At Youth Martial Arts Academy we teach three arts: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai and MMA. If you are new to martial arts, the names alone can be confusing. Here is a plain-language guide to what each one is and how to choose where to start.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: the grappling art
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) uses leverage and technique to overcome larger opponents. It became a global martial art after the Gracie family brought it to prominence in the 1990s. Most of the action happens on the ground: controlling position, escaping bad spots and finishing with joint locks or chokes.
Because there is no striking, BJJ is a great place for beginners of any age to learn to train hard with a partner safely. Our BJJ classes are coached by Kelly Johnson, a 3rd-degree black belt under Pedro Sauer and a 10-time IBJJF Black Belt World Champion.
Muay Thai: the striking art
Known as the art of eight limbs, Muay Thai blends punches, kicks, elbows and knees into one of the most effective striking systems in the world. Classes build stance, footwork and combinations, usually on pads with a partner, and the conditioning is serious.
Our Muay Thai coach, Lance King, has trained since 1992 and earned his Muay Thai black belt under Ajarn Chai Sirisute and Ajarn Greg Nelson.
MMA: putting it together
MMA blends techniques from a wide range of martial arts, combining striking and grappling to prepare you for sport or self-defense. It is where BJJ and Muay Thai meet, along with wrestling and the transitions between standing and the ground. Coach Sean Stebbins, a 2017 IMMAF World Bronze Medalist with a 16-6 MMA record, leads it.
So where should you start?
- Kids 5 to 10: no choice needed. Our Juniors and Kids programs teach both BJJ and Muay Thai.
- Teens and adults who want a calmer start: BJJ is a great first step.
- If you want a workout and like the idea of hitting pads: start with Muay Thai.
- If you already train one art: add the other, then try MMA.
“Learning two disciplines at the same time is awesome and much more applicable to real world self defense.”Kiana Kuehn, parent
Still not sure? That is exactly what the free intro session is for. A coach will talk through your goals and help you choose.