Get to Know Us

About Ascended BJJ and Boxing

Kingston's top-rated martial arts school, building confidence, discipline, and community for students of all ages.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

Everything we do is guided by a set of values that shape our instruction, our community, and the experience of every student who walks through our doors.

Discipline & Focus

We teach structure and consistency that build strong habits on the mat and in everyday life. Discipline isn't punishment; it's the foundation for achievement.

Respect & Integrity

Mutual respect between students, instructors, and our community is non-negotiable. We lead by example and hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity.

Confidence Through Growth

We celebrate progress at every level, not just trophies and belt promotions. Every small victory builds the self-belief that carries into school, work, and life.

Welcoming

Our doors are open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 55, a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you belong here.

Safety First

A clean facility, trained staff, and age-appropriate instruction aren't optional. They're our baseline. Parents trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Community

We're more than a gym. We're a second family. Our students support each other, celebrate each other's wins, and build friendships that last well beyond the mat.

Why Families Choose Us

What Sets Us Apart

Our certified instructors bring years of experience and follow a proven curriculum designed to build skills at every level. With a clean, welcoming facility and a supportive team, families feel at home from day one.

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Training at Ascended BJJ and Boxing

Our Promise

A Commitment to Every Student

We promise to provide a safe, supportive, and challenging environment where every student can grow in skill, character, and confidence. From your very first class to your highest achievement, we'll be in your corner every step of the way.

Meet the Team

The People Behind Ascended BJJ and Boxing

Our instructors are the heart and soul of our academy. Every member of our team is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.

Pedro Marques

Pedro Marques

Owner & Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Sandy Jose Nunez

Sandy Jose Nunez

Head Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Virg Minervini

Virg Minervini

Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Peter Orr

Peter Orr

Kids & Teens Instructor

James Petroski

James Petroski

Kids & Teens Instructor

Danilo Silva

Danilo Silva

Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Chris Zavras

Chris Zavras

Personal Trainer & Kids Instructor

Juliana Machado

Juliana Machado

Yoga Owner & Head Instructor

What Our Community Says

Real Reviews From Real Students

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from the students and families who train with us every day.

★★★★★

"My whole family takes classes here and we love it! Very supportive community atmosphere in a beautiful new facility. Lovely owners make you feel like family. All the instructors are incredibly skilled technically, but also do a great job customizing classes to benefit each..."

Christina Batch-Lee Christina Batch-Lee
★★★★★

"Highly recommended academy to train at! It’s one of the best places you could ever train. The mats are spotless — easily the cleanest you’ll ever roll on. Pedro and Juliana are some of the nicest people you’ll meet, and they’ve built an environment where everyone is welcome —..."

Julius Bryan de los Reyes Julius Bryan de los Reyes
★★★★★

"The fitness classes at Ascended are fantastic. They’re challenging but scalable, so people of all fitness levels feel comfortable. I’ve also taken yoga classes here, and they’re the perfect complement to training. Everything is thoughtfully run, from scheduling to cleanliness,..."

Pimenta Filmes Pimenta Filmes
★★★★★

"Right here in Ulster County on Wall Street in Kingston lays a foundation for growth. At Ascension Jiu Jitsu and Yoga are very welcoming and family loving people. From the instructors, to classmates, to the breeze you feel as soon as you enter the dojo. Are people to help you..."

Zack Redner Zack Redner
★★★★★

"I found this academy on Google and decided to just walk in to ask about training and I’m so glad I did. From the moment I walked in, everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming. They invited me to join their open mat and promotion day, which made the experience even more special...."

Andrea Perez Andrea Perez
★★★★★

"I love the instructors at Ascended Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Yoga. The classes are safe, the mats and equipment are always clean, and the friendly staff make everyone feel welcome. The location is easy to find with plenty of parking, and the supportive environment keeps my..."

cmrispoli cmrispoli
★★★★★

"The Ascended Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and always give clear feedback. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, with a clean space and good music. Whether you’re looking for adult martial arts classes or just a supportive place to train, this..."

Emma Bloom Emma Bloom
★★★★★

"Wonderfully run and clean gym with a very positive and welcoming environment!! Sandy was the instructor for the class I took and he was great! He gave clear instructions, demonstrations, and 1 on 1 assistance. Which was very valuable being a beginner. Overall I got so much out..."

Camille Rand Camille Rand
★★★★★

"I had the pleasure of dropping in here while visiting Kingston. The vibes are great. Everyone was incredibly friendly, from initial interaction over email/phone to walking in the front door. They let me borrow a gi for training and gave me a tour of their well appointed and..."

Andrew Hahn Andrew Hahn
★★★★★

"My son attended a trial session and absolutely loved the experience. They are so great about including everyone and attentive to each individual. The instructors were knowledgeable and informative. Highly recommend."

Olivia Senecal Olivia Senecal
★★★★★

"Respect. Discipline. Compassion. I see these values on the mats every single day at Ascended Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Yoga. Pedro and Juliana lead with humility and genuine care. Staff know everyone's name. We set clear expectations, and make sure the culture is kind and hard..."

Sandy Jose Nunez Sandy Jose Nunez
★★★★★

"I love training at Ascended! The instructors are super friendly and knowledgeable, the community is diverse, supportive and kind. When I come to class I feel motivated and like this is a perfect place to grow. I am new to BJJ and feel so welcomed as I start this new sport. For..."

Eric Rios Eric Rios
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Ascended BJJ and Boxing

Have questions about getting started? We have answers. Browse the most common questions below, or contact us directly for anything else.

Absolutely not. Our programs are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Our instructors will meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.

We offer programs for all ages, including juniors, kids, teens, and adults. Each program is specifically tailored to the age group's physical and developmental needs.

Comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is all you need. No shoes are required on the mats. We'll provide everything else you need for your first session.

We recommend attending at least two classes per week for steady progress. Consistency makes a big difference, and many of our most dedicated students train three or more times a week.

Safety is our top priority. Our certified instructors maintain a structured, supervised environment with age-appropriate techniques. We focus on controlled practice in a clean, well-maintained facility to minimize any risk of injury.

Your free trial includes a full class experience. You'll train alongside our students, meet our instructors, and get a feel for our academy. There's no obligation and no pressure. Just come ready to learn and have fun.