About Us
Step onto the mats at Funky Flow Jiu Jitsu. This is your space for personal growth, whether you’re taking your very first class or perfecting your black belt skills. We offer a holistic program blending effective martial arts training with serious fitness benefits, designed for students of every age and experience level.
Our Mission
Founded By
At Funky Flow Jiu Jitsu in Florence, SC, our story is built on passion, excellence, and breaking barriers.
We were founded in February 2025 by Head Coaches Lakyn Bendle (2nd Degree Black Belt) and Amber Bendle (1st Degree Black Belt). Together, Lakyn and Amber represent less than a handful of women to ever earn a Jiu Jitsu Black Belt in the state of South Carolina. Having trained under the lineage of Tim Jones -> Roman Kilgore -> Carlos Machado, their success is proven on the mats, with titles spanning State, Pan-American, and World Championships.
We started Funky Flow to continue building the Jiu Jitsu community and share our unique, championship-tested experience. Our classes are designed to be a safe, inclusive environment where all ages and levels can support their wellness, learn effective self-defense, and build unshakable confidence. Whether you’re here to train for a World Title or just for fitness, you’ll find a fun, family-friendly, and welcoming atmosphere that supports your personal goals.
What We Offer
Private Lessons
Accelerate your progress with personalized, one-on-one instruction from a Black Belt coach dedicated solely to achieving your specific fitness and Jiu-Jitsu goals.
Group Sessions
Join our community for dynamic, fun, and inclusive group sessions where you’ll build technique, confidence, and camaraderie alongside your peers.
Corporate Events
Boost team cohesion, leadership skills, and physical wellness with a unique and engaging self-defense or team-building experience led by World Champion Black Belt coaches.
Our Instructors
Lakyn Bendle, 2nd Degree Black Belt
Amber Bendle, 1st Degree Black Belt
Jon Magnin, Brown Belt
Devin Pomranky, Brown Belt
Chris Woodberry, Purple Belt
Testimonials
“Funky Flow is an AMAZING space created by Amber and Lakyn Bendle right in the heart of downtown Florence. They are both highly skilled, competition proven black belts. We started training with them upon moving to the area and have loved every experience on and off the mats.”
“Lakyn and Amber are blessings to the Jiu Jitsu community!! Wonderful people, with high level Jiu Jitsu. They make everyone around them better, and foster a safe and productive learning environment. You will be in spectacular hands with them!”
“Amber and Lakyn are one of the best coaches in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Florence SC, and the Pee Dee. Their passion and patience for their students is beyond anything I have experienced. My 10 year old daughter loves it and so do I!! We do Bjj as a family.”