MMA Training in Rockford at Core Combat Sports Real MMA. Real Training. Right Here in Rockford.
Core Combat Sports offers MMA training built on real skill, real intensity, and a community that shows up for each other. Whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience, our program gives you the structure, coaching, and challenge you need to keep growing. From striking and grappling to cage control and conditioning, you’ll train the way fighters actually train in a safe, supportive environment that pushes you without burning you out.
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Real Benefits That Go Beyond the Cage
Every time you step on the mat, you’re proving something to yourself. MMA training challenges you to stay sharp, stay committed, and keep improving. That confidence carries over into your everyday life.
Our MMA program builds strength, cardio, and endurance while keeping your workouts fun and functional. You’ll burn calories, move better, and start feeling the difference fast.
MMA is as mental as it is physical. Training here helps you develop focus, discipline, and grit. You’ll learn how to stay calm under pressure and push through when things get tough.
Train Smart. Stay Safe.
MMA gives you more than a workout — it gives you real-world skills you can count on. You’ll learn how to stay calm, think clearly, and react fast when it matters. Our training blends striking, grappling, and clinch work so you know how to handle yourself at every range. Whether you’re here to compete or just want to feel more prepared, Core Combat Sports gives you tools that carry over into everyday life.
What Makes Our MMA Program Stand Out
Our instructors bring years of real fight experience — and they know how to coach at every level. Whether you’re training for your first fight or just trying something new, you’ll get clear feedback and support without the ego.
Our facility is built for real MMA training. You’ll have access to quality mats, equipment that’s well-maintained, and a space that’s always clean and ready to go.
The people here are what make this place special. You’ll be surrounded by training partners who push you, respect you, and want to see you succeed both on the mats and in everyday life.
How Core Combat Sports MMA Stacks Up
Not all training is created equal. Whether you're considering a basic gym membership, rec league, or another martial arts program, it’s important to know what you’re getting. Here's why Core Combat Sports continues to be the choice for adults in Rockford who want something real.
Most gyms and basic programs offer the same routines over and over, without a clear path to long-term progress.
Traditional workouts don’t teach you how to move, defend, or fight.
It’s easy to skip workouts or stay stuck when no one notices.
Group classes often feel disconnected or competitive in the wrong way.
Many gyms aren’t built for MMA, and it shows in the setup and training options.
Our classes are built to challenge and develop you with purpose. You’ll improve skill, strength, and conditioning every step of the way.
From striking and grappling to footwork and cage control, everything you learn at Core Combat Sports has real application.
You’re never just a number here. Our team trains together, encourages growth, and shows up for each other.
Our gym culture is built on respect, effort, and teamwork. You’ll train hard with people who want to see you win.
We’ve got quality mats, bags, pads, and space designed specifically for striking, grappling, and MMA training.
Train Hard. Feel Better.
MMA at Core Combat Sports isn’t just about getting in shape — it’s one of the most effective ways to let go of stress and feel more grounded. The physical intensity helps release built-up tension, boosts your mood, and gives you a clear outlet for daily frustration. At the same time, training forces you to stay focused on the moment, pulling your mind away from distractions and anxiety. You’ll walk out of every session feeling clearer, calmer, and more in control. This isn’t just a workout. It’s something you can count on to reset your body and mind.
Full-Body Training With Real Purpose
MMA at Core Combat Sports goes well beyond what most people think of as a workout. You’re not just lifting weights or running through the same routine — you’re learning how to move, react, and perform at a higher level. Every class combines elements of strength, conditioning, mobility, and technique to challenge your entire body while keeping your mind fully engaged.
Because MMA training pulls from different disciplines, no two sessions feel the same. You’ll stay sharp, stay motivated, and avoid the boredom that comes with traditional gym workouts. You’ll build muscle, burn calories, and develop real athletic ability — all while doing something that actually keeps you coming back.
Build Grit Through Real Training
MMA at Core Combat Sports isn’t just about technique — it’s about learning how to stay calm under pressure, push past doubt, and back yourself with real confidence. Every session challenges you to show up, work hard, and take on things you didn’t think you could handle. That kind of pressure builds grit, and over time, it changes how you carry yourself.
As you improve, that confidence starts to show — not just in training, but at work, at home, and in everyday situations. You know what you’re capable of because you’ve earned it. Whether you’re here to compete or just to grow as a person, the mental edge you gain through MMA carries over into everything else you do.
Learn to Defend With Skill and Confidence
At Core Combat Sports, our MMA program is built to give you the tools to stay safe in the real world. You’ll train with techniques pulled from striking, grappling, clinch work, and positional control — all designed to help you defend yourself when it matters most. We don’t just teach moves. We help you build the awareness, timing, and confidence to react under pressure.
You’ll learn how to stay calm, stay sharp, and handle a range of situations with control and purpose. Whether you’re protecting yourself or the people around you, the skills you gain here are practical, effective, and proven. Our coaches create a safe, supportive space where you can learn at your pace and walk away knowing you’re ready.
Real Feedback From the
Core Combat Sports Community
Hear directly from the people who train with us. These are real stories from members who’ve seen progress, gained confidence, and found their place here. Whether you're thinking about joining or just curious, their words say more than any ad ever could.
Core Combat Sports is the best place to train at in the 815. I have been training at Core for about 3 years, and my love for the martial arts has only grown. Since my first class, I have excelled in Jiu Jitsu, my wrestling skills for high school improved, and it also taught me many things. I became focused on things on and off the mat, including my schooling/homework. I have also completed an Instructor's Course, and I became the head coach for the Core Kids classes. This role was a great responsibility, after all, I was going to be a huge impact on some of these little guys/gals. In the end, teaching became a thing I loved to do, so it didn't even feel like a hard responsibility. I have also competed in Jiu Jitsu and MMA, and I was successful in both. Core Combat Sports will definitely, without a doubt, prepare you to do whatever it is that you want to do: Competing, getting in better shape, losing weight, and most importantly learn how to defend yourself. As soon as you walk in the door, you are greeted by coaches and other students. Everyone is really nice which creates a very safe and friendly environment. The walls are all murals which adds another element to the academy's atmosphere. There are plenty of training options, and at least one is bound to fit you! Whether it is Jiu Jitsu, MTK (kickboxing), wrestling, fitness, you name it! Core has it! There are just too many great things to say about Core, just check it out and see what it's about! Finally, since August 2015, I moved off to college in Iowa City, and I really miss Core and all of my Core friends! Thanksgiving and Christmas break can't come soon enough!
I’ve been training at Core for one year now and I’m currently 28 years old. I was looking for something different to do that would keep me in decent physical shape for my career. Prior to signing up with Core, I was nervous about starting because I had absolutely no experience with Jiu-Jitsu or any other martial art for that matter. The beginner’s class is great and no one at Core gives you any problems for not knowing how to do certain drills and/or for being slow at performing the drills. I have found that training Jiu Jitsu at Core is a great work out and is fun as well. In my opinion, it beats the ordinary gym membership by just going in and running on a treadmill and/or lifting some weights. At Core, you get a great work out and you learn how to defend yourself at the same time. Like I stated before, I started with no experience (and I still have a ton to learn) but it’s been an excellent adventure thus far!
Been going to kickboxing for a month now and couldn’t love it anymore than I do now great people and atmosphere incredible coach just all around awesome place!!!
I have been with core for about 10-11 months and i love it. There were times i was losing hope in myself mentally and physically but core pushed me and motivated me to be the best me i can possibly be. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wishes to learn martial arts!!
Great facility! My husband and myself were driving through and looking for a place to train. Found the perfect spot. Not only was everyone very welcoming, but the intermediate GI class was awesome. Great sequence of techniques and instruction taught by a top notch Black Belt, who is diverse in self defense and sport BJJ. If ever in the area we will stop back by.
I highly recommend Core to anyone looking for an amazing and positive experience for their child. We love all of the coaches and Tommy has been amazing!
I have studied Martial Arts for a very long time. The thing that was missing in my life was ground game. I did some research and found Core Combat Sports. I have known coach Tom since I was little. I knew the passion he has for BJJ. I called him up and without hesitation he said "come try it out". I am in my 40's now so the body wasn't in great shape (totally my fault). My first workout with the adult class was very tough. I'm not going to lie about it. Everybody encouraged me to push it in a positive way in which it made me work super hard. I am in 3 months and have lost 27lbs. I am getting ready to do my first BJJ competition (which isn't required but why not?).
Tom has some highly skilled coaches on staff. Coach Ryan and coach Chris are excellent all around. I am to the point where I cant wait for class. Come give Core a chance and hopefully see you on the Mat. You won't be disappointed.
Currently I am training in Brazilian ju-jitsu and Muay Thai and couldn't be happier. Core combat sports is by far an amazing place for many different people with different goals to come to. Weather it's to lose weight, to get into shape, or learn self defense. I'm happy to be fighting underneath the core name and to have the great coaches that train me and my fellow fighters/peers. As well as being a great place to train, it is also a very friendly environment for any age. I strongly recommend core to anyone else who's considering taking classes in the martial arts
I have been training BJJ at Core Combat Sports for about a year and half now. This being my first bjj/martial arts experience, I was a bit apprehensive about trying it out but Tommy and the rest of the students were very welcoming.
I think the single greatest thing about the gym is that through jiu-jitsu and muay thai, we are helping each other work towards our individual goals. Whether its self defense, sport, or conditioning. Someone will always help you drill, work on breaking down a technique, or roll until your heart gives out. That's what keeps it fresh for me and keeps me coming back.
Core Combat Sports has been a God send for the Parkinson's community. Coach Tommy has run the program since early October. I feel that in my case, it has slowed the progression of the disease and has improved my determination to keep on fighting. Thank you Coach Tommy and all of the volunteers for making a huge difference in our lives.
My son has had some long standing issues. Since joining Core he has drastically improved 2 of his toughest problems. I appreciate how the Core Team does their best to get to the Core of problems beyond just what happens on the mat! Thanks Tommy & Chris! Samuel still needs much help in multiple areas but I trust you will continue to provide positive insights into whatever issues arise.
Very professional and fun for all ages! My oldest child started a year ago and has become obsessed! Can't say enough good things about all of the programs offered at Core!
ACCESS OUR EXCLUSIVE
Secure your spot and get started today with our EXCLUSIVE offer!
FAQs
You’ll be welcomed into a supportive, team-focused environment. Your coach will walk you through the basics at a pace that fits your comfort level. There’s no pressure to know anything before you walk in — just show up ready to learn and move.
Yes. You don’t need any martial arts background to get started. We train people of all experience levels, and our coaches make sure you get the attention and guidance you need to grow at your own pace.
MMA training hits everything — strength, cardio, mobility, and endurance. Every class is designed to push you without burning you out, helping you build muscle, burn calories, and move better overall.
Absolutely. MMA training combines practical techniques from multiple disciplines, giving you the tools to defend yourself in real situations. You’ll build confidence and learn how to stay calm and act with control when it matters most.
We keep things structured and safe from day one. You’ll learn techniques gradually, and our coaches always match the intensity to your level. Our space is clean, our partners are respectful, and safety always comes first.
Extra Benefits That Come With Training MMA at Core Combat Sports
Consistent training helps burn off daily stress and tension, leading to deeper and more restful sleep at night.
Regular MMA practice improves mental clarity, helping you stay sharper at work and more present in daily life.
Training encourages smarter food choices, better hydration, and a more consistent routine overall.
MMA gives you clear goals to chase, helping you build discipline and follow-through that carry over into everything you do.
ACCESS OUR EXCLUSIVE
Secure your spot and get started today with our EXCLUSIVE offer!