Middle Ground Martial Arts

Middle Ground Martial Arts in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is led by Randy Simpson, who has over two decades of experience in martial arts including Judo, Kickboxing, and Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate. Randy holds a third-degree black belt in Judo and a black belt in Karate, alongside a Master’s Degree in Kinesiology. He emphasizes practical combative and self-defense skills throughout his classes. The gym opened in 2019, initially known as Edge Effect Fitness and Martial Arts, and has since developed a program blending traditional martial arts with modern fitness approaches. Training at Middle Ground covers several disciplines, with a strong focus on Judo, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai. Classes are structured by skill level, offering fundamentals for beginners and more advanced sessions for experienced students. The schedule includes adult and kids’ Judo classes, women’s self-defense sessions, and sparring opportunities for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners. Conditioning and pad work classes complement the martial arts training, reflecting the gym’s integrated approach to fitness and technique. The coaching team includes Jason Dunaway, a former international kickboxing competitor and Marine Corps veteran, who leads the kickboxing program, and Alan Souryvong, who brings traditional Muay Thai expertise. Stephanie Higgs coordinates the women’s self-defense program and co-teaches kids’ Judo while also holding credentials in personal training and fitness coaching. Open mat sessions for both Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu allow students to practice techniques and drilling outside of formal classes. The gym’s location at 785 Acorn Drive provides space for both striking and grappling arts under one roof.

Recent Check-ins

No recent check-ins

Open Mats

Community Feed