+1 (810) 522-6030

Michigan's Top
Mixed Martial Arts, Fitness, & Wellness Academy

  • World-class Mixed Martial Arts instruction for all skill levels
  • Fitness & Wellness programs for adults, kids, fighters, and families
  • State-of-the-art equipment and personalized training
  • A welcoming community that creates progress and motivation
  • All ages, backgrounds, and skill levels are welcome.

We cultivate champions through the values of respect, discipline, and personal growth. We keep it simple by saying that we want our members to "Aim up" in their lives. Join us on a journey of self-improvement & excellence.
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Our Programs

We offer a wide range of programs to help our members succeed in their lives. All ages & levels, from beginners to professionals, are welcome to join.
No Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Benefits:
  • Self-Defense Mastery: Jiu Jitsu is renowned for teaching practical, real-world self-defense techniques, focusing on leverage and technique rather than strength.
  • Full-Body Workout: Engage every muscle group with each roll, enhancing flexibility, strength, and endurance.
  • Mental Resilience: BJJ sharpens your problem-solving skills as you navigate through live sparring situations, building mental toughness.
  • Stress Relief: A great way to de-stress and improve mental clarity after a long day, while improving your overall physical health.
Our Jiu Jitsu class is designed to challenge you while providing a welcoming and supportive environment. You'll leave each session feeling accomplished and stronger, physically and mentally. Experience the gold standard in martial arts training with instructors who are passionate about your growth—both on and off the mat. Join us and discover why Jiu Jitsu is not just a martial art, but a lifestyle!
Boxing
Benefits:
  • Full-Body Workout: Boxing combines strength, speed, and endurance, toning your entire body, especially your arms, core, and legs.
  • Cardiovascular Conditioning: Boxing improves heart health, boosting your stamina with intense rounds of punching, footwork, and cardio.
  • Mental Discipline: Boxing requires focus, precision, and strategy, sharpening your mind while improving coordination and reaction time.
  • Confidence Building: Learn to defend yourself and gain confidence in your ability to stay strong under pressure, both inside and outside the ring.
  • Stress Relief: Release tension and stress with each punch, leaving the class feeling empowered and energized.
Our Boxing class offers an exciting combination of technique and fitness, providing a high-impact workout that will get your heart racing and your muscles working. Led by expert coaches who emphasize proper form and safety, you'll leave each session with new skills and increased confidence.
Kickboxing
Benefits:
  • Full-Body Conditioning: Kickboxing is one of the most effective ways to build strength, endurance, and agility. Every punch, kick, and knee strike works your muscles while improving coordination and cardiovascular fitness.
  • Fat Burning: With dynamic drills and combinations, you’ll burn calories while toning and sculpting your body.
  • Self-Defense Skills: Learn practical striking techniques to defend yourself with confidence, giving you peace of mind.
  • Mental Focus: Kickboxing sharpens your focus and discipline, helping you perform under pressure and build mental resilience.
  • Stress Release: Take out your frustrations on the pads and bags for a high-intensity workout that leaves you feeling energized and clear-headed.
In our Kickboxing class, you will learn how to deliver powerful, precise strikes while developing functional fitness. Expect a dynamic atmosphere that motivates you to push beyond your limits, with our expert instructors ensuring every punch is thrown with technique and purpose.
Youth Martial Arts
Benefits:
  • Confidence Building: As children master new skills and earn new belts, they build self-esteem and learn to believe in their abilities.
  • Discipline and Focus: Martial arts teaches children to set goals, follow through with tasks, and stay focused—skills that will serve them well in school and life.
  • Physical Fitness: Martial arts improves flexibility, coordination, balance, and strength, giving kids a fun, engaging way to stay active and healthy.
  • Respect and Teamwork: In martial arts, respect for others is fundamental. Kids learn the importance of respect for their instructors, peers, and themselves, promoting a positive, inclusive environment.
  • Self-Defense Skills: Martial arts gives children the tools to protect themselves while promoting a non-violent approach to conflict resolution.
Our Youth Programs are designed to keep kids engaged while teaching them the values of perseverance and respect. With a structured approach that emphasizes both fun and discipline, your child will thrive in an environment that fosters growth, respect, and confidence. Give them the opportunity to excel in martial arts and in life with the gold standard in youth training!
Punches & Crunches
Benefits:
  • Rapid Fat Loss: The high-intensity intervals combined with short rest periods ignite your metabolism, torching calories even after you finish the workout.
  • Total Body Toning: Boxing & Kickboxing targets multiple muscle groups, sculpting and defining your body as you build lean muscle mass.
  • Improved Cardiovascular Health: With intervals that get your heart pumping, you'll see noticeable improvements in your stamina and endurance.
  • Mental Toughness: HIIT style training allows you to go beyond your limits, fostering resilience and a sense of accomplishment after every session.
  • Time-Saving: With fast-paced, efficient workouts, you get the maximum benefit in less time.
Our Punches & Crunches class is designed for people of all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. With high-energy routines and personalized coaching, you’ll be challenged to push yourself to the next level while having fun.
Private Lessons
Benefits:
  • Customized Workouts: Every session is specifically designed for your fitness level, goals, and needs, ensuring optimal results in less time.
  • Fast-Track Progress: With undivided attention from our top-tier instructors, you’ll accelerate your learning and skill development, moving beyond plateaus faster.
  • Focused Instruction: Receive detailed, step-by-step feedback and corrections that help you perfect your technique, whether in martial arts or fitness.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Book at your convenience and tailor your sessions around your schedule, offering ultimate flexibility and commitment to your goals.
  • Confidence and Motivation: Working 1-on-1 ensures a safe, supportive environment where you can build confidence, overcome challenges, and stay motivated.
Our Private Lessons are perfect for anyone looking to push their limits and achieve personal goals, whether you're training for a competition, perfecting your form, or taking your fitness to the next level. With personalized attention and a program that evolves with you, our instructors ensure that every moment of your session counts. Experience the gold standard in training where professionalism, results, and a positive culture are our top priorities. Ready to unlock your full potential? Let’s get started!
SFS Elite MMA (Team SFS)
The SFS Elite MMA isn’t just a training program; it’s a proving ground for those wanting to become champions. Designed for serious athletes, our system has forged elite competitors who’ve showcased their skills in premier organizations like the UFC, Invicta, Rizin, Bellator, and more.
This program is not for the faint of heart. It’s a relentless, high-performance system built to push you physically, mentally, and technically to new heights. If you’re ready to dedicate yourself to the grind, we’ll give you the tools, coaching, and environment to dominate in the cage.

But here’s the thing:

This program isn’t open to just anyone.

To join, you’ll need to request an evaluation
Iron Horse Performance
Benefits:
  • Total-Body Strength: Focus on compound movements and progressive resistance training to build a powerful, well-balanced physique.
  • Sport-Specific Training: Tailored to your sport or athletic goals, Iron Horse Performance enhances speed, agility, endurance, and explosiveness.
  • Injury Prevention: Our training methods emphasize proper form, mobility, and recovery techniques to ensure you stay injury-free while reaching new heights.
  • Enhanced Athletic Performance: Gain the physical edge in your sport with power-building exercises that translate to improved performance on the field, court, or track.
  • Mindset and Discipline: Strength training isn’t just about physical gains—it’s about mental toughness, focus, and commitment to long-term goals.
Led by experienced coaches, Iron Horse Performance combines cutting-edge training techniques with a results-driven approach to maximize your athletic potential. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, our program ensures you reach your goals with precision and efficiency.
Master Perez Taekwondo
Benefits:
  • Traditional Martial Arts Skills: Learn the time-honored techniques of Taekwondo, including powerful kicks, punches, and intricate forms (poomsae) that improve strength, flexibility, and coordination.
  • Self-Discipline and Focus: Taekwondo is built on principles of respect and mental fortitude. Our program instills a sense of discipline that carries over into every area of your life.
  • Physical Fitness: Enhance your strength, agility, and cardiovascular health through high-intensity, dynamic drills and forms.
  • Mental Toughness: Develop confidence, concentration, and problem-solving skills—key aspects that help students excel both in the martial arts and beyond.
  • Goal-Oriented Progression: Taekwondo offers a clear path for growth, from beginner to black belt, with each achievement boosting your self-esteem and giving you a sense of accomplishment.
At Master Perez Taekwondo, we believe in building more than just martial artists; we’re shaping future leaders. Experience the gold standard in martial arts education, where every class is an opportunity to grow mentally, physically, and spiritually. Join us and discover the transformative power of Taekwondo!
The Michigan Institute of Athletics
Who We Are:
At the Michigan Institute of Athletics, we are more than a training facility—we are a community dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal best. Located in Brighton, Michigan, we provide a top tier approach to fitness, martial arts, and wellness.

Our Mission:
To inspire and empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds to lead healthier, more confident lives through exceptional programs, expert coaching, and a supportive environment.

Our Team:
Our instructors and staff bring decades of experience in Mixed Martial Arts, traditional martial arts, fitness training, yoga, and nutritional guidance. Passionate and approachable, they are here to help you succeed—whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or preparing for your next big competition.

What We Offer:
  • Martial Arts Programs: Mixed Martial Arts, No Gi Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Kickboxing, and traditional styles for all ages & levels
  • Fitness Programs: Strength training, HIIT classes, and personal training tailored to your goals.
  • MMA Competition Team: This is an elite program designed for those wanting to become their best in Mixed Martial Arts.
  • Wellness Services: Yoga, massage therapy, and nutritional counseling to keep your body and mind balanced.
  • Youth Programs: Fitness and martial arts classes designed to build discipline, confidence, and healthy habits in kids.
  • Private & Group Training: Personalized attention for individuals or small teams to focus on skill development and fitness.

Why Choose Us?
We believe in building strong bodies, confident minds, and resilient spirits. Whether your goal is self-defense, competition, or personal wellness, the Michigan Institute of Athletics is here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet the Coaches
  • James David Gray
    Owner & Head Coach:
    Scorpion Fighting System
    Pro Athlete
  • Brian Fornasiero
    Jiu Jitsu Coach
    BJJ Black Belt
  • Tim Farr
    MMA Coach
    Pro Athlete
  • Juan Perez
    Owner & Head Instructor:
    Master Perez Taekwondo
  • Danny Berry
    MMA & Jiu Jitsu Coach
    Pro Athlete & BJJ Black Belt
  • Tristin Canada
    Head Coach:
    Scorpion Boxing
  • Jaxson Barlow
    Kickboxing Coach
    MMA Fighter
  • Beau Turnblom
    Youth MMA & Jiu Jitsu Coach
    MMA Fighter
  • Zoe Nowicki
    Female Wrestling Coach
    Pro Athlete, NCAA Champion
  • Fallon Johnson
    Kickboxing Coach
    Pro Athlete
  • Andrew Estrada
    Owner & Head Trainer:
    Iron Horse Performance
  • Natalie Kutzli
    IHP Personal Trainer & MMA Fighter
  • Caleb Henry
    IHP Personal Trainer & MMA Fighter
  • Lily Hall
    Owner & Massage Therapist:
    Midwest Massage Co.
  • Joe Macay
    Assistant Coach
    Scorpion Boxing
Testimonials
  • I’m a Marine stationed out in San Diego, California. Most will say it is the “Mecca” of mixed martial arts in the United States. I’ve been doing Jiu Jitsu and Kickboxing for going on two years now. I’ve been to many gyms such as Atos, Gracie Humaita, 10th planet and I can say that James and the rest of the SFS staff are very knowledgeable and professional. Very comfortable and friendly environment and the instructors are dedicated to make sure you succeed. By far the best gym I’ve been to in Michigan.
    Kyle Allen
    US Marine & Martial Artist
  • The Owner/Team behind this gym are second to none in their knowledge & genuine sincerity for their members future and well being. I have stopped in to train with this team at a few separate locations over years during their quest and never felt unwelcome no matter the location or time since I had been there. The message or environment was always the same mindset which seemed to be “How can we help each other get better than we were when we walked in here.” If you're trying to stay in shape or have aspirations that go beyond what other people believe you can do, SFS will help you.
    David Harter
    Livingston County Resident
  • SFS is an awesome place to train for all levels of experience. From the get go, there is nothing but motivation and positivity before, during and after workouts. Friendly environment. Everyone takes the time to hear you out. The Coaches are knowledgeable and take the time to teach the right/safe way to train.
    Stacey Pieron
    Co-Owner Broadstone Homes
  • Although it's a huge gym with lots of classes and students, it still maintains that close family vibe. All of the coaches are super friendly and passionate about what they do. It is truly an impressive gym with both world class fighters, kids, and adults training just for fitness.
    Angelica Martinez
    Professional Fighter & Taekwondo Instructor
Institute Of Athletics Schedule
INSTITUTE OF ATHLETICS SCHEDULE

Contact Us

Start your free trial by sending us a message. You must have a parent present to fill out your waiver if you are under the age of 18.
See you soon!
+1 (810) 522-6030
By Phone : 4:30-7pm M-Th

instituteofathletics@gmail.com

2244 Euler Rd #105, Brighton, MI 48114

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