Tim Barchard's Professional Martial Arts Academy

Professional Martial Arts Academy is the BEST martial arts school, in my opinion. I took a few months away from PMA after my first year there just to see what else was out there - nothing that came close. Tim and Laura Barchard have it figured out. They teach more than just combat sports at sports there. My 3 years there so far has been life changing. The life guiding principles that are synonymous with studying and practicing martial arts - discipline, self-control, persistence, respect and confidence just to name a few - are embodied 100% here. The environment is all-inclusive. It is a place for everyone - from children who learned to walk only recently to hobbyists like myself to competitive fighters preparing for a competition. A true service to the community.

I’ve been training in Tim Barchard’s PMA START Jiu Jitsu program for about three years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. The atmosphere is always positive, welcoming, and motivating. Every class is packed with high-level jiu jitsu and combat sports knowledge, and you can tell the coaches genuinely care about your progress. Tim, Mason, and Laura are incredible instructors — supportive, skilled, and great at breaking things down no matter your experience level. Whether you’re looking to get in shape, build confidence, or level up your jiu jitsu, PMA is the place to be. Highly recommend!

From a business and coaching standpoint, Professional Martial Arts is one of the most well-run BJJ programs I’ve encountered anywhere in the country. A successful gym relies on strong culture, consistent coaching, structured instruction, athlete development, and a safe, welcoming environment—PMA delivers on all of these at a high level. Professor Tim Barchard and his staff create an atmosphere where beginners can progress with confidence and competitors can push themselves effectively. Their coaching has played a major role in my own success, including winning a world BJJ title, and has elevated the wrestlers I train. As the owner of one of the top wrestling gyms in New England, I’ve seen what separates average programs from exceptional ones, and PMA stands out as a place where you receive true quality and feel part of something built the right way.

If I could leave more stars I would! I’ve been a part of the Pma family for quite a few years now, 2 of the 3 of my kids are members of the karate team and I also bring my friends daughter. I couldn’t be happier with finding this dojo all those years ago!!! The family atmosphere is incredible, affordability is key, the way that the staff greet both parents and kids (or individual) by name, the way they handle every day issues with the kids at ‘mat chat’, they are all so very open to helping both on the mats and off, and so many more amazing things to list!

My daughter absolutely thrives here. The instructors don’t just teach kicks and punches; they teach confidence, focus, and how to carry yourself with pride. The atmosphere is upbeat, encouraging, and honestly just fun. You can tell everyone on staff genuinely cares about the kids and wants them to succeed both on the mat and off it.