Welcome to Nishime Martial Arts in Florence KY!
Transform
Your Life
We use martial arts to transform lives by improving health and fitness, enhancing confidence, providing self defense skills, and building a community of positive, motivated people.
Welcome
With over 50 years of experience, we are the premiere martial arts academy in Florence, KY and the tri-state area. We offer a full complement of traditional to modern arts from Karate to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for both adults and kids.
We are also a family-run business with a long history in martial arts, a strong sense of community, and a focus on martial arts values of respect, humility, and perseverance.
Martial arts is more than just a sport, self-defense system, or fitness program; it’s a lifestyle that improves the whole person. Our programs are designed for people of all levels, experiences, and ages from absolute beginner to world-class competitor.
Our experienced professional team will help you achieve your goals whether it’s self improvement, self defense, weight loss, confidence, or to be a world champion. In the process, you will transform your life.
*We serve the communities of Florence, Independence, Union, Burlington, Hebron, Covington, and the surrounding areas. We also have a location in Cincinnati OH.
**We are proud to be an official affiliate of Adopt A Cop BJJ and the We Defy Foundation.
FITNESS
Whatever martial arts program you pursue, you will get in the best shape of your life. You’ll torch fat and calories while building aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. All of our programs are mentally engaging. Therefore, you’ll never be bored and always looking forward to the next one.
Confidence
You’ll have a new belief in yourself that comes from the confidence you’ll gain through martial arts. This confidence transcends sport and impacts every area of your life because it helps you believe in your ability to succeed in anything you try. Above all, this will transform your life.
Self Defense
Through martial arts, you will learn the most important forms of fighting technique from both striking and grappling disciplines. In addition, you will learn to remain calm in the most stressful of situations which is essential to effective self defense. If needed, you will have the skills and knowledge to protect yourself and your family.
Community
We are a family-run business with a strong sense of community, and we believe martial arts are for the whole family. We foster a welcoming and positive environment. In other words, you’ll be surrounded by a driven, positive, and supportive community to help you reach your goals.
PROGRAMS
Adult
Karate
Adult Brazilian
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Karate
Kids Brazilian
Jiu Jitsu
Weapons
The Nishime Family
Started over 50 years ago by Shihan Kiyoshi Nishime, Nishime Martial Arts has taught thousands of students in the tri-state area.
A native of Okinawa, Japan, Sensei Nishime is a 9th Degree Black Belt in Karate. He moved to Cincinnati to teach karate in 1973. In 1998, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Japanese government for his contributions to martial arts and was recognized as the 1999 National Instructor of the Year by the Amateur Athletic Union.
Jason Nishime is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Karate and a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under the world renowned Shawn Hammonds. He’s been training in martial arts since 6 years old.
Mary Beth Nishime is a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Karate and a licensed fitness instructor. She has been training in martial arts for over 30 years.
Our passion is in teaching and helping people of all ages and abilities transform their lives through the power of martial arts. From our family to yours … we hope you’ll join us to find a strong sense of community, empowerment, and skills that will transform your life.
Getting Started is as Easy as 1-2-3
TESTIMONIALS
I began learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Nishimi’s because, as a Shawn Hammonds affiliate, I knew I would be learning top level BJJ. With names like Chad Hardy and Chewy (Nick Albin) it’s a great network but also a great community. I have been overwhelmed by the support of the team at Nishime’s and from the Nishime family.
James Weaver
Great place for young and not so young to learn self defense.
Sharon Keith
I’ve been training Jiu Jitsu at Nishime Martial Arts for going on 4 years now and I couldn’t be happier! The skills I’ve learned and friendships I’ve made over the years are second to none. If you’re looking for a family friendly atmosphere and outstanding, high level instruction, I highly recommend you give Nishime Jiu Jitsu a try! Whether you’re looking to get in shape, learn self defense, or compete in this awesome martial art, be sure to stop in and see Jason and his wonderful family.
Rob Brown
Sheila Goertemoeller
Gina Dover
FREE TRIAL!
Come try martial arts and us out --- on us. No cost nor obligation. We'll provide everything you need.
BLOG/NEWS
Avery Lamb’s 11-Year Jiu Jitsu Journey
After 11 years of training, Avery Lamb has achieved his Jiu Jitsu black belt at Nishime Martial Arts. His journey is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the power of martial arts training
Nishime Martial Arts Students Shine at Nationals and Worlds
Nishime Martial Arts Team Brings Home 16 Medals from 2025 AAU Karate Nationals, Shines Internationally in Sweden
Bronze Medal in Karate, Gold Heart in Life
Bronze Medal in Karate, Gold Heart in Life Austin Crawford’s Comeback at the 2025 AAU Nationals At Nishime Martial Arts, karate success isn’t just about medals. It's about mindset. 🥋 Meet Austin Crawford: Junior Black Belt & Competitor For Austin Crawford, a...
Sharing Okinawan Tradition Worldwide
Sharing Okinawan Tradition Worldwide: Shihan Jason & Hanshi Kiyoshi Nishime Teach Yamanni-Ryu in Romania From June 18–23, Hanshi Kiyoshi Nishime and Shihan Jason Nishime brought the rich tradition of Okinawan Yamanni-Ryu weapons training to Romania for the Fudokan...
From Karate Mom to Martial Arts Mentor
From Karate Mom to Martial Arts Mentor: Barb Dawson’s 31-Year Journey to 5th Degree Black Belt at Nishime Martial Arts When Barb Dawson first stepped onto the dojo floor, she had no idea it would lead to a lifelong passion, and ultimately, a 5th-degree black belt....
Paige Pauley Rising Star in Martial Arts
Rising Star in Martial Arts: Meet Paige Pauley, 14-Year-Old Black Belt and National Champion At just 14 years old, Paige Pauley is already making waves in the world of martial arts. A dedicated student at Nishime Martial Arts of Cincinnati, Paige is not only a black...
Kids BJJ in Florence for Confidence, Discipline, and Self-Defense
Why More Parents Are Choosing Kids BJJ in Florence for Confidence, Discipline, and Self-Defense If you're looking for a fun and effective way to help your child develop confidence, discipline, and essential self-defense skills, kids BJJ in Florence might be the...
Celebrate Your Childs Birthday
Celebrate Your Child’s Birthday with an Action-Packed Party at Nishime Martial Arts! Are you looking for a fun, unique, and hassle-free way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Look no further than Nishime Martial Arts! Our martial arts-themed birthday parties are...
A Heartwarming Holiday Event
Kicking It with The Grinch Day: A Heartwarming Holiday Event at Nishime Martial Arts The holidays are a time for giving, joy, and a little extra fun—and this year at Nishime Martial Arts, we added a mischievous twist to the season with our Kicking It with The Grinch...
The Value of Adversity
The Value of Adversity: How Karate and Jiu Jitsu Build Resilience Martial Arts Training in Florence for Mental Health Recently, I came across a forum post from a father debating whether his son, a varsity soccer player, should quit the team after finding it “too hard”...