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Bernales Institute of Martial Arts

Salt Lake City, UT

About Bernales Institute of Martial Arts

Welcome to Bernales Institute of Martial Arts, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.

Academy Interior

Our Philosophy

At Bernales Institute of Martial Arts, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.

Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.

Family-Friendly
All Skill Levels
Expert Instruction
Supportive Community

Meet Our Instructors

John Smith

John Smith

Head Coach - Black Belt

15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez

Kids Program Director - Brown Belt

Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen

David Chen

Competition Coach - Black Belt

Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.

Class Schedule

We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!

Monday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Thursday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Friday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMCompetition TrainingAll Levels
Saturday
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMKids Class (4-6)All Levels
11:15 AM - 12:15 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
12:30 PM - 2:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
Sunday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels

Membership Options

Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Basic

$149/month

Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.

  • Unlimited Fundamental Classes
  • Access to Open Mat Sessions
  • Free Uniform (Gi)
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
Get Started

Premium

$199/month

Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.

  • Unlimited Access to All Classes
  • Access to Open Mat Sessions
  • Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
  • Competition Training
  • One Private Lesson Per Month
Join Premium
Most Popular

Family

$299/month

Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.

  • Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
  • Unlimited Access to All Classes
  • Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
  • Competition Training
  • Discounted Private Lessons
Join as Family

Other Options

Drop-In Classes

Try a single class for $25 or purchase a 10-class pack for $200.

Learn More →

Private Lessons

One-on-one training sessions starting at $75 per hour.

Book a Session →

What Our Students Say

Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.

Taran Perry

"Started my Jujitsu journey with Bernales Institute of Martial Arts and love going to class, there is a great friendly culture. The staff is incredibly and Professor Will is knowledgeable giving digestible information for both new and advanced students"

Nathan Eldridge

"Been training at BIMA for over 3 years now. Never gets old! Great group! Lots of talent! People with egos either don’t last or their egos don’t. Multiple styles but each are realistic and effective. Come train!!"

Luke Smith exercise archive Smith

"I initially started at Bernales institute in 2009, and after some time off, I have been training here 3-5 times/week since 2013. The instruction is of the highest level, and a big emphasis is put on technique and real world application, both for combat sports and self defense situations. A great sense of community is fostered here and no type of person is excluded from having a great training experience. If you have ever considered trying martial arts for yourself or your kids I can’t recommend BIMA highly enough."

Olga Isupov

"My daughter attended the dragons level jiu jitsu class here and LOVED IT! I was not a very athletic kid growing up so I didn’t know the value of learning such a disciplined sport as this until signing my kid up here. I’m so impressed by Master Will’s patience with the kids and his ability to instill discipline without being intimidating. He and the other teachers do a fantastic job coaching the kids, fostering their strength, and encouraging a sense of camaraderie among the students. Every “test day” gives the kids a chance to show off the skills they’ve learned during the month and progress a level on their belts. Master Will does a great job acknowledging each student on their growth. My daughter has gotten stronger, both physically and mentally, since starting this class and I can’t wait to see how much more she grows into herself as we continue to attend. Thanks!"

Contact Us

Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!

Send Us a Message

Our Location

Address

2257 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA

Hours

Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM