Bendu Academy - MMA, Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Wrestling
4101 Spring Grove Ave Suite B, Cincinnati, OH 45223, USA
Visit our gym in Northside and experience high-level personalized tuition in the most effective martial arts
4101 Spring Grove Ave Suite B, Cincinnati, OH 45223, USA
Visit our gym in Northside and experience high-level personalized tuition in the most effective martial arts
We are so happy to have found this gym! Everyone we have encountered here has been kind and inclusive. Blayne kindly took time to talk me through all of my questions (more than once) and has provided meaningful feedback whenever we ask for help. The more experienced students are really supportive and encouraging. You can tell it is important to everyone to build a community here. We appreciate this group and hope to know them for a long time!
Posted 1 year agoI've had the privilege of knowing Blayne, the owner of Bendu Academy, since the 7th grade. Watching his journey—from a passionate competitor to the proud owner of a thriving gym—has been nothing short of inspiring. Blayne has always stood out for his dedication, but what truly sets him apart is his ability to teach anyone, no matter their experience level. Whether you're stepping onto the mats for the first time or you're a seasoned athlete, Blayne has a unique way of connecting with each student, meeting them where they are, and helping them grow. The energy inside Bendu Academy is electric—you can feel it as soon as you walk through the doors. It's fueled by Blayne’s love for the sport and his genuine passion for sharing his knowledge with others. His leadership creates an environment that is welcoming, motivating, and constantly evolving. It’s been an honor to witness his growth and success over the years, and I have no doubt that both he and Bendu Academy will continue to rise. Above all, I’ll always consider Blayne a great friend and someone I deeply respect. If you're looking for a place to train, grow, and be part of a true community, Bendu Academy is where you want to be. Bushido
Posted 1 year agoThis gym has had an amazing impact on my life, even in just a short time of attending. The instructors are incredibly talented and amazing teachers, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where anyone and everyone can grow. I came in as a complete beginner and have been met with nothing but kindness and positivity from the mentors and fellow members. I've seen mental and physical changes, I feel more calm and confident, while also becoming more fit and skilled. It's a very well maintained gym with a well knit community. Absolutely amazing gym, seriously recommend to everyone, try it out at least once.
Posted 1 year agoAwesome gym atmosphere. The instructors here are very knowledgeable and informative. There are people here with all experience levels from beginner to pro, and everyone has been very kind and friendly and most importantly helpful. I’ve really enjoyed learning BJJ and Muay Thai here and plan to sign up my kids for BJJ!
Super welcoming
1st day and was so impressed with the teaching style, level of professionalism and expertise. Would highly recommend!! Thanks guys!
Great gym! Relaxed atmosphere with highly skilled instructors.
I dropped in at Bendu for a class while visiting from out of town and will be doing so anytime I am in Cincinnati as I had a fantastic experience. Blayne is welcoming, friendly, and a phenomenal coach. The facility is huge, with plenty of mat space, exercise space, and workout equipment. The mats and facilities are also exceptionally clean and well taken care of. The level of coaching is top notch and I even picked up some passing mechanics that I’d never seen before and had some excellent rolls with Blayne at the end of the session. If you are looking for a great gym to drop in at or begin your BJJ journey, Bendu is the place to be! Thanks again to Blayne, I look forward to seeing you guys again in the future!
Bendu Academy has been such a positive force in my son’s life. He was instantly welcomed into the community and has benefited so much from being mentored by the teachers there. I can’t say enough good things about the team at Bendu and the impact it’s had on my son’s life. Highly recommended ! A ++
10/10 high recommend. Even if you are timid, they make you feel welcomed. Great personalities to be around!
I used to train at other Cincinnati-based gyms, and all of them were good. This gym really clicked with me. After training here for a while, I can say this is an EXCELLENT gym. The gym culture is a no-ego zone and a learning environment is enforced here. Whether you’re doing this for a hobby or wanting to challenge and dedicate yourself to martial arts and all that comes with it, this gym offers you both walks of life.
My 3 kids are learning so much, so quickly here. Blayne, Skylee, and Lane are excellent instructors who take their jobs seriously and expertly manage to instill discipline while allowing the kids to have Fun. My kids are more agile and confident in their strength since beginning Bendu. Highly, highly recommended.
Our 7-year-old loves the kids classes here! The instructors are amazing, and he always looks forward to going. Blayne, Lane, and Skylee are so great with the kids. We especially love the flexible schedule so he can attend around other sports schedules.
Highly recommend 🙌 all instructors are amazing and make you feel right at home. I am very thankful for all the instructors and their dedication to their students. This place rocks 💪🏼🤩
Excellent excellent excellent. Stopped in while traveling and couldn’t have made a better choice than Bendu academy. Professor Blayne is very welcoming and super talented. Great workout & instruction, clean facilities and bad to the bone jiu jitsu!! Boa 100/5 stars 🌟
Excellent facility skilled fighters good for experienced and beginner martial artists 🥋 🥊
Great atmosphere and awesome people
Not my main gym but I came here looking for some new looks and some good training. And I definitely got what I wanted. They have a really nice coach that had no problem breaking down the moves and coming over to give me a few pointers. If you’re a beginner I would recommend, very beginner friendly. If you’re experienced or intermediate I would also highly recommend. Very nice gym from what I experienced so far. If I were you I would definitely give it a shot if you’re in the area trying to train for competition or just yourself.
So much fun! Super friendly atmosphere, not at all intimidating for beginners. Definitely going back. 10/10 experience for first timers
Went in for a one on one training session and loved it! I have no prior experience in jiu jitsu and being a female it’s pretty intimidating starting to train but Blayne explained everything in detail and made sure I was comfortable the whole time. 100% would recommend anyone coming to Bendu!!
Tried out Bendu for the first free class they offered and had an absolute blast. If you want to get better at BJJ and be around competitive people who only want to see you succeed this is the place for you!
Blayne is a friendly, nice, and laid back instructor. He is very knowledgeable and can coach anyone from beginners to advanced. The people who train there are very supportive and the environment is kept very clean.
I swung on Friday, and honestly I had an incredible time. The coaches were super kind and had great knowledge. Will be happily coming back, can’t recommend it enough!
Very friendly and comfortable atmosphere.
Yo! Love this place. The instructor was knowledgeable and the space was welcoming. Thanks Blayne and Lane for the community and friendship, and thank you to all the other members for the solid rounds. 10/10 would and will go again. Cheers
Killer open mat! Great rolls. Super talented people!
High level gym! I am traveling through town and came in as a walk-in, very welcoming.
The coaches and team are not only talented and knowledgeable but are hilarious. The environment is fun and friendly will still having gritty rounds of sparring and rolling. A good place to learn have a good time and get beat up.
Awesome MMA gym legit as they come look forward to keeping up my combat sports career here before becoming pro. Instructors are welcomint and motivating to get better. Show up to Bendu and learn the way
highly recommended
The staff is so supportive and creative in their trainings they offer! Coming back from an injury, I wasn’t sure what I was able to do anymore. I felt fully supported in this diverse community, and have been encouraged to push myself, while ALSO meet myself where I’m at TODAY! So thankful and feeling stronger and more badass each class!
This gym has been so welcoming to everyone I’ve known that attends. The owners and members of the gym are very friendly and make the gym a very comfortable place.
welcoming and friendly professional atmosphere
Instructors are so handsome!
My very antisocial 6 year old started today and I thought the staff was extremely helpful. Firm, yet supportive, great class management and really worked with my daughter who has 0 athletic experience and poor balance. Might even sign up for a few classes myself. Very clean environment. Great beginner class and I can tell she’s going to gain confidence, because the staff exudes it themselves and the long term kids seem so happy and comfortable. Great academy.
Super welcoming and friendly people! Great space, very clean. Good vibes all around.
Went up for their open mat on Sunday and had a blast! Rolled with a ton of cool people, good vibes all around
Great dudes! Super kind and super chill. Would recommend!
Today I visited the gym for the first time, Jiu Jitsu class, I really like it, great guys, great trainer and great location, safe parking and also great staff, thanks for a good workout
Dropped into Bendu today for their open mat & the vibes are immaculate. ☺️ Blayne was super inviting, I’m so happy that Northside has their own little jiujitsu gym. I will definitely be back to drop in & for open mats. Excited to check out their classes in the future.
This place is great! I was visiting from out of town and they welcomed me with open arms and a great atmosphere. Training partners and coaches are all very nice and knowledgeable, good group! And CLEAN. Can’t recommend highly enough
Dropped in for an open mat - sick space, welcoming culture, and great rounds.
Blayne and his crew welcomed me with open arms as a drop-in! Definitely looking forward to training here more.
Absolutely loved training at this gym! Coach Blayne is an awesome guy, super knowledgeable, supportive, and always brings great energy to every class. The facility is spotless, and the classes are top-notch. Highly recommend for anyone looking to train in a welcoming and clean environment!
Best gym, best coach, best people, best spot, best jujitsu, A no brainer to train here.
Dope instructor, cool students. Was able to learn a lot in just a few weeks.
Awesome place! The coach was super cool and everyone helped each other out when needed and worked together very well. I highly recommend checking this place out!
I love watching my daughters self esteem grow and her learn patience with herself. The instructors are stern yet so kind and supportive. Bendu is exactly what we were looking for in an organized sport. 🙌🏾
I’ve been going here for about three months and I love it the coaches are very knowledgeable and down to earth so it feels like a type of family all skill ranges and all ages can train here I started with no experience and already can feel the difference 10/10 mma gym
Bendu is a place for beginners,intermediate learners and everyone in between. Bendu was accepting of me as a total beginner and the coaches have been willing to modify exercises to fit my skill level. I highly recommend Bendu for anyone looking to learn a new skill,meet cool people and gain strength,balance and lose weight.
One of the most welcoming gyms I've been in. I can't think of a better place to get a bruise.
Lovely place! First time ever doing this and I was welcomed warm heartedly and encouraged even though I'm a big ol rookie. Thank you 💓
I have zero experience with martial arts in my 30+ years of life. That literally doesn't matter. So long as you show up and are willing to learn you are going to walk away with a way better understanding of the practice and how your body works. Plus, I just feel badass. Thanks to everyone training and teaching at Bendu. Y'all are so patient and helpful as I'm learning what seems like a different language.
My daughter started taking kids jiu jitsu classes the second week that Bendu opened. Having never done any form of martial arts myself, I can honestly say it has not only been an incredible experience stepping into the space they’ve created at Bendu but an inviting one. The instructors are patient, kind and respectful, they encourage the children and take their time to make sure no one feels left out or behind ( it’s a mix level class). I find that it has been a very enriching experience for my daughter. She looks forward to going to class and as a parent it’s been really fun watching her learn jiu jitsu and find confidence in herself.
Tons of respect to Coach Blayne for his level of jiu jitsu and hospitality. One of the best at balancing the difficult task of keeping training fun and friendly without compromising intensity and challenge. Thanks for having me
Blayne is an amazing instructor that helped me improve my jiu jitsu a lot. He creates an environment that makes it feel like your part of a family.
Blayne and Lane are amazing coaches. They have helped my son tremendously with his skillset and helped instill confidence and humility that has extended outside the gym as well.
Blayne is a fantastic practitioner, teacher, and the able-bodied manifestation of Aaron Thomas jiu-jitsu.
I have been trained by Blayne and Lane for over a year and I would highly recommend them based off of their knowledge, and how well they can teach that knowledge in a learnable way. In addition, they are great people and making their students feel like they are genuinely cared for.
The best gym I've ever been to
Great place to train BJJ. Highly recommend people to check out whether you are new or experienced. Coach is very knowledgeable and great petson.
Great place to train BJJ! The coach is very knowledgeable and good atmosphere to be in.
Blayne is the man ! and a great head coach, he understand the world of jiu jitsu and helps create a positive environment that helps you grow and thrive. 10/10 would recommend try something new in your life.
Wow. What an incredibly supportive atmosphere. Both of my sons are now training at Bendu and they have reignited their love of jiu jitsu training. The instructors are a wealth of knowledge, and are extremely kind and patient with the kids, all while still expecting dedication, hard work, and respect. The adult classes are also intense while still holding an inclusive and supportive vibe. Tons to learn, super happy with our choice to train here. Cannot recommend enough.
A great environment to begin your martial arts journey. I have learned a lot from the instructors at Bendu. A very safe and friendly academy. I am very happy with my experience.
Owner Blayne is a patient and seasoned instructor/fighter, the atmosphere is very light, always great rolls. Highly recommend!
I cannot say enough great things about Blayne, the head instructor & owner of Bendu. He has a special ability to clearly communicate movements & technique to beginners, while also being able to greatly expand the game of his more advanced students. He is building a special community at Bendu, and I would encourage anyone to be a part of it!
First experience there got me hooked
Incredible place ran be incredible ppl.
Blayne Hodges of Bendu Academy is an individual with a deep understanding in combat sports. Blayne displays a passion for the sport that is hard to find in other gyms in the tri-state area. Blayne exhibits his knowledge particularly in jujitsu, where you can see how detail oriented a true craftsman must have in order to teach others from all backgrounds. I highly recommend Blayne as an instructor and believe all current and new members will be satisfied with Bendu Academy.
Highly knowledgable instructors, i trained with blayne for a decade. He is full of knowledge and a patient teacher who creates a fun environment to learn jiu jitsu/ self defense.
Visited Bendu for their grand opening. Great location, great vibe. Very clean and well equipped. The instructors are not only experts, but incredibly welcoming and supportive to students of all backgrounds, age, and experience levels. The owners/operators make it clear they are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and all students will get the training and encouragement they need to achieve their goals. Well done Bendu!
Absolutely thrilled to have discovered this new martial arts academy, Bendu! From the moment I walked in, I felt a warm welcome and a sense of community. The instructors are not only highly skilled but also incredibly patient and supportive, making it the perfect place for beginners like me. The classes are well-structured, providing a great balance of discipline and fun. I’ve already learned so much in a short time and can’t wait to continue my journey here. If you’re looking to start or advance your martial arts training, this academy is the place to be! Five stars all the way!
Home away from home day in and day out. I know every single day when I walk into this gym I’m gonna get the work and the feedback needed and be safe while doing so. Forever grateful for Bendu and my coaches. Always super happy to be here.
Really welcoming environment, great training, beautiful space-- highly recommend!
Super professional and some of the most technical jiu jitsu and striking I’ve ever trained
Great establishment, even better dudes!
Great place and the professor are very knowledge about their craft
I've trained under blayne the last few years. I love the structure of his classes and his attention to detail. If blayne isn't teaching jiu jitsu, he's coaching it at a tournament. He has dedicated his life to the martial art and it shows. Maybe I'm biased, but I thoroughly enjoy his music selection as well.
I’ve been training with Blayne( head coach) for over a year now , and it's been an incredible experience so far! Blayne is top-notch, offering personalized attention to help you reach your goals. The atmosphere is supportive and motivating, making every class enjoyable. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned fighter, this gym provides the perfect environment to improve your skills and fitness levels. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to challenge themselves and have fun while doing it!
I've trained at many gyms and Blayne is the best coach that I've come across. He truly cares about each student's progression and answers questions in depth. He put more effort into answering my questions than any other coach I've had. Putting his advice and techniques into practice has always given me excellent results. He fosters a healthy training environment that I always felt comfortable in while still encouraging the competitive spirit that combat sports require. I highly regard his expertise and can easily recommend Bendu Academy.
A+ gym! Have had the privilege learning from Blayne. Awesome coach and an even better teacher.
I've known blayne for over 10 years and his knowledge of the art is amazing. I've always enjoyed training and learning from Blayne. The classes are always top notch and easy to grasp. Check out Bendu Academy if you are looking for excellent legit teachers.
all the women here are lovely and very welcoming :)
Coach Blaine has a vast knowledge of multiple disciplines. It’s obvious to see that his life is dedicated to martial arts.
Truly blessed I've found this place!!! NOTHING WILL STOP ME
This gym has top shelf martial arts instruction and a wonderful team atmosphere for both children and adults.
Blayne was one of my first instructors when I started training. His extensive knowledge and experience with BJJ makes him a great coach. Whether you have a little one first beginning their training, or are a middle-aged individual picking a up new hobby; you are in good hands under his instruction.
Wonderful customer service and very accommodating to beginners.
I’ve had the pleasure of training alongside Blayne for about a year. He is not only a top notch athlete but an incredible coach and friend. Blayne’s grasp of the fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu will build the foundation to set you up for success as he helps you develop the latest and greatest techniques used all over the world.
Great gym experience. Love the individuals that run it!
The coaches have a depth of knowledge and insight that is a reflection from their years of experience and teaching. Their personableness and ability to make the environment fun keeps their students coming back for the next class.
Great academy and instructors. I would recommend anyone locally or coming from out of town to come train here!
A great space! Clean, welcoming, and considerate of all levels of experience. Led by the kindest and most knowledgeable instructors who put their all into sharing their practice.
Bendu Academy provides a fantastic environment for training. The instructors are top-notch, knowledgeable, and create a supportive culture that fosters growth. Highly recommended for anyone looking to improve their skills in a welcoming atmosphere!
Check out the new Bendu MMA academy located in Northside’s main square (Blue Rock & Hamilton). Great for serious pursuit or just trying to keep in shape.
great gym, great owner, knowledgeable instructors, very clean. what else could you ask for? this place is it!!!
Blayne’s a great instructor with an awesome ability to teach classes with varying skill levels, whether it’s BJJ, Mauy Thai or MMA, everyone learns and gets better! Lane is an incredible teacher as well and always make sure everyone feels welcome in the gym.
Incredible facility and atmosphere. The instructors and student are all very welcoming to everyone. Classes are beneficial and accommodating for all levels. Love this place and its people!
Absolutely love this place! Great instructors, super welcoming environment, and very accommodating whether you are a beginner or experienced. Definitely check Bendu out!
Great place to train! Coaches really care about helping you get better on your individual martial arts journey!
Came here as a person pretty new to the sport, they are helpful and patient, and worked with me. Learned a lot from one lesson
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