Business Details
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Clyde, OH
Iron & Soul was founded to provide a transformative martial arts experience rooted in discipline, community, and technical excellence. Our programs emphasize structured learning, with a focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and Kickboxing tailored for all ages and skill levels. We prioritize the clinch and takedown phase of combat, a critical area often neglected by other schools, and integrate systematic teaching methods refined through decades of collective experience.Our academy fosters a supportive environment where students of diverse backgroundsfrom casual learners to competitive fighterstrain together to build physical resilience, mental fortitude, and mutual respect. With a proven track record of producing award-winning competitors, we combine traditional values with modern techniques to ensure long-term growth and mastery for every individual.
Services
Adult Jiu-Jitsu
Kids Jiu-Jitsu
MMA Training
Kickboxing
Self-Defense
Highlights and features
- We offer structured, systematic instruction developed by experienced instructors with decades of combined expertise.
- Our program emphasizes the critical clinch and takedown phase often neglected by other martial arts schools.
- We foster a supportive, ego-free environment where students of all ages and skill levels train together.
- Our students consistently achieve top results in regional and national Jiu-Jitsu competitions.
- Flexible class options accommodate both casual learners and serious competitors.
Services
Adult Jiu-Jitsu
Our Adult Jiu-Jitsu program focuses on technique, leverage, and practical self-defense applications. Students learn to control opponents through positional hierarchy and systematic takedowns. The curriculum balances sport competition preparation with real-world scenarios, emphasizing incremental progress and live sparring for all skill levels.
Kids Jiu-Jitsu
Designed for children who dislike traditional sports, our Kids Jiu-Jitsu program builds confidence, discipline, and physical fitness. Short, intense classes teach self-defense fundamentals while improving flexibility and coordination. The structured environment encourages teamwork and respect without fostering aggression.
MMA Training
Our MMA program integrates striking, grappling, and conditioning for competitive fighters and enthusiasts. The feeder-style system develops technical proficiency through specialized drills before combining skills in live scenarios. Coaches emphasize mental resilience, strategic preparation, and statistical performance analysis for long-term success in the cage.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing sessions focus on dynamic striking techniques, footwork, and cardiovascular conditioning. Classes cater to both self-defense practitioners and competitive athletes, combining traditional striking fundamentals with modern combat applications in a high-energy, supportive environment.
Self-Defense
Self-defense instruction emphasizes real-world scenarios using Jiu-Jitsu principles to neutralize threats. Students learn to escape holds, defend against larger opponents, and de-escalate conflicts without relying on strength. The program prioritizes situational awareness and practical techniques applicable to everyday safety.
People
Justin LaBenne
Owner/Instructor
Justin LaBenne founded Iron & Soul after being inspired by Henry Rollins' philosophy. With over a decade of teaching experience, he specializes in structured Jiu-Jitsu instruction and has developed the academy's systematic approach to technical mastery.
Robin Gieseler
Senior Instructor
Robin Gieseler brings over 15 years of martial arts expertise to Iron & Soul. As a multiple-time competition medalist, he focuses on refining takedown techniques and mentoring students through the belt ranking system.
Deon Thompson
MMA Coach
Deon Thompson leads MMA training with a background in competitive fighting and strength conditioning. He emphasizes practical application of techniques and prepares athletes for professional competition through rigorous, data-driven instruction.
Phil Barone
Instructor
Phil Barone specializes in youth martial arts programs, adapting complex techniques for children's learning. He focuses on building confidence and discipline through age-appropriate drills and positive reinforcement.
Relson Gracie
Guest Instructor
Relson Gracie contributes advanced Jiu-Jitsu seminars, sharing lineage-based techniques from his family's martial arts tradition. His expertise enhances the academy's technical curriculum for high-level students.
Questions
Can I try a free class before committing?
Yes! We offer a full week of free training with no obligation. Simply attend any scheduled class to experience our programs.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing like shorts and a t-shirt. We provide loaner Gi's for new students during their trial week.
Is martial arts suitable for older adults?
Absolutely. Our students range from teenagers to seniors in their 50s. Training intensity adapts to individual fitness levels and goals.
Do women train at Iron & Soul?
Yes! Women train alongside men in a supportive environment. Many female students excel due to their focus on technical precision and discipline.
What are the belt progression requirements?
Jiu-Jitsu belts progress from White to Black over 10+ years. Each belt requires technical proficiency, with four stripes marking incremental advancement through specific skill sets.
Is competition mandatory?
No. While we support competitive athletes, most students train for fitness, self-defense, and personal growth without competing.
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