High Country
Jiu Jitsu

At High Country Jiu Jitsu we go beyond demonstration to ensure our students are well-equipped and well-educated. During our martial arts classes, we analyze technique and emphasize specific sections in the learning method. This approach ensures our students won’t get left behind in their training. We are so dedicated to helping our students that we also adapt our training style towards what each individual needs to achieve their goals, whether it’s general fitness or competition.

Jiu jitsu goes beyond physical health– it’s a lifestyle that positively changes how you view the world and yourself. High Country Jiu Jitsu embraces and celebrates the competition, friendship, and community that comes from martial arts. These benefits are enhanced thanks to our gym environment being a friendly and a safe place for everyone. We take pride in seeing our students improve all while educating them to value the importance of compassion and respect.

History

Instructor Andrew Skaggs was raised in South Jersey where he was involved in competitive sports such as soccer and baseball. Jiu jitsu caught Andrew’s interest when a friend convinced him to try it out in 2008. This sparked Andrew’s passion and he now holds a black belt under 3rd degree black belt Steve Toyryla. Andrew has had the opportunity to train under some of the best international Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructors. On his journey he gathered new styles and techniques from other countries and across the United States.

After college, Andrew pursued a career in software development. By day, Andrew’s strength is coding but at night he flexes his martial arts abilities through teaching classes at High Country Jiu Jitsu. Andrew seized the opportunity to open his school when he realized there wasn’t a space for jiu jitsu jitsu in Salida, Colorado and he wanted to bring the joy of martial arts to the community. He knew the challenges of opening and promoting a school in a smaller city but took the leap and established High Country Jiu Jitsu on August 5th, 2022. Today, he continues to work hard to teach his students respect and honor.