Indiana Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

James and Candice have been so helpful in getting our son introduced to BJJ and welcoming us to the gym! Our son loves his instructors and is excited to come to every class! Highly recommend!!

Been training here since I was a kid. Love the mat culture, the caliber of people, the atmosphere, and most importantly the cleanliness. The level of knowledge from James and his coaches are unparalleled.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Life-Changing Community of Heart and Purpose To James Clingerman and the entire IBJJA family: Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being more than a gym you’ve been a lifeline. When I first walked through your doors in November 2023, I weighed 283.7 lbs and carried burdens far beyond the physical. Today, I’m at 235 lbs and dropping, but the true transformation runs deeper. This gym reignited my hope, discipline, and belief in myself. Your generous 30-day trial isn’t just a gift it’s an act of faith in people. Though I didn’t train as much as I’d hoped early on, I immediately felt welcomed like family. Ryan and the IBJJA manager, radiates kindness and authenticity, whether they guiding kids (who adore them both!) or cheering on adults. Coach Lionel’s judo expertise is unmatched, but it’s his patience that makes him extraordinary. Korey, who taught me to jab with grace, embodies the gym’s spirit: skilled yet humble, challenging yet encouraging. This place isn’t just about Jiu Jitsu it’s about rebuilding lives. Alongside my sobriety journey, the discipline and camaraderie here have saved me from self-destruction. God led me to IBJJA, and through James’ leadership, I’ve found strength I didn’t know I had. I no longer train here but I will always be grateful for the lessons learned! To anyone reading: Don’t take my word for it. Walk through these doors. Whether you’re seeking fitness, community, or a fresh start, IBJJA meets you where you are. James, Ryan, Lionel, Korey—you’ve given me more than a gym. You’ve given me a family. Forever grateful. 🙏 Start your journey here. Your future self will thank you.

Indiana Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is truly something special. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the integrity, professionalism, and strong character that define this place. Coach James Clingerman is the real deal — not just an exceptional instructor, but an exceptional human being. His character sets the tone for the entire academy. He leads with humility, discipline, and genuine care for every student who walks through the doors. It’s clear that he’s deeply committed to helping people grow not just as athletes, but as individuals. Coach Clingerman teaches with patience and precision, breaking down techniques in a way that makes them accessible whether you’re brand new or highly experienced. He creates an environment where you feel challenged, supported, and motivated all at the same time. What stands out most is the culture he has built — one of respect, accountability, and camaraderie. You can tell this academy is built on strong values. If you’re looking for world-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction in an environment led by a man of outstanding character, Indiana Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is the place. Highly, highly recommend.

Would have been 1 star but I’ll give two stars only because they don’t charge a fee for non-member drop-ins and because Carlos and Colton were nice and asked for a roll, you guys were cool. Wasn’t cool sitting there for an hour during an open Matt and getting two people introducing themselves and asking for a roll. I even got turned down by one person when I asked if they wanted to roll. Also seems like you guys have some heavy weights that don’t know how to turn the ego and speed down for much smaller folk… new people beware… Weird culture…