The Way MMA- Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, & Self-Defense header image

The Way MMA- Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, & Self-Defense

El Cajon, CA

About The Way MMA- Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, & Self-Defense

Welcome to The Way MMA- Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, & Self-Defense, 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 The Way MMA- Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, & Self-Defense, 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.

Matthew Kifer

"I met Joshua in 2017. I was on a journey to become better in all aspects of life after turning 40. Joshua was exactly what I needed to be the best version of myself. I started training MMA first. Joshua’s MMA training encompasses Jiujitsu, wrestling, boxing, Muay Thai and self defense. After 4 years of MMA specific training I fell in love with Jiujitsu. Joshua’s passion for martial arts is second to none! His detail oriented, patient and thorough teaching style can be useful for all ages, levels and abilities. I received my BJJ blue belt from Joshua. I took the knowledge Joshua taught me to a local BJJ gym and my technique was far beyond what ALL of the blue belts had in a large gym. That being said, Joshua will make sure you earn every bit of his promotions you receive from him. I am very thankful and grateful for Joshua’s services, guidance, friendship, encouragement and mentorship! Joshua also has trained my children and he was amazing with all of them! I couldn’t recommend a better human to associate with! He will always be a huge part of my success on and off the mats! Kudos to him for being awesome!💯"

Peter O'Brien

"Joshua is a fantastic coach! He has great attention to detail and really cares about about his students' improvement. With his MMA background, he incorporates this into all disciplines he teaches. It's important to know the jiu jitsu and grappling that works within the context of a real fight, where someone can throw punches and kicks, and vice versa. Joshua's specialty, unlock many gyms, is just that. You'll learn how to be a fighter, not just a striker or a grappler. If you're wanting attention to detail to fine tune your game and you're wanting to learn how to be a well rounded fighter, I can't recommend his classes highly enough!"

Luke Stevers

"I have taken some classes from Joshua as well as my kids over the last few years. I think we have all learned a lot during that time. He is patient but disciplined with my kids and I appreciate the lessons he imparts to them on a weekly basis."

Mario Zuniga

"Joshua is an outstanding Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA professor. His techniques and concepts are incredibly clear and detailed. He fosters an open, friendly, and professional atmosphere where questions are always welcome. I'm excited to continue training with Joshua and the community at The Way MMA!"

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

190 E Douglas Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020, USA

Hours

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

Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM