Nova Ryu BJJ

Nova Ryu BJJ in Tacoma is led by founder and head coach Jestyn Cummings, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with more than two decades of experience on the mats. Coach Jestyn’s martial arts background spans Shotokan, American Kempo, and Judo, but it was BJJ’s practicality and depth that drew him in. His formal journey began in 2001 with Rodrigo Lopes, later training under James Foster, and his black belt traces a direct lineage through Mitsuyo Maeda, Carlos and George Gracie, Octávio de Almeida, Moises Muradi, and Givanildo Santana. Outside the academy, Jestyn works as a nurse practitioner specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, and he regularly serves as medical staff at local BJJ tournaments. The academy runs seven days a week with a schedule built to support a range of students, from four-year-old “Ninja Cubs” to adults seeking technical progression in both gi and no-gi formats. Youth classes are divided into age-appropriate groups (4–6, 7–14), focusing on coordination, discipline, and anti-bullying skills alongside the core BJJ curriculum. Adult students can attend both gi and no-gi classes, as well as morning and evening sessions, open mats, and a fundamentals class on Sundays. Women’s-only BJJ and self-defense classes are held weekly, providing a dedicated space for female students. Nova Ryu also offers boxing fundamentals and yoga, integrating striking and mobility work into the weekly routine. Private lessons with Coach Jestyn are available for individuals or small groups who want focused attention on technical details or competition prep. The gym emphasizes small class sizes, straightforward pricing, and a practical approach to training rooted in both tradition and ongoing innovation.

Amenities