Led by Professor Jim Thrift, 5th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, Calvert MMA Academy® is one of the most authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu programs in the region.
Our team includes multiple state champions and 2025 Good Fight Submission-Only World Champions across kids, teens, and adult divisions.
Class availability is limited. Contact us today to check availability.
Starting something new can feel intimidating. At Calvert MMA Academy®, we make the first step simple.
Our New Student Foundations program allows first-time students to experience real Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training before committing to membership.
You’ll meet our instructors, experience the academy culture, and see how the training system works.
Your structured introduction to training at Calvert MMA Academy®, home of Team LINEAGE®.
Includes:
4 beginner-friendly training sessions
14 days to complete your sessions
Academy orientation and facility tour
InBody body composition scan
Temporary access to our digital training vault and member app
No experience required.
If you decide to join, your $49 Foundations fee is credited toward membership.
Call: 410-257-5425
Contact Us
Class availability is limited.
Relson Gracie represents what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was originally meant to be.
Grandmaster Relson Gracie remained undefeated for 22 consecutive years as Brazilian National and State Champion in both his weight class and the open weight division.
The self-defense system we teach was originally developed by Hélio Gracie and his brothers, then refined and preserved through Relson’s leadership.
Unlike many academies that focus only on sport competition, we teach the complete Gracie self-defense system exactly as it was intended.
Relson personally tested Professor Jim Thrift in both technical application and instruction, ensuring the system is taught with accuracy and authenticity.
Jim has trained directly under Relson Gracie, Hélio Gracie, and multiple members of the Gracie family, continuing that legacy here in Southern Maryland.
Professor Jim Thrift, a 5th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, has trained in martial arts for more than four decades.
Fewer than 0.02% of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners worldwide ever reach this level.
Jim is also a retired U.S. Secret Service gun carrier and Navy veteran, bringing discipline, professionalism, and real-world experience to his instruction.
He teaches regularly at both locations and oversees a team of instructors personally selected for their technical ability, professionalism, and integrity.
Our academy includes multiple black belts on staff, ensuring consistent and high-level instruction.
Train up to seven days per week at both locations.
Calvert MMA Academy® — Sunderland, MD
Lineage BJJ® — California, MD
Both academies operate under the Team LINEAGE® banner.
Members enjoy access to both locations with one membership, one curriculum, and one team.
No hidden fees.
No tiered access.
Just world-class training.
Not all Jiu-Jitsu schools are created equal.
At Calvert MMA Academy®, our instruction is built on the core principles that made Gracie Jiu-Jitsu effective in the first place: technical precision, leverage, timing, and control — not strength or athleticism.
Students quickly discover that properly taught Gracie Jiu-Jitsu allows smaller practitioners to control larger opponents using technique alone.
This principle — efficiency of movement overcoming size and strength — is one of the foundations of the Gracie system.
The curriculum taught at our academy comes directly from Grandmaster Relson Gracie, ensuring students learn techniques that are structured, proven, and rooted in real-world effectiveness.
Team LINEAGE® consistently produces champions across all age groups.
Recent accomplishments include:
2025 Good Fight Submission-Only World Champions — Kids, Teens, and Adults
5 Consecutive Good Fight Team State Championships — Kids, Teens, and Adults Divisions
1st Place — Youth Division, Good Fight World Championships (2024)
2nd Place Overall — Adult Division, Good Fight World Championships (2024)
These results reflect the quality of instruction, structure of our training system, and dedication of our students.
We serve real people — not just elite athletes.
Students of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels train here in a supportive environment built around improvement, discipline, and teamwork.
Our beginner classes are designed specifically for new students. Those with prior grappling experience may qualify for advanced classes, but most begin with fundamentals to build a strong technical foundation.
We teach focus, discipline, and real self-defense — not just games.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3–4)
Little Sharks (Ages 5–7)
Junior Grapplers (Ages 8–13)
Youth classes often reach capacity quickly, and waitlists may apply.
We understand the demands of your profession. Our training emphasizes control, composure, and practical self-defense, which aligns closely with the needs of military and first responders.
Students who want to compete will train with a team that consistently produces champions. Competition is optional. Everyone trains together and supports one another.
Our curriculum is built on Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the self-defense system refined from Japanese Judo by the Gracie family and designed specifically for real-world protection.
Students learn how to respond effectively to real-world threats including:
defending against punches and strikes
escaping grabs, holds, and bear hugs
defending against wall pins and ground attacks
escaping headlocks and control positions
defending against weapon threats including knives, clubs, and firearms
weapon awareness and gun-retention techniques
Training also incorporates:
Wrestling for take-downs and positional control
Judo for balance and throws
Boxing & Muay Thai concepts when appropriate
Every technique is designed to work under real pressure, regardless of size, strength, or athletic ability.
8 Classes Per Month
12 Classes Per Month
Unlimited Training
Full access to both locations
Member app with curriculum videos, training logs, and nutrition support
Monthly InBody body composition scans
Some programs approach capacity quickly. Early registration is recommended.
Visit the academy, meet the instructors, and experience the training environment for yourself.
Start with New Student Foundations and discover why so many families across Southern Maryland train with Team LINEAGE®.
Call: 410-257-5425
Contact Us
📍 25 Dalrymple Rd, Sunderland, MD 20689
We are not a belt factory. We are not a fight club.
We are a professional martial arts academy built on discipline, respect, and accountability.
Whether your goal is self-defense, competition, confidence, or personal growth, Calvert MMA Academy® provides the instruction and environment to help you succeed.
From beginners to black belts, every student matters here.
If you live in Calvert, St. Mary’s, Charles, or Anne Arundel Counties, this is your academy.
Calvert MMA Academy® — Where Real Training Begins.
Team LINEAGE® Continues the Legacy.
Open Mat is a time for active members of Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ® to train freely outside of structured classes. During Open Mat, students can drill techniques, roll with teammates, work on specific positions, or simply get extra mat time in a relaxed but respectful training environment.
This session is open to all active members, regardless of rank or experience level. It’s an opportunity to improve your skills, ask questions, experiment with techniques, and build camaraderie with teammates.
We welcome visiting grapplers and friends from other academies. However, all guests must be approved in advance before attending.
If you would like to visit Open Mat:
• You must contact us ahead of time through our website contact form or by phone
• You must train at another academy or be invited by a current member
• Walk-ins are not permitted
This policy helps us maintain a safe, clean, and respectful training environment for our members.
• Open rolling and positional sparring
• Time to drill techniques with teammates
• Gi or No-Gi depending on the session
• A relaxed but respectful atmosphere focused on learning and improvement
Open Mat is a great way to get additional training time, sharpen your skills, and connect with the Team Lineage community.
• Active Calvert MMA / Lineage BJJ members
• Approved visiting grapplers from other academies
If you are a visiting student from another academy and would like to join us, please contact us in advance so we can coordinate your visit.
Call: 410-257-5425
or
Contact us through the website
We look forward to training with you.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3-4)
This 30-minute class is specially designed for our youngest martial artists, ages 3 to 4. Mat Munchkins introduces kids to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate environment.
Each session begins with a short warm-up to get kids moving and ready for class. Students will then practice basic movements, learn simple techniques, and engage in activities that promote coordination, listening skills, and teamwork. Classes often conclude with a fun game designed to reinforce Jiu-Jitsu principles while keeping young learners engaged and excited.
Mat Munchkins is the perfect introduction to martial arts, helping children develop confidence, focus, and a love for learning on the mats.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+) / NOGI
This class focuses on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the No-Gi format, offering a dynamic and fast-paced training environment suitable for all skill levels. Techniques are adjusted to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced practitioners—simplified for those building a foundation and more detailed for experienced students seeking to refine their game.
The session includes instruction on No-Gi-specific techniques, positional drills, and live rolling to help students improve their grappling skills without the traditional gi. Whether you're new to No-Gi or looking to enhance your skills, this class provides the perfect opportunity to explore this exciting style of Jiu-Jitsu.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is ideal for anyone interested in self-defense, fitness, or competition preparation in the No-Gi format.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
First Responder Control Tactics Training
ATTENTION: Capt. Mounts retired effective Sept 30, 2025. This class now runs about every other week, depending on instructor availability. Please contact us or join the mailing list before attending to confirm the session.
A one-hour weekly class designed exclusively for active first responders, providing practical self-defense techniques and scenario-based training. This session focuses on control tactics, threat management, and situational awareness, ensuring first responders have additional tools to enhance their safety in real-world situations.
⚠️ This training does not supersede agency policies or state law. Techniques shared are meant to supplement professional training, not replace official departmental procedures.
Class Details:
✅ Open to all active first responders (law enforcement, EMS, fire, etc.).
✅ No cost – this training is offered free of charge as a way to give back.
✅ Athletic wear recommended – just bring a drink to stay hydrated.
This class provides a safe and collaborative environment to refine skills, discuss real-world scenarios, and train with other first responders. Join us each week and continue developing the skills that keep you safe in the line of duty.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+) / NOGI
This class focuses on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the No-Gi format, offering a dynamic and fast-paced training environment suitable for all skill levels. Techniques are adjusted to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced practitioners—simplified for those building a foundation and more detailed for experienced students seeking to refine their game.
The session includes instruction on No-Gi-specific techniques, positional drills, and live rolling to help students improve their grappling skills without the traditional gi. Whether you're new to No-Gi or looking to enhance your skills, this class provides the perfect opportunity to explore this exciting style of Jiu-Jitsu.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is ideal for anyone interested in self-defense, fitness, or competition preparation in the No-Gi format.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3-4)
This 30-minute class is specially designed for our youngest martial artists, ages 3 to 4. Mat Munchkins introduces kids to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate environment.
Each session begins with a short warm-up to get kids moving and ready for class. Students will then practice basic movements, learn simple techniques, and engage in activities that promote coordination, listening skills, and teamwork. Classes often conclude with a fun game designed to reinforce Jiu-Jitsu principles while keeping young learners engaged and excited.
Mat Munchkins is the perfect introduction to martial arts, helping children develop confidence, focus, and a love for learning on the mats.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Instructor-Led Open Mat / Vale Tudo Training (Ages 14+)
📅 Schedule: Every other Friday
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Calvert MMA, 25 Dalrymple Road, Sunderland, MD
This instructor-led open mat is designed to improve grappling, striking, and overall fighting skills in a controlled training environment. Depending on space, students may start standing and incorporate strikes into grappling exchanges.
This is not a brawl or a “tough guy” class. The focus is on technical development, strategy, and controlled application—not hurting your training partner. Those who cannot follow the established rules will be banned from the class with no exceptions.
Open to all levels, ages 14+.
Open Mat Training at Lineage BJJ®
Step onto the mats and take your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey to the next level with Open Mat Training at Lineage BJJ®. Open to practitioners of all ages and skill levels, this self-guided training session allows you to drill techniques, roll with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student sharpening your game for competition, Open Mat Training offers a flexible way to improve your skills and connect with our welcoming BJJ community.
Why Join Open Mat at Lineage BJJ®?
Check our schedule for the next Open Mat Training session and experience the freedom to train, learn, and grow in a supportive environment. Whether you’re here for fitness, competition, or self-defense, Open Mat is an essential part of your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
Relson Gracie
James Thrift
Mike Tran
Jesse Cordova
Kevin Southworth
Jack Sudduth
Seun
Porter Foley
Bill Duff
Kim Breedlove