Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Martinez.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Obstacle Ninja Academy started with the Lopez family back in 2018 as a ninja warrior gym for their daughter who loved competing and training. Her mom Michelle met Jay while he was coaching at Orange Theory and asked if he’d be interested in coaching at ONA. He started coaching around 3 years ago and since then there’s been a lot of changes. With a wide background and passion for movement, he’s added many new disciplines throughout the facility. First added was a spring floor area to train flips, acrobatics, tumbling and tricking. Then we added aerial sills and trapeze to include more classes. He now hosts all level clinics to teach skills like backflips, handstands and acrobatics. This led us to transition into a full-fledged Overall Movement Facility. We’ve intentionally expanded our focus to integrate Calisthenics, Acrobatic Arts, and functional strength training. This ensures that whether a guest wants to climb the warped wall or simply gain the strength to live a more dynamic life, we have the specialized coaching to help them succeed. It’s about empowering people to MOVE in every dimension. In short, our story is one of growth. We went from specializing in one form of movement to specializing in unlimited human potential, all while keeping the high-energy, supportive spirit of our original Ninja gym. We’re excited for this next chapter of movement and wellness.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
That’s a funny question when you run a gym full of ropes, bars, and rings! In a literal sense, we deal with nothing but obstacles here every day, but that’s the fun part! Jokes aside, when it comes to the business side of things, it has been smooth in terms of operations and community. We have an incredible team, and our members are truly dedicated. However, our biggest ‘obstacle’ isn’t one you can climb over; it’s simply spreading awareness about the gym and its offerings.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
ONA (Obstacle Ninja Academy) is a premier movement training facility specializing in ninja warrior, acrobatics, tumbling, parkour, calisthenics, and youth athletic development. Our coaching philosophy centers around technique, safety, progression, and confidence-building through structured training systems.
We are known for developing well-rounded athletes through a combination of gymnastics fundamentals, strength training, obstacle skills, and creative movement. Our programs serve children, teens, and adults of all levels—from first-time movers to elite competitors.
What we’re most proud of is the community we’ve built. ONA is a place where athletes feel supported, motivated, and part of something bigger. We’ve watched hundreds of kids grow not only in skill but in resilience, confidence, and leadership.
What sets us apart is the diversity of disciplines we offer, the quality of our coaching, and the way we empower athletes to train smart, move safely, and reach their highest potential. Our environment is positive, welcoming, and designed to help every person succeed—whether their goal is competition, fitness, creativity, or personal growth.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of Jays favorite childhood memories is seeing a group of bboys in New York in front of the Bronx Zoo at around 5 years old. They were doing high level acrobatics and flips while dancing to music in the street. Jay instantly fell in love with the possibilities in movement.
Pricing:
- $10 Late night open gym Tuesday nights 9pm-midnight
- $23 open gym Saturdays & Sundays (build your own course)
- $28 Kids and Adult classes offered Monday, Wednesdays and Friday (ninja, calisthenics, and tricking)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.obstacleninjaacademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obstacleninjaacademy?igsh=MWl1cWdxZHoxOHd1bw==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/obstacleninjaacademy/
Image Credits
Venturous Soul Media
