WHAT IS JIU JITSU?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a dynamic grappling-based martial art that focuses on controlling and submitting an opponent using leverage, technique, and timing—rather than size or strength. Often called “the gentle art,” Jiu Jitsu uses principles of human anatomy to apply chokes and joint locks, making it incredibly effective for both competition and self-defense.
At our Denver Jiu Jitsu academy, you’ll learn how to neutralize threats using technique over brute force. Whether you’re training for sport, self-defense, or MMA, Jiu Jitsu is a foundational skill for martial artists at every level.
WHY LEARN JIU JITSU?
Whether you want to compete at IBJJF tournaments, prepare for MMA events like the UFC, or simply develop self-discipline and fitness, Jiu Jitsu offers something for everyone.
Many students at High Altitude Martial Arts in Denver join to learn real-world self-defense, get in shape, or challenge themselves mentally and physically. Known as “human chess,” Jiu Jitsu helps you outmaneuver larger opponents by using technique and strategy—making it ideal for all ages and body types.
If you’re looking for the best Jiu Jitsu classes in Denver, High Altitude offers elite coaching in both Gi and No Gi.
What To Expect At My First Class?
Trying something new – especially a martial art like Jiu Jitsu – can feel both exciting and intimidating. That’s why we’ve created a family-focused, welcoming environment at our Denver Jiu Jitsu academy for everyone: from first-time beginners to seasoned competitors and even UFC fighters.
- When you arrive for your first class, you’ll be welcomed with a quick tour of our facility and introduced to your instructor and assistant instructor. After bowing onto the mat, you’ll join the class lineup and warm up with the group.
- Technique instruction is hands-on and easy to follow. The instructor and assistant will demonstrate each movement step-by-step, and you’ll be paired with a higher-ranking partner to practice. You’ll build on each move with multiple drills throughout the class.
- We close every class with a respectful bow-out by rank, reinforcing the discipline and tradition at the core of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Denver. Whether you’re starting your martial arts journey or leveling up your skills, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
Why High Altitude Martial Arts?
High Altitude Martial Arts is a respected name in the national Jiu Jitsu and MMA scene. Originally located in Aurora, CO, we moved to Denver in January 2023 to serve the growing martial arts community here.
Our team includes black belt instructors and former UFC fighters like Nate Marquardt and Cody Donovan. We combine traditional fundamentals with cutting-edge No Gi and MMA-focused training, creating well-rounded grapplers ready for anything.
We train world-class athletes, develop up-and-coming competitors, and welcome hobbyists who want to improve themselves through martial arts.
If you’re searching for top-rated Denver Jiu Jitsu classes, High Altitude MA is the place to train.
ADULT JIU JITSU PROGRAMS IN DENVER
Whether you’re brand new to grappling or a seasoned competitor, our Denver Jiu Jitsu programs offer a structured path for technical growth, self-defense, and high-level competition. Classes are taught in both Gi and No Gi formats and are led by experienced black belt instructors.
Fundamental Jiu Jitsu (Beginners)
Our fundamental classes are perfect for new students building a foundation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You’ll learn essential movements, escapes, and submissions from core positions while developing body awareness, balance, and technique. These classes also include practical self-defense elements for real-world application.
You’ll learn to:
- Understand positional hierarchy and transitions
- Execute and escape common chokes and submissions
- Improve posture, pressure, and weight distribution
- Flow between core techniques with control and precision
- Build confidence in a supportive learning environment
All Levels Jiu Jitsu
Our All Levels Jiu Jitsu classes in Denver combine essential fundamentals with semi-advanced techniques in a fast-paced, challenging format. These sessions are ideal for students looking to sharpen their skills, build confidence, and begin developing their own unique game.
Each class includes a dynamic warm-up, detailed instruction, and live positional sparring in a controlled environment – an essential step toward learning how to roll safely and effectively.
Advanced Jiu Jitsu
Advanced classes are offered in both Gi and No Gi, with a focus on cutting-edge strategies, transitions, and submissions. As a Renzo Gracie affiliate, we stay on the leading edge of how Jiu Jitsu evolves—bringing the latest innovations to our mats in Denver.
This class is reserved for blue belts and above, and regularly includes competitive athletes, active MMA fighters, and high-level practitioners looking to refine elite-level techniques.
WOMEN’S JIU JITSU IN DENVER
At High Altitude Martial Arts, we’re proud to offer women’s Jiu Jitsu classes in Denver that empower women of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels. Whether you’re new to martial arts or an experienced grappler, our program provides a safe, inclusive space to build confidence, improve fitness, and learn real-world self-defense.
Led by two highly respected female black belts—Professor Diane Sarty and Professor Kerry Mosher—our women’s program helps advance female representation in both Denver Jiu Jitsu and the broader Colorado grappling community.
Why Women Choose Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is one of the most effective self-defense systems for women, emphasizing leverage, technique, and timing over brute strength. Our students gain practical skills that work against larger opponents—while also building mental toughness, core strength, and a deeper sense of confidence.
What to Expect in Class
Our women’s classes cover core techniques like positional control, escapes, submissions, and transitions—taught step-by-step in a supportive, judgment-free environment. You’ll train with experienced instructors and like-minded teammates who encourage growth at your pace.
Classes are ideal for complete beginners or those looking to refine their fundamentals and progress toward more advanced training.
A Supportive Community
High Altitude Martial Arts fosters a positive and inclusive training atmosphere. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded women who encourage and support one another on the mat. Our classes are designed to build camaraderie while helping you grow stronger, both physically and mentally.
Join Us Today!
Start your journey today. Join our growing community of women in Jiu Jitsu at High Altitude Martial Arts in Denver. Try your first class, meet our instructors, and discover the confidence and strength Jiu Jitsu can bring into your life.
THE BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU LINEAGE
AT HIGH ALTITUDE MARTIAL ARTS
At High Altitude Martial Arts, we believe a strong Jiu Jitsu lineage reflects both credibility and commitment to excellence. While some students place great importance on lineage and others don’t, one thing is clear – your Professor should come from a verified line of instruction, not a self-awarded belt.
In short: lineage isn’t everything, but learning from a legitimate source matters.
What is Jiu Jitsu lineage?
A Jiu Jitsu lineage is like a martial arts family tree. It traces the black belt instructor who awarded your Professor their rank – and so on – going back to the original pioneers of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. A clean, verifiable lineage helps ensure that what you’re learning is grounded in proven technique and authentic instruction.
Our Lineage at High Altitude Martial Arts
We’re proud of our roots and honored to be part of the Renzo Gracie lineage, one of the most respected in the Jiu Jitsu world. Our instructional line is as follows:
Mitsuyo Maeda → Carlos Gracie → Helio Gracie → Carlos Gracie Jr. → Renzo Gracie → Amal Easton → Cody Donovan
Our head Jiu Jitsu instructor, Cody Donovan, is a 3rd-degree black belt under Amal Easton. With over 9 years as a black belt and a deep background in MMA, Cody brings unmatched experience and leadership to our Denver Jiu Jitsu academy.
Why Lineage Matters
Lineage provides quality control. When you train under a certified black belt with a legitimate lineage, you know the curriculum, culture, and techniques are rooted in tradition and time-tested excellence. While not every great practitioner chooses to register with IBJJF, most respected black belts can trace their lineage back to recognized names in Jiu Jitsu history.
With so many self-proclaimed black belts surfacing online, it’s more important than ever to know who you’re learning from. At High Altitude, you’re not just joining a gym – you’re joining a legacy of high-level Jiu Jitsu in Denver.
