Arkansas Fitness and Athletics LLC
About
Arkansas Fitness and Athletics LLC offers mixed martial arts and kickboxing training in Little Rock, with a coaching team that brings diverse expertise. The staff includes founder Jim Eckhart, who holds CFSC Level 1 & 2 and EXOS XPS certifications, along with trainers like Jessica Sniff with a background in health education and exercise science, David Shropshire who is a certified personal trainer and yoga instructor, and Shaun Reynolds specializing in basketball player development. This variety allows for personalized programming that can accommodate different fitness goals and experience levels. The facility provides a comprehensive approach to fitness, blending strength training, mobility work, and martial arts disciplines under one roof. Members frequently describe the gym as a transformative environment where they feel supported regardless of their starting point. Many note that the welcoming atmosphere eliminates the intimidation often associated with weightlifting gyms, particularly for women and beginners. Reviews consistently highlight the sense of community, with members referring to the gym as a family where everyone from non athletes to experienced lifters can thrive. Trainers like Jim and Brooke receive specific praise for their mentorship and ability to help members discover their potential both physically and mentally. The positive, upbeat environment encourages regular attendance and helps members stay motivated throughout their fitness journeys. For those seeking a gym that feels like home while providing professional coaching across multiple disciplines, Arkansas Fitness and Athletics delivers an experience that members say is unmatched in central Arkansas.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming, non intimidating atmosphere, especially for women and beginners who might feel nervous about joining a weightlifting gym. They describe the gym as a supportive community that feels like family, with specific appreciation for trainers Jim and Brooke who are called world class mentors. Reviewers highlight transformative physical results and increased confidence, noting that the environment helps them stay motivated and become the best versions of themselves. Many mention that the gym accommodates all experience levels and creates a positive, uplifting atmosphere that makes members look forward to workouts.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Brad Fogel
a month ago
Have been working out here for several months now. Great place to get motivated and get in shape. Great atmosphere, great staff.
Stacee Wright
2 years ago
Finding a gym where you feel comfortable and not intimidated as a woman is hard to find, but at AFA I have never felt more at home! My body has transformed over the last few years and the community is incredible! Jim and Brooke are hands down the best! If you’re looking for a gym to call home, AFA is it!
Jessica Sniff
3 years ago
The thought of walking into a weightlifting gym always made me nervous as a female -- but that all went away the first day I encountered Jim at Arkansas Fitness & Athletics. I started my fitness journey with him almost 10 years ago, and he has been there for me through every step of the way. I was never a high school athlete, but training here makes me feel like one! Over the years I have discovered my true potential both in and out of the gym, and developed huge love for weightlifting along the way. When I became a mom 6 years ago, AFA was there to support me as both my mind and body adapted to the new demands of motherhood. I could go on and on about how amazing Arkansas Fitness and Athletics is, but what I can say is that it's not just a gym-- it's a FAMILY!
Matthew Morris
2 years ago
AFA is a one of a kind place! The environment is nothing but upbeat and positive at all times! I have been training with Brooke for 3 years now and I use to hate working out. Now I look forward to it! It doesn’t matter if you have never worked out in your life or you been doing it for years, they can help you be the best version of yourself! If you are looking for a new gym or you have been thinking about joining one but don’t know where to start, this is your place! This is THE best gym in central Arkansas and nothing else even comes close! #AFAmily
Madison Lee
2 years ago
AFA has been a game changer for me! When I first joined a few years ago, I wasn't sure what to expect and pretty timid. However, I was immediately welcomed with open arms and treated like family. Jim and Brooke are world-class trainers, mentors, and always uplifting. AFA is filled with people from all walks of life and if you're thinking maybe you wouldn't belong, I promise you do. There is a place for everyone here. AFA is absolutely, hands-down the best gym I have ever been a part of and I am so thankful for an environment where I am constantly pushed to be the best version of myself!!
Contact
2400 North Cantrell Road #110, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:30 – 9:30 AM, 12:00 – 12:45 PM, 3:30 – 6:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM, 3:30 – 6:30 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 – 9:30 AM, 12:00 – 12:45 PM, 3:30 – 6:30 PM
Thursday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM, 3:30 – 6:30 PM
Friday: 5:30 – 9:30 AM, 12:00 – 12:45 PM, 3:30 – 5:30 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Shaun Reynolds
Basketball Player Development Trainer
Co-Founder of C.H.A.M.P.S. Basketball. Former head basketball coach. Specializes in athlete development.
Jessica Sniff
Trainer
B.S. Health Education & Promotion, Exercise Science, CFSC Level 1
Background in Health Education, Exercise Science, and K-12 Physical Education. Certified Functional Strength Coach.
David Shropshire
Trainer
CPT, LMT, CFSC and Stick Mobility Level 1, Yoga Instructor
Certified Personal Trainer and Licensed Massage Therapist with functional movement and mobility certifications.
Jim Eckhart
Founder / Trainer
CFSC Level 1 & 2, EXOS XPS
Founded AFA in 2013. Functional movement and health coach.