831-295-1461
920 A 41st Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 95062
ABOUT US
Instructors
At Niji, instructors are selected for who they are as much as for how they teach. We are a diverse community committed to inclusion, respect, and kindness. Training should be fun and supportive, and martial arts should be for anyone who wants to learn.
Caren is a 4th degree Black Belt under Stanley Kendrick and holds an MA in philosophy from Stanford. She intentionally creates a welcoming space where everyone can feel at home. You can usually find her dancing in between rounds.
Bob, nicknamed by his students "The Bobfather," holds a 1st degree Black Belt and comes to the mat with decades of training in BJJ, Muay Thai, and Kung Fu. He researches his lessons meticulously and offers invaluable guidance on and off the mat.
Dante trained under World Champion Francis Farley and has a knack for working with beginners through advanced students, offering something for everyone. His patience and warmth elevate the whole class experience.
Duke is a 1st degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, teaching both gi and no gi classes. Duke is full of wisdom on the foundations of BJJ and he brings deep care and (very dry) humor to every training session.
Edsel is a 1st degree Black Belt with a background in wrestling and Muay Thai as well. Edsel is a master technician and wonderful mentor. If your training partner is singing along to the music while gracefully sweeping you, you're probably rolling with Edsel.
Lynnia is a 1st degree Brown Belt in BJJ and a pediatrician. She has a fluid, flexible style that's inspiring to watch. She has a talent for breaking techniques down into comprehensible parts for newbies and experienced students alike. Her grounded presence will put you at ease!
Matia completed her 200-hr yoga teacher training in 2024 and was immediately scooped up by NIJI for her devotion to both the heart and practice of yoga. She's skilled at meeting you where you are and offering up the perfect balance of challenge and relaxation.
Zayn is a second degree Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is pursuing a degree in kinesiology. As a dad of a young son, he brings skill, structure, fun, and endless patience to the elementary level kids' program. Kids love Zayn!
Testimonials
Amazing space and very welcoming. First time experience. Took the self defense class with my teen. Highly recommend this beautiful space and business.
Katie F
Google Review
Great and inclusive bjj/martial arts school! ...I feel totally at home here as a queer person and although I’ve trained for several years it seems very beginner-friendly as well!
Kali F
Google Review
Niji is a magical space to train...
Sammy Jo
Google Review
