Business Details
Your Premier Martial Arts Academy in Costa Mesa
At Praia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through world-class martial arts training. Our academy in Costa Mesa, California, offers expert instruction in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and Kickboxing for students of all ages and skill levels. Founded by Professor Thiago Pierre, a Checkmat Black Belt with over 20 years of experience, our programs emphasize technical mastery, physical fitness, and personal growth. Our team of accomplished instructors includes international competitors and certified trainers who bring diverse expertise to every class.We foster a family-friendly environment where students build confidence, discipline, and resilience while learning practical self-defense skills. With tailored programs for children, adults, and private sessions, Praia BJJ combines structured curriculum with a relaxed, beach-themed atmosphere. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our affiliation with Checkmat, a globally recognized network of champions, and our focus on creating a supportive community that values both individual progress and collective achievement.
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Judo
Kickboxing
Private Lessons
Kids Programs
Adult Training
Personal Training
Uniform Sales
Charter School Program
Membership Options
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instruction from internationally recognized champions with decades of combined experience.
- Our family-friendly environment supports students of all ages and skill levels in a welcoming community.
- We provide personalized attention through tailored programs for kids, adults, and private training sessions.
- Our curriculum combines technical precision with practical self-defense applications for real-world effectiveness.
- We maintain strong industry connections through our affiliation with Checkmat, a global leader in martial arts excellence.
What people say
Great Place for Kids
Welcoming Transfer
Second Family
Perfect for Families
Top Coaches
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program develops technical proficiency, physical fitness, and mental resilience through structured curriculum. Students learn ground fighting techniques, positional control, and self-defense applications. Expert instructors guide practitioners from foundational moves to advanced competition strategies in a supportive environment.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for ages 3-13, our kids' programs build discipline, coordination, and confidence through age-appropriate martial arts instruction. Classes combine Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and character development in a fun, safe setting that promotes teamwork and personal growth.
Private Lessons
Personalized martial arts instruction tailored to individual goals and skill levels. Private sessions focus on specific techniques, competition preparation, or accelerated learning in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, or Kickboxing with dedicated attention from expert instructors.
Judo Program
Our Judo program teaches dynamic throws, grappling techniques, and balance development under expert guidance. Students learn traditional Japanese martial arts principles while building physical fitness, discipline, and competitive skills in a structured training environment.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing classes combine cardio conditioning with striking techniques to improve fitness and self-defense capabilities. This high-energy program develops coordination, power, and endurance through practical drills and technical instruction for all experience levels.
People
Thiago Pierre
Head Coach
Checkmat Black Belt with 20+ years experience, multiple IBJJF medalist, and certified strength specialist. Focuses on fundamentals and personalized instruction for all skill levels.
Junior
Instructor
3x IBJJF World Champion and Checkmat affiliate with extensive competition experience. Creates engaging classes combining technical precision with dynamic training methods for all ages.
Andy Meneghetti
Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under Mario Reis, bringing innovative techniques and competitive expertise to Orange County. Specializes in developing technical proficiency and strategic thinking on the mats.
Jazmin Hamuy
Instructor
IBJJF European Champion with background in kickboxing and MMA. Focuses on empowering students through disciplined training, technical mastery, and mental resilience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Gabriel Silva
Judo Coach
Judo Head Coach and CrossFit specialist with expertise in technical instruction and youth development. Combines traditional martial arts principles with modern fitness training for comprehensive student development.
Questions
What martial arts programs are available for children?
We offer Jiu Jitsu and Judo classes for ages 3-13, focusing on confidence, discipline, and fundamental skills through age-appropriate instruction and engaging activities.
Do you provide beginner-friendly adult classes?
Yes, our adult program includes beginner classes covering self-defense basics, fitness training, and core techniques in a supportive environment for new practitioners.
Are private martial arts lessons available?
Private one-on-one sessions are available for personalized training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and Kickboxing tailored to individual goals and skill levels.
What uniform requirements exist for training?
White or black gi required for BJJ classes; all-black gear mandatory for no-gi sessions to maintain professional training standards and uniform appearance.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer free trial classes for new students to experience our programs, facilities, and instructor approach before making any membership commitments.
How do you support student progression?
Through structured curriculum, personalized attention, competition preparation, and regular seminars with visiting experts to ensure continuous technical and personal development.
