Member Experience

How to Start an MMA Gym

A guide on how to start your own MMA gym, from buying equipment and training space to attracting members.

Eric LeClair
October 12, 2021
How to Start an MMA Gym
TL;DR
A guide on how to start your own MMA gym, from buying equipment and training space to attracting members.
MMA Gym
Photographer: Wade Austin Ellis | Source: Unsplash

Mixed Martial Art or MMA is nothing new, but its popularity has soared in the last few years. MMA is a combat sport that includes punching, striking, and using throws and holds to strike the competitor down to the floor. More and more people sign up for MMA training to compete or for fitness. Before joining an MMA gym, people want to ensure that they can get the right type of training and that too at a reasonable cost. It provides a lot of opportunities to enter this arena and open your own MMA gym.

Whether you want to start a new MMA training gym or add to your existing facility, you can easily cater to the growing interest of people in MMA. Here are some of the factors to take into consideration if you are starting an MMA center

Take Local MMA Classes

Depending on what your background is, you need to polish your MMA skills. There are certain MMA qualifications needed before you can start teaching, so make sure you are properly certified. To build a strong foundation and to get an audience in your community, start taking MMA classes. Host classes at local parks or hangout place in the neighborhood so more people can know about you. These classes will also help you build brand awareness before you start investing in MMA equipment.

Networking is Critical Before Starting an MMA Gym

Before starting an MMA gym, you must meet your local MMA fighters and start networking. It means you need to go to competitions and get to know the competitors. If you are qualified yourself, you can choose to compete yourself. It will not only allow you to attract clients to your gym but also hire trainers for your gym once you have it all set. You need to brand yourself as a legitimate MMA gym owner whether you do it yourself or hire instructors.

Pick the Right Location for Your MMA Studio

Once you have built a local base of students who love your MMA classes, you can consider leasing your own place for the MMA gym. Your MMA gym should be on a busy road where you can get a lot of visibility. Choose a large and recognizable sign where it is easy for people to find you. Picking the right location is critical as it will make it easier for potential clients to spot you while walking or driving by the area and help in brand recognition.

Buy Quality Equipment for MMA Business

You may save some money by purchasing cheaper MMA equipment, but you will need to replace them quickly as they won’t last long. Thus, it is important you invest in high-quality equipment such as target shields, heavy bags, mats, boxing gloves, and ropes. You will also need some strength training equipment such as barbells and heavy dumbbells. You need to create an experience of being in the ring.

Marketing Your Boxing and MMA Gym is the Key

Just like all other businesses, marketing your MMA gym will be crucial. The first thing you need to do is narrow down some MMA gym names and pick the one you like the best. You also need to create a website and develop social media presence to engage potential clients. You can also go to local and regional MMA events and talk about your gym. Have a grand opening and welcome potential clients to experience what you have to offer.

If you are considering opening an MMA gym, you need to understand that you are a brand and you are going to represent your gym. Opening a new MMA facility may seem like a difficult task, but going about it the right way will help you be successful.

Eric LeClair

Eric LeClair works on the Marketing Team at PushPress. Eric has been a CrossFit Affiliate owner for 16 years. He's built three separate gyms and developed over 20 staff members to run operations at those facilities. He's a Veteran of the US Army, married with two little kids, and spends lots of time with his two boxers backpacking and exploring new adventures!

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