Business Details
31 Years
experience
Premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training in Seattle
Northwest Jiu Jitsu Academy has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Seattle since 1995. Founded by 5th-degree black belt Brian Johnson, our academy combines decades of competitive expertise with a commitment to accessible training for all ages and skill levels. Our 4,000-square-foot facility near Green Lake offers structured programs for children, teens, and adults, emphasizing technical proficiency, physical fitness, and character development. With a team of accomplished instructors holding titles from international competitions, we maintain rigorous standards while fostering an inclusive environment.Our curriculum spans fundamental techniques to advanced competition training, supported by specialized classes in circuit training and private instruction. We prioritize safety through strict mat etiquette and progressive skill development, ensuring students build confidence alongside capability. As one of Seattle's oldest BJJ academies, we continue evolving our methods while honoring traditional principles that have shaped generations of martial artists.
Services
Adult BJJ Classes
Kids Martial Arts
Competition Training
Private Lessons
Circuit Training
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Established in 1995 with 5th-degree black belt leadership
- Award-winning instructors with international competition credentials
- Structured curriculum for ages 4 to adult
- Specialized programs for competition and fitness
- Free trial class with no appointment required
What people say
World-class instructors
Great kids programs
Supportive community
Proven competition results
Structured curriculum
Services
Adult BJJ Classes
Structured Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction for adults of all experience levels. Focuses on technical proficiency, self-defense applications, and physical conditioning. Gi and No-Gi options available with progressive curriculum from beginner fundamentals to advanced competition techniques.
Kids Martial Arts
Age-specific BJJ training for children aged 4-10. Combines games with fundamental techniques to develop coordination, focus, and discipline. Emphasizes safe skill progression and character building through martial arts principles.
Competition Training
Specialized preparation for BJJ competitions. Includes live drilling, strategy development, and tournament simulation. Open to all skill levels with experienced coaches who have produced multiple international champions.
Private Lessons
Customized one-on-one BJJ instruction with head instructors. Focuses on individual technique refinement, specific goals, and personalized training plans. Available for single or small group sessions with flexible scheduling options.
Circuit Training
High-intensity interval training designed for grapplers. Combines strength, endurance, and mobility exercises tailored to BJJ practitioners. Enhances performance metrics while complementing regular martial arts training routines.
People
Brian J. Johnson
Owner & Head Instructor
5th-degree black belt under Rigan Machado with over 25 years teaching experience. 3-time world champion and founder of Seattle's oldest BJJ academy. Specializes in technical development and competition strategy.
Justin Langlinais
Advanced & Kids Instructor
1st-degree black belt since 2021 with focus on youth development. Teaches kids classes and Sunday open mat. Emphasizes creative problem-solving and confidence-building through structured BJJ instruction.
Joseph Montange
Advanced No-Gi Instructor
1st-degree black belt specializing in No-Gi techniques. Former Aikido instructor with competitive success in regional and international events. Focuses on conceptual understanding and aggressive grappling strategies.
Phil Kleffner
Instructor & Kids Coach
2nd-degree black belt with wrestling background. Teaches kids programs and affiliate classes. Combines grappling fundamentals with youth engagement techniques developed through 15+ years of teaching experience.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer classes for children aged 4-10, teens 11-15, and adults of all ages.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience required. Our curriculum accommodates absolute beginners through advanced practitioners.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing without metal fasteners. Gi required for adult classes.
Are there competition opportunities?
Yes, we provide structured competition preparation and team support for interested students.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer free trial classes with no appointment needed. Simply arrive 10 minutes early.
What are your instructors' qualifications?
Our team includes multiple black belts with international competition titles and decades of teaching experience.
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