Bankens Combat Jiu-Jitsu

9.00
172 Central Park Square, Los Alamos, NM 87544
Perfect for:
FamiliesSelf-defense focused
Opens in 4 days at 4:30 (Monday)
Bankens Combat Jiu-Jitsu interior

About

Bankens Combat Jiu-Jitsu in Los Alamos, New Mexico is a highly regarded martial arts academy led by Professor Bankens, a black belt under Royce Gracie. The academy offers traditional Gracie-style BJJ with a strong emphasis on self-defense rather than just tournament-focused training. Students consistently praise the clean facility, supportive atmosphere, and the professor's exceptional teaching abilities that cater to both children and adults.

Jiu Jitsu Near Me VerifiedJiu Jitsu Verified
9.00/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Instructor imageInstructors
9.80
Class Structure imageClass Structure
9.20
Safety and Hygiene imageSafety and Hygiene
9.50
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.70
Value for Money imageValue for Money
9.00
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
7.50

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 23 Google Reviews
Bankens Combat Jiu-Jitsu has overwhelmingly positive reviews spanning from 2015 to 2024, with consistent praise for Professor Bankens' teaching style, the supportive atmosphere, and the effectiveness of the training. Many reviewers mention training there for years, bringing their families, or returning as drop-in students when visiting the area, indicating strong student retention and satisfaction.
Last Updated 2 Mar 2025

Instructors

Professor Bankens is consistently praised for his exceptional teaching abilities, patience, and extensive martial arts knowledge. As a black belt under Royce Gracie, he brings authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instruction with a focus on practical self-defense, while creating a supportive environment that connects well with both children and adults.

Facility

The facility is consistently described as clean and well-maintained, with particular attention paid to mat cleanliness. The academy appears to be organized and provides an appropriate training environment for various martial arts disciplines.

Pricing

While specific pricing details aren't mentioned in the reviews, the overall sentiment suggests students find good value in their training. The academy offers trial classes that allow potential students to experience the training environment without pressure to sign up immediately.

Facility

Well MaintainedEnough spaceClean matsTraining equipmentMultiple class spaces

Gym

Supportive AtmosphereWelcoming VibeExcellent Safety

Instructors

Black Belt under Royce GracieExperiencedPatientGreat with kidsMotivational

Classes

GiNo-GiAdvancedOpen matKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueFree trial

The academy offers trial classes that allow potential students to try different class types without feeling pressured to commit immediately.

Location

Limited ParkingAverage Accessibility

Opening Hours

Opens in 4 days at 4:30 (Monday)
Monday 4:30 - 6:45PM
Tuesday 4:30 - 7:15PM
Wednesday 5:15 - 6:45PM
Thursday (Today)4:30 - 7:15PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Location

Located in Los Alamos, New Mexico, the academy is accessible to local residents but may require significant travel for those in surrounding areas, with some students commuting up to an hour from places like Santa Fe.

Address

172 Central Park Square, Los Alamos, NM 87544

Website

https://bankensmma.com/

Phone

1 505-490-0491

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this gym suitable for complete beginners?

Yes, many reviews mention starting with no prior experience and feeling welcome. Professor Bankens is described as patient and excellent at teaching fundamentals to beginners of all ages.

Do they offer classes for children?

Yes, the academy offers dedicated children's classes that are highly praised by parents. Children as young as 3-5 years old have trained there, and Professor Bankens is noted for his ability to connect with and teach children effectively.

What style of jiu-jitsu is taught at this academy?

The academy teaches traditional Gracie-style Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a strong focus on practical self-defense rather than sport or competition techniques. Professor Bankens is a black belt under Royce Gracie.

Do they allow drop-in visitors when traveling through the area?

Yes, several reviews mention positive experiences as drop-in students while traveling through Los Alamos. The academy appears to be welcoming to visitors and travelers.