Ya Boi Fitness Academy
About
Ya Boi Fitness Academy offers comprehensive training in MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, led by a team of experienced instructors. Head Coach Eryk Anders, a UFC veteran and professional mixed martial artist, provides hands-on instruction with a champion's mindset. Certified personal trainer Dowda Powell leads kickboxing sessions, while registered yoga teacher Lina Sims adds complementary wellness training. The gym accommodates diverse schedules with early morning, mid-day, and evening classes, making it accessible for those with demanding work or family commitments.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the inclusive, welcoming atmosphere that makes beginners feel comfortable and unjudged. They highlight the personal attention from experienced coaches, particularly noting Head Coach Eryk Anders' UFC background and hands-on teaching style. Reviewers appreciate the flexible class schedule that accommodates busy lives and the supportive community that helps them stay consistent. Specific mentions include children's progress in jiujitsu and striking, the small class sizes for structured learning, and the gym's ability to cater to all experience levels from rookies to veterans.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Koby Milner
4 months ago
Great place! After five years of college wrestling, this place has got me going again! I avoided working out for over 18 months, but now I’m back on mats and mitts several times a week! Even with my odd work schedule, there are early-morning and evening classes that I can attend. I’d recommend it to anyone from a rookie to a seasoned vet!
kristen means
4 months ago
My son absolutely loves learning jiujitsu and striking at Ya Boi Fitness Academy. He has made so much progress. The personal attention and small class sizes provide great structure for him. Highly recommend!
Erin Garrard
2 months ago
Dropped in here for a couple weeks of BJJ during the holidays. Loved going to classes here! The coaches were very experienced and knowledgeable. The gym had great vibes and everyone was kind and welcoming. Can’t wait to drop back in next time I’m in town!
shauna nix
5 months ago
This gym is phenomenal. I didn’t find kickboxing until I was 37 and consider myself NOT to be an athlete . I have struggled to find a gym for kickboxing where I felt at home and didn’t feel judged because of my lack of experience. At Ya Boi, Not only do you get the guidance of a UFC fighter which is just cool in general but you also get an atmosphere that feels inclusive no matter what experience level you are. Some places advertise that way but when you get there everyone is pretty much fighter level which makes it hard to keep coming back if you are a beginner. I am so glad I found a place that I can begin to relax mentally and get a great workout in doing what I love ! Thanks Eryk !!!!!!!
John Brazzel
3 months ago
Ya Boi Fitness is an outstanding BJJ gym with a welcoming, respectful, and driven culture. Coach Eryk is an accomplished MMA and BJJ competitor who brings a true champion’s mindset. He is engaging, wise, and welcoming, while holding a high standard for everyone in the room. Instruction is hands-on and focused on real improvement. The community inside the gym is grounded, supportive, and real. As a guy in mid-life looking to get stronger and pick up jiu-jitsu, this gym has been a game changer. With early morning, mid-day, and evening classes, it’s easy to stay consistent while balancing family and career.
Contact
1014 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Dowda Powell
Kickboxing Instructor / Personal Trainer
Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Personal Trainer with competitive kickboxing and powerlifting experience. Teaches Cardio Kickboxing classes.
Lina Sims
Yoga Instructor
200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher
RYT-200 with certifications in trauma-informed yoga and sound healing. Blends movement, breathwork, and sequencing for mobility and recovery.
Eryk Anders
Head Coach / MMA Instructor
UFC veteran, professional mixed martial artist
Professional MMA fighter and UFC veteran. Former Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker and 2009 National Champion. Founded the gym to provide world-class instruction.