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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training at Excelsior MMA in Hickory, NC

Hickory, NC · BJJ · Kickboxing · MMA

Elite BJJ and Mixed Martial Arts Training in Hickory

Train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, and MMA under a coach who’s competed in every discipline she teaches — right here in Hickory, NC.

Welcome to Excelsior MMA. Whether you’re a parent looking for a confidence-building activity for your kid, an adult ready to get in the best shape of your life, or a competitor chasing your next belt, Coach Lesley Steiner built this gym to get you there — with small classes, real personal attention, and a training style that works for complete beginners and future champions alike.

Reserve Your Free Session Explore Our Programs

Reserve Your Free Session

5.0★ 25 Google reviews
Small Personally-coached classes
Coach Lesley Every class, one expert coach
Since 2012 Training & competing

Our Programs

Explore Our Programs

Whatever brings you to the mats, we have a class built for it.

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class in Hickory, NC Ages 8–13

Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Discipline, confidence, and real self-defense skills for kids, taught in a fun, supportive environment.

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Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in Hickory, NC Ages 14+

Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Modern gi and no-gi technique for beginners, fitness-focused adults, and serious competitors.

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Kickboxing class in Hickory, NC Ages 10+

Kickboxing

High-intensity striking workouts that torch calories and build real confidence.

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Wrestling and MMA fundamentals training in Hickory, NC Ages 10+

MMA

Blend BJJ, striking, and wrestling fundamentals into complete mixed martial arts skill.

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Coach Lesley Steiner, head coach at Excelsior MMA Hickory

Your Coach

Meet Your Coach

Since 2012, Coach Lesley Steiner has trained across boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and MMA — earning her BJJ brown belt under Professor Jeffrey Carter in 2022 and her Muay Thai rank under the late Ajarn Rick Davis. She’s competed and coached in every discipline she teaches, and youth classes remain her favorite to lead.

BJJ Brown Belt (2022) Ranked Muay Thai Competitor Since 2012
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Reviews

What Our Students Say

5.0★ from 25 Google reviews.

I’ve trained in various arts with Coach Lesley and she is incredible. Very clear teacher with the talent to articulate and meet you where you are! She’s phenomenal with kids and skilled across several styles of training. She’s very approachable and non-judgmental, making her a perfect person to learn from! Very fundamentally focused and patient through all aspects of the process. Highly recommend training under her.
Tyler K.
Coach Lesley is amazing. I can’t say enough about her. From my son’s very first class with her to his first tournament, all the way up to his last class she was wonderful. Coach Lesley has a huge heart, she loves each one of her students and is there not only as a coach but as a mentor and role model as well. Hands down the best jiu jitsu coach out there!
Jessica M.
My kids and I loved training with Lesley in children’s and ladies Jiu Jitsu classes! She has a special way of making training fun but also teaching discipline and technique! She is a five star coach in my book!
Ashley H.
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FAQ

Common Questions

Do I need experience to start?

No — our BJJ and kickboxing classes are built for complete beginners as well as experienced competitors.

What ages do you train?

Kids from 8–13 in Youth BJJ, and 10+ in kickboxing and MMA. Adult BJJ starts at 14.

Do you offer a free trial?

Yes — reserve your free session using the form on this page or by calling 828-540-7110.

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Get Started

Ready to Start Training?

Your first class is on us. Fill out the form below or call 828-540-7110 and Coach Lesley will get you on the mats this week.

828-540-7110

Neill W. Clark Jr. Recreation Center, 3404 6th St Dr NW, Hickory, NC

Mon & Wed: 5:30 PM – 8:40 PM

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