Business Details
Empowering All Ages Through Martial Arts & Self-Defense Training
American Jiu Jitsu of Maplewood is a family-run martial arts studio dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages through practical self-defense training. Founded by OSensei Joe Puelio, an 8th-degree black belt with over 40 years of martial arts expertise, our program integrates techniques from Judo, Aikido, and Filipino weaponry to teach scenario-based defense. We prioritize mind-body unification, fostering confidence, discipline, and situational awareness in a non-competitive environment.Our instructors, including lead trainer Tony, emphasize anti-bullying strategies and life skills alongside physical training. Classes cater to children, teens, and adults, focusing on real-world applications of physics and anatomy to neutralize threats effectively. With a legacy of promoting over 300 black belts, we remain committed to enhancing students' quality of life through structured, respectful learning.
Services
Kids Self Defense
Teen Self Defense
Adult Self Defense
Anti-Bullying Programs
Weapon Defense Training
Highlights and features
- Over 40 years of martial arts expertise from founder OSensei Joe Puelio
- Scenario-based self-defense techniques for real-world situations
- Focus on mind-body unification and character development
- Family-friendly environment with anti-bullying program specialization
- Weapon defense training against modern and traditional threats
What people say
Excellent anti-bullying techniques
Great instructors
Confidence-building
Structured learning
Family-friendly environment
Services
Kids Self Defense
Our children's program builds confidence and discipline through practical self-defense techniques. Students aged 8-12 learn anti-bullying strategies, focus development, and physical coordination in a structured environment. Classes emphasize respect and situational awareness while teaching age-appropriate defense tactics.
Teen Self Defense
Designed for teens navigating adolescence, this program combines self-defense training with character development. Participants gain confidence through scenario-based drills while learning boundary setting and conflict resolution skills. The curriculum addresses modern safety challenges faced by young adults.
Adult Self Defense
Adult classes focus on real-world self-defense applications using physics over strength. Students learn to neutralize threats through joint locks, pressure points, and strategic positioning. The non-competitive environment accommodates all fitness levels while emphasizing personal safety.
Anti-Bullying Programs
Specialized training addresses bullying dynamics through role-playing and de-escalation techniques. Students develop assertiveness skills and situational awareness while learning physical defense options. The program emphasizes psychological resilience alongside practical tactics.
Weapon Defense Training
Instructors teach defense against common weapons including knives, bats, and firearms. Students practice disarming techniques and threat neutralization strategies while learning to maintain composure under pressure. Training includes traditional weapon defense from martial arts heritage.
People
OSensei Joe Puelio
Founder
8th-degree black belt with 40+ years martial arts experience, developed the American Jiu Jitsu system emphasizing practical self-defense and mind-body unification.
Tony
Lead Instructor
Experienced martial arts instructor with strong student rapport, specializing in youth development and anti-bullying techniques through structured, confidence-building training.
Questions
What age groups do you cater to?
We offer programs for children (8-12), teens, and adults with age-appropriate training techniques.
Do you require prior martial arts experience?
No prior experience is needed. Our curriculum accommodates all skill levels from beginners to advanced students.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner uniforms for initial classes before purchasing official gear.
Are there competitive elements in training?
Our focus is practical self-defense rather than competition. Training emphasizes personal growth over sparring matches.
How do you handle student progression?
We use a structured belt system with regular evaluations to track individual progress and skill mastery.
Reviews (4)
Fried Shampoo
Jan 12, 2018
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I love the American Jiu Jitsu in Maplewood I get to throw people and do rolls. I learn fast there. The other instructors that come make it fun too. American Jiu Jitsu is great here.
Erin Meade
Nov 10, 2017
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My son has been taking jiu jitsu at AJJ for several years. He has learned so much from the teacher and become a part of a great group of students. This studio is top notch, and the instruction is serious yet the students have fun learning. It has been an excellent experience all around. I would highly recommend this place to anyone interested in learning self defense.
John Bowman
Aug 06, 2017
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AJJ of Maplewood is a great school. I regularly attend the adult classes and have for a couple years now. My kids attend the child classes as well. Sensi Tony is patient, understanding, relaxed, knowledgeable and great at sharing that knowledge. The assistant instructors each bring their own charm to the room. The classes are always focused on street scenerios self defense for adults. Deescalation is an important subject taught to both kids and adults.
Dan B.
Jun 13, 2017
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I wholeheartedly recommend the AJJ kids program. My daughter started training here when she was 5 and it's done her a world of good. Of the many options around town, I chose AJJ for two main reasons: because Sensei Tony is terrific with kids and because the training is age-appropriate. The kids aren't pretend fighting here, they're taught how to control their own bodies and to prevent other people from controlling them in a non-violent way. The AJJ style of anti-bullying is realistic and applicable to everyday situations. I've seen my daughter develop much more confidence in diffusing potential
