Nokido Ju-Jitsu, Judo & BJJ

Nokido Ju-Jitsu, Judo & BJJ in North Port, Florida, teaches a style of Ju-Jitsu rooted in the Nokido tradition, which traces back to the Nokido Shrine in Japan’s Tsuyama prefecture. The system was shaped significantly by Hanshi Andrew Gruenwald, an 8th-degree black belt who blended techniques from multiple martial arts including Judo, Isshin-Ryu Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. After his passing, Shihan Earl DelValle continued evolving the style with influences from Aikido, Shito Ryu Karate, and defensive tactics. Nokido Ju-Jitsu is recognized by the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation and International Ju-Jitsu Federation, and has produced national champions in both Judo and Ju-Jitsu. Training at Nokido covers a broad age range and skill level, with classes for juniors starting as young as four years old and adult advanced sessions focusing on competition preparation. The curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense techniques derived from traditional Ju-Jitsu and Judo fundamentals. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is integrated through all-ages classes, gi and no-gi sessions, and dedicated adult beginner and advanced courses that include live grappling drills. The school also offers introductory Muay Thai striking classes, complementing its grappling arts. Located in a business complex behind Imagine Schools of North Port, the academy operates Monday through Friday evenings and maintains wheelchair-accessible facilities. Students can attend multiple classes weekly, progressing from beginner fundamentals to advanced techniques across Ju-Jitsu, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The approach balances historical lineage with ongoing adaptation, reflecting the founder’s philosophy of “the way of the spirit.”

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