Business Details
20 Years
experience
Expert Martial Arts Training in Durango, CO
Durango Martial Arts Academy has dedicated itself to empowering individuals through comprehensive martial arts training since 2006. Our academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts, offering programs tailored to all skill levels from beginners to competitive athletes. With a focus on practical self-defense, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude, we cultivate confidence and discipline in our students while fostering a supportive community environment.Our experienced instructors, including multiple championship-winning coaches, provide personalized guidance to help students achieve their personal and competitive goals. Through structured classes for children, teens, and adults, we emphasize safety, technical proficiency, and the transformative power of martial arts in everyday life.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Muay Thai Kickboxing
Mixed Martial Arts
Kids Martial Arts
Women's Self-Defense
Teen Martial Arts
Competition Training
Pro Shop Equipment
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Specialized instruction in multiple martial arts disciplines with championship-winning coaches
- Comprehensive programs for all ages and skill levels from beginners to competitors
- Proven track record preparing students for successful competition careers
- Family-friendly environment emphasizing safety and community development
- Free first class with equipment loan and on-site pro shop convenience
What people say
Best gym ever
Family environment
Amazing instructors
Great for kids
Life-changing experience
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu develops grappling expertise through choke holds, joint locks, and positional control. Our program builds technical proficiency, physical conditioning, and strategic thinking for self-defense and competition. Students progress through structured belt ranks while developing discipline and confidence in a supportive environment.
Muay Thai Kickboxing
Muay Thai instruction focuses on striking techniques using punches, kicks, knees, and elbows combined with clinch work. Classes emphasize cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and practical self-defense applications while maintaining traditional Thai martial arts principles through pad work and conditioning drills.
Mixed Martial Arts
Our MMA program integrates striking and grappling techniques from multiple disciplines. Training includes ground-and-pound tactics, cage work, and full-contact sparring with appropriate safety gear. The curriculum prepares athletes for competitive fighting while improving overall physical fitness and combat effectiveness.
Kids Martial Arts
Structured BJJ classes for children aged 4-11 develop focus, discipline, and self-defense skills. Instructors use age-appropriate drills and games to teach technical fundamentals while emphasizing anti-bullying strategies and character development in a safe, supervised environment.
Competition Training
Specialized coaching prepares athletes for MMA, BJJ, and kickboxing competitions. Our program includes technical refinement, strength conditioning, and strategic planning with experienced championship instructors who have produced multiple tournament winners and professional fighters.
People
Chris Jones
Owner/Head Instructor
BJJ black belt with 20+ years experience, former Rocky Mountain National MMA Champion, and multiple-time grappling tournament winner. Trained under Jorge Gurgel and Amal Easton, teaching since 2001.
Matt Young
General Manager
BJJ black belt with 12+ years teaching experience, 4-time Southwest Grapplefest champion, and 3-0 professional MMA record. Specializes in youth instruction and competition preparation.
Shiann Swapp
Womens Class Instructor
BJJ brown belt with 15+ years experience, developed successful women's programs focusing on self-defense and fitness. Holds multiple tournament championship titles.
Nico de Haan
3rd Degree Black Belt Instructor
IBJJF championship medalist with 30+ years experience, holds multiple gold and silver medals in international competitions. Teaches advanced BJJ techniques to all skill levels.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Mixed Martial Arts, and Judo programs for all skill levels.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, our BJJ Fundamentals class and beginner-friendly kickboxing sessions welcome new students with no prior experience required.
Do you offer children's martial arts programs?
Our kids' BJJ program (ages 4-11) focuses on discipline, confidence, and safe grappling techniques in supervised classes.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer a free first class with equipment loan available for all new students.
Do you prepare students for competition?
Yes, we provide specialized coaching for MMA, BJJ, and kickboxing competitions with proven championship strategies.
What equipment do I need to start?
We loan necessary gear for your first class, and our pro shop offers gloves, kimonos, and all required training equipment.
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