Case Study: Custom Wall Padding for Immortal Martial Arts Center in Lewis Center, Ohio
When Immortal Martial Arts Center expanded into a new facility in Lewis Center, Ohio, the goal was to create a space that could support both high-level training and everyday classes for athletes of all ages.
The new facility includes two central gym areas. The larger 1,600-square-foot area serves as a large open training space for adult athletes, while the other 1,200-square-foot studio is designed specifically for youth programs. Both areas see consistent use throughout the day, from beginner classes to advanced training sessions.
With that level of activity, wall protection was a necessary part of the buildout.
The Challenge
The Immortal team needed wall padding that could do more than just protect athletes. The space had to feel clean, professional, and consistent with their brand.
They were looking for:
- Full wall coverage across both gym areas
- A design that matched their existing branding
- Materials that could hold up to daily use from both kids and adults
- A solution that was easy to maintain and clean
This was not our first time working with Immortal Martial Arts. In a previous project, we partnered with their team to design custom wrestling mats and wall padding for their youth training space.
That project included a fully custom wrestling mat featuring their Lil Warriors Kid's program, along with matching wall pads designed to carry the same black and lime green color scheme seen throughout the facility today. The layout was built to create a clean, high-impact visual while maintaining a safe and functional training surface for younger athletes.
Because of that prior work, we already had a strong understanding of their brand standards, preferred color tones, and how they wanted their space to feel. That continuity helped ensure the new facility matched seamlessly with their existing training environment.
The Solution
We designed and produced a complete custom wall padding system tailored to the facility.
Project Details:
- 26 custom wall pads
- Each panel measured 24 inches by 72 inches
- 2 inch thick impact foam construction
- 18 oz vinyl finish
- Black vinyl paired with lime green accent panels
- Digitally printed logo panels following Immortal’s brand guidelines
- Wood-backed construction for secure installation
- Installed along the full perimeter of both training spaces
The combination of black and lime green creates a bold, high-contrast look that carries throughout the gym and ties directly into their existing branding.
Product and Build Quality
AK Athletics has been manufacturing wall padding for over 25 years, with installations in gyms, homes, martial arts facilities, hospitals, and training centers across the country.
Each wall pad in this project was built using a proven construction method:
- 2 inch shock-absorbing foam designed for impact protection
- Durable vinyl surface that stands up to daily use
- Solid wood backing for long-term stability
- Integrated nailing lips for straightforward installation
Six foot tall panels are one of the most common configurations because they provide consistent protection for both youth and adult athletes. For this project, the 2 foot by 6 foot format allowed for clean coverage around the full perimeter of both gym spaces.
Every order is made to match the specific needs of the facility. That includes working around obstacles such as outlets, corners, doors, columns, or other structural elements when needed.
Designed Around Their Brand
Every detail of this project was built around Immortal Martial Arts’ visual identity.
We worked within their brand guidelines to ensure accurate color matching and clean logo reproduction. The digitally printed panels were placed strategically throughout the layout so the branding feels consistent from every angle inside the facility.
The result is a training space that looks cohesive, professional, and aligned with the identity of the gym.
Production Timeline:
- Order placed on August 7
- Production completed on September 19
- Order picked up from our Canal Winchester, Ohio facility
Because each project is made to order, typical production timelines fall within a 4 to 5 week window depending on customization and order size. This project followed that schedule and was completed on time.
Ordering and Customization Process
Wall padding is built specifically for each facility, which allows for full flexibility but also requires some planning.
A few key considerations:
- Products are made to order based on your specifications
- Orders are finalized shortly after placement to begin production
- Custom projects are not eligible for return once manufacturing has started
Why They Chose AK Athletics
Immortal Martial Arts returned to AK Athletics because they needed a partner they could rely on.
Key factors included:
- Local manufacturing in Central Ohio
- Consistent product quality
- Full customization options for size, color, and graphics
- Strong value for the level of durability and finish
Having worked together before, there was already a level of trust in both the process and the final product.
Built for Daily Use
This installation is fully indoors, which allowed us to focus on performance and longevity.
The wall pads are:
- Durable enough for high-impact training
- Easy to wipe down and maintain between sessions
- Designed to provide consistent protection across all training areas
From youth classes to adult MMA training, the space is equipped to handle a full schedule.
About Immortal Martial Arts Center
Immortal Martial Arts Center is a training facility serving the Columbus area with programs that include mixed martial arts, wrestling, and youth development.
Their focus is on building disciplined athletes in a structured and professional environment. The new facility reflects that approach, with a layout and design that supports both performance and safety.
Final Result
This project delivered a complete wall padding system that supports the way Immortal Martial Arts trains.
The facility now has consistent wall protection across both gyms, a clean and professional look, and branding that stands out without overwhelming the space.
For gyms looking to upgrade their training environment, custom wall padding is one of the most effective ways to improve both safety and presentation.
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