Mixed martial arts (MMA) has experienced unprecedented growth in popularity. As a result, many enthusiasts are looking at training to compete in MMA competitions. There are hundreds of MMA schools in the United States, following is a list of some of the most popular and well-respected MMA training centers in the nation.
Jim Hughes and Royce Gracie Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Self Defense Schools
Anyone familiar with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) knows the name Royce Gracie. Hailing from Brazil, Gracie has been dubbed “one of the best grapplers in the world” by the UFC organization. Gracie has taken advantage of his knowledge and recognition by opening several MMA schools in the Northeastern United States.
With ten locations spread across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, the Gracie MMA schools offer a variety of classes for individuals of all skill levels. In addition to group classes, members can also sign up for private lessons for only $99 per session. For more information, contact the school directly at (860) 233-3000.
Team Quest Martial Arts and Fitness
Owned by PRIDE welterweight champion Dan Henderson, Team Quest Martial Arts and Fitness is located in Portland, Oregon and provides training for individuals starting at age four. In addition to basic MMA offerings, Team Quest also has kickboxing, submission and grappling sessions available for club members.
From the Team Quest website, “Whether you hope to become a champion level professional MMA fighter, get in shape, or seek to develop the confidence that comes with reliable self-defense skills, Team Quest has a program for you!” The center can be reached by calling (503) 661-4134.
American Top Team
Located in Coconut Creek, Florida, American Top Team (ATT) is one of the nation’s largest and most well-known MMA academies. Students from ATT “are exposed to a variety of competition environments - in-house, UFC, PRIDE, K-1, SHOOTO, BodogFight, IFL, EliteXC, AFC, Mundials, Pan Americans, Abu Dhabi (ADCC), NAGA, GQ, etc.”
Classes offered at ATT include a mixed martial arts course for children, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, boxing, and a variety of MMA classes. In addition to individual and family memberships, American Top Team also has a corporate wellness program. Understanding the correlation between a healthy employee and increased productivity has led ATT to develop a corporate membership plan. For more information, contact the center at (954) 425-0705.
MMA continues to be one of the most popular sports in the nation. As its popularity continues to rise, there will be a demand for more MMA schools. These three organizations provide top notch MMA training for athletes looking to master this extreme sport.
Sources:
Gracie Jiu-jitsu Website
Team Quest Martial Arts and Fitness Website
American Top Team Website
