Unbridled Martial Arts | MMA for Fitness & Self-Defense in Bellingham WA

Rob Eis: School Organizer & Instructor

For 40 years, Rob Eis has been dedicated to the practice of martial arts. Inspired by live action Japanese superheroes he watched as a child on TV growing up in Hawaii, Rob’s martial arts career began with the study of traditional Shito-ryu and Goju-ryu Karate at the age of 10. By age 15 he was competing internationally and that year he was the youngest member on the U.S. Junior National Karate Team. Since then, he has studied a multitude of styles that he now teaches to others, including Doce Pares Escrima, Shamrock Submission Fighting, Judo, Western Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, JKD concepts, and Muay Thai kickboxing. Learn more

Student Testimonials

Passion, Skill, ongoing Knowledge and Professional. To find qualities such as these at a Martial Arts School can be rare. To find them all in one Instructor is even rarer. Rob Eis and his Unbridled Martial Arts School have all of these. Rob’s Passion to his school, students, and his training are noticeable from the first time you meet him. He devotes a lot of his own free time to provide training to all of his students. Those who pay him and those he teaches due to his passion for his Art. He provides a great deal of useful knowledge for a minimal fee; he doesn’t waste your time with outdated training or tradition. His Skill is well documented, yet he is not overbearing or unapproachable to ask questions. He provides a full range of Martial Arts instruction with great skill. He continually seeks new training to incorporate into his teachings. His ongoing Knowledge lets his students and other Instructors know that he has an open mind and is always looking to improve. He is eager to learn and will try new material and not tie his hands to one way. This provides his students with a wide variety of information to constantly work with. Rob is a true Professional. He is a hard worker, a great self-promoter and an up standing citizen. Rob proves it’s not Quantity but Quality. He provides a safe, clean and fun training facility with energetic instruction. His students share in Rob’s energetic teaching and create a great atmosphere. I recommend Rob Eis and Unbridled Martial Arts to anyone looking for great Instruction, well-rounded training, a safe environment, and professionalism.

~ Robert Ellsworth, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office

I had taken a basic self-defense class a few years before coming to Unbridled, and had always wanted to learn more. My friend wanted to try it too so we started training together, which was great because we could partner together for drills and be at the same knowledge level.
I am a very visual learner, and Rob’s teaching style works very well for me. At the start of each training there is some cardio and strength warm-up, which can be challenging, but you can always go at your own pace until you adjust to the routine. Rob explains new skills to the group and then often demonstrates them before having students try them out. Each lesson builds logically on past material. As a new student you get a lot of one-on-one teaching to help you master the basics first before you get thrown into drills.
The atmosphere at Unbridled is serious, but more casual and fun than the regimented environment at traditional martial arts studios might be. Rob is always happy to answer questions that come up during training or help if you can’t quite get a skill, as are students who have been around for a while. I joined wanting to build the skills to defend myself and those around me (I swear by being prepared for anything!) and in just a couple of months I felt much closer to that goal. Training is physically challenging and will make you stronger and more fit as well. Unbridled Martial Arts is an AMAZING value, if you’re on the fence about trying it, do it!

~ Hanifah McGovern, Executive Assistant

My doctor told me I need to lose weight or I was on the fast track to Diabetes. Knowing my habits and family health history I knew that was true. I went to UMAwith a goal of two classes a week on the first month. That was it. I’m on my 3rd month and I have lost 15 lbs. The incentive to make back $5 a week from the dues just by coming twice a week did keep me motivated. That’s when I realized that I can fit two classes a week in my schedule. Let’s face it, everyone now needs gas money. With that goal accomplished, I noticed after my 2nd month in UMA a bonus improvement that I didn’t take account of in the beginning. My stress levels have lowered and my stamina has increased. What can I say about the classes that you haven’t already read in the other reviews…no ranks, no rituals, a well-rounded Martial Arts program, patient, motivated instructor, great class environment. I am 40 years old and I am able to touch my toes without bending my knees for the first time in years. My back feels great after losing all that weight and gaining a better shape. My hand-eye coordination improved with the bag drills. My reflexes are more attuned from the live grappling and Escrima stick training. I am studying a skill set that will improve my confidence, reduce my stress and keep me active. There are also supplemental classes on Saturdays for strength training. Let’s face it, finding time for physical activities on anybody’s schedule is sparse and consuming. I have an hour and a half commute to work 6 days a week and my day starts at 3 in the morning. Work takes a toll on your mind and your body. I needed to take back control of my physical and mental health or my doctor’s prediction would come true. I use to be an XXL now I am working on that L shirt.
Goals change and then I realized it’s a lifestyle. Looking forward to the next class.