About Us

Ground Standard Agency Martial Arts Business Marketing

Bobby Freda, Founder
Ground Standard Agency
Martial Arts Business Marketing


A holistic, full-service approach to marketing services.

At the heart of every successful business lies an amalgamation of passion and expertise, a combination perfectly epitomized by Bobby Freda and his groundbreaking venture, the Ground Standard Agency. The full-service marketing agency has risen to acclaim over the years as it’s catered to the unique needs of martial arts businesses owned by the likes of Gracie family members and UFC veterans.


Martial arts—beyond its physical prowess—embodies discipline, respect, and continuous learning. It's these tenets that the Ground Standard Agency integrates into its suite of services. By offering everything from call services for martial arts classes to website optimization for lead capture, the agency guarantees that martial arts businesses aren't just visible but operating effectively as well.


The true differentiator though for Ground Standard is the harmonious blend of Freda's on-the-ground experience with his modern marketing techniques. Recognizing the significant impact he could make when physically present at a martial arts business, Freda envisioned a method to replicate that success remotely. The result? A holistic blueprint focusing on sustained communication and regular strategy sessions. Refined over the years, this approach is now a systematic formula, empowering gym owners with essential tools and backing them with Ground Standard's adept team. Their services span a broad spectrum, from call services and paid search advertising to sales training, videography, and the design and production of martial arts gear (more information can be found at https://www.groundstandard.shop/). For Freda, his work with martial arts businesses is not merely about isolated solutions; it's about envisioning and acting on the bigger picture.


But, Ground Standard’s mission extends beyond profit margins as well. In 2017, Freda formed the American Grappling Alliance, a charitable venture aimed at promoting the health and wellbeing of children through martial arts initiatives. And this synergy between martial arts business marketing and Freda’s innate desire to help others isn't accidental either (more information can be found at https://www.grapplingalliance.org/).


Freda truly loves helping martial arts gyms grow. His own lifelong experience working, teaching, and training in the martial arts has uniquely positioned him to spot gaps in how martial arts schools typically operate. And his analytical approach, honed during his philosophical studies, ensures that every client benefits from a tailored strategy.


From humble beginnings with paper appointment books and Google Sheets to today's customized softwares and mobile apps, Ground Standard Agency has transcended barriers. A decade into this journey, the agency has enabled martial arts gyms of all sizes to flourish irrespective of their location.

From their local work with clients in the New York Metropolitan area to their work across the United States, the agency’s unyielding commitment to facilitating martial arts schools in reaching their zeniths of success continues to bear fruit.

“We’re not just consultants,” says founder Bobby Freda, “we’re partners in success. Our holistic approach has reshaped the way martial arts school owners operate their businesses.”


Historical achievements include partnerships with Inferno Training and Performance Center of Marlboro, NJ and Kurt Pellegrino’s Mixed Martial Arts of Wall Township, NJ, where Ground Standard orchestrated multifaceted strategies encompassing operations refinement, retention attentiveness, and innovative revenue stream inclusions. Tangible results were evident in the hike of membership prices, streamlined lead management, bolstered customer service, and enhanced internal community engagement.


In December 2019, Ground Standard then began work with another academy in Old Bridge, New Jersey with the academy then at 180 students. Ground Standard’s strategic interventions surged this figure to nearly 500 by October 2023. In the same time period, the Ground Standard helped boost the academy’s digital reputation as well by helping amass over 200 five-star Google reviews.

But, early in 2020, with COVID closures on the rise, monthly growth had begun to slow. So, Ground Standard helped the academy to film and edit a series of high-caliber, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructional videos in collaboration with director of photography Nick McIntosh. The videos were then hosted on an online platform designed and managed by Ground Standard so that students could watch from home. Due to the campaign’s success, student enrollment barely decreased throughout the pandemic. And then in 2023, Ground Standard assisted with the academy's launch of their second location, laying the foundation for the their success by securing 20 students, accumulating $3,000 in down payments, and another $3,000 in monthly recurring revenue before opening its doors.


Parallel successes are evident in Ground Standard’s collaboration with Gregor Gracie, as well. After working together at his headquarters—Gregor Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Brooklyn—they assisted in Gregor’s expansion into Teaneck, New Jersey, ensuring him a triumphant start by roping in 30 students and achieving a combined $17,500 in down payments and monthly recurring revenue before operations began.


And yet another win came from the strategic rebranding of the Renzo Gracie Jersey City expansion into the ‘Renzo Gracie Crown Collection’, which helped harmonize operations across their five locations. This unified brand approach resulted in an unprecedented boost to their digital footprint. Most notably, the tailored ad campaigns spearheaded by Ground Standard have yielded leads at an astonishingly economical $3.50 per lead, culminating in nearly 100 generated leads per month.


Ground Standard Agency’s accolades are not mere statistics; they’re stories of martial arts schools redefining success boundaries. As the agency looks ahead, it remains committed to unveiling more chapters of excellence.



About Bobby Freda, Founder of the Ground Standard Agency:

Ground Standard Agency, the brainchild of martial arts black belt and entrepreneur Bobby Freda, has become a beacon for martial arts businesses of all sizes. Ensuring their growth and visibility through a holistic approach involving meticulously tested strategies and his deep-rooted understanding of the martial arts ethos, Bobby has applied a unique blend of traditional martial arts wisdom with modern business strategies to elevate the Ground Standard Agency toward becoming the standard for martial arts businesses seeking effective, full-service—“bigger-picture”—marketing.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR DO-IT-YOURSELF AND FULL-SERVICE OPTIONS.

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March 24, 2025
Picture this—you’ve built a martial arts academy, poured your heart into creating an elite training environment, yet your revenue graph looks like a roller coaster. One month, you’re thriving; the next, you're scrambling for ways to keep the lights on. Sustainable revenue isn’t about luck; it’s about strategy. Let’s break down how to build a revenue model that keeps cash flowing smoothly. Constructing a Multi-Layered Revenue Fortress The days of relying on a single revenue stream are long gone. If memberships are your only source of income, your business stands on shaky ground. Think of your academy’s financial structure like a balanced martial arts stance—multiple income streams providing stability: Membership Tiers – Ditch the one-size-fits-all pricing. Offer a range of options: basic (limited sessions), standard (unlimited), and elite (personalized coaching + perks). Paid Trials Over Freebies – Free trials attract tire-kickers. Charge for an introductory package to ensure only serious students enroll. Private Coaching for Premium Clients – Students who crave one-on-one attention will pay top dollar for personalized instruction. Merchandise Sales – Branded apparel, gear, and training accessories not only boost revenue but also serve as free advertising. Seminars & Specialty Workshops – Host guest instructors or focus on niche topics like self-defense intensives for one-time profit boosts. Digital Revenue Streams – Offer exclusive online training, virtual coaching, or content subscriptions to expand beyond your physical location. Diversifying income isn’t just smart—it’s essential for long-term success. Pricing Alchemy: Striking the Right Balance Your pricing speaks volumes about your academy’s value. Price too low, and you’ll struggle to stay afloat. Set rates too high, and potential students may not even walk through the door. Tiered Memberships Provide Flexibility – Cater to different budgets and commitment levels with structured plans. Encourage Long-Term Commitment – Offer discounts for 6- and 12-month memberships to improve revenue predictability. Family Discounts Boost Retention – Incentivize entire families to train together and increase loyalty. Bundle for Bigger Profits – Pair memberships with private sessions or gear packages to increase spending per student. Turbocharge Your Lead Generation Growth starts with a steady stream of new students. That’s where Lead Generation by Ground Standard changes the game. Targeted Advertising – Facebook, Google, and Instagram ads pinpoint your ideal students. SEO Domination – Secure top spots for "Martial Arts Marketing Services" in local search results. Referral Programs That Work – Incentivize current students to bring in friends with exclusive perks. Automated Follow-Ups – Many leads require multiple touchpoints. Ground Standard’s automation keeps them engaged. Retention: The Key to Long-Term Profitability Signing students up is just the beginning—keeping them engaged ensures lasting revenue. Culture Over Contracts – Students don’t just train for skill; they stay for the community. Foster that family vibe. Celebrate Milestones – Progress tracking, promotions, and awards boost motivation. Make It Easy to Stay – Convenient scheduling, autopay options, and seamless booking enhance the student experience. Live Concierge Support – Ground Standard’s Live Concierge keeps students engaged with timely communication. Unlocking Hidden Revenue Avenues Looking beyond traditional memberships can take your earnings to the next level. Host & Monetize Events – Inter-academy tournaments, self-defense workshops, and competitions generate extra cash flow. Corporate Partnerships – Businesses will pay for self-defense and wellness programs. Seasonal Programs & Camps – After-school and summer programs create lucrative revenue spikes. Online Training Empire – Sell instructional videos or live-streamed sessions to a broader audience. Data-Driven Decisions for Smarter Growth Guesswork won’t pay the bills—data will. Smart business owners track key performance indicators (KPIs): Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) – Understand what it costs to gain each new student. Churn Rate – Identify why students leave and improve retention strategies. Lifetime Value (LTV) – Measure how much each student contributes over time. Conversion Rate – Track how many leads become paying members. Your numbers tell a story. Read it well. Automate, Delegate, Dominate You can’t grow if you’re drowning in daily tasks. Automation and delegation free up time for strategy and expansion. CRM & Email Automation – Ground Standard’s tools nurture leads and manage communication effortlessly. Build a Strong Team – Stop running everything yourself. Train staff to handle sessions while you focus on growth. Outsource Marketing – Let professionals handle social media, ads, and SEO while you master your business. The Final Word Martial arts success isn’t just about skill—it’s about sustainability. A strong revenue model requires precision, strategy, and the right tools. With Ground Standard’s Live Concierge and Lead Generation , your academy can evolve into a thriving business. The fight for financial stability is won with strategy. Train hard. Market smarter. Scale relentlessly. The Untapped Power of a Mission Statement in Martial Arts Success Why do some academies thrive while others struggle? The secret isn’t just top-tier training—it’s a crystal-clear mission statement . A mission statement isn’t corporate fluff. It’s the backbone of your brand, the foundation of your marketing strategy, and the glue that unites students and instructors. It defines why you exist, who you serve, and what makes you different. Crafting a Mission That Sticks Imagine two academies side by side: One says, "We teach martial arts." The other declares, "We empower individuals with confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills through a dynamic martial arts experience." Which one resonates more? A compelling mission statement: Clarifies Your Purpose – Defines your academy’s deeper mission beyond just teaching skills. Distinguishes Your Brand – Makes you stand out in a crowded market. Attracts & Retains Students – Gives people a reason to join—and stay. Ground Standard’s Lead Generation service helps academies refine and amplify their unique voice. If your academy lacks a clear mission, you’re leaving growth on the table. Making Your Mission Work for Marketing Your mission isn’t just an internal statement—it’s a marketing catalyst . Every ad, email, and post should reflect it. Social Media Strategy – Share stories of student transformation, not just flashy moves. Website Optimization – Feature your mission front and center for SEO and instant connection. Email & Ads – Focus on transformation, not just promotions. Live Concierge by Ground Standard ensures mission-driven messaging remains consistent—turning inquiries into enrollments. Transforming Your Academy Through Purpose A strong mission creates organic growth.  The Master Plan: Refine Your Mission Statement – Make it bold, clear, and specific. Integrate It Into Marketing – Reflect it in social media, ads, and outreach. Ensure Staff Alignment – Train your team to embody and communicate your mission. Leverage Expert Help – Use Ground Standard’s Lead Generation and Live Concierge to maximize impact. A mission statement isn’t just a tagline—it’s the heartbeat of a thriving academy. It’s the force that attracts new students, builds loyalty, and sets you apart. Ready to take your academy to the next level? Ground Standard’s Martial Arts Marketing Services will amplify your mission and fuel your success.
The Benefits of Offering Corporate Martial Arts Workshops
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Corporate wellness programs have evolved significantly in recent years, with companies exploring innovative ways to keep their employees healthy, motivated, and engaged. One increasingly popular option is corporate martial arts workshops. These workshops combine physical fitness, mental discipline, and personal development, offering a unique way to boost employee well-being and foster a positive workplace culture. In this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted benefits of incorporating martial arts into corporate wellness programs.
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Martial arts studios are more than just training spaces—they’re thriving communities where students grow, learn, and improve both physically and mentally. Offering memberships instead of traditional pay-per-class models allows martial arts studios to foster long-term relationships with their students. But to truly maximize value for both the studio and the students, it's crucial to craft an ultimate martial arts membership experience.
How to Set Up a Loyalty Program for Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Loyalty programs can significantly boost student retention and engagement in martial arts schools. When designed effectively, these programs not only reward students for their dedication but also encourage them to keep coming back, bring in new students, and stay connected with the martial arts community.
Best Practices for Managing Martial Arts Gym Finances
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Managing the finances of a martial arts gym is crucial for maintaining a thriving, successful business. With high-quality instruction at the core of your operations, proper financial oversight ensures that you can continue to offer valuable services while growing the gym sustainably. This article explores the best practices that every martial arts gym owner should follow to keep their gym financially healthy, from budgeting to growth strategies.
How to Attract More Martial Arts Students with Social Proof
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
The process of onboarding new martial arts students is critical for ensuring that beginners feel welcome, supported, and ready to embark on their martial arts journey. A smooth onboarding process not only boosts student retention but also fosters long-term engagement, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the discipline. This comprehensive guide will outline the key elements of an effective onboarding process in martial arts, offering actionable strategies for schools and instructors.
Effective Onboarding Process for New Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
The process of onboarding new martial arts students is critical for ensuring that beginners feel welcome, supported, and ready to embark on their martial arts journey. A smooth onboarding process not only boosts student retention but also fosters long-term engagement, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the discipline. This comprehensive guide will outline the key elements of an effective onboarding process in martial arts, offering actionable strategies for schools and instructors.
How to Create a Winning Culture in Your Martial Arts School
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
A martial arts school is more than just a place where students learn physical techniques; it’s a community where values, respect, and personal growth are fostered. Creating a winning culture in your martial arts school is crucial for the long-term success of your students and your school itself. A well-defined culture builds strong bonds, promotes a healthy learning environment, and ensures that every individual who steps into your school leaves not just stronger but also more confident, respectful, and disciplined. This article will guide you through the steps needed to create and maintain a winning culture in your martial arts school.
Top 5 Tools Every Martial Arts School Needs for Success
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Running a martial arts school requires more than just mastery of techniques and dedication. The tools a school uses can have a significant impact on both the students' learning experience and the overall success of the school. With the right combination of tools, martial arts instructors can streamline operations, enhance student development, and ensure long-term growth. In this article, we'll dive into the top five essential tools every martial arts school needs for success.
How to Create a Monthly Newsletter for Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Creating a monthly newsletter for martial arts students is an excellent way to maintain strong communication within your dojo, provide valuable information, and foster a sense of community. This guide will take you through each step of the process, ensuring your newsletter is engaging, informative, and a valuable resource for your students.
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