Los Angeles Ninja Academy is set to be the first dedicated ninja warrior obstacle training facility in L.A. Opening at 11814 Jefferson Blvd in Culver City on August 3, they say that “the state of the art 7000 square foot facility has onsite and street parking and is centrally located where Interstate 405 meets California 90. A grand opening event with celebrity ninjas will be announced soon.”
“Los Angeles, very much like New York, has so many pockets in its vast city that feature specific characteristics and identities,” said Madelyn Scarpulla, owner. “Culver City mirrors the demographics and personality of Midtown and Upper West Side of New York City, where New York City Ninja Academy serves a community of families, (as does Brooklyn Ninja Academy in Park Slope), so it feels like the right fit. It was important to me personally to feel at home, as well. I love New York City, and Culver City appeals to me as a New Yorker, as many of its destinations are walkable from residential areas. Its central location to other parts of L.A. is also a major plus.”
A press release states that, “Los Angeles Ninja Academy will teach ninjas of all levels how to conquer uniquely designed, challenging, and exciting ninja warrior obstacles that mimic those on the popular NBC television show, American Ninja Warrior. Ninjas learn new skills and techniques for climbing, swinging, agility, balance, strength, and of course the iconic Warped Wall. Obstacles rotate each week, so ninjas are challenged in new ways every time they visit. Participants will eventually tackle obstacles with increasing difficulty and will learn strategies to conquer an entire obstacle course. Ninja warrior training is a thrilling physical and mental challenge an innovative approach to setting, achieving, and surpassing fitness and mental goals.”
“We train the sport of ninja warrior to all ages and abilities,” said Scarpulla. “Our kids classes start at age six, and students stick with us for years and make ninja their main sport. We also train teens and young adults, who excel at the sport as they get stronger and more confident. Adults, both beginners and elite athletes, train with us as well. And, for those who are curious to try ninja, we offer kids drop-in classes, birthday parties, adult classes, corporate events for team building, and private lessons. We tailor our program to all abilities.”
The concept comes from the multiple Emmy nominated hit NBC television show American Ninja Warrior, which debuted in 2009. “Their 16th season premiered June 3. The action-packed series follows ninja warrior competitors as they tackle a series of challenging obstacles courses, with the goal of winning a million-dollar prize,” reads a statement. “The growing popularity of the show among kids and adults alike has created a demand for ninja warrior obstacle training facilities, which are currently few and far between.”
“We are planning a soft open at the end of July,” said Scarpulla. “Our grand opening will be August 3rd and 4th, and we’re lining up celebrity ninjas from American Ninja Warrior to appear that weekend, so we will share those details as soon as we can!”