Growing up in Salt Lake City, Utah, Jonathan Brubaker has always had a passion for movement and martial arts. As a Physical Therapist at Arctic Physical Therapy Services, Jonathan brings a wealth of expertise to his coaching position at Buoy 4 Fitness. With 20 years of martial arts training under his belt, from Japanese Aikido and Karate to European Swordsmanship and Brazilian Jiujitsu, Jonathan is well-versed in various disciplines. He holds a Black Belt in Seidokan Aikido and has spent six years training in Brazilian Jiujitsu at various schools. His academic achievements include a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Idaho State University and a B.S. in Exercise Physiology from BYU-Idaho. Additionally, Jonathan is a Certified Personal Trainer and Human Movement Specialist with the Brent Brookbush Institute.

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Outside of the gym, Jonathan enjoys watching anime to keep up with his Japanese and indulging in iPhone photography. A quirky fact about him is his love for chocolate chip cookies and fluffy cats. When it comes to Jiu-Jitsu, his favorite position is the Scarf Hold.

Jonathan’s teaching moments are enriched by his dual knowledge as a physical therapist and a martial artist. He excels at explaining not just how a technique works but why it works, helping students of all levels to improve their performance with a deeper understanding of anatomy. His favorite coaching success stories involve witnessing the "light bulb" moments when students grasp a new concept or technique.

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For those new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jonathan’s advice is simple: “Consistency trumps brilliance.” This philosophy reflects his own commitment to fitness, inspired by his grandfather, who was active into his 90s, and his father, who continues to rappel, hike, and rock climb at 80. For Jonathan, fitness is about learning to move in new, enjoyable ways and continually striving for self-improvement.

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If he had to describe his coaching style in three words, it would be: playful, practical, and positive.