BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU PROGRAM

Competition BJJ and Jiu-Jitsu Combatives

SHARKSIDE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

BJJ Classes for Competitions and Self-Defense

We provide a different approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Mesa AZ. Many Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training programs have a heavy focus on the competitive aspect, preparing their students for competition BJJ as well as getting to the next belt. Our classes are suitable for anyone, of any skill level from beginner level Jiu Jitsu to the advanced practitioner in BJJ.

Here at Faction Combat, while we will prepare and teach you how to dominate in the next BJJ competition, we are heavily focused on the real world application of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mesa AZ, and for that matter the entire United States is no stranger to violence and we want you to be prepared to nullify any threat in the least dangerous fashion - while also making sure you don't seriously injure someone and end up in trouble with the police.

In this program you will learn how to utilize the many aspects of this powerful martial art, such as positioning control, leverage and timing to protect yourself against any attacker. Your Sharkside Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach, Brenden Richardson, has an extensive background in law enforcement as well as a black belt in BJJ under Gustavo Dantas (Nova Uniao). His combined experience makes this unique training program perfect for those wanting to learn how to protect themselves, enter competitive BJJ or even fight in MMA.

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Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Faction Combat is not your typical run of the mill BJJ gym. We combine BJJ competition training as well as self-defense training. Our competitors are well-versed in both sport BJJ and self-defense, “street” BJJ.

During your journey into learning this brilliant martial art to protect yourself and your family, you will definitely pick up the skills to dominate on the mat - and if you want to compete, we will get you ready and be there every step of the way.

We offer top notch training to adults of all levels. Whether you are a beginner who is just interested in a great workout while learning a new craft, or a seasoned professional who is in town looking to roll and spar while preparing for a BJJ tournament - we offer the same attention to everyone who walks through our door.

Since the major boom in interest in BJJ during the 90's and early 2000's due to the rise in popularity of MMA, many people have become keen on learning this highly functional martial art. Whether you are looking to compete in Gi or No Gi Jiu Jitsu, want to learn how to protect yourself and family or are looking to enroll your child in some after school programs to burn off some energy - Sharkside BJJ at Faction Combat has what you are looking for.

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Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (ages 6-12)

Our kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu programs are designed with the development and safety of your child in mind. In today's world, you can truly never be too careful when it comes to your children and one of the most effective martial arts to teach them is Jiu Jitsu. Mesa AZ children ages 6-12 will learn the fundamentals of one of the most highly evolved martial arts in use today.

We will teach them how to close distance, initiate a take down against an attacker, effective ground control from multiple positions and eventually how to submit an opponent or attacker. We offer classes in both no Gi and Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu which both have their own set uses in the real world and on the mat and will show you how to utilize different types of leverage to turn the tide on your attacker. Turning a disadvantage into your advantage is very much the soul of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mesa AZ, like many other areas in the US, is seeing a rise in bullying in schools - and BJJ is the perfect martial art for your child to learn to protect themselves from it.

It unquestionably looks much better for your kid to stop a bully by nullifying their attack and controlling them on the ground with their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, while not injuring them, than it does if they punch the bully in the face. Often a bully will flip the script and your kid will end up being the one in trouble - but not so much if no one gets hurt. We want you to see development in your child not just within the context of our gym, but in your home and at school as well. Increased focus, discipline and respect are just as important as the physical skill and knowledge of the martial art.

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Self Defense

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self defense has become one of the most popular programs in our gym. Not everybody wants to learn BJJ in order to compete. We have created the Best Jiu Jitsu classes for those who want to learn how to defend themselves in potentially violent situations that can occur on the streets. From learning how to use BJJ to defend against strikes and gain the advantage over your attacker, escape from a disadvantaged position and get to safety, plus so much more.

The goal of our program is to make you self sufficient and confident should a violent situation arise with your training in BJJ. Mesa AZ is in general a safe place when compared to other cities around the world, but crime still happens and you can never be too prepared when it comes to you or your family's safety.

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Competition Jiu-Jitsu

Are you looking to train for a competition in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Mesa AZ? Then you have certainly come to the right place. At Sharkside Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, our instructors are no stranger to competitive martial arts and are happy to get you prepared for your next BJJ competition.

Whether you are a local who is just starting out and dreams of competing at the highest level or a professional BJJ competitor coming through town for your next competition, you will find what you are looking for here on our mats.

Our instructors have extensive experience in competitive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and welcome students and competitors of all levels and ages. With kids, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions can be an excellent confidence and self esteem builder. Our expert coaches can prepare both children and adults for Gi or no Gi Jiu Jitsu tournaments and competitions. Contact us today and see what we can do to prepare you for your next tournament!

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructors

Brenden Richardson: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Head Instructor

Brendan has a wealth of experience as not only a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach, but as a competitor in the sport placing 3rd in the IBJJF World Championships. He also has a deep understanding of BJJ and its practical use in violent situations as a law enforcement officer. His passion is teaching you protection and you will see that when you train with him.

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Maiston Hattery: Kids Head Instructor

Maiston has a passion for teaching and passing down his 17 years of martial arts training to the next generation. Holding a second degree black belt in Sport Karate, black belts in Kenpo & Taekwondo and a blue belt (4 stripes) in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you will find him as an excellent coach and mentor for your children.

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Frequently Asked Question

What is the difference between Gi and no Gi BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that can be trained with or without a Gi. The Gi is the traditional uniform worn in Jiu-Jitsu, and consists of a heavy cotton jacket, pants as well as belt. No gi training typically takes place in shorts and a rash guard. No Gi Jiu Jitsu is typically geared more towards MMA training, Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is traditional and is often used to train for competitive BJJ.

Is Jiu-Jitsu good for self defense?

Yes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self defense has become increasingly popular. Jiu-Jitsu is often described as a "gentle" art, because it relies on factors such as using an opponent's momentum, body weight, leverage and positional control to defeat them - rather than striking them with punches or kicks. This makes Jiu-Jitsu an effective self-defense system for men, women and even children.

What age can my kid start BJJ?

It is recommended that children can begin their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training as early as age 6. Though you can teach them in a playful manner at home when they are younger, it is not recommended to enroll them in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class until this age. Starting your child on their BJJ journey as young as possible will help to give them guidance, discipline and self confidence throughout their life.

Am I too old to start Jiu-Jitsu?

Many people wonder if they are too old to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training. The answer is that it is never too late to start learning Jiu-Jitsu. Because of the low impact nature of the martial art, it is much easier for people of any age to start their journey then other forms such as Karate or Kenpo. There are actually many benefits to starting Jiu-Jitsu when you are older including improved mobility and cardiovascular health.

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