Heroes Martial Arts Academy Cahaba Heights
About
Heroes Martial Arts Academy Cahaba Heights offers comprehensive training in multiple disciplines including MMA, wrestling, kickboxing, and karate. The gym is led by founder and head instructor Chris Mize, a black belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu under Master Pedro Sauer with Coach Level 2 certification in Combat Submission Wrestling. He is supported by assistant instructors Robby Eaton, who holds black belts in Gracie Jiu Jitsu and Kyokubugei Karate, and Steven Brown, a brown belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu. This experienced coaching team provides instruction across various martial arts while maintaining a focus on practical application and skill development.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Coach Chris Mize as an excellent instructor who becomes a good friend, with specific mention of his expertise in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Catch Wrestling. Reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere where experienced members eagerly mentor newcomers, creating a supportive community that helps people rebuild themselves mentally and physically. Families appreciate how well the gym works for both children and adults, with coaches taking extra time to prepare members for competitions. Many describe training here as one of the best decisions they've ever made, noting they've achieved the best fitness of their lives through engaging workouts that never get boring.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Chris Magyar
2 years ago
I found Coach Chris Mize at the heroes martial arts academy in Cahaba Heights, after surviving a very dark time in my life. My goal was to rebuild myself mentally and physically, and to immerse myself in a community of friendly, like-minded people. 2 1/2 years later, I can honestly say that I met my goals and that this was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am in the best shape that I have been in the last 15 years. Coach Mize is an excellent instructor, has become a good friend, and I think the world of my Jujitsu training partners at Heroes. Also, the Jujitsu I have learned is good and holds up quite well at other BJJ schools.
Paul Tower
2 years ago
Was recommended to me for my eight year old- who loves it and has flourished. I followed in his footsteps after several months and am so glad, I’ve found a great way to get/stay fit that’s never boring. The coaches are super cool people and the guys/gals I train with have become good friends. Try out a class- no charge just drop in! Billing is month to month too :)
Paul J Warner
2 years ago
Five stars! Coach Chris Mize's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Catch Wrestling gym is the best in town! He's an expert in both disciplines and his teaching is second to none. He also offers self-defense classes, which are a great way to learn how to protect yourself in real-world situations. I've been training with Coach Mize for around two years and I've learned so much from him. He's helped me to improve my skills, my fitness, and my confidence. I highly recommend his gym to anyone interested in learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Catch Wrestling, or self-defense.
Nichole Posten
2 years ago
I went through all of the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gyms in Birmingham to find one that would be best for my son (initially) and husband (also) and the whole family. I wouldn’t go anywhere but here. Coach Chris and the Heroes members are wonderful. Chris blocked off and took the time to help both my son and myself to get ready for our first competition. He is great with kids and adults. The more experienced grapplers work with you to help you grow versus ignoring the new person.
Frank Phillips
4 years ago
I’ve been training for about a month here. Chris is a phenomenal instructor, and not just in Jiu Jitsu. It is an excellent atmosphere - the more experienced members are eager to mentor the newcomers like myself. I would highly recommend to anyone who is flirting with the idea of trying out a class.
Contact
3244 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Robby Eaton
Assistant Instructor
Black Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, 1st degree black belt in Kyokubugei Karate
14 years martial arts experience. Holds black belt in karate and purple belt in Pedro Sauer Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Also trains in Total Defense, CSW, and C-TAC. Teaches all age groups.
Chris Mize
Head Instructor / Founder
Black Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu under Master Pedro Sauer, Coach Level 2 in Combat Submission Wrestling
Founder of Heroes Martial Arts Academy, experienced reality-based martial arts instructor since 1984. Trained military, law enforcement, and civilians. Known as 'The Godfather of Alabama MMA'.
Steven Brown
Assistant Instructor
Brown Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu
Started training in 2009, promoted to purple belt in 2014. Has trained with numerous Gracie family members and instructors. Focuses on technical Jiu-Jitsu and healthy lifestyle.