How it Started
In August 2019, Hernando Thola, a Los Angeles native, and his wife, Amanda, responded to a divine calling to move from California to Spokane, WA. Taking over a mixed martial arts school in Spokane Valley, they purchased it in January 2020, rebranding it as Jean Jacques Machado Spokane and Alpha Female Fitness. Despite a COVID-19-induced shutdown in March 2020, they swiftly transitioned their programs online. Following further guidance, they expanded to Post Falls, ID, renaming the school Alpha Jiu-Jitsu + Fitness. Through prayer, a beautiful unit in Post Falls became available. The subsequent expansions added space for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing & fitness, an office, changing rooms, showers, and a pro shop. In July of 2023, Alpha opened their Rathdrum location to serve even more of their local community.The name “Alpha” symbolizes God as the Alpha and Omega, reflecting the gym’s commitment to a Christ-centered environment. The staff, members, and motivational Christian music embody this ethos, highlighted by the poignant mural known as the “Covering.” This journey, inspired by Philippians 1:6, marks only the beginning of Alpha’s story.
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6