TRUJITSU Unified-Unum Jiu Jitsu

TRUJITSU Unified-Unum Jiu Jitsu in Ridgecrest, California, is guided by Professor Cory Ballestero, a black belt under Matt Baker and part of the lineage tracing back to Carlos Gracie Sr. Cory began training over a decade ago while serving as a police officer and transitioned to full-time coaching and managing the academy after 16 years in law enforcement. The gym operates as one of eleven affiliates of the TRUJITSU Revolution system, a style designed by Master Matt Baker to maximize efficiency on the mats. Cory’s experience includes active competition and leading the Unum competition team, reflecting a hands-on approach to both training and teaching. Training at Unum Jiu Jitsu involves a structured curriculum balancing fundamentals and advanced techniques, all primarily taught in the gi consistent with TRUJITSU’s framework. The schedule accommodates adults with classes like Fundamentals Jiu Jitsu, TRUJITSU-specific sessions, and no-gi training, alongside open mat times for additional practice. The academy also supports a dedicated women’s program through the Unum Ladies Trujitsu Club. Youth classes are segmented by age, with beginner groups for ages 4 to 10 and 11 to 17, plus an invite-only advanced kids class. This progression allows young practitioners to develop technical skills and competitive readiness over time. The coaching team includes several experienced instructors beyond Professor Cory, such as Coach Wyatt, Cory’s son and a high school varsity wrestling captain who leads children’s classes; Coach Renzi, with international training and Navy service; Coach Vidal “V,” a Marine veteran with a blue belt and a focus on kids’ confidence; and Coaches Nate, Melissa, and Josie, all with competitive backgrounds and diverse training histories. The academy’s 6,000-square-foot facility is wheelchair accessible, supporting a broad range of practitioners. Unum Jiu Jitsu emphasizes consistent technical development within the TRUJITSU system, competition preparation, and a multi-generational coaching staff rooted in both experience and community engagement.

Amenities