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

Before I went to Rob’s classes I was doing Shito-Ryu (karate) for about 8 years. It was a very formal class and not much fun. I joined Rob’s class because I knew him and wanted to try something different. Rob’s classes help you out in a lot of real life situations. They are fun and Rob’s school has a more relaxed environment. The things that I like best is the mat work that teaches you submissions and how to take someone to the ground. All of the instructions that Rob gives in class are very clear and easy to do. The classes don’t go too fast so you are able to keep up with everyone else and not get confused. The classes aren’t formal like a lot of other places that make you wear a uniform, bow or have a certain rank in the class. After each class you feel like you have just had a good workout so you’re not too tired to do other things (compared to) when other places leave you extremely worn out. Overall Rob’s classes are fun, useful, and not confusing.

~ Aaron Wilkerson, High School Student

When Rob invited me to observe an entering class of young people at Unbridled Martial Arts, I was impressed with the interest and fun these teens were having. Rob used special equipment and encouragement to train these people and help them to interact. Some brought friends and all made new friends while learning new skills.

~ Ellen Clark, Account Manager, The Bellingham Weekly

I must admit that I joined UMA due to the low enrollment fees. $30.00 monthly for three classes a week is a steal of a deal! I’m a full time student working less than part time, so it’s very encouraging to be able to participate in a training program without worrying about affording it. Some might equate the low cost with lack of quality, but I would strongly disagree. The low cost seems like more of an invitation to share in a group activity that combines art, fitness and practical self-defense.
What I enjoy about the class most, though, is the friendly and laid back atmosphere (this isn’t to say that we don’t work hard). My experiences in previous martial arts schools have been of varying levels of skills and accompanying ego- a form of competition that is discouraging for those who aren’t wanting to dedicate their lives to martial art, but would rather have fun and learn a new skill. As Rob’s flyer says: “no masters*. Just competent fighters.” Sure, I might not be prepped to be a professional fighter, but I maintain confidence and sense of assertiveness in knowing that I’m capable of defending myself and being more in touch with the physics of body. Overall, the lack of “cult-like” atmosphere and the down to earth attitude takes away the stressors that usually come with a martial arts class/school. It’s given me the motivation and drive to better maintain my fitness level as well. I have and will continue to recommend Rob’s class to those who are looking for a martial arts class for fitness and fun.