Bernales Institute of Martial Arts
About
Bernales Institute of Martial Arts offers a comprehensive range of disciplines including MMA, boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, kickboxing, and karate. The gym is known for its top-level instruction across all these arts, with a strong emphasis on realistic technique and real-world application for both combat sports and self-defense. Members frequently highlight the depth of knowledge and passion from founder Will Bernales and all instructors, creating what many describe as a goldmine of martial arts information. The gym also hosts regular seminars with high-level practitioners across various disciplines, adding to the learning opportunities.
Newcomers and experienced practitioners alike find a welcoming environment where no type of person is excluded. Reviews consistently mention the friendly culture and comfortable space where everyone leaves class feeling their cups filled, regardless of experience level. The community aspect is strong, with members noting that people with egos either don't last or their egos don't, fostering a supportive training atmosphere. For families, the gym offers specialized programs like the dragons level jiu jitsu class for kids, where instructors demonstrate patience and skill in teaching discipline while building physical and mental strength.
The training experience balances technical excellence with practical application, with members praising how information is presented in digestible ways for both beginners and advanced students. Many have trained at the gym for years, some returning after breaks, citing that it never gets old due to the variety of styles and quality of instruction. The gym's approach creates lasting engagement, with members training multiple times weekly over extended periods and recommending it highly to anyone considering martial arts for themselves or their children.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the high-level instruction across multiple martial arts disciplines, with specific mention of founder Will Bernales's deep knowledge and passion. Reviewers highlight the welcoming, ego-free environment where both beginners and experienced practitioners feel comfortable and supported. Many note the strong sense of community and the gym's ability to make complex techniques digestible for all skill levels. Several long-term members mention training there for years without it getting old, while parents specifically commend the patience and skill shown in children's programs.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Jocelyn Fugit
5 months ago
About 13 years ago, I walked through the doors of BIMA not knowing what to expect and pretty nervous about taking any martial arts class. I fell in love with Muay Thai and a few moths later BJJ as well. One of the most unique and really cool thing about BIMA is the variety of martial arts offered, with top level instructors. Will Bernales has such a deep understanding and passion for so many arts, as do all of the instructors. It's a goldmine of info! Not only is the information top level, Will's friendly personality and experience teaching provides a comfortable space and a place where no matter your experience level everyone leaves class with their cups filled. Seminars from high level people in various arts are held at BIMA frequently which is always a plus. Having moved out of Utah I've had to find a new gym, if you're trying to find a place to start training or continue training, Bernales Institute of Martial Arts is where you should go!
Nathan Eldridge
a year ago
Been 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!!
Luke Smith exercise archive Smith
a year ago
I 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.
Taran Perry
a year ago
Started 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
Olga Isupov
a year ago
My 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!
Contact
2257 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 – 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 – 7:00 AM, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 – 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed