ABOUT SOMA JIU-JITSU ACADEMY
SOMA Academy first opened its doors in Idaho Falls on November 1, 1994, as The Academy of Martial Arts. With a legacy spanning over three decades in Eastern Idaho, SOMA stands as a foundational institution within the state's martial arts community. The unique SOMA philosophy—rooted in the specialized instructional design and educational background of our founder, Jared Emfield, PhD—creates an experience that transcends traditional training, offering a level of depth and mentorship unlike anything else.


The SOMA Difference:
Expert Leadership
Founded by Dr. Jared Emfield, SOMA Jiu-Jitsu Academy is built on a lifetime of martial arts mastery and academic excellence. As a 3rd Degree Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt (under legends Rickson Gracie, Pedro Sauer, and Matt Strack) and holding a PhD in Educational Leadership, Professor Emfield blends the detail oriented science of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with unmatched teaching methodologies. At SOMA, we don't just teach techniques; we use the "Art of Human Chess" to foster life-improvement, discipline, and self-mastery for students of all ages.

GUIDING PHILOSOPHY
Jiu-Jitsu: the gentle art, often called “The Art of Human Chess," is arguably the most effective system of self-defense ever devised. Unlike many martial arts that rely on brute strength, striking, or rigid forms—Jiu-Jitsu focuses on leverage, timing, and technique to overcome larger opponents. It is a "living" art; every session is a puzzle where you learn to navigate physical problems with a calm, analytical mind. This unique blend of high-intensity physical engagement and deep mental problem-solving creates an experience that is as much about intellectual growth as it is about physical prowess.
Built on a Unique Foundation, SOMA Jiu-Jitsu Academy wasn't founded just to be another gym; it was built to be a sanctuary for personal evolution. Our philosophy is rooted in our name—SOMA—representing the integration of the physical body with the discipline of the mind. While other schools may focus on competition or belts, SOMA is governed by a unique set of principles that prioritize technical precision, mutual respect, and a holistic approach to well-being. We strive to transform the ego-driven culture often found in combat sports and create an environment where the elite competitor and the absolute beginner can thrive side-by-side.
A Life-Changing Transformation, The SOMA Experience is designed to be both a challenge and a catalyst. Stepping onto our mats means pushing past your perceived limits, embracing the discomfort of the grind, and emerging with a profound sense of accomplishment. This process is deeply invigorating; it strips away the stress of daily life and replaces it with a newfound confidence and clarity. We believe that the lessons learned during a hard roll—resilience, humility, and persistence—inevitably bleed into your life outside the academy. At SOMA, we don't just teach you how to fight; we provide the tools to change your life from the inside out.
