Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Introduce
For residents of Utah seeking a sports complex that offers more than just a place to work out, the Bernales Institute of Martial Arts (BIMA) in Salt Lake City is a top-tier destination. This isn't your average gym; it is a comprehensive training facility dedicated to teaching a wide variety of martial arts in a way that is both effective and applicable to real-world situations. From beginners looking to learn the basics of self-defense to seasoned practitioners and competitors seeking to hone their skills, BIMA provides a welcoming and challenging environment for everyone.
What truly sets BIMA apart is its commitment to "technique and real-world application." As a long-time student who has been training since 2013 shared, the instruction is of the "highest level," with a strong emphasis on skills that are useful for both combat sports and self-defense situations. This focus on practicality ensures that what you learn on the mat is valuable in any circumstance. The academy’s diverse offerings, including Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Wrestling, provide a well-rounded foundation for any martial artist, allowing students to train across multiple disciplines that are "realistic and effective."
Beyond the superior instruction, BIMA is renowned for its community-driven atmosphere. As another devoted member noted, the gym is home to a "Great group! Lots of talent!" but a place where "People with egos either don’t last or their egos don’t." This ego-free culture is intentionally fostered by the instructors, creating a supportive environment where everyone can feel comfortable and safe. The sense of community is so strong that one reviewer "can’t recommend BIMA highly enough" for anyone, whether for themselves or their children. This is a place where you are not just a student; you are a valued member of a team.
For parents, BIMA offers an invaluable opportunity for their children. The youth programs are designed to instill discipline, build confidence, and teach valuable life skills in a structured and safe setting. The instructors are experts at teaching children, ensuring they not only learn martial arts techniques but also develop a strong character. For adults, the programs offer an excellent way to improve physical fitness, relieve stress, and learn powerful self-defense skills in a supportive, high-energy environment. This article will provide a detailed look into the services and features that make Bernales Institute of Martial Arts a premier choice for anyone in the Utah region looking to start or continue their martial arts journey.
Location and Accessibility
The Bernales Institute of Martial Arts is conveniently located at 2257 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA. This central address makes it easily accessible for residents of Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. The sports complex is committed to being a welcoming space for all. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can enter and exit the building comfortably and safely. Additionally, the facility has a restroom for the convenience of all students and visitors. A free parking lot is available for members, making it easy to find a spot before your training session.
Services Offered
- Multiple Martial Arts Disciplines: Comprehensive training in various styles including Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Muay Thai, and Wrestling.
- Specialized Programs: Offerings such as Combat Submission Wrestling, Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) Kali, Jeet Kune Do (JKD), and Silat for a well-rounded martial arts education.
- Youth and Adult Classes: Structured programs for children, teens, and adults, ensuring age-appropriate instruction and a clear path for progression.
- Self-Defense Focus: Classes that prioritize real-world application and effective self-defense techniques, preparing students for practical situations.
- Competition Training: Dedicated training programs for those interested in competing in combat sports.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Instruction in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and other Jiu-Jitsu disciplines.
- Bully-Proofing: A program specifically designed to give children the confidence and skills to handle bullying situations.
Features / Highlights
- Expert Instruction: The academy is praised for its "highest level" of instruction, with a strong emphasis on technique and real-world application.
- Supportive Community: An ego-free and welcoming environment where people of all skill levels and backgrounds can thrive and feel like they belong to a "great group."
- Diverse Curriculum: The availability of multiple martial arts styles ensures that students can find a program that fits their interests and goals.
- Proven Effectiveness: As noted by a long-term student, the training is "realistic and effective," providing tangible benefits for both self-defense and combat sports.
- Flexible Payment Options: The facility accepts credit and debit cards, making registration and payments convenient for all members.
- Family-Friendly: The academy offers a family discount, showing its commitment to making martial arts accessible to everyone in the household.
- Onsite Services: All classes are held in-person at the dedicated facility, providing a focused and professional training environment.
Contact Information
Address: 2257 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA
Phone: (801) 463-1727
Mobile Phone: +1 801-463-1727
What is worth choosing
For anyone in Salt Lake City or the wider Utah area considering a martial arts school, the Bernales Institute of Martial Arts is an excellent choice for several compelling reasons. The most significant factor is the quality of the training itself. The curriculum is not just about mastering a single style; it’s about providing a comprehensive, well-rounded martial arts education that emphasizes "real world application." This focus ensures that the skills learned are not just for competition but are truly effective for self-defense, a major concern for many people. The variety of disciplines offered, from Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu to Wrestling and Kali, means that every student can find a path that excites them and pushes them to grow.
Beyond the curriculum, the culture and community at BIMA are what make it a truly special place. As the reviews consistently point out, it is an "awesome gym" with a "great sense of community" where "no type of person is excluded." This ego-free environment allows for a more open and supportive learning experience, where students can feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. This is a huge benefit for both beginners who may feel intimidated and for advanced students who can focus on their growth without external pressure. The fact that the academy offers a family discount also speaks to its commitment to being a family-friendly place where everyone can train and grow together.
The practicality of BIMA also makes it a smart choice. Its central location, with free and accessible parking, makes it easy to fit classes into a busy schedule. The acceptance of credit and debit cards simplifies the payment process. By choosing BIMA, you are not just signing up for classes; you are investing in a program that has a proven track record of fostering talent, building character, and creating a supportive community. Whether you are looking for a new hobby, a way to get in shape, or a path to personal empowerment, the Bernales Institute of Martial Arts offers a complete solution that is highly recommended by those who know it best.
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Services
Martial Arts School
- Boxing
- Jiu-jitsu
- Kickboxing
- Mma
- Muay thai
- Wrestling
- Adult Classes
- Brazilian Jiu
- Bully-Proofing
- Children’s Program
- Classes For Kids
- Combat Submission Wrestling
- Competition Training
- Filipino Martial Arts (Fma) Kali
- Gracie Jiu
- Gracie Jiu Jitsu (Bjj)
- Jeet Kune Do (Jkd)/Jun Fan Gung Fu
- Kali / Jeet Kune Do
- Mixed Martial Arts Classes
- Muay Thai / Thai Boxing
- Muay Thai Classes
- Silat
- Teen Classes
- Thai Boxing
- Training Program
- Youth Classes
- Youth Program
- Jiu-Jitsu
- Martial Arts Training
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Details
Service options
- Onsite services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Family discount
Parking
- Free parking lot
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Photos










Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Location
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts
2257 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts Reviews
learningjiu-jitsuskillsadultsjeet kune dolifefilipino martial artsADHDclasswealth
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Been training at BIMA for over 3 years now. Never gets old! Great group! Lots of talent! People with egos either don’t last or their egos don’t. Multiple styles but each are realistic and effective. Come train!!
February 15 · Nathan EldridgeI initially started at Bernales institute in 2009, and after some time off, I have been training here 3-5 times/week since 2013. The instruction is of the highest level, and a big emphasis is put on technique and real world application, both for combat sports and self defense situations. A great sense of community is fostered here and no type of person is excluded from having a great training experience. If you have ever considered trying martial arts for yourself or your kids I can’t recommend BIMA highly enough.
February 05 · Luke Smith exercise archive SmithI work security and the training i've gotten here has been a huge help. I absolutely love coming here. The instructors are great and my classmates are awesome.
August 04 · Drunkhari 40kMy daughter attended the dragons level jiu jitsu class here and LOVED IT! I was not a very athletic kid growing up so I didn’t know the value of learning such a disciplined sport as this until signing my kid up here.I’m so impressed by Master Will’s patience with the kids and his ability to instill discipline without being intimidating. He and the other teachers do a fantastic job coaching the kids, fostering their strength, and encouraging a sense of camaraderie among the students.Every “test day” gives the kids a chance to show off the skills they’ve learned during the month and progress a level on their belts. Master Will does a great job acknowledging each student on their growth. My daughter has gotten stronger, both physically and mentally, since starting this class and I can’t wait to see how much more she grows into herself as we continue to attend. Thanks!
February 22 · Olga IsupovStarted my Jujitsu journey with Bernales Institute of Martial Arts and love going to class, there is a great friendly culture. The staff is incredibly and Professor Will is knowledgeable giving digestible information for both new and advanced students
November 18 · Taran Perry
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