Lisa Hess

I recommend Coach Frank Benn at Integrated Fighting Arts as the absolute best teacher for learning how to fight. He is not only an expert at the fighting arts, he genuinely cares about all his students. Coach takes the time to give context around what he is teaching and real life examples of fights to help students increase situational awareness. I am grateful for his teaching and recommend this school highly to anyone who wants to learn how to protect themselves.

Posted 8 months ago

Jenna Hogan

Coach Frank is an incredibly knowledgeable and skilled instructor who truly excels in all aspects of mixed martial arts. He has created an environment that is not only focused on technique but also fosters respect, kindness, and a sense of community. The gym has become a place where I feel both challenged and supported and I am very happy.

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Posted 1 year ago

J

I studied Filipino martial arts for 3 years as a teenager. I have learned more at this school in 6 months than I did in three years back then. The quality of knowledge Coach Frank has is difficult for me to find the right words for. He has been studying Filipino martial arts for 40 years and has a level of understanding to the point where it is almost just in his DNA, and an additional benefit is that the discipline I have learned under coach Frank has had a positive influence on the other aspects of my life from weight loss to my work performance.

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Posted 2 years ago

Joon Shin

I have been training at IFA for the last 2 years taking the boxing/Muay Thai, Filipino Kali, and conditioning classes. There are plenty of gyms in Austin but IFA is the best. Coach Frank Benn is the most experienced fight instructor in this city. No one can match his multidisciplinary experience nor his teaching style. Instead of just showing a technique to replicate, Coach Benn explains how that technique fits into a combat system allowing every student to develop their own personal style with a toolbox full of practical skills. The more you put in the more you will get out; if you demonstrate serious intent, Coach Benn will take a vested interest in your progress with customized feedback. Just as important as a good coach is the gym community. The other students are friendly, diverse, and supportive. Senior students are welcoming and always willing to help. There are no bullies or ego-driven brawlers here; sparring is done respectfully and safely so that everyone regardless of skill can practice and learn. In my time here I've made some lifelong friends who've helped me accomplish more than I thought I was capable of. If you are serious about learning how to fight, I promise you won't find a better place than IFA.

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Posted 2 years ago

Justin Lister

Frank Benn (Coach) has made a very welcoming environment for new folks like myself. I’ve always wanted to train but have limited myself because of the fear of unknown. However, once I walked in I felt at home and welcomed. The community who shares the space were all super friendly, supportive, and just generally good people.

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Posted 3 years ago

Nunya Bizniss

Joining IFA has been truly life-changing in so many areas that it’s difficult to summarize. I came here looking for 2 main things – to give my children the tools to defend themselves and to become a better father & man. I myself have experienced life-changing health benefits from joining IFA. My cardio was laughable when I started, but I’ve done a 180 since joining IFA. I can never go back to a sedentary lifestyle, for the sake of sustained health that allows me to be there for my family. All I can really say is you sort of have to experience it to appreciate it. With regard to my children, I sought legitimate self-defense lessons and not trophies, ribbons or even recognition. Coach Frank Benn has previous experience training children and has actually trained in martial arts since his youth, so he knows how to relate to children at any step of their martial arts journey. In our case, right away he knew exactly what my children needed and tailors his lessons for them. They’ve been training with Coach Benn since ages 6, 7 & 8 and they’ve had excellent guidance every step of the way. Almost every lesson we take at IFA is accompanied with historical & wisdom-filled context and insights that my children listened to and took to heart – especially when just last week, my eldest son got into his first fight with a bully who repeatedly provoked the conflict and also outweighed my son by at least 30 pounds and was taller by at least 7 inches. Twice, my son attempted to de-escalate the conflict, (which was directly from Coach Benn’s guidance, namely treating this knowledge/skill/wisdom of martial arts with respect) and when it became clear the bully would not relent, my son responded with “Ok. You throw the first punch” (again something he learned from Coach b/c he once related a similar story of his and knew he’d be justified in defending himself if the bully threw the punch first). During the actual fight, my son showed restraint by purposely not striking the bully in the face, which he easily could have done in more than one instance – attesting to the discipline he learned at IFA. But because of the training, the fight slowed-down for my son and enabled him to easily react in time. Additionally, my son utilized practical methods Coach Benn taught him to defend against someone much larger than him - this alone is a testament to the potency of Coach Frank Benn’s curriculum. No good parent truly desires for their child to get into a conflict. But unfortunately and regardless of what we’d like, the reality is that there are indeed bullies out there who start conflict and must learn the hard way. As a concerned parent that knows we will not always be around, at best, we’d like to take some comfort knowing our children are well equipped to defend themselves. And hopefully in the situation with my son, this bully did learn the hard lesson and won’t bully others in the future. We’ll never know, but if any single child is NOT bullied by this individual b/c of this experience, then we candidly have IFA to thank for it. My opening paragraph summarizes what I was looking for when I came to IFA and I can wholeheartedly say that I found it. If you’re willing to enjoy the exercise struggle, be willing to take your heart rate out of your comfort zone, be coachable, then in my honest opinion, you too will find what you’re looking for at IFA.

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Posted 3 years ago

Julian Mora

This is the greatest mixed martial arts gym of all time. Coach Frank Benn genuinely cares about his students. You can actually tell that he dedicates his life to combat sports and real life combat as is. The students here are also amazing, very friendly, kind, and always want to help you improve. Would infinitely recommend this gym if you are looking to learn how to fight and compete in combat sports such as MMA or boxing. You'll have the greatest coach of all time and a solid team to train with.

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Posted 3 years ago

Erik Posey

Hands down, one of the best places to learn how to box. Coach Benn is fantastic, and fosters an environment where everyone is welcome, respectful, and encouraging of each other. He's a true student of the game, and is one of the kindest souls out there.

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Posted 3 years ago

Benjamin Hanna

Coach Benn's gym is unique. There is no room for training that doesn't work, but what works isn't always easy. Come here if you want to learn how to fight in a safe environment, but be prepared to work hard.

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Posted 3 years ago

tsb

Go ahead and shop around… but you will not find anyone with a deeper knowledge of the practical (real-world applicable) martial arts than Coach Benn. I’ve been training at IFA in grappling arts and boxing for nearly 5 years and am getting more out of it than ever. Coach Benn has more than 40 years of fighting/teaching experience… and it shows. Rolling with him is an invaluable learning tool. Coach Benn has cultivated an environment that pushes students’ development—yet in a supportive manner. The culture is one of encouragement and cooperation. Other students are there to learn and help you learn. No one’s at IFA to stoke their ego.

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Posted 3 years ago

Ming C

After sampling the Muay Thai and Kali classes, I began training at IFA in April 2023. I think physical training is one of the very few things in life where consistent effort guarantees results. At IFA, you are in full control of your own success. Coach Frank is a highly knowledgeable, no-nonsense martial artist with decades of experience. His coaching style is direct, supportive, and technique-focused. You can absolutely train here just for fitness; however, if you're serious about honing techniques and learning the science of fighting, IFA has the rigor and the expertise. The curriculum covers boxing, Muay Thai, Filipino Kali (my favorite), women's fight class, BJJ, wrestling, and combat conditioning. It's a rather unique and comprehensive mix, taking you from grappling, to striking, to weaponry. I've trained at an excellent multidisciplinary martial arts school before moving to Austin, and know how difficult it was to find something similar. IFA is truly a standout. The students I've met here are friendly, encouraging, and humble. Everyone seems to genuinely enjoy training and each other’s presence. Senior students are always happy to offer tips and meet you where you are. I enjoy the socializing as much as the learning; IFA helped me find a warm community and make good friends (that I often hang out with outside of training) in a new city. Price wise, the monthly cost depends on 3 factors: commitment period, number of programs, and form of payment. For example, signing up for 12 months, 3 programs, and credit card autopay would be ~$200/month as of spring 2023. Gear costs extra, but if you already own wraps, gloves, shin guards and such, be sure to check with coach Frank if they meet his requirements. Sure, it's more substantial than a YMCA or a chain kickboxing gym membership, but your experience here will be one-of-a-kind. If you're on the fence, just call/email coach and try a class. A growth mindset and respect (for the people and for the training facility) are all you need to thrive at IFA.

Posted 3 years ago

Ming Cheng

After sampling the Muay Thai and Kali classes, I began training at IFA in April 2023. I think physical training is one of the very few things in life where consistent effort guarantees results. At IFA, you are in full control of your own success. Coach Frank is a highly knowledgeable, no-nonsense martial artist with decades of experience. His coaching style is direct, supportive, and technique-focused. You can absolutely train here just for fitness; however, if you're serious about honing techniques and learning the science of fighting, IFA has the rigor and the expertise. The curriculum covers boxing, Muay Thai, Filipino Kali (my favorite), women's fight class, BJJ, wrestling, and combat conditioning. It's a rather unique and comprehensive mix, taking you from grappling, to striking, to weaponry. I've trained at an excellent multidisciplinary martial arts school before moving to Austin, and know how difficult it was to find something similar. IFA is truly a standout. The students I've met here are friendly, encouraging, and humble. Everyone seems to genuinely enjoy training and each other’s presence. Senior students are always happy to offer tips and meet you where you are. I enjoy the socializing as much as the learning; IFA helped me find a warm community and make good friends (that I often hang out with outside of training) in a new city. Price wise, the monthly cost depends on 3 factors: commitment period, number of programs, and form of payment. For example, signing up for 12 months, 3 programs, and credit card autopay would be ~$200/month as of spring 2023. Gear costs extra, but if you already own wraps, gloves, shin guards and such, be sure to check with coach Frank if they meet his requirements. Sure, it's more substantial than a YMCA or a chain kickboxing gym membership, but your experience here will be one-of-a-kind. If you're on the fence, just call/email coach and try a class. A growth mindset and respect (for the people and for the training facility) are all you need to thrive at IFA.

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Posted 3 years ago

Jude Bakeer

I walked in to IFA nearly 4 years ago with ZERO knowledge of martial arts. I did some research, read reviews, and decided to stop by one Saturday afternoon... And yet I wasn't sure what to expect. Coach Benn asked me a few questions, like what interests me in MMA, then made some recommendations for classes. The Womens Fight Class (fun and empowering AF btw) and the combat conditioning class will improve you mentally, spiritually, and physically. One of my favorite things about IFA is that we get to learn from the head coach -- his teaching is so valuable. Though we have very different attributes, Coach Benn expertly finds areas for tweaking/improvement in each students' fighting style. Another great thing about IFA is that other students and Coach Benn will help break through the intial nervousness of the first week. Every single person at this academy is kind, intelligent, and respectful. I've made some wonderful friends here! If you’re uncertain, just pop in. You won't regret it.

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Posted 3 years ago

Ed Katkic

I have been attending IFA Academy for about two years and training with Coach Frank Benn in Filipino Kali and boxing. As an older guy, I originally had two primary reasons for working out at IFA: 1) keeping in shape and 2) learning how to defend myself. In the past six months I have experienced some lower back problems and our workouts have been modified to accommodate these issues along with adding stretching exercises that have been extremely helpful as physical therapy for my problems. Given my personal experience, IFA offers a wide range of group courses and private lessons that can meet your individual needs including conditioning, competitive martial sports, self defense, or whatever combination you desire. Coach Frank is an experienced teacher across a wide range of martial arts and can mix and match as needed to really achieve “Integrated” Fighting Arts.

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Posted 3 years ago

Hector Gonzalez

I have been training at IFA for about a year now, and I have enjoyed it immensely. I have lost nearly 15 pounds since I have started, and I have a newfound confidence in my ability to defend myself. Frank Benn has hands down one of the best fighting curriculums around with multiple decades of knowledge in boxing, muay thai, wrestling, Filipino kali and jiu jitsu. If you truly want to learn how to fight either competitively or non competitively, then I highly encourage you to join IFA academy. I promise you won't find a better place to train in Austin, TX!

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Posted 3 years ago

C. Matt Dragomanovich

I've been training here almost 4 months and I highly recommend IFA to anybody interested in learning not only martial arts but also confidence, fitness, and discipline. There is a wide range of skills to train in: striking (boxing & muay thai), grappling (jiu jitsu & wrestling), MMA, and more. Coach Benn has a deep well of knowledge and is an excellent teacher. He has a created a safe but also challenging environment that has really allowed me to grow and learn. What sets IFA apart from other gyms is the culture and vibe. The other students are incredibly welcoming and helpful--its a truly great community. Experienced students are always happy to help you out and it genuinely feels like everybody is there to get better together. If you're experienced fighter or just starting out, definitely try out a couple classes--you will not be disappointed.

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Posted 3 years ago

Ty Daniels

IFA is a real MMA gym where you WILL learn proper technique, gain discipline, and acquire the ability to defend yourself. Coach Benn meets you where you are with goals; whether your aim is competitive fighting, or just health and fitness. Either way, you’ll learn how to throw a mean hook. I’ve met lifelong friends here. It’s not just a gym it’s a community.

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Posted 3 years ago

Angel Rodriguez

This is one of those gyms that are hidden gems, coach Frank really knows his stuff and I have noticed a lot of improvement in a short time. The classes are pretty physically draining and there's a variety of classes like boxing, muay thai, jiu jitsu, wrestling and even Filipino kali. Definitely recommend this gym and my training partners are very friendly. Loving IFA

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Posted 3 years ago

Rakshak Talwar

If personal growth and transformation are what you seek, look no further than IFAA. This is the place where you'll not only learn the art of Muay Thai but also evolve as a person. Coach Frank has cultivated an extraordinary learning environment that fosters both skill development and camaraderie. You'll be surrounded by warm, friendly, and dedicated fellow students who share the same passion for growth and self-improvement. One of the most impressive aspects of the training at IFAA is its emphasis on realistic and practical applications. The training focuses on effective, relevant techniques, preparing you to confidently handle real-life situations.

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Posted 3 years ago

Mickey Cyphers

I tried a couple different gym before going to IFA for almost a year. Frank's gym was by far the best gym that I went to. Frank is an incredibly patient teacher and explains the reason for every technique. You learn not only how to fight, but an understanding of psychology and the strategy of fighting. His top control seminar was completely eye opening to understanding a web of responses. The atmosphere of the gym is relaxed and there are no egos. There are experienced students who will roll with you and are incredibly generous with their knowledge. Highly Recommended!

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Posted 4 years ago

Griffin Cost

I've been training here for the past 6 months in both Kali and BJJ/Wrestling and I don't regret it for a second. Frank Benn takes a holistic and realistic approach to martial arts with a heavy focus on sparring, practical application and athleticism. Training here is humbling, but rewarding; you will not be coddled, and you will not be given a belt after 3 months and told you can take down 10 men with a single glare, but you will absolutely be treated with respect and patience whether you're a total newcomer or a seasoned veteran of combat sports. The more experienced members here are happy and willing to aid in your growth as a fighter, and Frank himself has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. If you're looking for a well-rounded and challenging curriculum from an honest and talented instructor, IFA is the place to go.

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Posted 5 years ago

Abby

UPDATE: I'm still training at this gym and still loving it!! The classes are high-quality and very helpful. So glad I have this community in my life! I really appreciate that Frank has made such an effort to keep all gym members safe during the pandemic. Everyone wears a mask all the time, the fans are running to circulate the air, and people make a real effort to social distance. I wouldn't feel comfortable going back to a fully indoor gym at this time. But, this feels as safe as possible. ---------------------------------- I've been training here for almost 2 years now. I started as a complete beginner to martial arts. Frank has been an amazing instructor. He works hard to give great instruction, and to make everyone feel welcome. The vibe here is very friendly. He really fosters a terrific atmosphere of terrific people. The training that Frank provides is truly great. I feel so much more empowered and strong since beginning my training here. I would encourage anyone to consider a class here.

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Posted 6 years ago

Sarah R

I've been training here for about a year. What got me in the door? Learning a skill set that would help me feel safe (and not in a COVID way, but feeling comfortable traveling alone). The fitness aspect is a nice bonus. What keeps me here? The community, knowledge, practicality, holistic approach and humble demeanor of everyone. Frank's knowledge and approach is extraordinary. He will take time to answer questions and explain the "why" behind something. Understanding the context and history of fighting makes me better. Class is not a series of moves strung together arbitrarily, but instead with intent and purpose. This is different than any other gym I have used in the past in that I am valued as a person with goals. Come here and you are not "just a membership". This is not a gym of egos. We all have to start somewhere. The people I train with are also great, everyone is here to help each other. Whether you are new to a discipline of fighting or looking for a new gym, look no further. This place is AWESOME!

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Posted 6 years ago

Leeza Dennis

I’ve been here for almost two years in the women’s fight class and it’s probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I have fun while learning valuable skills, I’ve made friends with an amazing group of women, and because of the work I’ve done in Frank’s classes I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in. Building these skills and refining techniques really help build your confidence and your self-esteem. I was a complete beginner when I first started out, thought I “wasn’t built” for what grappling and boxing took, but with time the academy has totally changed my perspective of what I’m capable of.

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Posted 6 years ago

Juan Hinojosa

I've been training here for about a year and a couple of months, and the experience has been nothing but great. Each of the programs (boxing/Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, Kali stick and knife fighting) are very thorough in instruction and it's all based on what works. Frank Benn is an extremely knowledgeable coach and instructor and has more experience than one can imagine. Highly recommended MMA gym.

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Posted 6 years ago

Andrew DiLullo

Best academy in Austin. Frank really knows his stuff and they don't try and swindle you into signing up for a whole year up front!

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Posted 7 years ago

ANIKET BORADE

One of the best academy's in Austin. Frank is very dedicated and one of the best instructors. Really recommended!

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Posted 8 years ago

Ben Lozano

To me, everything about the academy is great, but I will focus on just two things. First, Frank is very experienced and knowledgeable about combat in general. He's been fighting and teaching for a very long time, which is something there's no substitute for. Second, everybody there helps teach newer students, and does so with intelligence, care, and kindness. They repay the debt of having received a great education by passing it along to others. All you need to succeed is a willingness to learn and a good attitude. The fee structure allows you to get a ton of value for your money if you commit to showing up consistently. I'd recommend the place to everyone from beginners to professional fighters.

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Posted 8 years ago

Sunny Espinosa

I’ve attended IFA for about a month now, and have been thoroughly pleased with my experience thus far. I’ll preface this by saying this isn’t your run-of-the-mill martial arts academy. Regardless of your experience, the classes will challenge you, and you will learn something new every single day. Frank offers a conditioning class that aids in your performance that I highly recommend taking. You will sweat and you will be sore, but you will be pleased with your results if you stick with it. Frank (owner) has been in this business for years, and it shows. There’s never a question that he can’t answer. If you’re looking for personal feedback, he’ll be honest with you, but he’ll deliver it with tact. He genuinely cares about his students’ well being and improvement. Frank has several loyal students that have been with him for years, and are great resources for practice and constructive criticism. Remember, you can’t put a price on a good education. Nothing good comes easy, and success is no accident. Bring your towel, a sense of humor, and get ready to work.

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Posted 9 years ago

Jon Deth

If you are reading this you are at a crossroads. You are at a crossroads because you have the opportunity to train with an instructor like Frank Benn. Frank is one of the few trainers out there that can get you up to the skill level you need to fight professionally. I found out about IFA through a friend. I have practiced martial arts my entire life, and when I heard about the curriculum here I knew immediately what it was. It's one of the most comprehensive programs out there comparable to places like American Top Team (which I also checked out) and other top UFC fight schools. This is not a place where you earn belts; this is a place where you learn to win fights. You WILL learn how to win fights here. I have an entire closet full of belts, and I don't care about that; I care about winning. Frank Benn has been teaching MMA in central Texas since 1990. I have seen him take BJJ black belts to school like they were noobs. At IFA you will have the rare opportunity to be admitted to the inner sanctum of boxing. You will learn to see, move, and hit like a pro boxer. You will learn high level strategies in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that aren't taught at other schools. You will not wait six months to start sparring here. There are no titles of master or professor at IFA. The atmosphere here is friendly and unassuming. IFA is not here to take your money. IFA is here to teach you how to fight. Don't be scared. Not everyone here is professional fighter, most are just normal people like you. The stick and knife fighting class is also very good. I am trained with many weapons, I know how to beat most opponents with a weapon, and I can tell you that Frank is much much better than I am, and in my opinion he is better than anyone I have ever trained with. The bottom line here is pretty simple: this is the longest operating MMA gym in central Texas, and whether your goal is to learn self defense, get in shape, or go from zero to pro, IFA is a great place to do it. Hope to see you soon!

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Posted 9 years ago

Lance Obermeyer

Mr. Benn's IFA is an outstanding martial arts academy. His curriculum covers all the fighting forms, and he is a knowledgable and effective teacher. The unique thing about IFA is the "Integrated" part. Mr. Benn continually integrates one form to another, so that no student has a gap in their capability. Further, we spar every day to apply the skills from class against adversaries, not just drill them against partners.

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Posted 10 years ago

riotgurlTFP

I have been attending classes for about 3 weeks. I am taking the conditioning, and eskrima classes. I have never attended group classes for exercise. I am a very self conscious girl with hang ups nothing can make go away, or so i thought. This school is incredible. The students are incredibly accepting of new people, and are always more than willing to help make you feel more at ease while training. This is not easy training! My body is already changing, and my endurance is improving as well. I was stuck in a rut that i couldn't push myself out of. My own workouts at home were not challenging me enough. This school has really given me the kick i needed! The eskrima class i signed up for on a whim, and now i find myself practicing more than an hour a day at times. Learning self defense is very important to me, and this is an amazing class for that. Lastly, getting the opportunity to train under some one like Frank Benn is an opportunity i was not willing to pass up. His extensive knowledge, and honest, real world training will prepare me for actual worst case scenarios. I am thankful in many ways for this school, and cannot wait to update my review in a few months! Join now. You will not regret it, but any future attackers will.

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Posted 10 years ago

Scott McManus

I have been going here for about 6 months, and can honestly say that I still improve at something every class I attend. I am a former black belt from an after-school karate type program from my teens, and I started coming here initially because I had this feeling in the back of my head that I wasn't very competent actually at all. That turned out to be true. In 4 months here, I was better skilled than 6 years with my karate training. I showed up and watched a boxing and jiujitsu class, and a few of the students took time out of their own training to talk to me and give me the lay of the land. I would highly recommend observing a class or two to get a feel for it. Things that I have come to appreciate in no particular order: 1. No kids. It is a school of adults, a few twenty somethings, a few students, and a surprising amount of people who are early 30's. Nobody is here wasting time. I take time out of my evenings with the wife, and time that I could be working to come here. 2. From what I have been exposed to bjj wise, the wrestling really gives sport jiujitsu people fits. 3. People spar with me, every class. No one tries to knock my block off, but it's plenty hard, unless I ask to go light. The instructor, and other students are very respectful of injuries. The teacher, planned curriculum, and the community of students are the biggest things this place has going for it. Update: I have now been training for a little over a year and a half. Everything previously mentioned still stands. My fitness has continued to improve, and more importantly to me my rate of improvement has stayed consistently rapid. I didn't know enough before to realize the quality of instruction in regards not only to knowledge that is easily available to me through Frank (who teaches every class...not his assistants.....the lead instructor teaches EVERY class.) , but also that my 18 months seems equivalent to 3 years f training in other environments. In this time my wife started training with us as well and has seen good results. If you are interested in any of the disciplines offered here, I think it's a mistake not to train here for 2-3 months to see if it's a fit. Also the new improved facility is very cool. As Frank likes to boast, the biggest heavy bag in Texas resides here, and the new cage wall just went up around our 1000 sqft of dedicated mat space.

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Posted 11 years ago

Juan Balderas

Excellent school for various reasons. The instructor, Frank, is extremely knowledgeable about martial arts and fitness in general. He is a technician that has honed his craft over many decades, and it shows whenever you get the chance to have a sparring match with him, whether in striking or grappling. He is very generous with his knowledge, and he really cares about helping his students improve. He goes above and beyond, by being available outside of class, recommending fighters to watch to learn specific styles, and analyzing what made successful fighters so successful, among other things. The community is very nice, as well. The people here do not mind sharing their knowledge, and they truly care about helping everyone else improve and keeping them healthy. This isn't the place where you will be pushed to the point that you injure yourself when there was completely no need. In fact, the combat conditioning classes are designed to push people to be better athletes in order to reduce the injury rate. That is not to say that they are easy, though. They are still very challenging. You just won't be forced to give an excessive amount more than what you can give in a given day, especially if you are ill. The classes are physically challenging, and technically loaded. You learn a great deal over the course of one class, and time is set aside to spar daily. The point is that in my opinion, you won't find better technical instruction, or a better community, elsewhere in Austin. If you want to really learn how to fight, get fitter, and have fun along the way, this is the place.

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Posted 11 years ago

Arturo Medina

I just joined the Academy 3 months ago. Even though I have practiced sports all my life, I am new to MMA, Box, FMA and all those acronyms, much less practicing them! I was referred to Frank's academy by one of my best friends, who studied with him 20 years ago, (the only reason he is no longer attending is because he lives outside of Austin). He (a PDH and college professor) said (I quote him): "What I learned with Frank is the most useful stuff I've learned in my life". So, with that kind of recommendation under my belt, I came and check out the gym. And I am truly happily surprised about the level of expertise and professionalism Frank has and devotes to prepare every single class, so every time I go for training I am learning something new, a new drill, we build over the previous sessions, and start integrating them into a whole discipline. (Hence the "Integrated Arts" words in the name). And yes, you learn to fight. Physically and also Mentally. Now, onto the other people attending: What a great group of people. The more advanced students will always pair up with the newer ones and guide them in such a manner that they learn the proper techniques and make sure they don't get hurt and especially that everyone gets a good workout and has fun. So this place has a great balance of a very tough workout, never repetitive or boring, paired up with a lead teacher that not only knows but CARES, and obviously that attitude is transferred and an unseen bond among us. This is not your typical fashion gym where the people just care about themselves and how good they look in the mirror or are listening to their own music while ignoring the rest, but a real community of people who yes, are working out, but together, while learning and developing new skills and friends. So, What else can I say? Joining the IFA Academy has been the best investment I have made on myself in a long, long time.

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Posted 11 years ago

Chris Carlton

Integrated Fighting Arts is the place to go in Austin if you want to learn mma, boxing, kickboxing, bjj, and eskrima or if just want to get im shape. Frank Benn, the head instructor, goes the extra mile and not only includes conditioning and techniques in all his classes, but fighting tactics and strategies. He also takes the time to tailor his lessons to the specific needs of his students and has a superior understanding of fighting mechanics. He doesn't just teach you how to fight, he teaches you how to learn how to fight. On top of all of this he offers whip ass conditioning classes to help you get in shape with a really great variety of really killer exercises. There really isn't anywhere like it.

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Posted 12 years ago

Michael Christen

Frank is an amazing coach. He combines hard work, technique, and camaraderie within a very well thought out and practical curriculum. I can really feel a noticeable difference in my conditioning after only training here for a short time. I've also gained a tremendous amount of knowledge in wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu, Filipino Martial Arts, and Boxing / Muay Thai. The other practitioners at IFA are also very kind and respectful, always willing to help you strengthen your skills.

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Posted 13 years ago

Amy Stanford

I have seriously enjoyed learning how to fight at IFAA and hope that I can keep training for a long time. As a female beginner, I was a little intimated when I first showed up, the only woman in a room full of guys, but everybody was friendly and respectful. Frank Benn, the instructor, put me at ease by making it clear that everyone is valued equally as a student: women, men, veterans, newbies, in shape, out of shape, it doesn't matter. Frank sees boxing and grappling as vital life skills that everyone should learn, but he doesn't dumb it down either. He meets you at your level, gets you to work hard, then suddenly you're actually kind of good at throwing knees or getting a triangle. There are currently several other female students now, but we spar with with everybody. As Frank says, if I should happen to need my fighting skills in real life, it's not likely it's going to be against another woman. The fighting and conditioning classes are intense but fun, I'm in great shape, and I know I can protect myself if I have to. Overall, I'm just really happy to be a member of this academy.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 13 years ago

Andrew Shaw

I've been a member of IFA since 2002, and I'm not sure there is a way I can put into words how great this academy is. It takes no time at all to realize just how knowledgeable Frank is when it comes to fighting, and the amount of thought and preparation he puts into his curriculum is amazing. Frank strives to make sure everyone who walks through his door gets a solid education on how to fight, because he genuinely cares, which is something you just don't get elsewhere. He's thorough in his instruction (which you can see by checking out the videos on the ifa website), and won't hesitate to help you solve any problems or issues you have when you get tripped up. One of the other great things about the Academy is the people. Over the years, we've had many people come and go, but we've never had anything but the most helpful and level headed members. The older students work hard on helping the new people learn the basics and build each other up, and it's hard not to be proud of your partners when you end up catching a perfect cross, or being the victim of a flawless takedown. If you're interested in learning to fight, I can't recommend IFA strongly enough. If you're just looking to get in shape, three classes a week, plus two conditioning courses will have you whipped into shape in no time! And if you're just looking to meet some good, interesting people and have some fun, well, we can handle that, too.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 13 years ago

Kevin Beveridge

I have been training here in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a few months now and thus far I have improved all aspects of my game; whether its my wrestling, top control, or guard work. There's a few aspects that really appeals to me when it comes to training in BJJ. The first one is that the instructor is thorough in everything he teaches and is willing to explain why everything functions as it does. Another great aspect is that every day we spar standing up, a great aspect that you don't get at every BJJ academy. Also the price for classes is at a competitive rate and is definitely worth trying out. So come on by it's a great class to either start or continue your training in BJJ, Kickboxing, or the Stick and Knife class.

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 13 years ago

Carolina Escamilla

Good for wrestling foundations and for those looking for a small gym to get started and lose some weight. Not good for grappling /BJJ training which is OK up to around blue belt. I had to re-learn many BJJ techniques, after switching academies closer to work. But is perfect for those who just want to exercise and hang out!

Posted 8 months ago

Robert Livingston

The coach is old, arrogant, and not legit. He's never competed at a high level in any combat sport (or any level, according to his bio), rather he's just some traditional martial arts guy who's learned MMA techniques from instructionals. None of the students compete either. There is a strong McDojo, cult vibe to this place - because almost all of them have never trained at a high-level gym (or, in the case of the majority, ANY other gym), the students, as evidenced by the other reviews here, worship the instructor, believing he's better than he really is, and the group is very hostile to outside criticism. Would not recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Integrated Fighting Arts Academy

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Robert Livingston

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