Cincinnati’s elite BJJ academy

First class is free and walk-ins are welcome!

Blayne Hodges executing a guillotine during a live match,  owner and lead coach of Bendu Academy
Bendu Academy is a unique BJJ community resource where people can train martial arts in an environment that fosters mindfulness, compassion, patience and drive.

We hope to build each other up - and grow strong not only physically but also mentally.
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Rooted in tradition while embracing innovation, our Brazillian Jiu Jitsu gym is the perfect place to discover and develop your potential. Join us today and step into a transformative experience.

Classes

Get unlimited training in a multitude of martial arts disciplines.
Our classes cater to all ages, fitness levels, and skill sets. Whether you're a complete beginner looking to dip your toes in, or a seasoned practitioner seeking to refine your BJJ techniques, we have a class for you. Our curriculum includes fundamentals, advanced sessions, women-only classes, and kids' programs—all under the guidance of our highly skilled instructors.
Monday
BJJ No Gi
11am to 1pm
Kids (6 to 13)
5:30pm to 6:15pm
BJJ No Gi
6:15pm to 7:30pm
Grappling Fight Team
7:30pm to 8:30pm
Tuesday
BJJ Gi
6pm to 7:15pm
Wrestling
6pm to 7:15pm
Muay Thai
7:15pm to 8:30pm
Wednesday
BJJ No Gi
11am to 1pm
Kids (6 to 13)
5:30pm to 6:15pm
BJJ Gi
6:15pm to 7:15pm
Muay Thai
7:15pm to 8:30pm
Thursday
BJJ Gi
11am to 1pm
Kids No Gi (6 to 13)
5:30pm to 6:15pm
BJJ No Gi
6:15pm to 7:30pm
Open Mat
7:30pm to 8:30pm
Friday
BJJ No Gi
11am to 1pm
Kids No Gi (6 to 13)
5:30pm to 6:15pm
BJJ No Gi
6:15pm to 7:30pm
Muay Thai Fight Team
7:30pm to 8:30pm
Sunday
Wrestling
10am to 11am
Muay Thai
11am to 12pm
Open Mat
12pm to 1:30pm
Yoga
1pm to 2pm

Instructors

Expertise in professional coaching across the arts
Our instructor team comprises experienced and dedicated multi-disciplinary martial arts practitioners. They're more than just BJJ teachers—they are passionate mentors who will support you, motivate you, and help you navigate your martial arts journey.

With an array of experience in competitive arenas and coaching styles, they bring a blend of knowledge, enthusiasm, and personal understanding to every class.

Today is victory over yourself of yesterday

- Miyamoto Musashi

Location

Where to find us
Conveniently located in the heart of Northside, Cincinnati - our BJJ gym is easily accessible by public transportation and offers ample parking space for those driving.
4101 Spring Grove Ave
Cincinnati 45223
‍United States

Kind words from our members

"An energetic and enthusiastic instructor that you become attached to, and excited to see every time you walk into the gym. "

Joe Smith

"Training with Blayne, you will get more than just top quality martial art training. He is naturally interested in understanding his students, their goals, and establishing a community feel during training. You leave each session not only being stronger on the mats, but also with a sense of unique sense of kinship with your team and training partners."

Blaise Lampugnale

"Blayne is the first coach I've had on my martial arts journey and I'm beyond blessed to have met such an amazing mentor. His attention to detail and fundamentals are guaranteed to make sure all of his students have the basics down before inevitably mixing in more advanced techniques."

Josh Love

"Our daughter has been coached by Blayne for over two years now and has far exceeded our expectations. He genuinely cares about the kids and teaching them the art of jiujitsu. We can tell he is as excited seeing the progress of the kids just as much as we are."

TJ Garcia

“Blayne’s ability to teach large classes of students with ranging degrees of skill level is awesome. He also adapts with you as you progress in training and uses his vast martial arts knowledge to sharpen your skills and help develop in BJJ, Muay Thai and MMA” 

Jaxon Smith

"Blayne is an all around amazing coach. It is clear that he cares deeply about his students and their improvement - as a result his classes are organized, well structured, and he teaches a wide range of techniques. He also goes out of his way to give his students individualized attention. "

Zhina Kamali

"Coach Blayne teaches with integrity and humility. From the biggest guy to the smallest kid there is something special to be learned from Blayne; not only are you taught well but you are fought for. "

Skylee McKale

"Blayne creates a welcoming training environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. His pursuit of knowledge and technique is evident in his teaching style that emphasizes attention to detail and fluidity."

Danny Knecht

"Blayne’s instruction is thorough, informative, and humorous. He is truly present in his student’s progress and makes it known that he is in your corner every step of the way. He has the tools and the knowledge to ensure growth in any age or experience level."

Andrew Nixon

Start your free BJJ trial

Ready to embark on your martial arts journey? Registering with us is simple. Click on our registration link, choose a membership type, read the waiver and signup, and show up for your first class excited!