Established in 2016 by former UFC Fighter & former CES WORLD CHAMPION Matt Bessette & UNDEFEATED Pro Fighter & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu WORLD CHAMPION Jeff Haddad, Ascension Athletics is a BRISTOL, CT based MARTIAL ARTS & FITNESS studio serving both KIDS and ADULTS. Focused on CONFIDENCE, FITNESS, FAMILY, and SAFETY, we have classes for those looking to just sweat to those looking to compete professionally in combat athletics!
Ascension: the act of rising or ascending; especially, the act of moving to a higher or more powerful position. Established in 2016 by former UFC Fighter & CES WORLD CHAMPION Matt Bessette & UNDEFEATED Pro Fighter & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu WORLD CHAMPION Jeff Haddad, Ascension Athletics is a BRISTOL, CT based MARTIAL ARTS & FITNESS studio serving both KIDS and ADULTS.
Ascension: the act of rising or ascending; especially, the act of moving to a higher or more powerful position. Established in 2016 by former UFC Fighter & CES WORLD CHAMPION Matt Bessette & UNDEFEATED Pro Fighter & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu WORLD CHAMPION Jeff Haddad, Ascension Athletics is a BRISTOL, CT based MARTIAL ARTS & FITNESS studio serving both KIDS and ADULTS.
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Ascension Athletics promotes the constant pursuit of elevating both mind and body through athletic endeavors. Utilizing various martial arts such as Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Wrestling, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Karate, we have designed an atmosphere that promotes confidence, fitness, family, and safety.
Kickboxing/Muay Thai: Our kickboxing system is a hybrid of techniques used in Muay Thai, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing and more, that utilize the limbs as offensive and counter weapons used in self-defense situations and combat sports. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): A grappling system that utilizes leverage and proper technique to subdue opponents in self-defense situations or combat sports.
Kids classes at Ascension Athletics are designed to facilitate intellectual, physical, emotional, and social growth in and out of class. Utilizing self-defense and "game play" as mediums to foster this growth, these children will experience dynamic and challenging scenarios throughout class. During these scenarios, coaches look to use creativity, positive reinforcement, and team work as the foundations of problem solving.
Head Coach Este Lara was a highly-decorated 4x State Open place-winner as a high school wrestler. In high school he was a New England Finalist and captured state titles in Freestyle and Folkstyle. He went on to be awarded academic and athletic scholarships to matriculate at American International College.
At Ascension Yoga, we stretch our bodies, but also our minds. We ground down into the earth while reaching for expanded personal knowledge and growth. We honor our real bodies as they are now, all the while knowing that these bodies are near limitless in their capacities to do more. Amber has had an interest in yoga for many years, but didn't find the opportunity to seriously begin her practice until her mid-30s.
Reviews (9)
John Odriscoll
Dec 27, 2020
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As a health professional and family man I can’t say enough about Ascension Athletics. The knowledge and skill of their craft blended with the accessibility and compassion of the gym family members is truly a one of a kind experience. Dan, Jeff, Matt and the others go above and beyond to provide an individual and special experience for each member. I am moving back to CT from TN for work and look forward to getting back on the mats myself and getting my kids into the most rewarding and fun fitness family there is! 🤙🤙
Daniel Esposito
Nov 18, 2020
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Have trained at multiple Mixed Martials Arts gyms in CT and Ascension is next level! Coaches do great at catering to everyone's needs whether your looking to get a kicka** workout or compete at the highest level! They are very family oriented and do well at making you feel accepted immediately. Coaches in each area of expertise are more than qualified and have the resume to back it up.
Kat Torres
Oct 30, 2020
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It probably took me about a month to join because I was shy, nervous and trying to get a feel for the people/ coaches so I'd just watch. I had a few friends join before me and they loved it. I remember sitting there quietly just watching and one day Jeff looks at me and asks me when am I going to join, but the way he said it made me feel welcomed. Soon after I joined and it was a life changer. Ascension is home. We all get along with each other; we just click. Its a fun atmosphere full of jokes, laughter and the coaches genuinely care about us. They want to see us succeed, they are on the mats
Lori Meadows
Oct 12, 2020
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Since joining ascension athletics several months ago, both of my children’s jujitsu game has gone up! Jeff, Dan and all the coaches at ascension are amazing, they are able to pick up on the kids strengths and weaknesses to allow them to develop to their full potential. My daughter has even been enjoying getting into some wrestling as well. Highly recommend Ascension for BJJ kids and adults programs. You won’t be disappointed!
Nick Buendo
Aug 05, 2020
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I truly can not say enough good things about Ascension. I've been to a lot of BJJ and MMA gyms and was throughly impressed with the training and coaching that goes on here. Jeff, Dan, and all the coaches and members treated me with the utmost respect and really made me feel at home. Was only in town for the week and it really got me thinking about moving here... that's how great this place is!!
Also, besides having top notch coaches and team members, the gym's facility is super clean and large enough to really spread out and have numerous rolls and classes going on simultaneously. Again, I can
Also, besides having top notch coaches and team members, the gym's facility is super clean and large enough to really spread out and have numerous rolls and classes going on simultaneously. Again, I can
Corey Nagle
Jun 16, 2020
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Even though my daugher wanted to try a martial art, she can be hesitant in a new environment. On our first visit to Ascension, Coach Jeff walked her through what to expect and made her feel welcome. All of the coaches (Jeff, Dan, and Matt) have been great in helping her build both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skill and self-confidence. The Ascension family provides a great atmosphere for learning and growth!
Angela Ziogas
May 09, 2020
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I would most definitely recommend Ascension Athletics! I have never loved working out at gyms but this gym is different... I actually look forward to going. All of the coaches and owners are wonderful and work well with all skill levels. MMA works the body and the mind for a whole new workout experience I had never known before joining. Ascension Athletics has improved my willingness to and consistency with working out. As a women, I did feel a bit intimidated joining an MMA gym but that feeling of intimidation was quickly replaced with feelings of empowerment and strength.. I do a lot of solo
Alicia Haddad
Dec 25, 2019
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Kaelin Hester
Sep 10, 2018
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I walked into Ascension Athletics without knowing a thing about martial arts. The coaches, Matt and Jeff, were so kind and supportive from the very beginning. It was clear from my first day that they love what they do and they love sharing their knowledge and helping their students improve. They go above and beyond to make sure the class and individuals understand and really get the concepts. They care about their students in and out of the gym. I feel so lucky to have discovered Ascension and I’m grateful to the coaches for everything they have done to help me learn and grow on and off the mats
