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

I was impressed, my first day of class, by the informal atmosphere. Everyone is introduced to the program at their own pace according to their abilities and background. There is lots of encouragement, not intimidation. The class time is well structured and makes good use of the time. The instructor uses a broad range of effective but basic and easy to learn techniques that a student puts into action much more quickly than “traditional” schools. My personal reasons for going to this school is that I can get a brisk workout (about as much or as little as I put into it) and learn a skill at the same time. There are no pressures to get to that next rank level. You’ll know if your skills are getting sharper without a new rank to show your friends. After a bad day at work, this is an excellent way to get out those frustrations and get a good nights sleep.

~ Bill Miller, Maintenance Technician

I was with UMA for about a year while I lived in the area. I’d had about 1 year or so of experience prior to joining. I loved that the classes involved people of all fighting skills and that you’re training with all different sizes and ages. It makes for a very well-rounded training experience. Rob takes extra time with newer individuals to help you get on track with the current students. I felt at home from day 1! I wish that more gyms would utilize this setting. You have a structured class plan, a friendly and professional environment that is set up by a very knowledgeable and passionate instructor. Rob even took time during class when learning new moves to show me how it would be relevant from a police officer perspective. I have and continue to recommend this class to just about anyone in that area that has mentioned having an interest in martial arts. If you’re into fitness, want to learn self-defense, or have a higher risk job where continuing to hone your defensive tactics is absolutely necessary, UMA is a perfect choice.

~ Sanda M., law enforcement

Training at the Unbridled Martial Arts studio is a unique experience. Whether you have been training for years or you just decided to start something new, UMA accommodates all levels of MMA. Rob brings decades of experience and insight into his training. He isn’t there to make money, but to bring the sport of MMA to the community and anyone who has interest in it. He opened my eyes and heart to what MMA can do for you not only physically, but mentally. He is constantly pushing and encouraging each student to surpass their own level and ability. The open and friendly environment makes it easy to establish great friendships. Everyone in the studio is motivating, caring, and interested in helping others. I give UMA the highest recommendation there is. I wish other studios like UMA were south of Bellingham. If you’re looking for a memorable and challenging experience, this is the place for you!