You’ve built your foundation—now keep sharpening your edge. Our Open Mat sessions are where serious practitioners come to refine skills, test strategies, and connect with the most committed grapplers in Southern Maryland. At Calvert MMA Academy®, we combine authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with a strong team culture rooted in respect, hard work, and support.
No other academy offers more training opportunities—up to 7 days a week across two locations. Whether your focus is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), self-defense, martial arts , or becoming competition-ready, this is where it all comes together.
Led by Professor Jim Thrift , a fifth-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie , Calvert MMA Academy® is Southern Maryland’s only certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school. Train with the region’s largest, most experienced team and see why iron sharpens iron.
Try Our Exclusive 5-Day VIP Trial Package: 2 Free Classes
Call: 410-257-5425 | Email: info@calvertmma.com
Why Open Mat at Calvert MMA?
Train Every Day : Our schedule allows for up to seven days a week of mat time across Sunderland and California, MD— more classes than any academy in Southern Maryland.
Refine All Disciplines : Gi, NoGi, positional drills, flow rolling, live sparring, and real-world self-defense applications including strikes, takedowns, and escapes.
Authentic BJJ Lineage : No one is closer to the Gracie family legacy than us. Our instruction comes directly from the source.
Supportive Team Culture : You’ll find training partners who want to help you grow— not egos.
Access to Both Academies : While Open Mat sessions are generally held at your signup location, members may be approved to cross-train.
What You Gain
Improved Technique : Practice what you’ve learned, explore new positions, and develop flow.
Strategic Mindset : Apply techniques under pressure and learn to adapt in real-time.
Competition Readiness : If you’re preparing for tournaments, this is where you get sharper.
Real Self-Defense : Apply your martial arts training in realistic, unscripted scenarios.
Community & Friendship : Many of our students say the bonds formed here feel like family. You won’t just get fit—you’ll find your tribe.
Safe, Clean, and Structured
Daily Disinfection of all mats with all-natural solutions
Hospital-Grade Air Purification in every room
Open Mat Guidelines ensure safety—rolling is typically for 2-stripe white belts and up, or with instructor approval
No-Ego Zone : Everyone trains with mutual respect
Why Open Mat Matters
More Training = More Progress : Nobody in the area gives you more hours to refine your BJJ and self-defense skills.
Elite Environment : You’re training with experienced, certified instructors and motivated teammates.
Real-World Value : From competition to defending your family—this is where you become proficient, prepared, and powerful.
Proven Track Record : We’ve produced champions, confident professionals, and strong families for over 18 years.
How to Get Started
Attend 2 Free Classes to see if our community is the right fit
Bring your Gi, NoGi attire, water, and mindset to train
Flexible Membership Options
Annual or Month-to-Month options available
One Price, Two Locations : Calvert MMA (Sunderland) & Lineage BJJ® (California, MD)
Perks : InBody scans, nutrition support, Online Academy access, Gracie family seminars, and more
Join the Region’s Best BJJ and Self-Defense Team
Since 2007, Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ® have helped people across Calvert County— from Sunderland to Prince Frederick—learn real Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, practical self-defense, and become their strongest selves.
Open Mat is more than free time—it’s where friendships are built, techniques are sharpened, and champions are made.
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
For more on what to expect at Open Mat, check out our blog article: Lineage BJJ Open Mat Guidelines – Train Smart, Stay Safe, and Respect All.