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Roll Model Grappling Academy | Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Judo
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Roll Model Grappling Academy | Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Judo

star4.9/5
(34 reviews)Excellent

About

Roll Model Grappling Academy offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, Judo, and MMA under the guidance of experienced instructors. Owner and Head Instructor AJ Clingerman brings over 23 years of gym ownership experience, while instructors like Jen provide welcoming instruction for all skill levels. The academy caters to everyone from complete beginners to experienced practitioners, with a focus on practical self defense and skill development across multiple disciplines.

reviewsWhat Members Say

Members consistently praise the exceptionally welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels they belong regardless of age, fitness level, or experience. They highlight the world class instruction from coaches like AJ Clingerman and Jen, who are described as patient, supportive, and genuinely excited about student progress. Reviewers emphasize the strong sense of community where people look out for each other and celebrate differences, with specific mention of the gym's active PRIDE presence and women's only BJJ camp. Many note the complete lack of ego among both coaches and students, creating a safe space for learning practical self defense while having fun and making friends.

rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)

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Ethan

7 months ago

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RMGA is the best martial arts school I have attended! The instructors are very friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong sense of community within the school. Whether you're wanting to learn Judo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, or MMA, you will learn from world class instructors. The school is great for all ages and experience levels. If you've never rolled or trained before, you will find that everyone adapts to each other's experience level, and the instructors have a passion for teaching. They will work with you as you learn, and you get the sense that they're as excited as you are when you learn a new technique! I have attended several martial arts schools in my life and there is a noticeable lack of ego within this school. Everyone is respectful and there to help each other learn self defense, and the vibe is very positive. Leave your ego at the door! If you're looking to make new friends and learn practical self defense from some world class instructors, look no further than Roll Model Grappling Academy!

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Elizabeth Pecora

7 months ago

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If you are looking for a supportive community that also helps you develop as a person, this is the gym for you. If you want top-tier BJJ instruction, this is also the gym for you. Whether you want to compete, meet new friends, or explore a new hobby, the coaches are in your corner. It's hard to put into words how much RMGA has meant to me in the short time I've been there. It's a safe space that celebrates differences, and everyone is eager to know your name, your story, and make you feel welcome.

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Nick Gardner

2 years ago

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I have only done three classes (so far) but I absolutely love this place. I cannot imagine a more welcoming space. I have never done any kind of martial art or sport before, so I am literally starting at 0 knowledge. Coach AJ has made me feel very safe and welcomed, and everyone has been extraordinarily kind and patient with me as I learn. I am very out of my comfort zone, but I have a great time and lots of laughs (and an amazing workout!)

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Amanda

2 months ago

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Roll Model Grappling Academy isn't just a place where you learn how to fight; it’s where you learn how to stand up for yourself. As a long-time member of this community, I’ve seen firsthand how this gym transforms lives, including my own. I came here looking for skill, knowledge, and confidence, which I found in spades under the expert guidance of AJ and Risser!🐊™️. They, along with Sensei Alvaro and the rest of the coaches are phenomenal educators who act as your biggest champions regardless of your personal goals. What I didn't expect was a community that would celebrate me for exactly who I am. In an industry where horror stories about being a woman on the mats are unfortunately common, RMGA is a rare sanctuary of respect and inclusion. This community has stood by me through major life challenges and is a place where people confide in one another and truly look out for each other. From their PRIDE presence to local sponsorships, RMGA walks the walk when it comes to giving back to the local area. They are very community-focused and often host events to celebrate the team and our accomplishments. I often vacillate between wishing I had found this place sooner and being grateful I found it exactly when I did. Whether you: - are ready to 'do the work' - want to learn how to defend yourself - are looking for a surprisingly fun way to get a workout - want to find a community - just want learn something new, interesting, and fun - are a child just starting out - are an adult working through life’s hurdles There is no better place to be. The coaches and students make the hard work of grappling both easier and more enriching.

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Suzanne Fortenberry

7 months ago

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⭐️🏳️‍🌈⭐️🏳️‍🌈⭐️🏳️‍🌈⭐️🏳️‍🌈⭐️ If you’re looking for a gym where you can roll, laugh, sweat, and still feel like you belong—Roll Model Grappling is it! I’m a 51-year-old woman, rocking 250+ pounds and definitely not your typical “athlete.” I went in looking for exercise that would challenge me and maybe boost my confidence… and wow, did I find it. AJ (Clingerman) is equal parts welcoming, patient, and hilarious—like if Leslie Knope put you in a chokehold, but in the nicest way possible. She meets you exactly where you are, no matter your size, age, or fitness level, and helps you work toward your goals without judgment. And here’s the coolest part: Roll Model doesn’t just talk about inclusion, they live it. They actually host the world’s largest women’s-only BJJ camp—and it happens right here in Indianapolis! How amazing is that? I came in thinking, “There’s no way I can do Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.” Spoiler: I totally can. And so can you. Whether you’re super fit, out of shape, or somewhere in between, this place makes you feel like you belong on the mat and in the Roll Model family.. Inclusive, supportive, and ridiculously fun—10/10 would recommend.

Contact

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1140 N State Rd 135 p, Greenwood, IN 46142, USA

scheduleHours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 – 11:00 AM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

groupCoaches & Instructors

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Jen

Instructor

Mentioned alongside AJ by a student testimonial as an open-minded and open-hearted instructor.

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AJ Clingerman

Owner / Head Instructor

23 years gym ownership experience

Owner with 23 years of gym ownership experience. Founded Roll Model in April 2022 as a passion project to create a supportive, inclusive Jiu-Jitsu training environment, especially for the LGBTQIA community.