MMA Gyms in Des Moines, IA

6 of the 23 martial arts schools we list in Des Moines have MMA training. "Martial arts" search results lump boxing gyms, jiu-jitsu academies, and traditional dojos in with actual MMA gyms, and a map pin has no field to flag which ones run true mixed-discipline sparring and cage-style training. Every gym here has MMA training confirmed from its own class schedule or website, not just a passing mention of "self-defense" in a review.

Barongan Martial Arts Academy Karate / taekwondoMMA

1111 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50315-2605

+15152850067 Website Directions

Des Moines Mixed Martial Arts Kids classesBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingMMA

617 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313

+15153714170 Website Directions

Iowa Martial Arts and Wellness Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingMMA

2580 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321-1125

+15156641900 Website Directions

Pinnacle Jiu-Jitsu Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMMA

340 Wright Rd. Suite G, Des Moines, IA 50316

🕒 Thursday from 5:30-6:30 PM

+15158500096 Directions

TBA Classic - Muay Thai World Expo Kids classesMuay thai / kickboxingMMA

6111 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321

(515) 776-9838 Website Directions

Talon Muay Thai Kids classesFree trial classMuay thai / kickboxingMMA

601 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50309-4528

🕒 MONDAY 6:00 - 7:25 pm

+15152502357 Website Directions

Sit in on a class before signing up, especially a sparring session. MMA gyms vary a lot in how hard they push contact and how experienced their coaches are with beginners, so watching a live class tells you more than any website will.

Also in Des Moines

MMA Gyms near Des Moines

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Good to know

Do I need experience to start training MMA?
No, most MMA gyms run beginner classes that cover striking and grappling fundamentals before anyone spars live. Expect the first few weeks to focus on stance, basic strikes, and takedown defense rather than full-contact sparring.

How much does an MMA gym membership cost?
Monthly membership typically runs $100-200, though it varies by region and whether the price includes both striking and grappling classes. Some gyms charge extra for open mat time or private coaching.