Pride Lands MMA Academy

About Pride Lands MMA Academy

Pride Lands MMA Academy, located at 731 Cedar Ave. in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a comprehensive martial arts training facility catering to individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced athletes. This South Side gym offers a diverse range of programs in grappling, striking, and youth training, fostering a family-oriented environment where students can learn, grow, and achieve their martial arts goals.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated at 731 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18505, Pride Lands MMA Academy is easily accessible to residents of Scranton and the surrounding areas. Located in the South Side neighborhood, the academy offers free street parking, making it convenient for students to attend classes and training sessions without the hassle of paid parking or long walks. The gym's central location ensures that individuals can readily incorporate martial arts training into their busy schedules.

Operating Hours

Pride Lands MMA Academy operates with a schedule designed to accommodate various lifestyles and commitments. The gym is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM, providing ample opportunities for students to train after work or school. On Saturdays, the academy is open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, allowing for weekend training sessions. The gym is closed on Sundays, providing a day of rest and recovery for students and staff alike. This flexible schedule makes it easier for individuals to find time for martial arts training, regardless of their other obligations.

Training Programs and Classes

Pride Lands MMA Academy offers a wide array of training programs designed to cater to different interests and skill levels. The academy specializes in grappling, striking, and youth training, providing a well-rounded martial arts education. For new students looking to explore the gym, the first class is free, allowing them to experience the training environment and meet the instructors before committing to a membership. The class structure accommodates different skill levels, ensuring that everyone can learn and progress at their own pace.

Grappling Programs

The grappling programs at Pride Lands MMA Academy are comprehensive and cover a range of techniques and styles. Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals classes provide a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, teaching students the basic principles of grappling, submissions, and positional control. These classes are ideal for beginners and those looking to refine their fundamental skills. Advanced No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes are designed for more experienced practitioners, focusing on advanced techniques and strategies in a no-gi environment. These classes are tailored for blue belts and above or those with at least a year of experience, providing a challenging and rewarding training experience.

Striking Programs

Pride Lands MMA Academy's striking programs offer a variety of options for those interested in stand-up fighting. Kickboxing classes teach students the art of striking with punches, kicks, knees, and elbows, focusing on technique, power, and conditioning. Boxing classes emphasize the fundamentals of boxing, including footwork, punching combinations, and defensive techniques. MMA classes combine elements of both grappling and striking, preparing students for mixed martial arts competition or self-defense situations. These classes provide a well-rounded striking education, suitable for all skill levels.

Youth Training: Little Lions Program

The Little Lions program at Pride Lands MMA Academy is specifically designed for children aged 6-13. This program introduces young students to the world of Jiu-Jitsu in a safe and supportive environment. The Little Lions program teaches both Gi and No-Gi techniques, providing a comprehensive introduction to grappling. The curriculum is tailored to younger students, focusing on fundamental movements, basic submissions, and self-defense skills. This program not only teaches martial arts skills but also instills important values such as discipline, respect, and self-confidence.

Private Coaching

Pride Lands MMA Academy offers private 1:1 coaching for individuals seeking personalized instruction and focused attention. Private coaching is available in a variety of disciplines, including grappling, striking, strength and conditioning, and mobility training. These sessions allow students to work closely with instructors to address their specific needs and goals, accelerating their progress and improving their overall performance. Private coaching is an excellent option for those looking to refine their technique, prepare for competition, or overcome specific challenges.

Open Mat Sessions and MMA Competition Training

In addition to structured classes and private coaching, Pride Lands MMA Academy also hosts open mat sessions, providing students with the opportunity to train and spar with each other in a less structured environment. These sessions are a great way to practice techniques, develop new skills, and build camaraderie with fellow students. The gym also offers invitation-only MMA competition training for serious athletes looking to compete in mixed martial arts. These sessions are designed to prepare fighters for the rigors of competition, focusing on strategy, conditioning, and sparring.

Coaches and Staff

Pride Lands MMA Academy boasts a team of highly qualified and experienced instructors dedicated to providing top-notch martial arts instruction. Jason Ratchford is the head instructor, owner, and founder of the academy. He holds a 3rd-degree Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie and a 1st-degree Black Belt in Judo under Fred Murty, demonstrating his extensive knowledge and expertise in grappling. Jason Ratchford is dedicated to his students and his gym and helps those he teaches become the best version of themselves on and off the mats. Pride Lands MMA Academy has many professors who enjoy what they do and will go out of their way to work one-on-one with students.

Additional Instructors

• Brody Dial: Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu
• Nevin Langan: Purple Belt in Jiu-Jitsu
• Makenna Ratchford: Blue Belt in Jiu-Jitsu
• Mike Barresse: Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and boxing instructor
• Ryan Marcinkevich: Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing instructor
• Jimy Hettes: Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, retired UFC fighter
• Daiqwon Buckley: Blue Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA instructor

The diverse backgrounds and expertise of the instructors at Pride Lands MMA Academy ensure that students receive a well-rounded and comprehensive martial arts education. They are patient and simplify training techniques with every student so all can learn. Instructors help students improve their skills and work to improve them as individuals outside of the academy.

Atmosphere and Community

Pride Lands MMA Academy prides itself on fostering a family-oriented environment where students feel welcome and supported. The academy welcomes beginners and experienced athletes alike, creating a diverse and inclusive community. Classes are structured for different skill levels, with youth programs tailored for younger students and adult programs for ages 14 and up. The academy promotes a culture of respect, discipline, and camaraderie, where students can learn, grow, and achieve their martial arts goals together. The coaches and members treat each other like family and help each other improve.

Emphasis on Fundamentals and Progression

The curriculum at Pride Lands MMA Academy emphasizes the importance of fundamental techniques, ensuring that students develop a solid foundation in martial arts. Classes are structured to allow for gradual progression, with students building upon their skills and knowledge over time. The academy provides a supportive and encouraging environment where students can challenge themselves, overcome obstacles, and achieve their full potential. Pride Lands MMA Academy teaches more than just fighting skills. It can change one's confidence and attitude inside and outside of the gym. Training here is a great workout and lots of fun.

Suitable for All Skill Levels

Pride Lands MMA Academy welcomes students of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. The academy provides a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone can learn and progress at their own pace. Instructors are skilled at adapting their teaching methods to meet the needs of individual students, ensuring that everyone receives the attention and guidance they need to succeed. Pride Lands MMA Academy believes that martial arts training is for everyone, regardless of their age, background, or athletic ability.

Benefits of Training at Pride Lands MMA Academy

• Improved physical fitness and conditioning
• Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
• Enhanced mental focus and discipline
• Development of self-defense skills
• Opportunity to learn from experienced and qualified instructors
• Access to a supportive and inclusive community
• Chance to challenge oneself and achieve one's full potential

Conclusion

Pride Lands MMA Academy offers a comprehensive and well-rounded martial arts education in a family-oriented environment. With programs in grappling, striking, and youth training, the academy caters to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Located at 731 Cedar Ave. in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Pride Lands MMA Academy is easily accessible and offers a flexible schedule to accommodate various lifestyles. With experienced instructors and a supportive community, Pride Lands MMA Academy is the ideal place to begin or continue one's martial arts journey. It is a great place to join a family atmosphere and improve as an individual both inside and outside of the gym.