United Fighting Arts Institute
About United Fighting Arts Institute
At United Fighting Arts Institute (UFAI), we are one of Vermont's most established multi-discipline martial arts facilities, located in South Burlington. Founded by Debra and Chris Ballard, UFAI brings together a talented team of professors and trainers across Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and traditional martial arts.
Our BJJ program is led by experienced professors including Michael DesRosiers, Dennis Sherman, Eric Bruno, Sergio Caldieri, and Craig MacDonald — a depth of instruction that ensures students receive well-rounded, technically sound training at every level. UFAI has built affiliations with 607 Grappling, Subconscious BJJ, and Invictus Leo, reflecting our commitment to connecting Vermont grapplers with the broader martial arts community.
Located at 1891 Williston Road in South Burlington, UFAI is proud to serve students throughout the greater Burlington area with a family-oriented, skill-focused training environment.
Reviews
UFAI is the best place to train Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu and MMA in Vermont. The Instructors are extremely knowledgeable, friendly, respectful and supportive. Top Notch!
I've been training now for over 15 years and easily one of, if not THE best decision I've made along the journey so far, was joining UFAI. If you're wondering whether or not to stop by, let me help you: Just go. You will not be upset that you did. They are very friendly, and insanely skilled at what they do. Try something new today!
I've been training at UFAI for a few years now in both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. The quality of the instructors is fantastic, they are all very kind and will go out of their way to make sure you feel welcome and understand what's going on in the classes. All of the students make great training partners as well, you can tell it's the kind of environment where everyone wants to see everyone do well. If you've been looking for a gym to train martial arts, this is it!
Best martial arts gym in the state of Vermont hands down, whether you’re a casual practitioner or a competitor you’ll find everything you need here. The instructors are personable are knowledgeable.
I started training at UFAI the week I moved to Vermont almost six years ago. As an experienced martial artist, I was cautious when looking a new training "home". I was recommended UFAI, per my interests for training, and I was impressed after my first class. My training there has been fun, top notch, and drama free. I compete regularly in various forms of martial arts. The training and training partners have set me up for success time and time again and Im happy to be part of the crew.
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW MANY BJJ INSTRUCTORS DOES UFAI HAVE?
UFAI has a strong team of BJJ professors including Michael DesRosiers, Dennis Sherman, Eric Bruno, Sergio Caldieri, and Craig MacDonald, ensuring comprehensive and well-rounded instruction for all skill levels.
WHAT AFFILIATIONS DOES UFAI HOLD?
UFAI is affiliated with 607 Grappling, Subconscious BJJ, and Invictus Leo, connecting our students with competitive opportunities and a broader network of Vermont and regional grapplers.
WHERE IS UFAI LOCATED?
We are located at 1891 Williston Road, Suite #3, South Burlington, VT 05403. We serve students from across the greater Burlington area.
DO YOU OFFER MUAY THAI IN ADDITION TO BJJ?
Yes, UFAI offers Muay Thai training led by Derek Bolduc, our dedicated Muay Thai trainer, alongside our robust Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program.
CAN I TRY A CLASS BEFORE JOINING?
We welcome prospective students to visit and experience a class. Contact us through our website to arrange your first visit to United Fighting Arts Institute.
Programs
Weekly Schedule
| Time | Class | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00am | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 12:00pm | Noon BJJ | All Levels |
| 5:30pm | Kids BJJ | Youth |
| 6:30pm | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 7:30pm | Advanced BJJ | Blue Belt+ |
| 6:00am | No-Gi Grappling | All Levels |
| 6:30pm | No-Gi Submission | Intermediate |
| 7:30pm | Competition Training | Advanced |
| 9:00am | All Levels BJJ | All Levels |
| 11:00am | Open Mat | All Levels |
Check the gym's website for current schedule and any changes. Visit website
Instructors
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Student Stories
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