Best Martial Arts Gym Ive been to in a long time. Its fun to train here and everyone is super nice, and theres FREE STREET PARKING! Pretty much everything that a gym needs to be: clean, effective teaching strategy, and great staff. Theres a Pro-fighter who trains here and the coach is really good about giving people tips on how to get better.

I have been training BJJ and other martial arts for about 8 years, and Modern Martial Arts has been one of the best martial arts gyms I have been to. Justen and Savannah give high quality, technical instruction. The instructors and staff (Justen, Savannah and Cherie) are very professional and friendly, which spreads to the members of the gym. Everyone is nice and inviting; I have never had any problems with the other members of the gym. Also, there havent been any sparring rounds where it felt like the other person was trying to hurt or injure me. There is a good balance of sparring safely while also training with intensity. Overall, Modern Martial Arts has a great environment with high level instruction. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a place to train MMA/BJJ/Muay Thai.

Modern martial arts is the place to be if you want to learn the full scope of martial arts and be a mixed martial arts in the safest and most efficient way possible. Everything about the way the classes are taught and how we spar is very modern. For example, the students are given detailed instructions on how hard to spar and what tools to use in muai Thai class. This is different from other gyms I experienced in the past where sparring is kept vague leading a newcomer to be confused on how to spar. Overall first class is free and if you ever watched ufc and thought that it would be cool to try something similar give modern martial arts a try you will not regret it

My husband and I take private BJJ lessons with Coach Justen and really love his classes. We can tell how experienced and professional he is by the way he teaches. For someone like me who has had no experience in martial arts to be able to learn and improve week after week has been really motivating and exciting and I would attribute it to Justens method of teaching. We look forward to attending his class every week.

Throughout my life, I have been to five different martial arts schools before landing at Modern Martial Arts. I am 38 years old, and I was involved in martial arts heavily when I was a child and a teenager and at different times as an adult. Before starting at Modern Martial Arts, I had not attended any martial arts classes for a few years. I decided to go back to a martial arts school after spending the past year spending time rediscovering my enjoyment of combat sports (mostly watching MMA, grappling, and boxing). I watched casually for a while, but now watch as much as I can.I have been turned off by most martial arts schools where the appearance of machismo and bravado are at times deemed more important than technique and learning. Being a fan of the science behind the moves, I would rather understand the “why” rather than prove myself better against fellow teammates. I am not a wannabe fighter or someone who feels that by knowing some martial arts technique that I am better than anyone else. I admire those who truly skilled in combat sports and want to better understand why they do what they do.I have been attending classes at Modern Martial Arts and Fitness for over a month now and definitely recommend it to anyone looking to explore the amazing world of martial arts.Why do I recommend Modern Martial Arts and Fitness?Before even attending my first class, I was able to address all of my concerns with Justen. This made a huge difference in how I felt just walking through the door.Upon walking in the door for my first class, I was greeted with a warm welcome and made to feel like I was part of the team. Even though this was an evening of a free trial classes—a Muay Thai Kickboxing class and Brazilian Jujitsu class, I was treated like I had always been a part of these classes.When working out that first evening, I was made to feel comfortable in what I could do and not made to feel embarrassed by what I did not know. Each member of the team worked with me in a kind way and really emphasized the philosophy of technique over showing who is the best. This was even a point that I saw play out during sparring sessions. In the past at other schools, I would groan at sparring sessions where I would see individuals go at it like they were really fighting each other. While I get and understand putting out this effort, I do not understand purposely trying to hurt someone else, which I have seen at other places in the past. During sparring sessions at Modern Martial Arts, everyone treats each other with respect and look to learning above all else. Also, if anyone does not wish to participate in sparring, they do not have to and are not made to feel “less than.” The option to continue practicing technique is available.I could not wipe the smile off of my face after that first evening because I had finally found martial arts classes that were exactly what I wanted. Thank you to Justen, Savannah, and all of the awesome team at Modern Martial Arts.The smile continues to stay with each class that I attend! Again, I definitely recommend Modern Martial Arts and Fitness—it is a true community of like-minded martial artists.

Been taking private lessons with Coach Justen for a few weeks and its been a great experience. I have NO prior background in grappling / BJJ / wrestling. Regardless, Justens coaching has really helped me develop an understanding for the sport and application of grappling. Its very systematic and methodic so everything is digestible and applicable. Will keep doing these for sure

Ive been training BJJ on and off for almost 10 years and have attended multiple schools throughout LA. Modern Martial Arts is one of the best martial arts academies Ive been to on so many levels. Coach Justens teaching style is incredibly clear and easy to grasp whether youre a beginner or advanced. While he takes time to walk through the finer details of specific techniques, he also emphasizes the broader concepts that underly each technique. The dojo itself has everything you could ask for: ample (on and off street parking), clean and well maintained mats, private changing rooms, and a clean bathroom that they even stock with feminine hygiene products. Finally, the overall vibe is extremely warm and welcoming with no big egos or aggressive/macho attitudes. Do yourself a favor and try out a free class at this Pasadena martial arts gem!

Absolutely great martial arts academy to learn BJJ and Muay Thai!

I went to Modern Martial Arts Fitness hoping to find a place to relieve stress and to challenge myself to improve mentally and physically. The experience was well above my expectations. What I found was a space that proved to be incredibly restorative and healing. The workouts are as brutally intense or as slowly paced as you want/need them to be. Coach Justen, who is simply awesome, always makes me feel welcome, comfortable, and confident. Modern Martial Arts Fitness is simply the best place to focus on your physical and mental health. I strongly encourage you to drop in and visit. All is welcome and will be treated like family.

It is intimidating trying something new for the first time; but, I summed up the courage to give the mma class a try, and it was a very fun and challenging class. Justen the head instructor is very knowledgeable and the teammates are all friendly. Everyone on the team is kind, and are there to help you become better after every class. I enjoy going to class every night to learn and get fit!

It has really good vibe! Felt like my home gym when I visited.The receptionist is hands down the most welcoming person I’ve met in a visiting gym.Coach Justen is really encouraging and very articulate, he provides clear instructions for techniques. It’s great for beginners and advanced levels BJJ.If you’re in Pasadena visiting, I highly recommend this gym to drop in. If you’re a Pasadena native and looking to start training, you got a pretty good home gym right here at Modern Martial Arts and Fitness.

Thanks again for the class, Justen!!

I met Justen at a seminar a couple of years ago. I didnt know anyone there, so I was relieved when he asked if someone needed a partner even though he was a student at that school. Im certain that he did this to make guests feel welcome. He was extremely patient and knowledgeable and helped make the experience for me, as a beginner, much more enjoyable. I havent had any interaction with him since but when I heard he opened his own school, I felt compelled to write this review. If you are in the area, you owe it to yourself to check out his school.

Great location, friendly staff, owners/coaches are very approachable. Overall experience was superb! I really recommend it to everyone! 😬

The entire staff is approachable, and the school fosters an environment in which both technical prowess and personal growth take center stage. The instructors are remarkably talented, yet still consciously working to improve their craft. I would feel comfortable recommending their instruction to anyone I care about.

Ive been training for close to a decade and everything about this place has been amazing. The environment is incredibly open and accommodating, the instruction extremely detailed and technical and coach Justen and the staff seem to really want to create a community within their school that fosters personal development. It has been my pleasure to train there.

Was in Pasadena for work. As I walked by the gym they lured me in with big smiles and waves. Soon as I walked in Steve, Justin and the crew treated me like family...the training was well arranged and easy to follow. Which made it even better. Ill be looking for excuses to visit Pasadena again just to train with this awesome crew.

I’ve been training on and off for years and what better place to get back into training. Awesome coach and very welcoming people there. Nice clean space to train. This place offers a variety of classes as well as wrestling, which I think a lot of grapplers overlook. Overall has been a great experience and still learning new stuff every class, highly recommend to anyone just starting or have years of experience.

I highly recommend this gym for all levels in martial arts. The hours are reasonable, the gym is very clean, and the staff are very welcoming! They also have a kids BJJ class instructed by Coach Justen and Coach Latona. Both coaches are very knowledgeable and great with kids! On the fence about joining a martial arts class? Well, ponder no longer! Visit & book NOW. First class is free! You won’t regret it!

Great staff and theyre very knowledgeable. Everyone Ive trained with has been very kind and helpful. Overall, great environment to train and learn.

I have been training with Coach Justen for over two years now, and he is, without question, the most devoted, insightful, and effective martial arts instructor Ive ever worked with. He takes the time to give every student meaningful, individual instruction and is always happy to answer questions and enthusiastically dive into the details of a particular technique after class. His vast wealth of knowledge of all things martial arts and infectious enthusiasm benefit every student, from professional fighters to people that just want to get in shape in a fun way or try something new.The people at Modern Martial Arts and Fitness could not be more welcoming and helpful, making for an overwhelmingly positive and productive community. While practices like sparring, wrestling, and M.M.A. can be intimidating and, at many gyms, even restricted to professional athletes, students are free explore the entire breadth of martial arts in a supportive and safe environment. I cant recommend the try everything approach highly enough!My training sessions at Modern Martial Arts and Fitness are always the highlight of my day. If you are remotely curious or interested in martial arts/combat sports, go for a free class. Youll likely be hooked for life. Plus, its really fun training in a space that looks like a set from 2001: A Space Odyssey!

I love this place! I came in a month ago for a first experience with Jiu Jitsu and I’m hooked! It’s SOOO fun and Justen is a great coach. And the team is friendly and wonderful!

This studio is incredible. Not only is the space impeccably designed, founders Justen and his wife are absolutely wonderful. Justen is an excellent coach and roll model. He loves the craft and is willing to make time to help one reach their skill and fitness goals in MMA and jiu jitsu. His teaching style is welcoming, skilled and approachable. I found myself picking up techniques very quickly.Also, this is a great place for woman to come try out to learn self defense and enjoy a great workout. There are quite a few women students and this is the first studio that took away the intimidation I felt at other studios.

I’ve been training at modern martial arts & fitness for about 4 months now and let me tell you absolutely the best martial arts school in the area! review for myself (BJJ with gi, no-gi and wrestling) and my daughter (BJJ no-gi)The people here are always willing to help. No matter how confused I’ve become with the drills,moves, etc... there always willing to be there to help you out, help teach you proper ways to execute what’s being taught and even show tips and tricks to be able to everything with the least effort as possible. If you want to learn BJJ with some of the best people, this is the place to be.When it comes to rolling here itself, it’s no joke here, the people here are legit. They definitely will make you think, push your limits and you might learn a thing or two each time you roll. Of course, if there’s anything specific you want to practice, people here are typically more than willing to help you practice the situation.Between coach Justen Hamilton and the other instructors here at mod martial arts, you are going to get excellent and proper technical instruction as well as the patience you need from an instructor to learn. They definitely will show you that more to BJJ than you’d ever think!And finally, they give a huge emphasis on making you feel like you’re part of a family not just a team.overall, this place is welcoming, amazing and truly worth learning from.A huge thanks to coach Sovanna, coach Arthur and coach Justen for having the patience to teach my daughter in the no-gi class, because of this she’s more confident in herself at school and meeting new people

Dropped in on a no-gi class Saturday with Justen,. The gym was super clean, everyone was very nice and had fun hard rolls! Would love to return if ever in Pasadena!

I’ve been training Justen, the head coach of Modern Martial Arts, for a few years and am proud to call Modern my home gym. Justen is very attentive to all of his students and really cares about each student’s individual progress. The class atmosphere and students are all very welcoming and there is a team mentality that everyone at Modern shares. They offer MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ with gi and no-gi), Muay Thai, wrestling, kids classes, and more. The classes are structured in such a way that beginners up to advanced students are all able to participate and learn without being overwhelmed. Can’t recommend them enough!

I still remember the first time I called up the owner Justen. Hey man, Im a complete noob. Never done any training before.He said thats fine, we have people of all skill types and youll go at whatever pace you feel comfortable.So I went in for the free class and was instantly hooked.First, I love how they teach a lot of different styles here. You have ground game with jiu jitsu/wrestling & stand-up with muy thai. Every week youre learning something new.And justens teaching style is extremely helpful. Shows the techniques many times, from every angle, and at different speeds. And also a very approachable guy. If you have questions after class, hes always around to go over situational moves again and help you out. Great place

Coach Justin and his wife, Cherie, are hands down the best people ever. And, I really mean that. They put their all in their work.Ive known Coach Justin for about 2 years now. Before he started coaching, he was the only higher belt that would roll with me and take the time to explain every technique he was doing to me. The wealth of knowledge he has in BJJ, Muay Thai and Wrestling is amazing.Coach Justin is amazing. The gym is amazing. Please come check it out!!

I’ve trained Brazilian jiu jitsu for over 5 years and been to many gyms. Justen and Cherie have a gym as welcoming as any for new students with technique and instruction as good as the best gyms I’ve trained at. A great experience.

I’ve been looking for a gym that reminds of the fun in MMA, and thankfully I found one that also takes you in like a family

Very welcoming, great vibes, great people. Instruction is very detailed and each class is at a good pace to where new people wont feel lost but more seasoned jiu jitieros are not bored. Highly recommended!!

The coaches, students, and environment of this dojo is incredibly welcoming and friendly. My friend and I were suppose to meet here together for our free day trial. However, my friend bailed on me last min--we all know how that feels right? I was already there, so I decided to just go through with it.The first day I was there I forgot I arrived alone. Everyone makes you feel at home and provides rental gloves/gi/shin guards so you dont feel left out. The fact that this is a small dojo--the instructors/coaches are able to check on how everyone is doing, and offer more detailed feedbacks to help improve your martial art game. I discussed my work and school schedule with Steve, and he help me organized a ideal price for the month--I was sold! Both the coaches and students help out new students and always offering in-depth, detailed feedbacks. I can ensure this small dojo will be only grow from here with the great foundation it already has going!

I love this academys environment as well as the level of instruction. The coaches here are world class and I cant say enough about them. I have trained at many places throughout LA and Pasadena, but none of them amount to what I get here at Modern. Everyone is so friendly and chill which is great to have while getting the best training you can find. Its a new academy and Im glad coach Justen started this academy. I have been training under Coach Justen for the last couple of years and Ive been waiting for coach to get this academy up and running. I drive from West LA just to train with this crew on the regular, simply because its the whole package. From feet to ground, leg game, muy Thai, wrestling, Gi, and no gi its all there and all top level instruction. The place has a great vibe and everyone there is friendly and welcoming.

One of the toughest things about Brazilian Jiujitsu is finding a positive environment to train at.Being that bjj requires extremely close proximity and vulnerability, I feel it is a powerful tool that can be used to foster a healthy or unhealthy self esteem, depending on the environment you train in.Ive been training bjj for about 7 years now but the very first time I felt comfortable enough inviting my own sister to a class, was when it was led by Justen Hamilton.Justen embodies what it means to be a martial artist and while extremely skilled as a practitioner, he is a gifted teacher and more importantly, a man of character.My sister and I were visiting from out of town when we got to drop in for the class but would totally be training with him on a regular basis if we lived in the area!

Modern Martial Arts is an absolutely amazing place to train. I just moved to the LA area a few weeks ago and was so happy to have found this place. They offer BJJ, No Gi, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and MMA classes. Justen is such a kind individual and teaches with clarity and efficiency. The other members of the gym are friendly and the entire atmosphere is both intense and positive.

One of the most excellent martial arts teaching in Pasadena, clean and friendly but mostly zero ego environment, plenty parking space in the back and classes and plenty schedule and classes to chose from jiujitsu, wrestling and Muay thai.

If you’re looking to improve your self confidence, learn self defense, or get into great shape then this is the place to accomplish those goals. I’ve met Coach Justen when he was instructing Muay Thai at another gym and when I found out he was opening Modern Martial Arts and Fitness, I knew I had to check it out.After attending the Muay Thai and BJJ class, I knew this was the gym for me. All the instructors are extremely knowledgeable, patient when teaching new techniques, and ensure you have a solid technical foundation. Each instructor (Coach Justen, Coach Roy, and Coach Sovannah) have each had prior competitive fighting experience and it definitely shows when they’re breaking down techniques in class. I never leave a class without feeling encouraged and motivated to attend the next.As a young professional working 40 plus hours a week it can be difficult to find the time to train, but the friendly, learning environment Modern Martial Arts and Fitness creates along with the results I’ve seen in myself keeps me inspired to make that time. I hope you can too!

This place is amazing! Ive tried a few jiu jitsu gyms around the area and the level of instruction Coach Justen provides is in my opinion, the BEST BY FAR. All the techniques we learn feel very applicable and highly effective. But most importantly, ALL of the classes are fun - GI, NOGI, WRESTLING and MMA! Coach Roys jiu jitsu classes and Coach Savanahs Muay Thai classes are also really fun and useful. The environment and atmosphere is so comfortable and the students are really cool. I always leave knowing that my jiu jitsu got a little bit better, I got a great workout, and I always have a lot alot of FUN!The gym is brand new with beautiful white floor and high wall mats and the location is extremely convenient on Colorado Street in Pasadena right by Sierra Madre. There is a huge FREE PARKING lot in the back so parking will never be an issue.Its still hard to believe this place exists. Its still new and opened just around 6 weeks ago. If youre interested in learning jiu jitsu from amazing teachers or even just want to have good fun exercise while learning to grapple or throw punches and kicks, Modern Martial Arts and Fitness is the BEST gym. Its something I look forward to every day I go. As good as it gets, most definitely!

I started training jiu jitsu and Muay Thai to improve my fitness and push myself to master new skills, but I have achieved so much more thanks to the environment of rigor and respect that Coach Justen creates with his inspiring leadership and exceptional teaching abilities. Training with Justen has revolutionized my relationship with my body, building self-confidence and pride. Participating in the friendly, dedicated, supportive team environment he creates has also helped me develop interpersonal and collaborative skills that are invaluable to all aspects of life. I can’t overstate how grateful I am to be part of this truly special gym, where beginners and world class athletes alike can learn highly technical skills taught with precision and patience, and where everyone is respectful and dedicated to helping their teammates achieve their goals. Whether you are an experienced martial artist who strives for constant learning and improvement, or someone just starting to think about giving jiu jitsu or Muay Thai a try, this is the gym you need to visit, trust me. Hope to see you in class!

I cannot say enough good things about this place! I was nervous to try BJJ as a woman because its mostly guys and I had some bad experiences at other gyms, but I felt 100% comfortable and safe here! I can finally be done looking for the perfect gym. They create a welcoming and neutral environment that feels like a fit fam, and I love that the gym is couple-owned. Coach Justen is so knowledgable and really good at breaking down complicated moves into learnable segments. I was nervous to practice with more experienced people since I was so new, but Coach Justen is so encouraging and really cares about everyone. Its obvious that he loves martial arts and teaching! Okay, last thing, I lost weight and got really toned without even meaning to—BJJ is so fun I didnt even realize I was working out so hard…so thats a dream come true. Bottom line: go here. Its simply the best.