New Mexico Jiu-Jitsu Academy

New Mexico Jiu-​Jitsu Academy is by far the best martial arts academy I have been to. Justin is an amazing instructor and always finds a way to reach his students.

I had trained for 2 years in different MMA style gyms and never felt that I received a foundation in basic Jits skills. Once I made the move to NM Jiu Jitsu Academy, I knew I had found the place I needed to be. The structure of the Combatives classes is top notch and you get to learn from 3 highly skilled black belts in the Gracie and Machado systems. You will not find a better dynamic at any gym.

I was original interested in Gracie Jiu Jitsu after watching Royce Gracie in the first UFC. After researching the different schools in the Albuquerque area this was the best fit. They put an emphasis on the original self defense aspect of Gracie Jiu Jitsu, which was just what I was looking for. Aside from from immediately enjoying myself I began to learn self defense techniques that gave me confidence. Along with my original instructor Justin Hall there are two more black belts, Armando Sanchez and Shannon Curlee, that bring lots of insight and experience to the academy. I am always able to challenge myself and take my martial arts to different levels all while being apart of a family environment deeply rooted in the Gracie Jiu Jitsu lifestyle. This is a life style that has made me a better person who lives a happier, healthier life. I am very grateful to be a member of The New Mexico Jiu Jitsu Academy and plan to stay for a long time.

I have always had an interest in martial arts but never really pursued it (except for some karate lessons in high school). I am not so interested in competing or learning tricks but just simple, practical self-​defense techniques. So, I was delighted when a good friend of mine suggested I join him for a lesson at NM Jiu Jitsu Academy! The Gracie curriculum is well oriented toward sell-​defense and the owner/​head instructor Justin Hall is an extremely effective and patient teacher. You get to learn the moves as well as the theory behind why they work — particularly when you are faced with a threat from someone bigger than you. Justin is wonderful with kids too — both of my daughters (ages 12 and 15) have joined me for semi-​private and group lessons with him. They can’t wait for summer vacation in order to take more lessons! I think it’s important that children develop confidence by learning basic self defense — this is also the core of Justin’s philosophy! He’s a top notch instructor with state of the art facilities. Check it out!

This is a fantastic academy for anyone — kids to adult, just beginning to experienced professional. My 5 year old son and I both take classes here. I’ve never met a more competent and yet relaxed and fun team — and head instructor Justin Hall is fantastic. I really can’t recommend him highly enough. BJJ, or any martial art, can be intimidating to start. Something a lot of us want to do, or dream about, but we’re hesitant, maybe afraid to go in — remembering Cobra Kai from our youth in the Karate Kid. Well it’s not like that at all. They’re warm, welcoming, and fun.
Justin exudes a confidence only born of competence, you see it in people who are great at what they do, whatever it is. Justin is the consummate teacher — patient, yet exacting. He knows his stuff, and he’s not in this just for minting belts and making money. He in fact will limit the size of his school ultimately — so I’d get in now. There is no better place in NM. There may be other great facilities, but I can guarantee you that you will be happy you went here.