Connect
To Top

Inspiring Conversations with Johnathon Scott of The Lab Martial Arts and Fitness

Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnathon Scott.

Hi Johnathon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been passionate about helping people become stronger, more confident versions of themselves. After serving in the Marine Corps and spending years competing and coaching in wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA, I decided to build a gym that was about more than just fitness. I founded The Lab Martial Arts & Fitness to create a welcoming environment where anyone from young kids to aspiring fighters to complete beginners can learn discipline, self-defense, and resilience.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Along the way, I’ve faced plenty of challenges, but they’ve reinforced my belief that consistency and hard work pay off. Today, I spend my time coaching, mentoring students, and continuing to improve as both an athlete and business owner. My goal is to build a community where people push each other to grow on and off the mats and leave every class better than when they walked in.

We’ve been impressed with The Lab Martial Arts and Fitness, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At The Lab Martial Arts & Fitness, our mission is simple: build better people through martial arts. We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, wrestling, fitness, and youth programs in an environment that is welcoming to complete beginners while still challenging experienced competitors.

What sets us apart is our culture. We focus on discipline, accountability, and personal growth just as much as technique. Every student is treated like family, and our coaches are invested in helping them reach their individual goals—whether that’s getting in shape, learning self-defense, gaining confidence, or preparing for competition.

We’re especially proud of the community we’ve built. From kids taking their first class to adults stepping onto the mats for the first time, everyone is encouraged to train with purpose and support one another. We also offer specialized programs, women’s classes, youth camps, and beginner-friendly courses designed to make martial arts accessible to all.

At the end of the day, we want people to know that The Lab is more than a gym—it’s a place where lives are changed, confidence is built, and lifelong friendships are formed. Whether your goal is to become a champion or simply become a healthier, more resilient version of yourself, there’s a place for you on our mats.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
One thing that surprises people is that I’m a huge nerd. Most people see me as a martial arts coach, business owner, or former Marine and assume I’m all about fighting and fitness 24/7. In reality, I love diving into things like fantasy worlds, video games, superhero stories, and strategy. I’m just as happy talking about World of Warcraft, comic books, or the latest superhero movie as I am breaking down an MMA fight.

I think that’s part of what makes The Lab special. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and we believe you can train hard while still having fun and embracing your interests. Whether we’re running a superhero camp for kids or preparing athletes for competition, we strive to create an environment where people can be themselves, grow, and enjoy the journey.

Contact Info:

Group of children and adults in a gym with graffiti-style wall art, some children are jumping or sitting on the floor.

Group of people posing indoors, some sitting and some standing, with a chain-link fence in the background.

Group of people in a gym, some sitting and some standing, with a blue floor and banners on the wall.

Group of children and adults in a gym with flags of Brazil, Mexico, and others hanging on the wall.

Group of people in boxing gym, some with boxing gloves, standing in front of punching bags, smiling, with a banner in the background.

Group of people in boxing gym, some wearing boxing gloves and shorts, standing in front of punching bag, smiling.

Bald man with a beard wearing a black and white martial arts gi, standing with hands on hips against a plain background.

Group of people posing on an indoor sports court with banners on the wall behind them.

Suggest a Story: VoyageMichigan is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories