Aspenmma Logo4

Classes

All classes are self-defense oriented and are conducted in a controlled, safe environment.

Jiu Jitsu

A martial art, combat sport and self-defense system that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. In this class, you will learn natural body leverage and proper technique to obtain dominant control on the ground. The emphasis is on take-downs, body positions and submission holds. All classes begin with a warm-up.

Muay Thai/Kickboxing

Called the science of eight limbs because the hands, elbows, knees and legs are used to strike the opponent. Muay Thai is a vigorous workout that produces tremendous cardiovascular endurance. Students are taught various striking techniques ranging from kicking, punching and knee/elbow strikes all in a controlled environment.

Boxing

Focus on footwork, striking technique and defensive strategies such as head movements. Students will also learn mechanics on how to move to create power as well as reading & setting up your opponent to your advantage. Class will begin with a warm-up consisting of drills for balance, agility and coordination. The majority of this class consist of partner work.

Sports Conditioning

Overall conditioning that is beneficial for any sport. Exercises and drills are designed to create strong, lean, agile and flexible bodies with the overall goal of becoming very fit in a short amount of time. This class is designed for beginners to advanced levels of fitness and skill. Workouts use both upper and lower body and are modified to fit your sport and fitness needs.

Kids MMA Class

This class focuses on a variety of MMA disciplines. Kids will have fun building self-discipline, strength, confidence and focus. Classes include exercises, drills, safety tips and realistic approaches to self defense situations. Students learn core life skills such as self control, respect and patience. They also develop better fine motor skills such as strength, balance, flexibility and coordination. These are fun & energetic classes!

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Ernest Mendez has had an interest in martial arts since he was a kid. In 1984, he attended his first karate school. He was fortunate to have instructors that were world class kickboxers which started his interest in the science of boxing. In the 90’s, he trained with friends that were professional MMA fighters.

Ernest started his personal training career in 1990. He quickly acquired an amazing cliental working with business minds to professional athletes. He always enjoyed traveling, exploring and pushing the limits of life. He competed in numerous extreme endurance races and climbed some of the highest peaks in North America, South America and Europe.

Ernest has had great opportunities to train with and under well respected boxers, Muay Thai instructors and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu professors from all over the world. His passion continues to grow as he continues learning. He received his black belt in 2017 under Professor Eduardo de Lima, Gracie Barra out of Clearwater, Florida.

Ernest has the ability to bring his students to a better understanding of martial arts and fitness. Many of his students have competed in tournaments and medaled in their division.

He was born in Mexico, grew up in Dallas and has called the Roaring Fork Valley home since 2006.

Special Thanks

I want to thank the following people for their passion, knowledge and teaching styles: Professor Eduardo de Lima, Alex Andrade, Joao Zeferino, Kenny McClure, Octavio Couto, Bruno “Longman” Ewald, Saekson Janjira, Jason House, Francisco Sanchez, Guy Mezger, Freddie Poole, Oleg Taktarov, Phil Sawyer, Kru Ting, Tim Kirby, Steve Sosa and William Beach. I appreciate and respect my students who have inspired me to continually strive to be a better instructor.

Ernest Mendez