B.J. Penn’s UFC gym opens doors Monday

Former Ultimate Fighting Champion B.J. Penn’s signature gym is finally set to open Monday in Kakaako.

UFC Gym BJ Penn Hawaii, which occupies the former Pipeline Cafe building, offers 37,000 square feet of space, including space for workout machines, yoga and fitness classes, an octagonal ring for practicing mixed martial arts, and a cafe that serves protein shakes and healthful snacks.

Penn, the Hilo native who won mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiujitsu titles during his career, is expected to appear frequently at the gym, leading self-defense classes for young people and women. "My new signature gym is not a traditional health club or just a fight club, but it offers all the tools you and your family need to get results," Penn said in a statement.

UFC Gym, based in Lafayette, Calif., employs a philosophy that takes the typical workout and adds in mixed martial arts techniques. The gym also will offer unconventional classes like "Hot Hula" and "Brutal Barre." The company says it appeals to a community that "prides itself in teamwork, respect and commitment to achieving results."

The gym headquarters is at 660 Ala Moana Blvd. For information and grand opening rates, visit www.ufcgym.com or call 672-2655.