Hellman's MMA

Business Details

Your Premier Martial Arts Destination in Tampa, FL

Hellman's MMA has been dedicated to martial arts instruction since 1995, providing structured programs that build discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills for students of all ages. Our Tampa-based facility offers specialized training in kickboxing, MMA, No Gi Jiu Jitsu, and women's self-defense, with a focus on character development and physical fitness. With over 25 years of experience, our head instructor Shihan Gary Hellman has trained students from childhood through professional competition levels, including UFC athletes.

We serve the Tampa Bay area with flexible class schedules and personalized private lessons, emphasizing individual progress in a supportive environment. Our team combines technical expertise with mentorship to help students achieve personal growth and physical excellence.

Services

Little Kicks Kickboxing MMA Fight Team No Gi Jiu Jitsu Women's Self Defense Private Lessons

Highlights and features

We offer structured martial arts programs for children aged 4-5 to build discipline and confidence
Our head instructor has trained students from childhood through professional UFC competition levels
We provide personalized private lessons tailored to individual skill development needs
Our Tampa facility serves multiple communities with flexible evening and weekend class schedules
We combine technical martial arts instruction with character development mentorship

What people say

Amazing instructor Build confidence Great workout Family lifestyle No quitting spirit

Website

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Services

Little Kicks

Our Little Kicks program for ages 4-5 combines fun activities with foundational martial arts training. Students develop coordination, listening skills, and basic self-defense techniques while building confidence in a structured environment. The curriculum focuses on motor skill development and introduces core values like respect and perseverance.

MMA Fight Team

The MMA Fight Team program prepares athletes for competitive competition through comprehensive training in striking, grappling, and conditioning. Students receive technical instruction in multiple martial arts disciplines while developing fight strategies and mental toughness. This advanced program caters to those pursuing amateur and professional fighting careers.

Women's Self Defense

Our Women's Self Defense classes teach practical techniques for real-world safety scenarios. Participants learn situational awareness, escape tactics, and physical defense methods while building strength and confidence. The program emphasizes empowerment through realistic training and scenario-based practice.

Private Lessons

Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction tailored to individual goals and skill levels. Students receive focused attention on technique refinement, personalized workout plans, and accelerated progress in their chosen martial arts discipline. This option provides flexible scheduling and customized training approaches.

No Gi Jiu Jitsu

No Gi Jiu Jitsu focuses on ground fighting techniques without traditional uniform grips. Students develop body control, positional strategy, and submission techniques through live sparring and technical drills. This modern approach emphasizes practical application and physical conditioning.

People

Gary Hellman

Head Instructor

Shihan Gary Hellman has trained martial artists for over 25 years, developing students from childhood through professional competition levels. His expertise spans multiple disciplines including karate, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with a focus on technical precision and character development.

Irene Hellman

Program Director

Irene Hellman manages program operations and student development, ensuring structured progression for all participants. With extensive experience in martial arts administration, she maintains the school's educational standards while fostering a supportive learning environment for students of all ages.

Brandon Lee

Assistant Coach

Brandon Lee brings competitive fight experience to his coaching role, specializing in MMA techniques and competition preparation. As a former student who progressed to professional levels, he understands the school's training methodology and provides practical insights for aspiring fighters.

Questions

What age groups do you accept for martial arts training?

We offer programs for children starting at age 4 through adult classes. Our Little Kicks program is specifically designed for ages 4-5, with progressive options for older children and adults.

Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?

No prior experience is required. Our instructors welcome beginners at any age and provide structured training to develop fundamental skills and techniques progressively.

What martial arts disciplines do you teach?

We offer kickboxing, MMA, No Gi Jiu Jitsu, and women's self-defense programs. Our curriculum combines multiple disciplines to provide comprehensive martial arts training.

Are private lessons available?

Yes, we offer personalized private lessons tailored to individual goals. These sessions provide focused attention on specific techniques and customized training plans for accelerated progress.

What are your instructors' qualifications?

Our head instructor has over 25 years of teaching experience and has trained students to professional competition levels. All instructors maintain technical expertise through ongoing martial arts development.

Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Lee

Oct 04, 2021 Report

Coach Hellman & Irene run a fantastic MMA facility!
Excllent coaching and training for all age groups. My son LOVES coming here. The lessons extend beyond just learning to defend yourself, but building self confidence and focus which has definitely benefited my son in school. Highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for themselves or for their children! 6/5 stars.

Jacob Rouse

Oct 03, 2021 Report

I've been coming to Hellmans for many years and love it. Shihan knows what he is teaching and knows and teaches it well. Gary and Irene have become family to everyone who goes there. The kids program is great for the little people to teach them discipline and how to defend themselves if they ever have to. The adult program is also great because it gives a good workout and teaches you a lot. I am speaking from experience about the classes because I have been in both over the years. He trains professional and amateur fighters and they do well which goes to show that it is a great gym.

Gg Ahad

Oct 02, 2021 Report

Shihan Hellman & Irene are amazing. My husband and I began training here since we moved to FL in March. Life happens and they get it. No pressure or expectations. Shihan is an incredible instructor and makes everyone feel comfortable. If you dont have the will power to get to the gym but want to work, then this is the place for you. Hardest part is showing up.Thank you for welcoming us. Osu!

Shawna Berger

Sep 30, 2021 Report

My 6 year old son has attended classes for almost a year and its been a very positive experience. We originally signed him up because team sports were not working for him. He was intimidated and didnt seem confident enough to participate. These MMA classes have helped build his confidence by giving him an activity that he can be proud of when he achieves his goals of earning new belts, stripes, etc. Also of note, I looked at many karate and martial arts programs in the area and this was one of the ONLY places with classes after 5 pm (and Saturday class also!). I appreciated this so much because

Sil Huang

Sep 30, 2021 Report

I am so impressed with Coach Shihan Hellman (and also his peer coaches and assistants) as he is able to teach a group of kids (small medium or large size) so easily and the kids have a great time, learn discipline, respect, consistency and to not quit, keep fighting. As soon as I posted my interest in enrolling my children into his gym on the web, Coach Hellman promptly replied to me, and it was the perfect fit. My older son is more attentive, focused, disciplined and most importantly, healthier and more confident. It is such a hard art, to memorize all moves, have the kids to execute properly

Zaid Velez

Sep 25, 2021 Report

All I can say is I wish I would have brought my daughter to Hellmans MMA sooner. My daughter's confidence, discipline, and overall energy has grown exceptionally. Shihan is so great with the kids and so patient with them. My daughter can't wait to get back to class, and it's incredible to see how much she enjoys being in class. On her first day, she told Shihan I wanted to be a teacher, and till this day, she says I want to be like Shihan. I would highly recommend that anyone looking to enroll their child in a martial arts class stop by, and you won't be let down. =)