No Long Contracts or Hidden Obligations
Most large academies lock you into long-term contracts — sometimes a year or more — before you even know if it’s a good fit. At Shaddock MMA, you can train without the pressure of long commitments. Try a free class, see if you like the atmosphere, and only keep going if it feels right. Training should be about growth, not fine print.
Real Instruction from the Owner Himself
At big schools, classes are often led by rotating staff or newer instructors. At Shaddock MMA, you’re learning directly from Coach John Shaddock, who has decades of martial arts experience. Every class — whether it’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi, Boxing, or DDP Yoga — is guided by someone who knows your name, your goals, and how to help you improve.
No Required Gear Purchases
Many corporate martial arts gyms require you to buy their uniforms, gloves, or branded gear just to train. At Shaddock MMA, you can use your own equipment — no forced “team uniform” or expensive add-ons. We keep training simple, affordable, and focused on what matters: learning, fitness, and community.
A Tight-Knit Community That Pushes You to Improve
When you train locally, you become part of something personal. You’re not just another membership number — you’re part of a community of motivated adults, parents, and kids all training together. From our kids’ classes (starting at age 5) to adult Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing, you’ll find a group that supports and challenges you every step of the way.
Train Local. Feel the Difference.
Choosing a martial arts gym is personal — and you deserve a place that respects your time, budget, and goals. Skip the contracts, skip the corporate feel, and see what real training with a dedicated local coach is like. Find your MMA gym that feels more like family than just a workout!
Read What Others Are Saying about local MMA Gym Shaddock Martial Arts Eldersburg MD
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We signed my kindergartener up after they were threatened while riding the school bus home. This place is perfect for teaching your kid real-life self defense. Not only do they learn the moves, but they practice drills on what to do if someone starts bullying you. The classes are a great balance of learning the moves and fun games. 3 years later, I’m confident that my child has the skills to defend themselves if they need to.
Megan
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Highly recommend. Such a great workout every time.
Kelly
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My daughter is having a fun time gaining confidence, friends and body contol! She always asks when her next Jui jitsu class is, this is a great addition to our homeschool journey! Coach Shaddock is great with kids and knows his stuff!
April
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Great place for kids of all ages and skill level. Both my kids go there and love it. Very affordable and no set schedules, come at your convenience.
Tim
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Great martial arts dojo for kids, smaller sized classes.
Amber
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My boyfriend and his son both workout here and love it. I enjoy watching the kids classes.
Jessica
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Amazing gym!
Ross
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My family loves Coach Shaddock amazing and patient. My daughter loves the homeschool class learning new skills and playing the games.
Darleta
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Excellent class for all levels. The coach really cares about his students. My son struggles socially and the coach has gone above and beyond to make him feel comfortable and to encourage him to keep going. His classes are fun yet informative. He demands respect in an age appropriate manner and touches on a lot of anti bullying principles. Homeschool classes during the day are now offered! We also like the relaxed make up policy so we know if we are sick or on vacation that we can make up extra days to get the full amount of time we pay for! Highly Recommend!
Lindsay
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I love this place. I've been a member for the last 15 years. Coach Shaddock is very courteous and professional. No matter your skill level or discipline, he will work with you. If you want a great workout or a sparring session, this is the place for you.
S
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I have been training at Shaddock's for almost two years. It is a wonderful place with great people. I have learned a lot and really increased my fitness while having fun. My son who is in middle school has also been training and having a blast. The classes have really helped my son and would for any kid. It is a great way to workout and get confidence. I don't have to worry about my son at school.
Andrew
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Great environment to start learning, would recommend
JP
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Amazing gym!
Ross
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Great martial arts dojo for kids, smaller sized classes.
Amber
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This gym has been very good to me. Coach Shaddock has a great way of explaining and teaching things, in my case BJJ. The culture and community at this gym are also things I really enjoy. I highly recommend!
Ron
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My family loves Coach Shaddock amazing and patient. My daughter loves the homeschool class learning new skills and playing the games.
Darleta
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I’ve been training with coach Shaddock over 6 months, he is a great coach! The environment is great, everyone is so nice and the classes are amazing, always fun! He is really patient and I Always learn something new! I started Just doing Boxing and get really Interesting in Jiu Jitsu classes! I highly recommend the classes!
Eymi
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I have stopped in here a few times for open mat. The atmosphere was great. Everyone is very focused on technique, very welcoming as well.
Jared
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Best mma gym in the area. Coach shaddock is constantly updating and improving the gym. I’ve never attended a class and regretted going, and have met a ton of good friends at the gym. This is a perfect place to train no matter what experience level you will make big improvements.
Larson
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My boyfriend and his son both workout here and love it. I enjoy watching the kids classes.
Jessica
