Business Details
Empowering Through Martial Arts in Myrtle Beach
The Next Element Academy Martial Arts Academy has dedicated itself to empowering individuals through comprehensive martial arts training since its founding. Our academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Wrestling, serving students of all ages and skill levels. With a focus on character development, we cultivate self-confidence, discipline, and mental resilience through structured programs tailored for both adults and children. Our head instructor, Professor Derrick Kennington, brings 15+ years of professional martial arts experience, including 12 years as a U.S.Air Force combatives instructor and over 20 professional fights. We maintain rigorous standards through International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation and USA Boxing certifications while fostering a family-oriented environment that prioritizes safety and personal growth. Our commitment to transparency manifests in month-to-month memberships with unlimited class access, ensuring students maintain control over their training schedules. The academy's competitive team and advanced training programs reflect our dedication to technical excellence and real-world self-defense applications.
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Muay Thai
Boxing
Youth Wrestling
Mini Rollers
Highlights and features
- 15+ years of professional martial arts instruction experience
- Certified by International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation and USA Boxing
- Military combatives instructor background with Air Force service
- Family-friendly environment with all-ages programs
- Advanced competition training available
Associations and certifications
- International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation
- USA Boxing
What people say
Pride he takes
Humble nature
Family environment
Technical expertise
Flexible scheduling
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
This ground-fighting martial art teaches control and submission techniques against resisting opponents. Our program develops strategic thinking and physical conditioning through progressive skill development. Students learn practical self-defense applications while building endurance and mental focus in a supportive training environment.
Muay Thai
The 'art of eight limbs' utilizes fists, elbows, knees, and shins for striking techniques. Our classes emphasize proper form, defensive maneuvers, and controlled sparring. This discipline improves cardiovascular fitness while teaching effective stand-up combat strategies applicable to self-defense situations.
Youth Wrestling
Structured wrestling classes for ages 8-14 focus on safe grappling techniques and competitive preparation. Age-grouped training ensures appropriate partner matching while developing strength, agility, and sportsmanship. The program accommodates school athletes with flexible scheduling options.
Mini Rollers
Specialized Jiu Jitsu classes for children aged 5-7 introduce fundamental techniques in a playful environment. Uniformed instruction builds coordination and basic self-defense awareness while preparing young students for advanced martial arts training through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Self-Defense
Integrated self-defense training combines Boxing, Muay Thai, and Jiu Jitsu techniques for real-world scenarios. Practical instruction emphasizes situational awareness and de-escalation strategies while teaching effective countermeasures against larger opponents through proper technique application.
People
Derrick Kennington
Head Instructor
Professor Derrick Kennington has 15+ years of martial arts instruction experience, including 12 years as a U.S. Air Force combatives instructor. A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under UFC veteran Kurt Pellegrino since 2014, he retired from professional fighting in 2018 to focus on teaching full-time.
Questions
What membership options are available?
We offer month-to-month memberships with unlimited class access. Kids options: Wrestling ($125), Jiu Jitsu ($165), Unlimited ($225). Adults: Striking ($140), Jiu Jitsu ($165), Unlimited ($190).
Do you require contracts?
No contracts required. All memberships are month-to-month with no obligation. We believe in transparency and let students control their training schedules.
What should I wear for my trial class?
Wear comfortable gym clothes without pockets or zippers. Bring slip-on shoes. Experienced students should bring appropriate gear like gi, gloves, and shin guards.
Are kids classes available?
Yes! We offer Youth Wrestling/Jiu Jitsu (8-14 years) and Mini Rollers (5-7 years). Classes run Monday-Thursday 4-6pm with optional Saturday competition sessions.
Do you offer visitor passes?
Yes! Visitors can purchase a $20 day pass or $50 week pass. Please bring your own gear and contact us in advance for class recommendations.
How does self-defense training work?
Our self-defense program integrates Boxing, Muay Thai, and Jiu Jitsu techniques. Coaches demonstrate real-life applications while emphasizing situational awareness and de-escalation strategies.
