James White Fitness

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Hope Andrews 2 weeks ago

Over the weekend we made our way to Oklahoma to compete in the James White Fitness Return of the Apes. While I appreciate the time I got to see my friends and family, the competition was a disappointment overall. It's disappointing because had we had a better experience we would have brought our team down with us from Kansas for the next one they held and had a banger card. Needless to say we won't be doing that nor returning to participate in this card. The event space was neat but way too hot. The heat in the room was honestly dangerous and I'm surprised that no one passed out. Grappling in that state is never safe for anyone. They allowed 8 minutes matches for all the adults, and it was way too much time. They should have cut the time down to 5-6 minutes per match at least for the lower belt divisions. They judged based off aggression/submissions, 5-6 minutes is plenty of time to judge that. The main card started an hour later than it was supposed to due to people cooking the clock and not going for submissions. So now we're cooking in the heat and watching 8 minutes matches that we're mediocre and most of them not ending in submission. Over the weekend we made our way to Oklahoma to compete in the James White Fitness Return of the Apes. While I appreciate the time I got to see my friends and family, the competition was a disappointment overall. It's disappointing because had we had a better experience we would have brought our team down with us from Kansas for the next one they held and had a banger card. Needless to say we won't be doing that nor returning to participate in this card. The event space was neat but way too hot. The heat in the room was honestly dangerous and I'm surprised that no one passed out. Grappling in that state is never safe for anyone. They allowed 8 minutes matches for all the adults, and it was way too much time. They should have cut the time down to 5-6 minutes per match at least for the lower belt divisions. They judged based off aggression/submissions, 5-6 minutes is plenty of time to judge that. The main card started an hour later than it was supposed to due to people cooking the clock and not going for submissions. So now we're cooking in the heat and watching 8 minutes matches that we're mediocre and most of them not ending in submission ❗The worst of the worst❗They claimed to make good matches, however the rules were not made clear to every competitor. Justin's opponent slammed him on his head with trapped arms, which could have ended very badly, I'm incredibly grateful he walked away with only a concussion and a hurt back and didn't walk away paralyzed. The events that occurred after that were even more distasteful. His opponents friends/coaches had the audacity to make the disqualification out to be Justin's fault and accused him of faking an injury and being a baby about it. Just to clear things up, it's illegal in ALL sports to slam anyone with trapped hands. He did this after already missing weight. Justin had already agreed to go up in weight class and agreed to the match even with him missing weight. Then his opponent pulled an illegal move. Disqualifying himself and ending the match. If you care about your athletes this is NOT the place to be. Oklahoma and anyone who travels to compete in Oklahoma.

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Alisha Winegarden 2 weeks ago

We came here for a local tournament and had an amazing experience from start to finish. The facility was huge and incredibly easy to navigate, even with such a large event going on. They had three massive mat spaces plus a cage area for local athletes to train, which made the whole venue feel professional and well thought out. The staff was friendly, organized, and welcoming all day long. Even with the constant foot traffic, the restrooms stayed clean, which honestly says a lot during a tournament. Parking was also surprisingly easy, and even the overflow areas had plenty of space. It’s such a charming little building hosting a massive event, and the atmosphere was great. One of the biggest green flags was seeing so many families there supporting and training together — it really felt like a strong community. Hopefully one day I’ll get the chance to drop in for a class or open mat. I’d definitely recommend this gym to anyone looking to start training or find a great local academy.

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Miranda Shifflett 9 months ago

Just wanted to take a second to review how awesome JWF is! Our son started a couple weeks ago at JWF. He was born premature so he’s always been a bit behind for his age. He’s a big fan of coach Blake who has been incredibly patient, kind, and always meets Kase right where he’s at. They make it so fun for the littles. This gym feels more like a family than anything from the second you walk in. Thank you JWF!

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Michael Stuemky 10 months ago

When our eldest daughter said she was interested in trying some type of martial arts, my wife and I were taken aback. She had done ballet for years and is the epitome of a “girlie-girl”; we had some reservations at the very least. We asked around and people emphatically recommended James and Samantha. I’m so glad they did. My daughter took kickboxing lessons alongside other kids ranging in experience and age, but James, Samantha, and their team always challenged and coached those kids up with remarkable support, encouragement, and accountability. It didn’t matter if they were advanced or a ballet girl, they made them feel capable and worthy of being in the class. It was masterful teaching. Fast forward a few years and my daughter didn’t stick with it, but when friends asked for recommendations, without hesitation I gave them the name of this gym and this team. Every single one has come back with similar statements and have been thankful for the referral. That speaks volumes.

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Meaghan Moulton 10 months ago

I’ve been at JWF for 5 years now and consider it my gym family. They focus on taking you where you are in your fitness / martial arts journey and help you walk forward how you can and want to. I’d recommend them to anyone looking to step up their physical and mental health in the south OKC area!