Embrace Martial Arts Introduce
For residents of North Carolina, finding a gym that feels like more than just a place to work out can be a challenge. Embrace Martial Arts in Wake Forest stands out as a premier destination for those seeking not only physical fitness but also a sense of community and belonging. This article provides a comprehensive overview of this unique gym, which specializes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. Unlike many other facilities, Embrace Martial Arts is built on a foundation of mutual support and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect fit for individuals and families alike who are looking to embark on a martial arts journey.
The core philosophy of Embrace Martial Arts is evident in the powerful testimonials from its members. One person who relocated from California and had a disappointing experience at a previous gym found "a breath of fresh air" upon walking into Embrace for the first time. They felt "welcomed in a way I hadn’t experienced in months" and described the community as "truly special; it feels like a family." This emphasis on creating a supportive and positive environment is a major differentiator. The gym’s head instructor, Professor Joel Garcia, who has a long and respected history in martial arts, is a key figure in fostering this culture. He is praised for being great with kids, with one parent noting a positive change in their sons' behavior since they started training.
The instructors, including Coach Leilani Hodgens, are not only highly skilled and knowledgeable but also deeply invested in their students' growth. The women's only BJJ program, co-led by Leilani, is a shining example of the gym's commitment to creating specialized, empowering spaces for its members. The existence of such a program, which has cultivated an "amazing, supportive group of strong women," showcases the gym's dedication to its diverse community. For both adults and children, Embrace Martial Arts is a place where discipline, respect, and confidence are developed alongside physical skills. As one parent put it, their boys are now "hooked" on Jiu Jitsu and have already learned "a ton," proving the effectiveness of the training.
Located conveniently in Wake Forest, North Carolina, Embrace Martial Arts is easily accessible for residents across the northern part of the Raleigh metropolitan area. The address is 1021 Forestville Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, USA. Its position on Forestville Road makes it a simple destination for those commuting from nearby communities. For people in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility, the gym is designed with accessibility in mind. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone in the community, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the benefits of martial arts training.
The ease of access and the availability of dedicated, accessible parking are significant benefits that contribute to a hassle-free experience for all members. This thoughtfulness makes the gym a truly welcoming place for everyone, from children and their parents to adults of all ages.
Services Offered
- Adult Martial Arts: Comprehensive programs for adults of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, in disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai.
- BJJ White Belt Club: A specialized program for new students to learn the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a supportive and structured environment.
- Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Classes designed to teach children the principles and techniques of BJJ while building confidence, discipline, and respect.
- Kids Martial Arts: A program that introduces children to either BJJ or Muay Thai, focusing on physical development and valuable life skills.
- Kids BJJ Competition: A program for young students who are interested in competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournaments.
- Mixed Martial Arts: Training that combines multiple martial arts disciplines, offering a well-rounded and effective approach to combat and fitness.
- Striking Arts: Classes dedicated to developing striking techniques, including those from Kickboxing and Muay Thai.
- Women’s Only BJJ Class: A specialized class that provides a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for women to learn and practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Features and Highlights
- Free Trial Class: A complimentary trial class is offered to prospective students, allowing them to experience the gym's environment and training before committing.
- Family Discount: A special discount is provided for families, encouraging multiple family members to train together and making martial arts a shared, family activity.
- Welcoming Community: The gym is known for its friendly, family-like atmosphere where everyone is supported and encouraged to grow.
- Exceptional Coaches: The instructors are highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated to their students' personal and athletic development.
- Accessibility: The facility is fully equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom, ensuring it is a welcoming space for all.
- Amenities: A clean and well-maintained restroom is available for the convenience of all students and visitors.
- Payment Options: The gym accepts major credit and debit cards, making the registration and payment process easy and secure.
Contact Information
Address: 1021 Forestville Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, USA
Phone: (919) 777-3649
What is Worth Choosing
For anyone in North Carolina searching for a gym or martial arts school, Embrace Martial Arts is a standout choice that offers an experience far beyond the typical. What makes this gym so highly recommended is its powerful combination of high-quality instruction and a truly supportive, family-like community. The coaches, led by Professor Joel, are not just skilled practitioners but also dedicated mentors who are committed to the personal growth of every student, both on and off the mat. The positive impact on children's confidence and behavior, as noted by parents, is a testament to the effectiveness of their approach.
The wide range of services, including specialized programs like the Women's Only BJJ Class and the BJJ White Belt Club, ensures that there is a perfect fit for everyone, regardless of their background or goals. The gym’s dedication to accessibility is also a major plus, making it a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The offer of a free trial class provides a perfect, no-risk opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere for yourself. By choosing Embrace Martial Arts, you are not just joining a gym; you are becoming part of a community that will empower you, challenge you, and support you on your journey to a stronger, more confident self. For those in Wake Forest and the surrounding areas, it is an investment in personal growth and a sense of belonging.
Embrace Martial Arts Martial arts
Martial Arts School
- Adult Martial Arts
- Adults Program
- Bjj White Belt Club
- Free Trial Class
- Kids Bjj Competition
- Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Kids Class
- Kids Martial Arts – Bjj Or Muay Thai
- Kids Program
- Martial Arts Training In
- Mixed Martial Arts
- Striking Arts
- Women’s Only Bjj Class
Embrace Martial Arts Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Family discount
Embrace Martial Arts Photos










Embrace Martial Arts Location
Embrace Martial Arts
1021 Forestville Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, USA
Embrace Martial Arts Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I've been meaning to write this review for a while now! I started training at Embrace in 2022 after relocating from California in 2021. Before that, I spent about 6-8 months at Pendergrass, and honestly, I was really unhappy there. After training at Brazilian Top Team since September 2016 -2021, I was used to a competitive and welcoming environment, and I just didn't feel that at Pendergrass. I told my husband if i dont find another gym to train at i would rather quit then stay where i was unhappy.Walking into Embrace for the first time was a breath of fresh air. I tried one class early in 2022, and right away, I felt welcomed in a way I hadn’t experienced in months at the previous gym. The community here is truly special; it feels like a family. The coaches are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, and the level of BJJ training is impressive, and now i get to pass on my bjj knowledge in a woman's only jiujitsu program that Leilani and i run/teach and we have an amazing , supportive group of strong woman!!I wish I had found Embrace sooner! If you're looking for a place where you can grow and be part of a supportive community, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't regret it!
June 18 · Raquel AndradeAwesome gym. Took 3 of my boys here starting about 2 months ago and they are hooked. Jiu Jitsu is the only thing they obsess about now and they’ve already learned a ton. Professor Joel is great with kids - mine are a little rowdy and I’ve already noticed a change in behavior since going. I’d give more stars if Google let me!
June 11 · Jonathan AvedesianWonderful place if you’re trying to learn BJJ in Wake Forest. I feel very welcomed and safe here, the higher level belts focus on forum/technique with you instead of just constant tapping you lol seems like everyone here cares and enjoys it. I’d definitely recommend Embrace Martial Arts if your thinking about joining.
July 03 · Knapp ConstructionEmbrace is a gym that offers mixed martial arts classes, and I have to say it's been an incredible experience. The trainers are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do, and they create a supportive and motivating environment for everyone. The workouts are intense and challenging, but also a lot of fun. I've noticed a significant improvement in my strength, endurance, and overall fitness since I started. The variety of techniques taught in the classes keeps things interesting and helps me continuously learn and improve my skills. The gym also provides a sense of community where I've made new friends who share the same interest in MMA. Overall, I highly recommend this gym for anyone looking to get fit, learn self-defense, and be a part of an amazing martial arts community.Professor Joel on my view is 10 stars. (by the way the most clean gym at NC 🙏
October 12 · Israel GomesA great place to train for the entire family!My oldest daughter (13) had been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for a few years with a gym that is now in Raleigh, developing a solid foundation in BJJ. She heard about this gym from a friend at school who invited her to "come roll". After giving it a try, she made the switch in October. Then my youngest daughter (6) stepped on the mats at the beginning of this year after trying gymnastics which, in her words "doesn't make you work hard and feel awesome like (her sister) does at BJJ, and I want that in my life." Professor Joel would often invite me to the mats while I watched my kids train, but I felt hesitant to do it. I was unsure if my kids would feel like I was stealing their activity or would be embarrassed by their "old man", but I was also worried that starting a Martial Art at my age might be opening a door to more injury and issues than fitness. As I continued to watch my kids train and the adults, I realized I was sidelining myself for no reason. Fast forward to July 1, and 4 days shy of my 34th birthday, with no prior experience and only a desire to better myself (and both my kids begging me to try it out), I finally put my fears aside began training.The experience here is more than just being a member of a gym; It's more than a lesson; it's becoming part of a family. Those that train as well as those who support their training (moms and dads, wives and husbands, significant others, ect.) are part of a community and it really makes this place special. Whether you are a BJJ or Muay Thai student, you will receive top notch training from instructors who really invest themselves in, and care for, their students.Are looking for a confidence boost for your shy child; a positive place to channel the energy of your "wild child"; a place to continue training (or to start again); or a new way to challenge yourself both mentally and physically? I can't begin to articulate enough what a great investment Embrace Martial Arts is for your family.
August 27 · Ryan Walsh
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