Don’t wait to transform your life—our Adult BJJ Fundamentals classes fill up fast and normally have a waitlist! At Calvert MMA Academy®, we help you build confidence, strength, and skills through authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. As Southern Maryland’s only certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu academy, led by Professor Jim Thrift, a fifth-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, we deliver proven self-defense, not just sport techniques. Secure your spot today before classes are full!
Try Our Exclusive 5-Day VIP Trial Package: 2 Free Classes
Call: 410-257-5425 | Email: info@calvertmma.com
Why Adult BJJ Fundamentals?
Our Adult BJJ Fundamentals program, for ages 14 and up, is offered at both our Sunderland (Calvert MMA) and California, MD (Lineage BJJ®) locations, welcoming beginners and seasoned students. Students attend classes only at their signup location unless staff approve otherwise—act now to reserve a spot!
Unlike traditional martial arts such as karate or taekwondo—which often rely on speed, strength, or rigid forms—Gracie Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes technique, leverage, and real-world self-defense. Many BJJ schools today focus heavily on sport competition, leaving out key self-defense principles. At Calvert MMA Academy®, we stay true to the original system, designed to help anyone defend themselves effectively regardless of age or athleticism. Our consistent success in both self-defense outcomes and competitive performance is proof.
Proven Self-Defense: Learn authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu techniques for real-world safety, not just points on a scoreboard.
Beginner-Friendly: Our rotating curriculum lets you start anytime, with no experience needed.
Championship Quality: Our students win by applying sound technique and strategy—not brute force.
Supportive Community: Train in a welcoming environment with no egos, tailored to all ages, sizes, and fitness levels.
Flexible Training: Access Sunderland and California, MD locations with one membership.
What You Gain
Our 60-minute classes meet you where you are, fostering growth in a safe and encouraging space:
Confidence & Resilience: Build self-esteem through progress and problem-solving.
Discipline & Focus: Develop mental sharpness that translates into work and life.
Strength & Fitness: Improve balance, coordination, and cardio through engaging drills and sparring.
Real Self-Defense: Learn to neutralize larger attackers using leverage-based techniques, strikes, and takedowns.
Member Support: Access our Members App and Online Academy for structured progression, home study, and Gracie games.
A Safe, Welcoming Environment
Our instructors, led by Professor Jim Thrift with over 40 years of experience, create a positive space for beginners:
Daily Cleaning: Mats disinfected with all-natural products.
Hospital-Grade Air Purification: Healthy air for every class.
Hygiene Education: Clean habits and mutual respect are part of our culture.
No Intimidation: We pair beginners with experienced, helpful training partners.
Why Choose Adult BJJ Fundamentals?
Proven Results: Students gain confidence, reduce stress, and get into the best shape of their lives.
Trusted Expertise: We’re Southern Maryland’s only certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school—don’t settle for lookalikes.
Beginner-Friendly Format: You’ll never feel lost thanks to our rotating curriculum and supportive culture.
Lifelong Benefits: Our students gain more than skills—they gain a mindset and community that lasts.
How to Start
Our Adult BJJ Fundamentals program often has a waitlist—here’s how to get started:
Wear Comfortable Clothing: T-shirt and athletic shorts or leggings. We’ll guide you on getting a Gi later.
Flexible Memberships
Monthly or Annual Plans: Choose what fits your schedule and budget.
Two Locations, One Price: Train at Calvert MMA (Sunderland) or Lineage BJJ (California, MD).
Exclusive Perks: InBody fitness scans, nutrition guides, our Online Academy, and private Facebook group access.
Join Southern Maryland’s Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Leader
Since 2007, Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ® have helped adults across Calvert County—from Sunderland to Huntingtown—build confidence, improve fitness, and develop life-changing self-defense skills. Our program is grounded in reality, guided by lineage, and trusted by hundreds. Don’t waste time on martial arts that don’t hold up. Choose the system designed for real life.
Try Our Exclusive 5-Day VIP Trial Package
Call: 410-257-5425 | Email: info@calvertmma.com
Calvert MMA Academy®
25 Dalrymple Rd, Sunderland, MD 20689
Want to learn more before starting? Read our guide on what to expect in our adult classes and why Lineage BJJ is the right choice.