ZICHELLE MMA/BJJ AND FITNESS
My name is Mike Zichelle. I’m a BJJ Black Belt, a former professional middleweight MMA champion, and a two-time Bellator MMA veteran. My mission is simple: to help people in my community step onto the mats and experience the incredible benefits of martial arts training firsthand.
I’m committed to providing a SAFE and WELCOMING environment where everyone can learn EFFECTIVE and PROVEN martial arts techniques with confidence. My goal is to build a stronger, happier, and more self-assured community. By combining my experience as a martial artist with my expertise as a safety manager, I ensure that all members receive proper orientation and clear communication to prioritize their safety.
For more details, check out the FAQ section on our page!
FAQ
WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD WEAR TO CLASS?
Active wear/gym clothing
---
DOES MARTIAL ARTS MAKE KIDS VIOLENT?
Martial arts instills self-defense skills, confidence, and respect in children. Beyond learning the technical aspects of various martial arts, they also develop self-control, anti-bullying awareness, and kindness. At ZMMA/BJJ, we have a ZERO tolerance policy for anyone who misuses their martial arts training to harm others.
---
WILL MY GIRL BE TRAINING ALONGSIDE BOYS
Yes! At ZMMA/BJJ we do not separate the boys and girls. They are both being taught the same curriculum together.
---
DO YOU HAVE TO BE IN GOOD SHAPE TO TRAIN MIXED MARTIAL ARTS
No, you don't! At ZMMA/BJJ, we take pride in fostering an environment where all skill levels can thrive. Whether it's your first day on the mats or your tenth year, you'll be met with support, guidance, and encouragement. Everyone has a place here—we welcome all and discriminate against no one!
---
Do I have to spar?
Absolutely not! Live sparring is reserved for more experienced students. Our primary focus for beginners is building a solid foundation in striking through mitt work, pad work, situational drills, and heavy bag training. While our goal is to help students progress to sparring if they choose, understanding fundamental concepts comes first.
---
I want to box, but I’m not in shape.
That’s exactly why you should start! There’s no fitness requirement to begin boxing. You’ll learn the basics—footwork, technique, speed, and power—before gradually increasing your intensity. Just like anything else, you push yourself a little harder each time, improving endurance and seeing real progress over time.
---
I want to box, but I don’t want to get hit.
I hear this a lot. Many athletes from football, wrestling, and soccer backgrounds—some with past concussions or CTE concerns—are hesitant to try boxing. There are also older individuals who want to train but avoid contact. Boxing isn’t just about getting hit; it’s about having fun, getting in shape, and learning self-defense.
Our classes are typically non-contact, and many members train full-time without sparring. Once I know your goals, we can tailor the training to you. If you decide to spar or train for competition, we’ll make sure you’ve developed solid defensive skills first. This is a structured program— not an underground fight club.
---
What gear do I need?
At a minimum, you’ll need:
- Hand wraps
- “Bag” gloves (10-16 oz gloves)
- Boxing gloves
- Protective cup/jock strap
We provide equipment to borrow, but if you plan to train regularly, a full kit includes:
- Mouthpiece
- Bag and sparring gloves
- Additional hand wraps
- Focus mitts
- Boxing or wrestling shoes
While optional, I personally recommend wearing a cup for all classes—accidents happen, and even incidental contact is better handled with protection.
---
What size gloves should I buy?
I recommend having two pairs:
- 10 oz gloves for bag and mitt work
- 16 oz gloves for sparring and partner drills
If you prefer a single pair, 14-16 oz gloves can work for both. Bigger gloves provide better protection for you and your partner, but they’re also heavier. Smaller gloves (10 oz) allow for better speed and timing but aren’t typically used in partner drills.
----
What brand of gloves should I buy?
Quality varies, but generally, you get what you pay for. If you plan to train long-term, invest in durable gloves. Brands like Ringside and Everlast are reliable and affordable, but be cautious—big retailers like Walmart sell lower-quality versions of name-brand gloves. There are plenty of solid options online, and ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
