, and offers one on one personal training. The kids program is possibly one of the best in the country, and Mr Demko Sr., is a highly ranked Akido practitioner, offering classes several night a week.

I'm a 3 month white belt. Here's my take:…read more Ohio BJJ & Self Defense Academy is an amazing place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, wrestling, boxing and MMA. It is a Pedro Sauer affiliate, with several of the instructors students of Master Sauer himself. Under the leadership of Tony Rinaldi, students are taught extremely technical, fundamental concepts of BJJ, with a focus on technique. There are 9 other black belt instructors who either teach or assist with classes, so everyone gets careful instruction and attention to ensure that lessons, drills and rolling (sparring) is done properly and safely. Ohio BJJ offers classes 7 days a week, and several classes each day to fit any schedule. Each class has a large number of students, which offers a variety of ages, skill levels, body types and both male and female students to give a lot of experience against different partners. The gym members themselves are all laid back and helpful. This isn't your 'tough guy' type of gym, it feels like more of a club atmosphere. New members are quickly welcomed and made to feel a part of the team. There are no real formalities, uniform requirements, or strict rules to memorize, just straight up pure BJJ. Oh, and forget about testing fees, and required advancement ceremonies. When you've proven yourself and earned a stripe or new belt, it is awarded to you by the instructor on the spot. Advancement is not just given after a period of time either. Every stripe is merit based, and when it is placed on your belt you know that you've proven yourself. If you are experienced with martial arts or looking to just get started, this is the place to go, hands down.

Kung Fu is becoming widely questionable due to the lack of pressure testing inv9lved. Just asking…read morethis instructor if he has ever been in a knockout match before. That's significant because cage matches put you in a real life circumstance where you have to put your techniques to the test. This martial art is described by the master as "rare" meaning it doesn't work because nobody uses it.

I trained here and now my daughter does as well. George is a great teacher and an accomplished…read moremartial artist. Great place to learn discipline, confidence, and the satisfaction of accomplishment. You will learn an extremely effective style of kung fu. Highly recommended.

Wow! I love this place! I get to learn Judo and practice with safe, careful , skilled training…read morepartners. Master Kim is truly a hidden gem. If you are able to get to this location on a regular basis and add this to your schedule you WILL learn how to throw people. Master Kim specializes in Judo, Jiu-Jitsu & TKD. There are kids classes but the adult classes are packed too. Come check it out! You won't regret it!

Went for an intro class with my kids, and I really appreciated the level of teaching, camaraderie,…read morefamily legacy, etc. Don't be fooled by the location and smaller gym size. My kids loved it as well; in fact, they wanted to switch from their current gym due to the challenging intensity, personality of the instructors and warmth of the current members. I have trained at many other gyms in kung fu, kickboxing, jujitsu, and at the NYAC judo club.

This gym is AWESOME! Not only is it super clean, the members and staff are courteous, friendly,…read moreand supportive. The group classes are fun and I get a great sweat. I love the personal training! And there are plenty types of equipment to get my own workout in. The reason I joined was for the self defense training. It's not a martial arts class. The training is practical and can be performed by anyone regardless of athletic ability. It's the real deal taught by instructors who have used it on the 'streets.' It's good to be prepared. You never know when you may need to defend yourself!

From the owner: Combat Athlete specializes in cross training and functional fitness with a focus on personal safety…read moreand self-awareness. Through the expertise and qualified background of its instructors, the academy provides expertise in several areas unmatched by any training environment in Northeast Ohio. The facility offers seminars, everyday fitness classes as well as an open environment to complete either a self-motivated, guided or group workout. The facility will also provide programming for future public service professionals to achieve mental and fitness goals for intake or continued certification in their fields. The academy additionally provides hands on, certified and experienced attention in training to athletes, adaptive athletes, disabled veterans and individuals needing modified programming for immediate and long-term success in confidence and fitness.

As a former student of this dojo, I have to say that you do learn a good amount of stuff but when…read moreyou get to a certain rank, they forget your existence. Some masters I liked, but the others will do anything in their power to embarrass you. Look elsewhere.

I have been attending the Crystal Dragon for years on Monday nights and sat mornings. I brought my…read morekids a bit later within a year or two after I started. I travel an hour each direction. Its worth it. Between Covid and cancer, I took a couple years off but am glad to back Mondays for now, and Saturdays hopefully soon. If you are looking for a place that teaches practical fighting moves starting day one, this is it. If you want flashy moves, that comes later with higher ranks.