About Upstate CMA

"My son (almost 11) has been training at Upstate CMA for a year and a half and it has been one of the best things we’ve ever done for him. Coach Ryan and Coach Erica are incredible teachers, training the students not just in martial arts, but in life. They aren’t just coaches, but mentors and friends that expect the best and bring it out in their kids. They take a genuine interest in each student as a person and connect with them on their interests and development. My son’s confidence has grown tremendously, and he is constantly challenged physically, mentally, and developmentally. 

I love that every class includes encouragement about real life character choices, personal responsibility, and self discipline. They demand respect and they model it in return but never in a heavy handed, intimidating, or harsh way, but Coach Ryan will not hesitate to correct in a firm but warm way when it is needed. We haven’t found this kind of coaching in any other sports. The long term relationships they’ve made has been invaluable for his development, especially in these crucial preteen years. 

The coaches and long time students create an atmosphere of encouragement and camaraderie among the students and my son has made great friendships in class, and he’s developed the confidence and awareness to be more socially adept with other peers outside of class as well. Every class starts and ends with fun and games that balance out the physical exercise, technical challenges, and assessments to keep kids engaged and excited for next class. We are big believers in this program and would recommend to anyone (we’ve already recommended it to all our friends😁 who will listen.)" –Justin Jeanes

“World class instructing close to home! Ryan Peace and his team are exactly what we are looking for in a local leader and coach for our kids. 10/10 would recommend to anyone, very age appropriate, plus adult private classes are a blast.” –David Davidson

“My son has been a student here 2 years and has grown tremendously in not only martial art skills, but in his confidence, attention to task and responsibility! Coach Ryan and Coach Erica are THE BEST! They truly care about each student and bring out the best in each child! They reinforce manners, teamwork, respect, hard work and dedication! We LOVE them!!! Cannot recommend this amazing studio enough!!” –Crystal Adkins

“I’d give Upstate CMA a 1000 stars if I could. Our son absolutely loves going to karate at CMA. Ryan is great at teaching respect, karate to where they understand it but also allowing them to have a good time. We are so thankful we found CMA and for Ryan’s family! We couldn’t be more pleased! We highly recommend!” –Amanda Dalton

“Upstate CMA is a fantastic place for kids to learn martial arts and so much more. My son started here in October of 2023 and has grown by leaps and bounds in both martial arts and overall as a young man. What the kids learn here, they take into their daily lives and I continue to see nothing but positives since coming here. Highly recommended!!” –Marc T

“My entire family trains at Upstate CMA with Coach Ryan. We couldn't ask for a better environment, coach, friends, and training partners than what we have found here. You will definitely feel like family here. I'm so glad Ryan brought this to Piedmont.  It has completely changed our lives and given us life-long skills and confidence.” –Dustin Gilbert

“Awesome teaching from Ryan Peace and a great way to learn proper Muay Thai! Definitely worth becoming a member” -Olivia Gardner

“I can’t recommend this jiu-jitsu school enough! Coach Ryan is absolutely amazing—he’s not only skilled, but also a fantastic teacher. His step-by-step instructions make it easy to understand the techniques, even if you’re just starting out. Every class is focused on improvement, and you can really feel yourself getting better each week.

The environment is super welcoming, and everyone is there to support and grow together. Whether you're new to jiu-jitsu or looking to sharpen your skills, this is the perfect place to train. Coach Ryan creates a positive, motivating space that helps you learn fast and stay excited about coming back.

If you’re thinking about trying jiu-jitsu, this is the place to do it!” –Austin Morton

“My daughter started taking karate here about a year ago. Coach Ryan and Coach Erica have done amazing work with her! We decided to put our youngest daughter in the little dragons class. I started taking his Muay Thai class. I highly recommend putting your kids and yourself in one of their classes!” –Zack Gregg