The Israeli Academy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
MMA - Mixed Martial Arts
MMA Classes in Tel Aviv and Netanya
Mixed Martial Arts, or MMA, is a sport in which a wide range of fighting systems is permitted. The rules let a fighter use wrestling techniques, boxing and more, both standing and on the ground.
The sport originated in Vale Tudo bouts — Portuguese for "anything goes" — an unarmed combat sport with no time or weight limits that existed in Brazil from the 1920s onwards.
In the early 1980s the Brazilian Gracie family, who developed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, brought the sport to the United States, and MMA grew out of it.
In 1993 the sport broke into public awareness when the first Ultimate Fighting Championship tournament was held. The tournament was open to athletes from across the whole spectrum of martial arts, competing against each other with very few restrictions, in order to establish who was the best fighter and which was the best system.
The sport has come a long way since. Today there are many leagues around the world and it is one of the fastest-growing sports there is. It is no longer a case of system against system: MMA fighters now train specifically for MMA, with separate — and combined — sessions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling and Muay Thai, in order to become complete fighters.
MMA classes at the academy suit everyone, beginners and advanced, and this is not a fight club. Anyone who wants to train for enjoyment will find classes they enjoy. Anyone who wants to compete professionally gets separate support.
Classes are taught in Hebrew, but our instructors speak fluent English and a large part of our members are English speakers.
Where we train
The academy runs MMA classes at two branches — Tel Aviv (Yitzhak Sadeh 29) and Netanya (HaTzoran 4). MMA classes in Tel Aviv run several times a week and suit beginners and advanced alike. The MMA class in Netanya offers the same standard of instruction and the same programme.
Frequently asked questions about MMA
Do I need previous experience to start MMA?
You do not need experience, but it is worth understanding that MMA is not a single martial art. It is a sport combining two or more systems. Here we build the base from jiu-jitsu and add the striking dimension to complete the picture.
What is the difference between MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-jitsu is a martial art specialising in control, grips and submissions on the ground. MMA is a sport combining standing strikes, takedowns and ground work — and jiu-jitsu is one of its cornerstones. We covered this at length on the blog: MMA vs BJJ — what's the difference, and which one is right for you.
Are there MMA classes in Netanya?
Yes. MMA classes run in both Tel Aviv and Netanya. Details are in the schedule.
Does the training include strikes?
Yes, in a controlled way and with full protective equipment — gloves, shin guards and a mouthguard.
Can I combine MMA and jiu-jitsu in the same week?
Absolutely, and that is the combination we recommend for anyone who wants a complete game.
From what age can you train MMA?
From age 14 and up, men and women alike.
Are classes taught in English?
Classes are taught in Hebrew, but our instructors speak fluent English and a large part of our members are English speakers. On Saturday nights we run a class taught in English by Philip Paul.