The Smash Gyms Jiu-jitsu program includes a systematic blend of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo into a complete grappling system that will safely progress beginners at an accelerated pace. Our system is designed as a path for the average person to progress safely and quickly into an expert grappler. The system has proven to be highly effective in both self-defense and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu sport competition. You will find that our unique Jiu-jitsu classes are presented in a format highly conducive to learning while maintaining a strong focus on safety. 

The core system of techniques taught in our classes fit the following criteria...

1. - The techniques are applicable to both gi and no-gi grappling.

1. - The techniques are not be attribute-oriented. Anyone learn to apply the techniques regardless of body type or athleticism.

1. - The techniques are applicable to self-defense and MMA type situations.

Smash Gym's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is taught by Michael Jen. A Third Degree Blackbelt under Joe Moreira, Michael Jen brings 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. One of the first 50 American Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Black Belts, Michael has also earned his brown belt in Judo and Japanese Jujitsu.

Michael's reputation is that of a top notch instructor. Smash Gym's BJJ curriculum was designed by Michael based on systems identified and developed through his 20 years of studying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. While Michael was progressing through the ranks, he was fortunate enough to have the unique opportunity to train with over 11 different black belt instructors. This invaluable experience helped him to see many perspectives and styles to choose which techniques worked best for him. Through teaching hundreds of students over the years he formulated a system of teaching designed to help students progress quickly and safely. Through the curriculum you will be taught the techniques outlined and identified that are required to progress quickly all the way to the top levels of jiu-jitsu. The core of the techniques being taught can be applied both in gi and no-gi grappling. Our beginner friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are also designed to be fun, safe, and great exercise!

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What is Jiu Jitsu?

"Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force him to submit. Due to the fact that control is generally easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the technique of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is centered round the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless. To control and overcome greater size, strength and aggression with lesser size and strength is the keynote of the sport. This is done by utilizing superior leverage, grip and position upon your opponent. Students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body. This knowledge can be used to subdue and control an opponent with whatever level of severity the student chooses. The path to this knowledge is physically and mentally demanding. Students benefit from greatly increased physical fitness, problem-solving ability, self-knowledge of their body and mind and the many social benefits of working within a large group of like-minded fellow students as you learn and have fun together.

Many students first learn about Jiu-Jitsu through the great popularity of mixed martial arts (MMA) competition, where Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu technique is very prominent. Indeed, the beginnings of the contemporary MMA competition were largely tied up with proving the combat-efficiency of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a sport, however, is strongly separated from MMA. Daily classes do not feature kicking or punching. The focus is on safe grappling technique that can be done on a daily basis with no more fear of injury than any other contact sport." - John Danaher, BJJ Black Belt