Business Details
Martial Arts Training for All Ages in Rockford
At Team Haanpaa Martial Arts, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through world-class martial arts instruction. Founded by Darby Haanpaa and guided by Jeff Curran, a globally recognized martial artist with over 25 years of experience, our programs blend Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing to foster self-defense skills, physical fitness, and personal growth. Our team of certified professionals brings decades of competitive and instructional expertise, ensuring students of all ages receive tailored training in a supportive community.We prioritize character development, confidence-building, and practical self-defense techniques, serving Rockford, Beloit, and the State-Line Area. With a focus on inclusivity, we offer specialized classes for children, women, and families, helping thousands transform their lives through martial arts since our inception.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Kickboxing
Kids Martial Arts
Women's Self-Defense
Fitness Kickboxing
Muay Thai
Jiu-Jitsu for Kids
JR. Ninjas Program
Self-Defense Training
Personal Fitness Coaching
Highlights and features
- We offer world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction under a 3rd-degree black belt with 25+ years of experience.
- Our programs combine self-defense, fitness, and character development for all ages.
- We provide specialized classes for children, women, and families in a supportive community.
- Our instructors have trained UFC-ranked fighters and thousands of local students.
- We emphasize practical self-defense techniques proven effective in real-world scenarios.
What people say
Second to none BJJ program
Empowering women's classes
Improved kids' focus
Respectful, family environment
Proven self-defense techniques
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches ground fighting and self-defense techniques using leverage to neutralize opponents. Our program, rooted in Gracie traditions, builds physical fitness, mental resilience, and practical self-defense skills. Students train in a structured environment with certified instructors who emphasize safety, technique, and progressive learning for all skill levels.
Kids Martial Arts
Our Kids Martial Arts classes focus on confidence, discipline, and self-defense for ages 5-12. Through Jiu-Jitsu and JR. Ninjas programs, children learn respect, focus, and physical coordination in a fun, supportive setting. Classes are designed to empower youth with life skills transferable to school and home environments.
Fitness Kickboxing
Fitness Kickboxing combines Muay Thai striking techniques with high-intensity workouts to improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. This program teaches self-defense from standing positions while burning calories and reducing stress. Classes cater to all fitness levels with a focus on practical application and physical conditioning.
Women's Self-Defense
Women's Self-Defense classes provide practical techniques to protect against threats while building confidence and situational awareness. Instruction emphasizes de-escalation, escape strategies, and physical responses tailored to women's safety needs. Participants train in a supportive environment free from intimidation or gender bias.
Personal Fitness Coaching
Personal Fitness Coaching offers tailored programs to achieve specific goals like weight loss, improved nutrition, or enhanced martial arts performance. Coaches provide accountability, customized training plans, and motivational support to help clients overcome obstacles and maintain long-term lifestyle changes.
People
Jeff Curran
Director, Team Curran Jiu-Jitsu Association
Jeff Curran, a 3rd-degree black belt under Pedro Sauer, has 25+ years of martial arts experience. As a founder of Team Curran, he has trained UFC-ranked fighters and developed globally recognized programs. He mentors students at Team Haanpaa through seminars and belt promotions.
Darby Allen
Head Instructor and Programs Director
Darby Allen, a black belt under Jeff Curran, has 20+ years of martial arts experience. After seminary training, he founded Team Haanpaa to combine ministry values with martial arts. He specializes in youth development and community-building through Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing programs.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and specialized self-defense programs for all ages and skill levels.
Are classes available for children?
Yes! Our Kids Martial Arts program (ages 5-12) and JR. Ninjas (ages 5-7) focus on confidence, discipline, and safety.
Do you offer women-only classes?
We provide empowering women's self-defense classes in a supportive environment free from intimidation or gender bias.
What fitness benefits can I expect?
Students improve strength, flexibility, cardiovascular health, and stress management through our high-intensity martial arts programs.
How do I start training?
Contact us to schedule a free trial class. No prior experience is required—our programs welcome beginners of all ages.
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