Pura Vida Martial Arts
About
Pura Vida Martial Arts offers comprehensive mixed martial arts training in Denver, Colorado, with a focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Muay Thai. The gym is led by owner and head instructor Carlos "Charlie" Canales, a black belt in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Carlos Machado and Judo, plus over 25 years of Muay Thai experience. Assistant instructors include Mark Yelton, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt, and Monte Massey, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and 3rd Dan black belt in Korean Karate. The facility also features yoga instruction from Tasha Holmes, a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, and includes an on-site shop for training gear.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently describe Pura Vida Martial Arts as having exceptionally friendly, supportive members and instructors who make newcomers feel welcome without judgment. They praise Coach Charlie specifically for his knowledgeable, enthusiastic instruction across multiple disciplines and his ability to give clear, helpful cues during technique demonstrations. Reviewers highlight the gym's outstanding cleanliness, family-like atmosphere where egos are checked at the door, and the absence of members with bad attitudes. Several mention training as families, taking reasonably priced private lessons, and wishing they had started training there sooner due to the positive experience.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Zan
3 months ago
These are down-to-earth people with big hearts. I didn't stay with the program, but once I get a better paying job, I'm coming back. The workout I got from it is awesome,but most importantly, the instructors (plus members) know how and want to help you. On day one, it was freaking awesome. Just leave your ego at the door, and be willing to learn from some great folks. :D
JJ Johnson (JJs2Cents Vlog)
5 months ago
Outstanding gym, excellent instruction and facility. But most important a great group of friendly guys who are willing to take time to teach the newbies (like me) without making you feel like a dumbass. I couldn’t be happier. Highly recommend.
phillip m
3 years ago
My family(4 of us) and I train here regularly. Charlie is the best. He's very knowledgeable and professional. We were made to feel very welcome. All of the other members are very friendly too. As Charlie says, we're all like family there. If you're thinking about trying, do. You won't be disappointed. **update** after appx. 5 months training here with these guys, I have only one regret. I wish we would have started doing this sooner. We absolutely love it and our teammates!
Jeremy West
3 months ago
A great Martial Arts gym. Coach Charlie is very knowledgeable in Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, and Mixed Martial Arts. His instruction is enthusiastic and the cues he gives are to the point and helpful when he teaches techniques. The facility is noticeably clean, which is important for any gym where people grapple and use mats. Also the energy and attitude of the people that train there is great. Not a lot of big egos with people trying to hurt you, just people trying to learn and have a good time while doing it. I visited from out of town to train and had a pleasant experience at this gym.
Jason Johnson
3 months ago
My son and I both train with Pura Vida and really enjoy it! The gym is always very clean, the cleanest I have personally seen. The group of guys there are fantastic. Everyone is more than willing to take time to teach the new guys (like me) and there are no members with bad attitudes that I know of. Charlie offers classes in BJJ, Judo, Muay Thai. He also offers very reasonably priced private lessons which I am currently taking as well. Personally both my son and I could not be happier and look forward to training there for years to come. Highly recommend checking it out! Come by Sunday Mornings at 8:30/9:00 for an open gym to see if you like it or check his website for the regular class schedule. You won’t be disappointed.
fitness_centerAmenities
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM, 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Thursday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Sunday: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Mark Yelton
Assistant Instructor
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt under Carlos Machado
Began jiu-jitsu 8 years ago after son used it to defuse bullying. Also trains judo and Muay Thai. Over 7 years teaching experience as kids and adults assistant coach.
Carlos "Charlie" Canales
Owner & Head Instructor
Muay Thai Instructor (25+ years), Judo Black Belt (USJA), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Carlos Machado
Born in Costa Rica, started martial arts at age 11. Life goal is to pass knowledge and breed new generation of Judo, Jiu Jitsu, and Muay Thai fighters in NC.
Tasha Holmes
Yoga Instructor
500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 500)
Over 20 years of personal practice. Teaching since 2018. Background in Philosophy, approaches yoga as physical discipline and living philosophy.
Monte Massey
Assistant Instructor
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Carlos Machado, 3rd Dan Black Belt in Korean Karate (Oh Do Kwan/Moo Duk Kwon)
Started martial arts in 2009, focused on Muay Thai and BJJ since 2014. Over 15 years teaching experience. Goal is to help others build strong striking/grappling skills.