Bindner Academy

1615 N Routledge Park #19, London, ON N6H 5L6, Canada

4.8 (31 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Self-Defense

Classes

Adults Classes Kids Classes

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Learn martial arts in an ego-free, life-affirming envionment, for the whole family.

Coaches

Derek Bindner Head Coach Owner

Black Belt

Founder of Bindner Academy; martial arts enthusiast and former executive protection specialist and doorperson, with a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.

Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Bindner Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Reviews

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Tslondon

Sensei Derek is one amazing person. Him along with his senior student's have been super helpful with my transition back from sedentary life to martial arts/self defense. I trained as a young adult for many years and was hesitant to commit to coming back to martial arts in my “elder” years. I kept in contact with sensei over the years and finally had the ability to commit to returning with my adult son. We are both enjoying the classes as well as the fellow students and mentors. I hope to continue to grow my martial art journey for many years. Thank you for being there for us!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 months ago
Greg TheMan

Derek is the GOAT. This place is 5 star, no less. Thanks for everything, Derek!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 months ago
Oreet Stefanic

This is truly the best Jiu Jitsu place Ive ever been to in all Canada ! Derek (the coach), and the people that go to the adult Jiu Jitsu classes are truly amazing, funny, supportive, and know their shit. I went to Ontario for a week vacation and now I want to stay just to go to this gym.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 months ago
Jonah Melville

I have no experience with Martial Arts. I was lucky to find Bindner Academy. The guidance from Derek has been fantastic. Coming into this community as an over 35 adult I was apprehensive about how I would fit in and be accepted. I was concerned if Jiu-Jitsu would be too hard to learn. Or If I would be safe learning it. Derek and the community have been very Welcoming, encouraging, and provided a safe space to learn. If you are interested in learning Jiu-jitsu and not sure where to start I would highly recommend that you contact Derek Bindner to get started. I am very happy that I took the leap and I was rewarded with finding such a great community. Thank you again Derek!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 months ago
Dylan Tuff

I’ve been training at Bindner Academy for about a year and a half now, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health and personal growth. Derek is an outstanding instructor who genuinely cares about his students and has built an incredible culture at the academy. The program is challenging, practical, and welcoming for all skill levels. Since starting, I’ve gotten into much better shape, gained confidence, learned valuable skills, and met a lot of great people who have become good friends. What really stands out is the atmosphere — respectful, supportive, and ego-free. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, learn self-defense, challenge yourself mentally, or just become part of a great community, I highly recommend Bindner Academy. You can tell Derek is passionate about what he teaches, and it shows in the quality of the program and the people it attracts.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 months ago
Dutch Deckaj

I was visiting London from out of the country and was looking for a gym to drop into and I’m glad I dropped into Bindner academy. Incredibly warm and inviting group of people, made a stranger feel right at home. My experience was so fantastic, really a positive environment and really dig how long they drill in on a whole sequence not just an individual movement or single technique. I will definitely come train again next time I return to London!
Posted 1 year ago
Tim Rush

Our experience with Derek and Binder Academy has been extremely positive. Derek is not only a martial arts expert, but also a role model and mentor. His authenticity, patience, and empathy are unmatched. We will never forget how he effortlessly builds the confidence of children and youth during some of their most challenging years. Thank you sincerely for the great work you do.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jonathan Roach

Binder Academy has been influential in my martial arts journey. Sensei Derek takes great care in building a great martial arts community and martial artist. Utilizing his vast knowledge and experience I have seen rapid progression in my goal of becoming a complete martial artist and better human being. Osu!
Posted 1 year ago
Joey Paciocco

Sensei Derek has a great way with students- particularly with kids. He teaches important life lessons and helps build confidence in his students. The environment is positive and fun. The adults I see going to class seem to be as enthusiastic as the kids so I'd recommend for anyone.
Posted 1 year ago
Alaa

I enjoyed my first class at Bindner Academy—Derek was welcoming, and the class was well-structured. However, the day after I attended, my membership was cancelled when I didn’t provide my employer’s name. This wasn’t something asked for during registration or required for the payment receipt. I had already completed the registration process and was told I passed the interview, so this was unexpected. Additionally, the academy only accepts e-transfers, with no credit or debit card options, which I found a bit inconvenient. Overall, I appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of the academy but was disappointed with how the membership process unfolded.
Posted 2 years ago