Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in Staunton
Established in 2016, Total Defense Martial Arts was founded on the principle of empowering individuals through practical self-defense training. Our academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Western-style boxing, offering structured programs for both adults and children aged six and above. Under the guidance of experienced instructors affiliated with Master Pedro Sauer's lineage, we emphasize technical proficiency, personal growth, and community safety. Our curriculum balances combat effectiveness with character development, fostering respect and discipline in every student. With flexible class schedules and a welcoming environment, we cater to all skill levels from beginners to advanced practitioners.The academy maintains strong ties to its parent organization HYBRID Martial Arts, ensuring access to expert mentorship and guest instruction. Our team combines decades of martial arts experience with a commitment to making self-defense accessible to everyone. We offer a free introductory week to allow prospective students to experience our training philosophy firsthand. Located in Staunton, Virginia, we serve both local residents and surrounding communities. Our instructors bring diverse backgrounds in martial arts, education, and youth development to create a comprehensive learning experience.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Western Boxing
Kids Martial Arts
Adult Self-Defense
Open Mat Sessions
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer free introductory week for all new students
- Our instructors hold black belts under Master Pedro Sauer's lineage
- Specialized children's self-defense programs available
- Family-owned academy with local community focus
- Combines traditional martial arts values with modern training methods
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program teaches grappling and ground fighting techniques for self-defense and personal development. Students learn takedowns, positional control, and submission holds while building physical fitness and mental discipline. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications against larger opponents and follows traditional belt progression systems.
Western Boxing
Our boxing program focuses on technical skill development and self-defense applications. Students train in proper striking techniques, footwork, and defensive maneuvers through drills and controlled sparring. Classes accommodate all ages and experience levels while emphasizing safety and proper form.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for children aged 6-16, our youth martial arts classes combine physical training with character development. Instructors focus on building confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills in a safe, structured environment. The program helps children develop awareness and assertiveness to handle bullying situations.
Adult Self-Defense
Specialized self-defense training for adults focuses on real-world scenario preparation. Students learn practical techniques for de-escalation, escape maneuvers, and defensive tactics. The program emphasizes situational awareness and stress management while maintaining accessibility for all fitness levels.
Open Mat Sessions
Supervised open mat sessions allow experienced practitioners to train freely and refine techniques. These sessions provide opportunities for drilling, sparring, and skill application under instructor supervision. Participants must demonstrate basic proficiency and follow established safety protocols during these practice periods.
People
Brian Rose
Owner, Head Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
Black belt under Master Pedro Sauer's lineage, Brian established Total Defense Martial Arts in 2016. With over 15 years of jiu-jitsu experience, he emphasizes practical self-defense applications and youth empowerment through martial arts training.
Dennis Hayes
Affiliate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
Third-degree black belt and HYBRID Martial Arts co-owner, Dennis provides mentorship and guest instruction. With over 15 years of teaching experience, he focuses on self-defense applications and life skills development through martial arts training.
Olivia Huffman
Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
Purple belt and Gracie Barra-certified instructor, Olivia specializes in youth programs. With over 5 years of teaching experience, she focuses on making martial arts accessible and empowering for children through structured, engaging classes.
Matt Warner
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor
Brown belt with background in Tae Kwon Do, Matt brings diverse martial arts experience to his instruction. An author by profession, he integrates storytelling elements into his teaching approach while emphasizing technical proficiency and practical applications.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Western-style boxing instruction for all ages and skill levels.
Is there a free trial available?
Yes, we provide a free introductory week with unlimited access to all classes.
What should I wear for my first class?
For BJJ, wear comfortable athletic clothing; for boxing, bring gloves and hand wraps if possible.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required - our classes accommodate complete beginners through advanced students.
Are children's classes available?
Yes, we offer specialized programs for children aged 6-16 with age-appropriate instruction.
What are your class schedules?
We have classes Monday-Thursday 5-8:30 PM, Saturday 9 AM-11 AM, and open mat sessions on Saturdays.
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