Who we are

At Ironhold Jiu Jitsu, our mission is to create a fun, welcoming, and supportive community where athletes of all levels can grow both on and off the mats. Based in Agawam, Massachusetts, we specialize in no-gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, providing high-level training that blends technical precision with a competitive spirit.

We follow a constraints-led approach to learning, ensuring our students maximize their time actually practicing and experiencing Jiu Jitsu, rather than passively observing. This hands-on method accelerates skill development and builds adaptability, preparing students for both competition and everyday training.

We believe that success comes not only from hard work and dedication, but also from fostering a positive, friendly environment where teammates uplift one another. Our goal is to empower students to reach their full potential—whether they aspire to succeed in competition or simply enjoy the journey of continuous improvement.

Two men practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on a black mat in a gym, with one man in a dominant position over the other, both wearing rash guards.

Instructors

Man smiling, holding a tournament banner for the 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu competition in Chicago.


  • Head Instructor & Co-Owner

    Nate Garland is the head instructor at Ironhold Jiu Jitsu in Agawam, MA. A dedicated competitor with a specialty in leg locks, Nate brings proven competition experience and modern no-gi techniques to the mats. His teaching emphasizes a constraints-led approach, ensuring students maximize time actively training while developing skills that work in live situations. Known for balancing a fun, supportive environment with a drive for competitive success, Nate is passionate about helping athletes of all levels reach their full potential.

A man with glasses, short blond hair, and a beard sitting on a stone wall outdoors, next to a black dog, with green leafy trees in the background.


  • Instructor & Co-Owner

    Henry is an instructor dedicated to finding the most effective techniques and teaching methods in Jiu-Jitsu. Often sick as a child and unable to participate in sports or martial arts, he was inspired by the Jiu-Jitsu philosophy that smaller, less physically capable individuals can still succeed through knowledge and technique. Henry also believes in live training and trial and error as the most powerful tools for progressing and discovering the truth behind techniques, movements, and positions in Jiu-Jitsu.

Contact us

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