Business Details
34 Years
experience
World-Class Martial Arts Training in Portland
At Straight Blast Gym, we specialize in delivering world-class martial arts training through a structured methodology that emphasizes core fundamental principles. Established in 1992, we have grown from a small Portland academy to a globally recognized organization with over 50 locations worldwide. Our programs cater to individuals of all ages and experience levels, from beginners seeking fitness and self-defense to professional athletes competing at the highest levels.Our instructors, including pioneers like founder Matt Thornton, focus on practical application, safety, and community building. With a proven track record of producing championship teams and fostering personal growth, we combine traditional techniques with innovative training methods to ensure measurable results. Our commitment to inclusivity and adaptability has made us a trusted name in martial arts education for over three decades.
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Mixed Martial Arts
Self-Defense Training
Kids Martial Arts
Fitness Classes
BJJ Competition Prep
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer globally recognized martial arts methodologies developed over 30 years of innovation
- Our instructors include pioneers like the first BJJ black belt in Oregon and Ireland
- Proven track record with UFC champions and international competition success
- Adaptive training programs for ages 3 to 60+ with specialized kids' and seniors' classes
- Focus on practical self-defense applications and real-world effectiveness
What people say
Supportive community
World-class instructors
Effective training methods
Family-friendly environment
Measurable progress
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program develops technical proficiency through a systematic approach combining stand-up grappling, ground control, and submission techniques. Students learn progressive sequences that build from basic principles to advanced applications. The curriculum emphasizes positional dominance and energy efficiency, enabling practitioners of all sizes to effectively manage physical confrontations while minimizing injury risk through controlled drilling environments.
Mixed Martial Arts
Our MMA program integrates striking, grappling, and wrestling techniques within a comprehensive framework for both competition and self-defense. Training includes stand-up striking combinations, takedown execution, and ground fighting transitions. The curriculum prepares students for regulated competition while maintaining practical applications for real-world scenarios through scenario-based sparring sessions that simulate unpredictable attack situations.
Self-Defense Training
Our self-defense methodology focuses on real-world threat scenarios through dynamic drills that develop situational awareness and rapid response capabilities. Students practice against multiple attackers using progressive resistance training that builds from controlled environments to chaotic simulations. The program emphasizes de-escalation techniques combined with efficient countermeasures for common attack patterns encountered in urban environments.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for children aged 3-12, our youth programs develop physical coordination, mental focus, and character development through age-appropriate martial arts instruction. Classes incorporate games and structured drills that teach fundamental movement patterns while emphasizing safety and proper technique. The curriculum builds confidence and discipline through progressive skill acquisition in a supportive team environment.
Fitness Classes
Our fitness programs combine martial arts techniques with high-intensity interval training to develop functional strength and cardiovascular endurance. Workouts incorporate bag work, partner drills, and circuit training that improve coordination while burning fat and building lean muscle. The classes maintain martial arts principles while focusing on general fitness outcomes for non-combat oriented participants.
People
Matt Thornton
Founder, Head Coach
First BJJ black belt in Oregon with over 30 years of martial arts instruction experience. Developed the I-Method training system adopted by gyms worldwide.
Salme s Thornton
Co-Owner, Yoga Instructor
Certified yoga instructor since 2010 with 23 years of personal practice experience. Focuses on functional movement and body maintenance for martial artists.
Rick Davison
Head MMA Coach
BJJ black belt with 25+ years of teaching experience. Combines competition expertise with personalized instruction for students of all levels.
Cane Prevost
Head BJJ Coach
Recognized as Portland's top BJJ coach for breaking down complex techniques into fundamental components. His teaching methodology is implemented across SBG locations globally.
John Diggins
BJJ Coach
Multiple-time BJJ champion with extensive competition experience. Specializes in developing technical proficiency through structured drilling progressions.
Questions
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our foundation program accommodates complete beginners with specialized instruction.
Are classes available for children?
We offer age-specific programs starting at age 3, including our Little Explorers and Monkey and Me programs.
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and practical self-defense techniques.
Is martial arts training safe at SBG?
Our structured methodology prioritizes safety with progressive resistance training and certified instructors.
Do you offer women-only classes?
Yes, we provide women-specific training options while maintaining respectful co-ed class environments.
Can older adults participate in training?
Our programs accommodate all ages, with active participants well into their sixties through modified techniques.
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