MMA Training in Arlington, Virginia
District Martial Arts offers MMA training in Arlington, Virginia led by Charles DiGisco, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, IBJJF No-Gi European Champion, and longtime MMA competitor with a decade of experience as a combat sports commentator on UFC Fight Pass. The MMA program also features coaches Khaldon Roukie, an active amateur MMA fighter and Certified USA Boxing Coach, and Shane Marshall, a Marine Corps veteran with ten years of wrestling experience and a gold medal at the 2024 IBJJF American Nationals.s.
Mixed Martial Arts is the integration of striking and grappling disciplines into a complete combat sports system. At District Martial Arts in Arlington, Virginia, the MMA program draws directly from DMA’s individual programs Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Boxing and teaches students how to apply them fluidly across all ranges of combat.
Most people who train MMA at DMA are not professional fighters or aspiring UFC competitors. They are working professionals, former athletes, and fitness-motivated adults who want the most comprehensive martial arts training available. The mental and physical demand of MMA training is uniquely high. You are developing competency in multiple disciplines simultaneously and the results in fitness, confidence, and capability reflect that.
Meet Your Coaches
Charles DiGisco brings competition credentials, professional commentary experience, and an exceptionally approachable teaching style that makes technical MMA concepts accessible to students of all levels. Khaldon Roukie holds a BJJ brown belt and USA Boxing certification, coaching striking, grappling, and integrated MMA strategy for all levels. Shane Marshall’s wrestling background and Marine Corps discipline inform a coaching approach built on fundamentals and mental toughness. USA Boxing certifies coaches across combat sports disciplines Khaldon Roukie’s certification is one of several professional credentials on DMA’s MMA coaching staff.
What MMA Classes at DMA Look Like
MMA classes at District Martial Arts are structured, coached sessions not uncontrolled sparring. A typical class focuses on one or two scenarios: what happens when a striking exchange leads to a clinch, how to defend a takedown and return to striking, or how to transition from a ground position to a submission. The instructor demonstrates, students drill, and class ends with controlled situational sparring at intensity appropriate to each student’s level.
Who Should Train MMA?
If you are already training BJJ and Muay Thai at DMA and want to integrate them, MMA classes are the natural progression. If you are a complete beginner with no prior experience, DMA recommends starting in BJJ and Muay Thai simultaneously and adding MMA classes after you have a three-to-six month foundation in each. If your goal is amateur competition, speak directly to Charles DiGisco he will give you an honest assessment and a concrete pathway.
Start MMA training in Arlington, Virginia.
Book a two-day trial for $39. All levels are welcome.
927 N Quincy Street, Arlington, Virginia 22203.
SIGN UP FOR a trial TODAY
TESTIMONIALs
Posted on Dr. Eric Armakan District Martial Arts (DMA) has everything you could want in a martial arts gym. Excellent coaches and an awesome culture. A gym with all disciplines, all levels, and classes at multiple times throughout the day. Having been to numerous gyms in the area, I'd recommend DMA without hesitation and would consider them the best in the DMV area.Posted on Carlos Garcia Training partners here are really top notch. Really glad I found this place. Perfect blend of fun, technique, and grit. It was exactly what I was looking for as a working professional coming out of college and getting back into the martial arts. Highly recommendPosted on Theofilos Perperidis I ‘ve been training at DMA for almost four months now, and it's been an incredible experience. Every session is intense, well-structured, and keeps me coming back for more. The coaches are knowledgeable, supportive, and push you to improve while maintaining a great, fun atmosphere. The other athletes are welcoming and create a strong sense of community, which makes training even more enjoyable. On top of that, the gym is always spotless, which is something I really appreciate. If you're looking for a top-tier training environment, DMA is the place to be.Posted on Hrant Parsamian Great place and coaches. Our son has been going there for 6 months and loves it!Load more
Frequently Asked Questions MMA at DMA
Do I need prior experience to start MMA training?
Is MMA training safe for non-competitive athletes?
What disciplines does the MMA program cover?
Can I train MMA without wanting to compete?