Natick’s home for real jiu jitsu.
We've been teaching families in Natick since 2007. Kids work on focus and confidence, and adults learn practical self-defense. Come try a free class and see how we teach.
Since 2007
Ages 4 to adult
American Jiu-Jitsu: self-defense, not sport
Your first class is free
Our Programs
A class for every age
Ages 4 to 6Little Ninjas
Structured games help children ages 4 to 6 practice focus, balance, and coordination in a 30-minute class.
Explore Little Ninjas →
Ages 7 to 10Kids
Children ages 7 to 10 practice American Jiu-Jitsu, self-control, and working respectfully with a partner.
Explore Kids →
Ages 11 to 14Juniors
Students ages 11 to 14 practice self-defense, take on new challenges, and get to know their training partners.
Explore Juniors →
Ages 15 and upAdults
Practice American Jiu-Jitsu for self-defense and fitness with supportive partners. Beginners ages 15 and up are welcome.
Explore Adults →
FitnessPersonal Training
Personal fitness training with Samantha. Start with a free assessment to talk about your goals.
Request a free assessment →
Adults onlyFirearms Safety and Skill Training
Safety first, skill second, always in that order. Private instruction for adults who take it seriously.
Explore Firearms →
SummerSummer Camp
A week of jiu jitsu, games, and team activities for new and current students.
Sign Up Now! →Why Metrowest Academy
American Jiu-Jitsu for practical self-defense
Our training focuses on self-defense rather than competition. We teach students to use control, make good decisions, and look out for their training partners.
Our American Jiu-Jitsu has roots in Japanese Hakko-Ryu. We use leverage, timing, and an understanding of how the body moves. Training includes standing and ground defense, weapons awareness, and situations involving more than one attacker.
I care about what students take away from class as much as what they learn on the mat. We use jiu jitsu to practice focus, self-control, and looking out for other people. Kids and adults can work on those habits while they train and get to know the people around them.
Focus and confidence
Parents tell us they spot it at school and at home first, before they ever see it on the mat.
Real self-defense
Skills that hold up when it counts, taught with control and respect. Common sense first, self-defense second. Always that order.
A community that stays
People don't stay here for years because of the armbars. They stay because of who's standing next to them.
"Training at the Metrowest Academy is intense and highly effective. But most of all, it's FUN. Join for yourself or join for your family. But join."
Mark C.
Adult student, five-star Google review
What is American Jiu-Jitsu?
What do we teach in American Jiu-Jitsu?
If you're comparing martial arts in Natick, including karate or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, this video explains our approach. I talk through what we teach and why we focus on practical self-defense.
Rather read than watch? No problem. I break down both comparisons in the questions further down.
Meet Sensei Paul
Teaching in Natick since 2007
I started training in 1997 and opened the Academy in 2007. I'm a fourth-degree black belt now, but the idea I built this place on hasn't budged: no egos, no gimmicks, just real jiu jitsu and people who take care of each other. That's the whole thing.
Class Schedule
See exactly when you'd train.
Check the class schedule to find a time that fits your week, then request a free class. We'll text you to arrange your first visit.
Brand new to jiu jitsu? Adults, start Monday or Wednesday at 6:30, or Saturday at 11:30. Kids and Juniors can jump into any regular class, five days a week. We'll take it from there.
"The instructors are fantastic. Enthusiastic, motivating, and challenging. The community is great too. I'm here four or five days a week and can't say enough good things."
Common Questions
The things parents ask us first
How is American Jiu-Jitsu different from karate?
If you're considering karate classes in Natick, compare what each school teaches and how its classes work. At our Academy, American Jiu-Jitsu focuses on leverage, control, escapes, and self-defense. Students work toward rank by developing their skills. We also practice the focus, discipline, and respect that many parents want from martial arts.
How is American Jiu-Jitsu different from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Our American Jiu-Jitsu comes from Japanese Hakko-Ryu and focuses on self-defense. Training includes standing and ground defense, as well as situations involving weapons or more than one attacker. If you're comparing us with a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school, ask about each program's curriculum and goals so you can choose what fits you.
Will my child learn to be a bully?
We teach students to avoid conflict and walk away when they can. Control and respect are part of every class, and we hold students to those expectations.
I am not fit or coordinated. Can I still do this?
Yes. They don't call it the gentle art for nothing. It runs on leverage and technique, not size and not raw athleticism. And here's the thing: almost everybody feels clumsy at first. That's not a reason to wait. That's the reason to start.
How many days a week do we come?
Up to you, and it can change week to week. Ninjas can come once or twice. For Kids and Juniors we ask for two. You pick your days right in the app. We keep it flexible on purpose, because life happens.
Can I come watch a class first?
Yes. Contact us to arrange a time to watch a class.
What does my child need for the first class?
Comfy clothes and a water bottle. We've got the rest.
Reviews
What MetroWest families say
"We've been attending for about a year and my 6-year-old is having fun. More importantly, he's learning valuable life skills. The coaches and senseis are great, and the prices feel incredibly reasonable for the value."
Come try your first class for free.
Meet the instructors, see how we train, and decide whether the Academy feels right for your family.
Takes about a minute. No card needed.
61 Worcester St, Natick, MA 01760 · (508) 315-3251