Mahwah Jiu-Jitsu Academy Expands To New Location

MAHWAH, NJ — A township martial arts academy has moved to a larger location because of the growth it has been experiencing.

Gorilla Jiu-Jitsu Academy opened slightly more than three years ago at Apex Wrestling. Now, more than 100 students attend the academy. The school had to relocate to 31 Industrial Ave. to accommodate the increase in students.

"We grew out of our space and needed to open up our own facility," said Katelyn Peterson, the academy's director.

The academy has more than 100 students. Many of them are children. Self-defense techniques are stressed in all the academy's classes, especially those for women and children.

"We do a lot of 'bully-proof' and self-defense classes for kids," Petersen said. "It helps them out a lot with bullying. They deal with so much it helps them in many ways."

With the move, the academy has two training rooms and two locker rooms. A mixed martial arts striking program will be introduced this summer.

The new facility has two training rooms and locker rooms. The academy offers jiu-jitsu classes seven days a week. It also has a Muay Thai Kickboxing program.

The new facility features a sleek new modern look. Many of the walls have been painted by graffiti artists.

A grand opening celebration is Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Jared Weiner, a fourth-degree black belt, will be a guest instructor. Food and refreshments will be served.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com