Master Mixed Martial Arts in New Jersey: Train Like a Pro at Top-Rated Gyms
Learn the art of self-defense, self-discipline, and inner balance when you learn a martial art. Whether you want to learn to fight and defend yourself with your hands, feet or a weapon, these classes will provide you with local options for NJ martial arts classes. Martial arts is an elaborate and combative collection of sports that are associated with East Asia. It includes a variety of fighting arts that can be used for combat, self-defense, or just for staying active and fit. Though some may be armed, our collection is unarmed martial arts including boxing, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and karate.
Come Experience Firsthand—The Absolute Best Top-Rated Mixed Martial Arts Gyms Near You in New Jersey
New Jersey boasts a vibrant martial arts scene, offering disciplines from ancient combat systems to modern hybrid styles. Below, we explore the history of prominent arts and highlight top-rated schools across the state.
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA)
Art & History: Rooted in medieval and Renaissance Europe (1300–1700), HEMA reconstructs combat techniques from German longsword masters like Johannes Liechtenauer, using period fencing manuals. It merges historical scholarship with athletic rigor.
Top School:
New Jersey Historical Fencing Association (Franklin, NJ): Specializes in longsword, rapier, and dagger, offering classes that blend martial discipline with historical research.
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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) & Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Art & History: Developed from Japanese judo and adapted by the Gracie family in the 1920s, BJJ focuses on ground grappling. MMA, popularized by the UFC in the 1990s, combines striking (boxing, Muay Thai) and grappling (BJJ, wrestling).
Top Schools:
Pure Mixed Martial Arts (Rockaway): Offers BJJ, Muay Thai, and MMA with a focus on practical self-defense and competition prep.
Pellegrino MMA (Manasquan): A Jersey Shore hub for BJJ and kickboxing, catering to all ages.
See more Jiu-Jitsu classes in NJ.
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Taekwondo & Traditional Korean Arts
Art & History: Taekwondo, Korea’s national art, emphasizes high kicks and dynamic forms. It gained global traction after the 1950s and became an Olympic sport in 2000.
Top School:
Ahn’s Taekwondo Academy (Skillman): Combines self-defense training with character development for kids and adults.
Muay Thai & Kickboxing
Art & History: Originating in Thailand, Muay Thai ("Art of Eight Limbs") uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It became integral to MMA due to its striking efficiency.
Top School:
Fight and Fitness MMA (Garwood): Features Muay Thai classes alongside BJJ and fitness programs.
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Kung Fu & Chinese Martial Arts
Art & History: With roots in ancient China, Kung Fu encompasses diverse styles like Wing Chun and Shaolin. It emphasizes fluid movements and philosophical discipline.
Top School:
Al Bender’s Kung Fu Academy (Bloomfield): Teaches traditional forms and weapons training.
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Why Train in New Jersey?
The state’s schools stand out for:
Diverse Offerings: From HEMA’s historical immersion to MMA’s combat sports 111.
Youth Development: Programs like those at Union UTA Martial Arts build confidence and leadership.
Competition Prep: Pure MMA and Training Grounds Jiu-Jitsu prepare students for tournaments.
Stay Fit!
There are an abundance of ways to stay fit outside the scope of martial arts. Visit fitness centers near you to explore all the classes, programs, and equipment that is offered. You may even find your new favorite gym.