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Every student. Every goal. Every belt. We're here every step of the way.
Camal & Cruz Judo & Jiu Jitsu has been a cornerstone of the Totowa community since 1996. Founded by Sensei Tony Camal and Professor Jamie Cruz, our academy has spent nearly 30 years developing confident, disciplined, and skilled martial artists across northern New Jersey. We teach authentic Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a welcoming environment that serves kids, teens, and adults at every level of experience.
Head Instructor & Owner, 6th Degree BJJ Black Belt
Jamie Cruz began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1994 under the legendary Renzo Gracie. By 2003, Renzo awarded Jamie his black belt — making him just the 7th practitioner ever to receive a black belt from the acclaimed martial artist. Now a 6th Degree Black Belt, Jamie has trained UFC-caliber fighters including Jim Miller, Dan Miller, Charlie Brenneman, and Dillon Danis, and is one of the most respected instructors in New Jersey. His philosophy centers on building a framework of proven success for every student — beginner to competitor.
Co-Founder & 6th Dan Judo Black Belt
Anthony “Tony” Camal began his Judo journey in 1967 at age six, eventually becoming a Junior Olympic National Champion (1978), High School National Champion (1979), and three-time Senior National medalist. He opened Camal Judo in 1996, building it into one of New Jersey’s most decorated Judo academies — producing dozens of Junior National Champions, over 10 Senior National medal winners, and 30+ black belts. A career firefighter promoted to Captain, Tony was named USA Judo Amateur Coach of the Year by the U.S. Olympic Committee in 2014. Sensei Camal passed away on July 29, 2024. His legacy endures in every student he trained and in the academy that bears his name.
Head Judo Instructor
Chris Skelly stepped into the role of Head Judo Instructor following the passing of his Sensei, Anthony “Tony” Camal, in 2024. Trained directly under Sensei Camal, Chris carries forward the same rigorous technical standards and competitive spirit that made Camal Judo one of the most decorated academies in New Jersey. He is committed to honoring his Sensei’s legacy by continuing to develop the next generation of Judo champions at Camal & Cruz.
Plus 10 more dedicated instructors covering Judo, BJJ, and more.
Meet Our Full Coaching Staff →We don't just teach Judo & Jiu Jitsu — we build better people.
Students earn every belt by demonstrating real technique — we don't hand out ranks. With a 4.9-star Google rating and 30 years in Totowa, our standards speak for themselves.
From young kids to adults, complete beginners to returning martial artists — everyone feels at home at Camal & Cruz Judo & Jiu Jitsu. This is a family, not just a gym.
Parents and students report improvements in focus, confidence, and discipline within the first 30–60 days. Our structured curriculum ensures every student progresses at every level.
Something for everyone — from toddlers to adults, beginners to competitors.
A combined Jiu Jitsu and Judo program that builds real grappling fundamentals, confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills in a fun, structured environment. Students earn every belt by demonstrating real technique — nothing is handed out here.
Practical, real-world self-defense for children. Kids learn awareness, striking basics, conflict resolution, and how to stay safe — with confidence, not fear. Available on a flexible scheduling basis.
Train Gi and No-Gi under Professor Jamie Cruz — one of Renzo Gracie’s first American Black Belts. Classes 7 days a week including early bird sessions. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Camal & Cruz is where serious BJJ lives in New Jersey.
Olympic-lineage Judo instruction. From beginners learning their first throws to competitive students chasing tournament wins — a structured, technically rigorous path for every level. One of the few academies in New Jersey offering dedicated adult Judo classes seven days a week.
CRAWL stands for Confidence, Respect, Awareness, Willpower, and Leadership. A unique parent-led toddler program that builds character and coordination through fun, age-appropriate martial arts activities. The perfect first step into the martial arts world.
Three easy steps to your first class — no experience required.
Click the button below or call us at (973) 256-0110 to reserve your free intro session at a time that works for you.
Arrive in comfortable workout clothes. We'll give you a tour, introduce you to the team, and guide you through your first class.
If you love it — and you will — we'll find the perfect program and membership that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
No commitment. No experience needed. Just show up.
Rated 4.9 from 71+ reviews on Google
"Best school in NJ with Top Notch Instructors! Nothing given, everything earned! Professor Cruz is one of Renzo Gracie’s first American Black Belts. He is also a gentleman and a Warrior!"
via Google
"Training at Camal and Cruz changed my life and pushed me to a limit I never knew existed. Professor Cruz has an incredible knowledge of the fine details of Jiu Jitsu. Facility is clean and professional. Highly recommended for anyone to start their journey."
via Google
"Every experience at Cruz BJJ was outstanding. The facility is clean and the people are great to train with. Under the guidance of Jamie Cruz — I give this place a 10/10 and highly recommend."
via Google
"Camal and Cruz is an incredible training environment that fosters both personal growth and camaraderie. Everyone was so welcoming and they definitely give you the work. Definitely recommend this gym."
via Google
"A must go to gym especially if you are in the middle of your journey and need a place to cross train. Professor Cruz is one of a kind and has so much insight into Jiu Jitsu. The entire coaching staff are welcoming and will push you to be your best."
via Google
"It must have been at least 8+ years training here. This facility is an integral part of my family’s lifestyle — when we bought a home, being within daily distance was one of our top 5 criteria. The student’s growth is put first and foremost. Open 7 days a week with Judo, BJJ, Wrestling, Muay Thai, and Karate."
via Google
"Jamie is an outstanding professor who cares about his students. This academy is world class. I am always amazed at the attention to detail and high skill level. Beginner Friendly — this was my first BJJ Academy."
via Google
"One of the best schools in the area! Jamie and all the guys there have an amazing game to offer and share. Every time I am there I learn something new. Thanks for giving back to the community."
via Google
"My daughter had zero athletic ability when she started and she has developed athleticism and a ton of confidence. The instruction is excellent and coaches truly care about every student’s development."
via Google
"Amazing judo school, fantastic facility and incredible staff. Hopefully this is the start of a new, healthier and more disciplined life for my boys. They need at least a 20 star rating."
via Google
Take the first step toward the best version of yourself. Book your free trial or get our full pricing and schedule sent directly to you.
Camal & Cruz Judo & Jiu Jitsu