What people say about GMA

Member Journeys

What Our GMA Family Say

Real stories from real members - why they started, what training here is like, and what keeps them coming back.


Chris, BJJ member at Geelong Martial Arts
★★★★★

"BJJ is offered in many gyms around Geelong, but I've found that GMA offers a streamlined and best-practice way to learn BJJ - instead of random techniques which are difficult to learn as a beginner. Don't waste your time going anywhere else."

Chris Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Karen and Nina, mother and daughter Kyokushin Karate students
★★★★★

"Excellent instructors who really take the time to support their students."

Karen & Nina Mother & Daughter Karate Team
Johnny, BJJ and personal training member at Geelong Martial Arts
★★★★★

"As a 41 year old I started my BJJ journey a few years ago with Steve. It was suggested that a great way to start out would be to do some personal training 1-on-1 sessions with him. It wasn't long before I was hooked - a big part of that was Steve's coaching."

Johnny Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Personal Training
★★★★★

"Steve and Lili do an amazing job teaching martial arts - they are very professional, patient and kind."

Amanda GMA Member
★★★★★

"If you're looking for a great martial arts club with great culture and outstanding knowledge with well delivered lessons that's easy to understand and implement, then GMA is for you. Can't recommend them more."

Johnny GMA Member
★★★★★

"Great, friendly academy. My daughter is loving the classes. Highly recommend."

Nathan Parent, Kids Program
★★★★★

"Been training on and off in different gyms for over 20 years, but this place is the best I've encountered - no egos, and just good people who want to see you improve. GMA for the win."

Steve K GMA Member
★★★★★

"I've trained BJJ with Steve from GMA for over 10 years. Both Steve and Lili really know their stuff and know how to teach - both my daughters now train at GMA and love it as much as I do."

Jon Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Family Members
★★★★★

"My 14 year old daughter has just started the beginners Jiu-Jitsu class and is absolutely loving it. She suffers from social anxiety and found team sports too overwhelming - the coaches are so positive in their approach, which is exactly the environment she thrives in."

Kate Parent, Beginners BJJ
★★★★★

"We have just completed Term 2 of the GMA Cubs program, and I am blown away by how much confidence my 3-year-old has gained through the program. Every week he looks forward to Thursday nights and is always excited to attend. A huge thank you to Coach Lili and Coach Steve – you both do an amazing job creating a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment for the kids. It's wonderful to see the positive impact you've had on his confidence and development. We can't wait for Term 3 and all the new skills and experiences it will bring. I highly recommend checking out GMA to anyone looking for a fantastic martial arts program for their child!"

Maryah Parent,GMA Cubs
★★★★★

"The community Lillie and Steve are building at GMA is great. Both my boys go to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the dedication and encouragement they get from the club is second to none. At such a young age they are continually coming home and showing us what they have learnt. Younger children have bundles of energy and class is always routine led which helps them to focus and still remain excited."

Kate Parent, Jaguars BJJ
★★★★★

"Steve and Lili run a fantastic gym/dojo offering multiple classes (karate/jujitsu/muay Thai) that cater to all ages and skill levels. It is apparent from their approach to teaching that they are very passionate about the martial arts. Both instructors are very knowledgeable on the arts they teach. Their cubs class is fantastic for young kids and is a great way to start the youngsters on their martial arts journey. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or just starting out they have something for you. Highly recommend."

Sean Parent & Student, Kyokushin Karate
★★★★★

"Senpai Lili🥋and Senpai Steve🥋 are the best.Very patient and friendly kids. My daughter enjoys training karate with them. GMA gym is quality and new.Oss👍"

Efren Parent, Young Lions Kyokushin Karate
★★★★★

"Amazing coaches/ sensei’s. Great family atmosphere. Kids program is fantastic, not a chore to attend. All the kids have huge smiles and glowing with confidence. Always felt welcome. Not your typical martial arts center. Great location, close to town, lots of parking."

Josh Parent, Young Lions Kyokushin Karate
★★★★★

"Senpai Lili🥋and Senpai Steve🥋 are the best.Very patient and friendly kids. My daughter enjoys training karate with them. GMA gym is quality and new.Oss👍"

Efren Parent, Young Lions Kyokushin Karate
★★★★★

"I have been training at GMA for some time now, taking both Karate and Muay Thai classes. The atmosphere here is fantastic and very welcoming. A huge shoutout to Coach Lili and Coach Steve They are incredibly professional, patient, and truly know how to bring out the best in their students. It’s a real community that helps you build confidence and resilience. I highly recommend GMA in Geelong🫶🏼"

Cynthia Student,Muay Thai & Kyokushin Karate
Trained With Us?

Share your GMA story

If GMA has made a difference to your fitness, confidence or your kids' growth, we'd love to hear about it - and it helps other Geelong families find us too.

Ready to write your own GMA story?

Join a family-friendly gym that genuinely has your back, from your first trial class onward.