Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Can I join if I’m a beginner?

Absolutely! Most of our students start with zero martial arts experience. Our beginner classes are designed to help you learn the fundamentals in a welcoming, structured environment. Every week new students walk through our doors with no martial arts experience. Our coaches and experienced students help beginners feel comfortable from day one.

What happens during my first class?
Your first class is designed to be comfortable and beginner-friendly. You’ll meet your coach, learn basic movements, practice techniques, and get a feel for the training environment. You will never be thrown into something you are not ready for. And if you feel uncomfortable ask if you can "just watch" and a trainer will happily accommodate.

What is the culture like at Powell MMA and Fitness?
We are a team-focused gym where beginners, hobbyists and competitors share the mat. Everyone remembers what it was like to be new. You will likely be welcomed by more experienced students, not shunned.

Is Powell MMA and Fitness close to me?
We have members from almost every community in Cincinnati. We serve Downtown Cincinnati, Clifton, Covington, Newport, Northern Kentucky, Fort Thomas, Bellevue, Oakley, Hyde Park, and many more communities in the greater Cincinnati area.

How old do I have to be to train?

Adults must be 18 years old unless training with a parent or legal guardian.

What should I wear or bring to my first class?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that you can move in. Bring sandals or shoes to wear when you are off the mats, and bring a water bottle for our water refill station.

What equipment do I need?

Nothing is required to get started. We have loaner gloves available for your first two classes. For Jiu-Jitsu, you can begin training without any special equipment.

Do I need to sign up before my first class?

Yes! Book your first class through the “Book First Class” button on our website. Please arrive about 15 minutes early so you can complete your waiver, meet your coach, and get a quick tour of the gym.

Membership & Pricing

Is there a commitment? How does pricing work?

No! Our pricing is simple, transparent, and straightforward. Your first two classes are completely free with no strings attached.

We offer some of the most competitive martial arts membership pricing in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky while providing an incredible amount of training value.

Can I attend as many classes as I want?

Yes! Unlimited memberships allow you to attend as many classes as your body and schedule can handle.

Some students train twice per week, while others attend 8-10 classes per week.

Do you offer family discounts?

Yes! Additional family memberships receive 20% off so the whole family can train together.

Classes & Training

How big are the classes?

Class sizes vary, but most classes average between 7-15 students. This allows you to get quality instruction while still having great training partners.

How long are classes?

Classes typically run between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

Do I have to spar?

No. Most beginner classes do not include uncontrolled live sparring. You are always welcome to sit out and observe any portion of class you are not comfortable participating in.

Many students train for years without ever competing.

Do I have to compete?

Absolutely not! The majority of our students are hobbyists who train for fitness, confidence, self-defense, and personal growth.

For students who want to compete, we have dedicated advanced and competition training sessions.

Gi or No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu?

We are primarily a No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu school, meaning you do not need special equipment to start your journey.

If you enjoy training in the Gi, you are welcome to bring one for open mats and designated Gi classes.

Do you teach leg locks?

Yes. Our curriculum follows an 8-week structure, with one week dedicated specifically to leg locks.

As Dean Lister said:

“Why would you ignore 50% of the human body?”

We believe understanding leg attacks and defenses is an important part of modern Jiu-Jitsu.

Self Defense & Fitness

Is Jiu-Jitsu good for self-defense?

Yes. Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense because it allows a smaller or weaker person to use technique, leverage, and position to control a larger opponent.

Are Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu good for weight loss?

Absolutely. We have seen many students lose 40-60+ pounds through consistent training.

You do not need to get in shape before starting. Training is how you begin building your fitness.

Am I too old to start?

No! We have many members who started training in their 40s and 50s. Martial arts is a lifelong journey that can be adapted to your goals and fitness level.

Kids Martial Arts

Do you have kids classes?

Yes! We offer structured martial arts classes for kids ages 5-12.

Book your child's first free class through the “Book First Class” button on our website.

Can parents watch classes?

Yes! We have seating directly next to the mats where parents can watch classes.

My child is shy, cries, or struggles paying attention. Can they still train?

Absolutely. Many children start out nervous or unsure.

One of the amazing things about martial arts is watching kids gain confidence, focus, and comfort as they continue attending classes.

Where can kids learn martial arts near me?

Kids ages 5-12 can start their martial arts journey at Powell MMA and Fitness with structured, beginner-friendly classes designed to build confidence and skills.

Kids memberships start at just $49/month.

Belts & Progress

Can I get a black belt?

Yes. Our coaches are IBJJF-certified and can guide you through the belt progression system.

On average:

Blue belt: 1-2 years with consistent training
Black belt: approximately 10 years

Progress depends on consistency, skill development, and dedication.

Visitors & Community

I’m visiting Cincinnati. Can I train?

Absolutely! We love welcoming visitors and drop-ins. Just let us know when you plan to come train.

OSS!

Do many women train at Powell MMA?

Yes! We have one of the strongest female training communities in the area.

We offer a dedicated women's-only class once per week, and women train in nearly every class. You will almost never be the only woman on the mats.

I’m a college student. Can I train?

Absolutely. We have many college students who train with us, and we are only a few miles from the University of Cincinnati campus.

Facilities

Are the mats cleaned regularly?

Yes. Our mats are cleaned every single day without fail.

Do you have bathrooms and showers?

Yes! We have men's and women's bathrooms and changing areas equipped with showers.

Is there parking?

Yes! We have a large parking lot directly in front of our building with free parking.

Unlike many gyms in Cincinnati, you won't have to worry about paying for parking every time you train.

Location

Where is Powell MMA located?

We are located just north of Cincinnati Union Terminal and just west of FC Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium.

Where can beginners learn Jiu-Jitsu in Cincinnati?

Look no further. Powell MMA offers dedicated beginner classes every week where new students can learn Jiu-Jitsu in a structured and welcoming environment.