I can’t recommend Bellicose Martial Arts highly enough. The training here is absolutely top-notch. Every session is structured with the perfect balance between technical drills, conditioning, and sparring, which keeps things both really challenging and exciting. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, this helps you improve a lot. What really stands out is how well the sparring and training are integrated. You’re not just thrown into sparring unprepared the techniques you learn are directly applied in live practice, which makes everything click faster. It’s a great system that builds both confidence and real skill. The coach is phenomenal, knowledgeable, motivating, and very attentive to each person’s development. They take the time to correct form, explain strategy, and push you to be your best without ever making it feel overwhelming. The atmosphere is intense but supportive, and you can tell everyone who is there is ready to grow. If you’re looking for a martial arts gym that offers high-level instruction, a strong community, and a smart approach to training and sparring, Bellicose Martial Arts is the place to be.
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Bellicose reviews
More than a hundred Google reviews from parents, kids, fighters and fitness members. Here are some of them, in their own words.
I've been training at Bellicose for a while now, and I can confidently say it's one of the best decisions I've made. The environment here is both welcoming and challenging, whether you're a beginner or advanced practitioner. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, patient and passionate about teaching BJJ and Self Defense. They do a fantastic job breaking down techniques and ensuring everyone understands the details, all while pushing you to improve at your own pace. What I love most is the sense of community. Everyone here is friendly, supportive and respectful. Whether you're rolling with someone experienced or newer to the sport, the vibe is always positive, and you can tell that people genuinely want to help each other grow. The gym is also clean, well-maintained, and has everything you need for a great training session. If you're looking for a place to train, learn self-defense, get in shape, and become part of a fantastic community, I highly recommend checking out Bellicose. You won't be disappointed!
Bellicose offers a suite of martial arts packages for different age groups. My experience is more with the cardio kickboxing. The martial artists running the class will wear you out in a span of 45 minutes, which is the highest value proposition for me. Going to the gym is hard enough to do. Staying there long enough for an efficient workout is harder. Being able to get a more than satisfactory workout in under an hour makes it easier to return to Bellicose more frequently in a week's time. Ask any health/athletic professional: frequency in exercise is a contributing factor to physical fitness and health. That's why I like this place. That's why I come here. And it's just a fraction of their overall offerings.
I had such an amazing experience in the cardio kickboxing class! From start to finish, the energy was high, the music was motivating, and the instructor did a fantastic job of keeping everyone engaged. The workout was the perfect balance of challenging and fun, I left dripping in sweat but also feeling so accomplished. I really loved how the instructor broke down the moves so beginners could follow along, while still pushing more experienced people to go harder. It was a great full-body workout that not only improved my endurance but also helped relieve stress. I can’t wait to go back, definitely one of the best fitness classes I’ve ever taken!
When I first moved to MD, I was sooooo out of shape. I was in the Army and needed something fun to get me back into the groove. This was just what I needed. The staff is very friendly, all the instructors were knowledgeable and I met amazing friends! I’ve been here 6yrs now. Yes I reached my goal then slack off but I come right back here. It has been instrumental in my fitness journey. They really are like family now and they push me to my limits when I try to slack lol. Definitely a great all around supportive atmosphere to workout and feel good about it no matter where you are on your fitness journey! I love it!!
We absolutely love this place! My son does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and I take the cardio kickboxing classes, it’s been amazing for both of us. I’m getting stronger, he’s building skills and confidence, and we both actually look forward to coming. One of my favorite things is that we can do classes at the same time, so it fits into our busy schedule without sacrificing family time. The instructors and staff are super friendly and welcoming, it never feels intimidating, just encouraging and fun. Whether you’re looking to get in shape, learn something new, or just have a great time, I can’t recommend this place enough!
I had a great experience with the kickboxing class. The sessions are well-structured, engaging, and suitable for all fitness levels. The instructor is knowledgeable, supportive, and takes time to ensure proper technique and safety. What I appreciate most is the balance between learning real self-defense skills and getting a full-body workout. The class builds confidence, improves endurance, and creates a positive, motivating environment. Overall, it’s an excellent program for anyone looking to improve fitness, relieve stress, and gain practical self-defense skills. Highly recommended!!
This family oriented program is for everyone! It is a very wholesome establishment that will make you feel like family. The classes are outstanding from kickboxing to self-defense. This is a no-judgement zone environment!!! You can get a workout without feeling like someone is looking or pointing at you!! If you don’t know how to do a move, don’t worry, there is help all around!! And before you know it, the class is over and you are eager for more!!! With so many instructors with a different spin on the way they teach, you won’t be disappointed!!! IT IS WORTH IT!!!!
Bellicose is hands-down one of my favorite places, it’s more than a gym, it’s family! All of the instructors bring something special to their classes, and they do an amazing job making sure every workout is safe, effective, and actually fun. Coach Charles keeps us cracking up while totally kicking our butts, and Becca somehow manages to run the front desk, greet everyone , crush her own workouts, and push the rest of us to give it our all. There’s something here for everyone, and after three years, I’m still so grateful to be part of this incredible community!
My daughter absolutely loves her karate lessons here! The instructors are not only skilled and passionate about teaching, but they also create a fun and encouraging environment that keeps her excited to come back every week. The owners are incredibly helpful and genuinely supportive of each student’s goals. They take the time to understand what each person wants to achieve and go above and beyond to help them succeed. It’s more than just a martial arts school, it’s a community that truly cares. Highly recommend
I absolutely love Bellicose Martial Arts! The staff feel like family and the instructors keep me motivated throughout my workout! I love that the workouts (cardio kickboxing) aren’t repetitive and from time to time the bring out special equipment such as heavy sandbags, rubber resistance bands, that work you out differently from weights. The new weight room is an added plus! Who knows maybe they will add a treadmill or stationary bike too!! Overall I love it! Its a hidden gem in our community!
You can register for cardio classes and martial arts anywhere nowadays, but what you won’t get at other place is the camaraderie and care these instructors put into their clients. They are passionate, knowledgeable and invested in your individual goals. I have been a member over a decade and have gotten to see Bellicose adapt to many challenges and continue to offer top notch services. I recommend this place to anyone regardless of where their fitness journey begins.
I’ve been training at Bellicose MMA since I was 13 years old in 2015, and now at 23 I’m still proud to be a part of this amazing community! I currently train in both Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, and the coaches are incredibly knowledgeable, supportive, and passionate about what they do. What truly sets Bellicose apart is the welcoming, family oriented environment. I highly recommend it to anyone considering martial arts training!
I like staying in shape and this is useful fitness. Fitness that may save my life one day and fitness that boosts my confidence. BJJ, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, and let not forget cardio kick boxing to help keep up with it all. Life is too short. Don’t make excuses like I did about time and money. My only regret is not learning martial arts sooner and now I get to share and test all my acquired knowledge with my kids.
Bellicose is the best. That sounds generic or even hyperbolic but it’s not. Their dedicated trainers are always looking for new ways to push us and work different parts of our bodies. They’re friendly, patient, and passionate. The classes allow everyone to go at their own pace while still making sure everyone hits their goals. It’s not the only way to get in shape in the area, but it’s the best way.
The cardio kickboxing is the truth. I will continue to come back to this gym as long as they are around. You will get a full body workout and you will notice the difference in your body, stamina and strength. All you have to do is show up and the coaches will take care of the rest. The staff is great and welcoming. I have experienced nothing but great customer service here
Bellicose epitomizes the way of the warrior! These guys are adept, highly skillful and want the see their students and patrons succeed! The instructor s are next level and want to get the best out of you every session/ every roll! Gi-up and prepare to have one of the best experiences for Martial Arts in Maryland! Outstanding place and outfit! Highly recommend!
Perfect family activity! 🥋💪 The whole family gets to work out together. We enrolled our daughter in Jiu Jitsu and self-defense, while my husband and I take the kickboxing classes. It’s a great environment, very motivating, and we all get to stay active and learn new skills . Highly recommend for families looking for something fun and healthy to do together!
I absolutely LOVE kickboxing here with all the different instructors. If you want a class were you can be challenged mentally and physically, this is it. Class is mixed with a variety of punches, kicks, core, intensity, cardio, and exercises. Come check it out...stick with it.....but only if you want true results!!!
Best Kickboxing class in town! It’s truly a total body workout. What I love best is anyone can fit in at their own comfort level. The instructors are knowledgeable and supportive. They will show you a modification for any movement needed. They offer a variety of class times and easy sign up online or drop in.
The family at Bellicose has welcomed my family with open arms! My wife has since joined and my kids are excited to start Little Lions. Bellicose has been instrumental in my weight loss journey, supporting me in my goals, and influencing me to challenge myself with different arts. Absolutely love this place!
Working with people who can see your strengths and weekness and then show how to use and improve them is exactly what Charles has done for me and my son. Encouragemeant with sound technical knowledge can’t be beat. The other instructors under Charles guidance is proof of all of there attention to detail.
Training at Bellicose Martial Arts with Coach Cherry has been a transformative experience his guidance is both tough and inspiring, pushing me to exceed beyond my limits. Thanks to Coach Cherry, I’ve gained not just physical strength but a new level of confidence and mental toughnes just within 5 months.
Amazing MMA school with knowledgeable coaches, a welcoming atmosphere, and great training for all skill levels. The instructors truly care about helping students improve both technique and confidence. Highly recommend to anyone looking to learn martial arts and be part of a supportive community!
We’ve been coming to Bellicose for years, both for adult and kids’ fitness classes. My kids love Bully Defense System, Kids Jiu Jitsu and Little Lions Karate and I love my kickboxing classes. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable and you’ll get a great workout with great people!
I enjoyed every bit of the seminar. I missed the first one due to injury. I am looking forward to the next two seminars. I was amazed at the different techniques I can use to protect myself. Thank you Coach Charles for thinking of women and showing us how to protect ourselves!
I have been training with Coach Charles and Bellicose Martial arts for over a decade. It has been one of the best decisions of my life. I highly recommend, for anyone that wants to get in shape or want to learn some martial art techniques, to protect yourself and your family.
One of the best well rounded BJJ gym I have been to. Charles it a great instructor and the gym offers a laid back atmosphere to train in. LE/Military friendly with a good group of people to train with including advanced belts willing to work with beginners.
I really enjoyed Bellicose cardio kickboxing and bootcamp! The instructors were motivating and welcoming, and the community had such great energy. Everyone was supportive, which made the workout experience even better. Definitely a great place to train!
Ive been going to Bellicose for 5 years now. I really enjoyed the atmosphere when working out and that each instructor brings there own vibe. They also mix up the workouts after awhile to include bands and other gym equipment which is fun.
The best way I can tell you is this. This place is no joke! It's fun, hard,driven and be prepared to give it. Bowie MMA will get the pounds off and in shape. I LOVE IT!!!!! And the people in the class are cool and of the same mindset
Bellicose is the absolute best! My son has autism and they have been so warm and inviting. He loves it and feels so encouraged and accepted. They have truly created a family environment there. I cannot recommend them enough!
My son practices self-defense there and I use their gym while he is in class. The instructors and staff are both very knowledgeable and friendly. He likes the class and his confidence is growing. I highly recommend them!
The classes are very practical and I love how both instructors for the Muay Thai and BJJ classes really break down the techniques from a practical self defense AND competitive point of view. Would definitely recommend 100%
Great experience doing two classes a week for the past few months at this facility. Kind owners, helpful staff, and encouraging coaches. If I weren’t moving, I’d continue my time here. Thank you Bellicose Martial arts. (:
If you have not exercised in years this is the class for you. If you are in the best shape of your life this class is for you. Why? The instructors will meet you at your level. Do what you can, just keep it moving!
This is a wonderful academy... from the owners to everyone that they employ; so much knowledge delivered with such care. I highly recommend Bellicose and plan to stick with them until I'm too old to train !!! -- Erica
Great experience BJJ training from a historical linage and you learn fast. One of the few school where white belts are taught and roll with black belts in every class. Great Muai Thai kickboxing as well.
Amazing environment and people! Truly feels like a family. The coaches are very attentive to individuals and their teaching methods are very helpful and effective. Highly recommend! Go Bellicose!
If you’re looking for a totally different mode of exercise as well as an opportunity to gain strength and muscles this is the place for you. I highly recommend the cardio kickboxing and bootcamp.
I’ve been a member at Bellicose Martial Arts for 7yrs. They have a variety of different classes and training programs to join. The coaches /instructors are amazing! I love my bellicose Family🤗
I love this gym, everyone is friendly in the classes. All the instructors are great, they each have there own style of teaching. Disclaimer: it is up to you how much you put in to your workout.
I have been going to classes here for 4-5 months now. Instructors and others training are all great. My daughter enjoys and looks forward to the Bully Defense System classes each week as well.
I really enjoyed my first kickboxing class with Bellicose! The class offered great structure, high-energy, good music, and supportive atmosphere. It was perfect for stress relief and fitness!
Bellicose has a true family vibe and superb instruction. The coaches are patient, clear, and genuinely care about your progress. Great place to learn, grow, and feel welcome from day one.
I have my 7 year olds enrolled in bbj here and they love everything about it. The instructors are very knowledgeable and they definitely make it fun and a great experience for everybody
best workout i've had in a long time! love the "go at your own pace" atmosphere that they foster. the staff here are incredibly friendly and strive to know you on a first name basis.
I love the kickboxing group classes! All the different instructors are great and have high energy classes. I get a total body workout. There is also a nice supportive family vibe.
Staff are super friendly and motivating. If you are looking to get in shape while having fun doing so, this is the perfect place for you. Hope to see you in class one day 🙂!
Great place to get in shape via cardio kickboxing. If you want to learn self defense or improve overall health Brazilian jiu jitsu and Muay Thai class is the place to start
Bellicose is excellent! Everyone is so nice and encouraging. The facility is comfortable and clean. Definitely a great place for fitness and wellbeing. Thank you!
I really enjoyed my first day kickboxing. Charles was an excellent instructor and the staff was very friendly and helpful. I look forward to many more classes.
I take the kickboxing classes regularly and get a great workout in that incorporates cardio and strength. Great workout, great instructors, great atmosphere!
A wealth of knowledge, great atmosphere, and wide range of skilled opponents makes this law enforcement friendly school one of a kind and well worth a visit.
Such an amazing place to learn how to defend yourself and stay fit! The instructors are knowledgeable, amazing, and make sure you have an excelled workout.
This school is providing everything I was looking for: effective technique, practical self-defense, and conditioning. Highly recommended 👌👌👌
Bellicose is by far the best martial arts studio around. Owner and team are very hands on and feels like your part of the family from day 1.
I love kickboxing at Bellicose. Challenging and fun. Also a great workout. I see definition in my shoulder because of all the punching.
Good coaches , they know the jiujitsu game concept wise, good training focused on the foundations. Great people great place to train
I feel like my son gets quality instruction. Unlike other dojos, I’m confident that he is learning jujitsu the way it was intended.
Free trial class
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Come see the room for yourself. Beginners are welcome at any time, and a coach will walk you through everything in your first class.
- Real instructors, led by a US Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee
- Classes for ages 3 and up, from first-timers to competitors
- Near the Crofton bowling alley, with plenty of parking
Your first class is free
Tell us who’s training and we’ll save you a spot on the mat.
