MMA in Bend, Oregon
Updated 1/30/25
If you’re looking to join an MMA gym in Bend, there are quite a few great options!
Welcome to "All Things Bend," your ultimate guide to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Bend, Oregon. Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Cascade Mountains, Bend has emerged as a hotspot for a number of MMA enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned fighter looking to sharpen your skills or a beginner eager to explore the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Bend has several top-notch gyms to help you meet your goals. These gyms offer training in disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and more, catering to all skill levels and ages. If you’re ready to build strength, improve self-defense skills, or just get a killer workout, the MMA gyms in Bend have you covered.
Top MMA Gyms in Bend (2025)
Danzig MMA
Website: Visit Danzig MMA
Address: 63056 Lower Meadow Dr, Bend, OR 97701
Overview: Founded by former UFC fighter Mac Danzig, this gym offers a well-rounded MMA program for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Danzig MMA focuses on blending various martial arts styles, including striking, grappling, and conditioning, to create complete fighters.
What They Offer:
MMA training for all skill levels
Classes in Muay Thai, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Focus on cardio, strength, and mental discipline
What People Are Saying:
“The instructors are knowledgeable and approachable. They push you to improve without making the atmosphere intimidating.”
“I’ve gained both confidence and technical skill here. It’s a great place to learn.”
Straight Blast Gym (SBG) Bend
Website: Visit Straight Blast Gym
Address: 550 NW Franklin Ave, Suite 338, Bend, OR 97702
Overview: SBG Bend is one of the most respected martial arts gyms in the area, known for its comprehensive training programs and strong sense of community. The gym offers a mix of MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), and Muay Thai, with classes designed for both competitive athletes and those training for fitness and self-defense.
What They Offer:
Programs in MMA, BJJ, Muay Thai, and wrestling
Kid-friendly classes, women-only classes, and fitness programs
Emphasis on mental and physical growth in a supportive environment
What People Are Saying:
“This gym is like a second family. They focus on building you up both physically and mentally.”
“Straight Blast Gym is a game-changer. The coaches know how to push you without making it overwhelming.”
Bonus: Check out our guide to jiu jitsu classes in Bend to learn more about BJJ opportunities in town.
Clark’s University of Martial Arts
Website: Visit Clark’s UMA
Address: 61535 S Highway 97, Bend, OR 97702
Overview: Clark’s University of Martial Arts emphasizes a holistic approach to martial arts training. In addition to MMA, the gym offers Taekwondo, kickboxing, and self-defense classes. Their programs are designed to teach discipline, respect, and personal growth for students of all ages.
What They Offer:
MMA classes combined with traditional martial arts like Taekwondo
Programs for children, teens, and adults
Focus on character-building and life skills
What People Are Saying:
“My kids love it here. They’ve become more disciplined and confident.”
“Great for beginners. The instructors are patient and skilled.”
Smith Fitness & Martial Arts
Website: Visit Smith Fitness & Martial Arts
Address: Bend, OR
Overview: Smith Fitness & Martial Arts blends traditional fitness training with martial arts disciplines. Their MMA program incorporates a mix of striking and grappling techniques, while fitness classes focus on building overall strength and endurance.
What They Offer:
MMA classes focusing on technique, strength, and conditioning
Personalized training plans
Fitness classes designed to complement martial arts training
What People Are Saying:
“The mix of fitness and martial arts keeps training fresh and effective.”
“I’ve lost weight and gained muscle, all while learning self-defense techniques.”
High Desert Martial Arts
Website: Visit High Desert Martial Arts
Address: 20795 High Desert Ln #3, Bend, OR 97701
Overview: High Desert Martial Arts is known for its diverse range of programs, including MMA, kickboxing, and traditional martial arts. Their experienced instructors provide tailored instruction to meet the needs of both beginners and competitive fighters.
What They Offer:
MMA, kickboxing, and traditional martial arts classes
Programs for both recreational and competitive athletes
Focus on fitness, technique, and self-discipline
What People Are Saying:
“The coaches are supportive but also challenge you to push your limits.”
“This gym has a great atmosphere, with a good balance of fun and hard work.”
Connection Rio BJJ Bend
Website: Visit Connection Rio BJJ
Address: 61485 S Highway 97, Bend, OR 97702
Overview: Connection Rio BJJ primarily focuses on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but integrates elements of MMA for those interested in expanding their skillset. The gym has a laid-back atmosphere while maintaining high-quality instruction.
What They Offer:
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes with MMA cross-training
Emphasis on grappling and ground control
Classes for all ages and skill levels
What People Are Saying:
“Great place to learn BJJ with knowledgeable instructors.”
“They help you progress at your own pace, without pressure.”
Ralph Gracie BJJ Bend
Website: Visit Ralph Gracie BJJ
Address: 1310 SE Reed Market Road, Suite 120, Bend, OR 97701
Overview: Part of the legendary Ralph Gracie lineage, this gym offers top-tier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, with additional opportunities for MMA cross-training. Known for its disciplined and technical approach, Ralph Gracie BJJ is ideal for those serious about improving their grappling and overall MMA skills.
What They Offer:
World-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction
MMA integration with striking and ground techniques
Focus on discipline, technique, and competition readiness
What People Are Saying:
“Ralph Gracie gyms always deliver the highest quality instruction.”
“This gym has a great mix of traditional BJJ and modern MMA techniques.”
The Evolution of MMA in Bend
Bend, Oregon, renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, has seen an unexpected evolution over the years – a growing passion for Mixed Martial Arts. This isn't just a fleeting trend but a reflection of Bend's vibrant and dedicated community that seeks excellence in every endeavor.
The journey of MMA in Bend mirrors the spirit of the sport itself. Just as MMA brings together diverse martial arts forms into a cohesive whole, Bend has become a melting pot of martial traditions, styles, and techniques. From traditional martial arts dojos to modern MMA gyms, Bend offers a rich tapestry of learning experiences for fighters and enthusiasts.
Local gyms, backed by experienced instructors, offer training that caters to everyone - from the casual enthusiast looking for a new fitness routine to the professional fighter prepping for their next big bout. The collaborative spirit of Bend's MMA community stands out, with gyms often hosting joint events, seminars, and sparring sessions.
As Bend's MMA scene continues to thrive, "All Things Bend" remains committed to capturing its essence, ensuring locals and visitors alike have the insights they need to navigate and become part of this dynamic community.
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MMA in Bend
Common Martial Arts Trained Today
Martial arts have evolved over centuries, with many styles becoming popular for self-defense, fitness, and competition. Here’s a look at some of the most common martial arts practiced today:
Kickboxing
Focuses on striking techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.
Combines elements of boxing and traditional martial arts like karate.
Great for improving cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and coordination.
Boxing
A combat sport that emphasizes punches, footwork, and head movement.
Known for building hand-eye coordination, speed, and stamina.
Popular in both professional competition and as a fitness routine.
Wrestling
One of the oldest combat sports, focusing on grappling and takedowns.
Develops strength, balance, and control through ground techniques.
Often serves as a foundational skill for mixed martial arts (MMA).
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)
A ground-based martial art emphasizing submissions, chokes, and joint locks.
Teaches technique over brute strength, making it accessible to all skill levels.
Popular for self-defense, competition, and as a key component of MMA.
Judo
Originating from Japan, Judo focuses on throws, grappling, and groundwork.
Encourages discipline and respect while developing balance and agility.
An Olympic sport with a strong emphasis on technique and control.
Muay Thai
Known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” it incorporates strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
Highly effective for self-defense and widely used in MMA training.
Builds endurance, strength, and mental toughness.
Taekwondo
A Korean martial art focusing on dynamic kicking techniques and agility.
Includes forms (patterns) and sparring, blending traditional and modern elements.
An Olympic sport that also emphasizes discipline and self-control.
Karate
A traditional Japanese martial art with a focus on strikes, blocks, and kata (forms).
Promotes mental and physical discipline, as well as self-defense skills.
Widely practiced in dojos worldwide, with a strong emphasis on respect.
Krav Maga
A self-defense system developed for the Israeli military.
Focuses on real-world scenarios, using aggressive techniques to neutralize threats.
Practical and efficient, designed for all fitness levels.
FAQs - MMA Gyms Around Bend
What are the top MMA gyms in Bend, Oregon?
Several gyms in Bend offer comprehensive MMA training, including Connection Rio, Straight Blast Gym, Ralph Gracie Academy, MMA Bend, and High Desert Martial Arts.
How popular is MMA in Bend, Oregon?
MMA has been rapidly gaining traction in Bend, Oregon. With the presence of renowned gyms and frequent local MMA events, the sport has attracted a significant following from enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Are there any MMA tournaments or events held in Bend, Oregon?
Yes, Bend regularly hosts local MMA tournaments, workshops, and sparring events. It's a good idea to check with local gyms like MMA Bend and Connection Rio for information on upcoming events.
What kind of classes can I expect at Bend MMA gyms?
MMA gyms in Bend offer a range of classes catering to different skill levels, from beginner sessions to advanced training. You can expect classes in striking, grappling, strength and conditioning, and sparring, among others.
Is MMA training suitable for self-defense?
MMA provides a comprehensive self-defense toolkit as it combines techniques from various martial arts, including boxing, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu.
How often should I train MMA to see progress?
For noticeable progress, it's recommended to train MMA 2-4 times a week. However, the key is consistency. Even if you train less frequently, regular practice can lead to significant improvements.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to start MMA?
No, MMA is adaptable for individuals of all backgrounds. Many gyms in Bend offer beginner classes that introduce the fundamental techniques and concepts of MMA.
What equipment do I need to start MMA training?
For beginners, it's essential to have MMA gloves, shin guards, mouthguard, and protective headgear. As you progress, you might also need grappling shorts, rash guards, and a Gi for specific training sessions.
Why is MMA considered a mixed martial art?
MMA, or Mixed Martial Arts, combines techniques and strategies from various martial arts disciplines, allowing fighters to use both striking and grappling techniques, whether standing or on the ground.