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Change up your Hudson Valley fitness routine with intense training and engaging workouts at these mixed martial arts (MMA) gyms.
Tired of the same old elliptical routine at the gym? Feeling like you’ve hit a plateau with your running loop? Say goodbye to the tried and tired sweat sessions and try your hand (or should we say your fist?) at mixed martial arts.
Mixed martial arts, or MMA, is the rough and tough sport that has sparked public interest both on television (hello UFC) and in the Hudson River region. If you’re looking for a local exercise alternative that leaves you breathless, head to one of the Valley’s MMA gyms. You’ll walk away with a hardcore fitness regimen that engrains self-defense techniques.
99/1 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Dutcher Martial Arts
Athens, Kingston
With locations in Kingston and Athens, the sister gyms of Dutcher Martial Arts and 99/1 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) offer instruction for interested individuals ages three and up. Specializations include Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, wrestling, MMA, and martial arts for children. Classes are led by a black belt instructor with over 15 years of experience.
Atlas Jiu Jitsu
Albany, Glens Falls, Valatie
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With three locations in the Hudson Valley, Atlas is a one-stop shop for all things MMA. Brush up on your striking skills, learn all about judo, and master the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu at any of the fitness centers, which cater to beginners and experts alike. For more experienced practitioners, scheduled bouts are available to give fighters a taste of what it’s like to be in the ring. At its Albany headquarters, Atlas boasts over 6,000 sq ft of mat space.
Bad Mikey’s MMA and Fitness
Mahopac
Through the combined force of helping customers simultaneously develop their striking, stamina, and strength, Bad Mikey’s MMA and Fitness gym turns customers into family. Visitors leave the gym feeling confident and energetic, with program options ranging from cycling to self-defense to boxing boot camp. Pop by during the week between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. or on the weekend between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.Â
Black Hole Jiu Jitsu
Cortland, Mahopac, New Paltz, Wappingers Falls
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With not one, but four locations along the river, Black Hole is one of the premier places to get your workout on in the Hudson Valley. All classes—from boxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu to MMA and wrestling—aim to incorporate serious fitness with a general passion for the world of martial arts. For little learners, the Mighty Mites BJJ (ages 3-6) and the Juniors BJJ (ages 7-14) offer approachable introductions to the regimented sport.
Empire Defense & Fitness Inc.
Albany
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Headquartered in Albany, Empire hosts classes on Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Krav Maga, and Muay Thai kickboxing, obstacle course and ninja warrior training, and self-defense. For the MMA courses, no prior knowledge of the sport is required, and competitions are optional for those who want to put their fighting and sparring skills to use. As for fitness benefits, Empire’s MMA classes combine entertainment with intensity to build muscle, burn calories, and increase metabolism.
Hudson Valley Martial Arts and Boxing Academy
Nanuet
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Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Sunday during the week, Hudson Valley Martial Arts and Boxing Academy has been alive and thriving since 2010. The Nanuet center teaches striking, locking, joint manipulation, self-defense, and mental discipline to entry-level and experienced practitioners who seek a serious challenge. In addition to martial arts and boxing instruction, kickboxing and Muay Thai courses are also available.
Mauceri Muay Thai
Kingston
This studio in the Hudson Valley Mall was opened by the Hudson Valley’s first professional Muay Thai and kickboxing fighter, Chris Mauceri. Coach Mauceri’s rich experience in professional fighting creates an incredible martial arts experience for all ages. From kids’ classes all the way up to an advanced level, there is something for everyone at this studio.
Related: Here’s What to Do in the Hudson Valley This Week
The MMA Collective
Red Hook
A family-owned and -operated studio, The MMA Collective brings community-minded martial arts to northern Dutchess. Visit any day during the week for classes on BJJ, judo, wrestling, boxing, submission, grappling, and more. Come summer, The MMA Collective offers camp programming as well.
Precision Boxing & MMA
Poughkeepsie
A combination boxing and mixed martial arts studio, Precision offers programs that focus on Muay Thai kickboxing, BJJ, and grappling self-defense. Inside the facility, three training rooms allow students to get the most from each lesson, while an octagon ring simulates a traditional MMA fighting arena. Zebra wall padding and crash pads are optimal for takedowns and tackling during practices. As a major bonus, Precision makes a point to clean the gym twice a day and maintain strict hygiene policies. For young learners, classes for children are available as well.
Renzo Gracie MMA Academy
Middletown
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Located in Middletown, the academy offers a balance of beginner, self-defense, and expert courses for MMA enthusiasts throughout the Hudson Valley. Founder Renzo Gracie is a retired professional fighter and jiu-jitsu coach who has helped train renowned fighters like Matt Serra, Georges St. Pierre, Frankie Edgar, and Chris Weidman. Needless to say, the man knows his stuff. In addition to the regular lineup of classes, the center also offers self-defense, wrestling, and children’s jiu-jitsu instruction.
Stockade
Kingston
Situated in Kingston’s uptown historic district, Stockade is a resource for anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Kali. Individuals of all skill levels are welcome to the medley of classes, which are usually held in the evenings throughout the week. On the weekends, stop by during the open mat hours to get your heart pumping.
UFC Gym
White Plains
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A registered UFC gym, the White Plains location brings top-of-the-line training options to aspiring fighters and fitness-minded locals. Inside, a traditional octagon and bag room await, while dynamic MMA classes, a youth gym, and group fitness and personal training sessions offer everything visitors could crave. As for opening hours, UFC Gym is a boon for anyone who wants to rise and grind. The space opens from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. during the week, with availability from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays.
