ACADEMY PROGRAMS
An overview of our class and program offerings at Calabrese Combat Academy. Regardless of age or skill level, there's a class for everyone. Come as you are!
Juniors (Ages 8-14)
Our Pinning Pandas program is specially designed for our youngest students, offering a fun and safe introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In this class, kids learn the foundations of BJJ through age-appropriate drills, play-based exercises, and Jiu Jitsu inspired games that keep them excited and engaged.
Beyond the fun, children start developing important skills step by step. They build balance, coordination, and body awareness while practicing fundamental movements that form the building blocks of Jiu Jitsu. Equally important, they develop skills to better focus, follow directions, and work together with partners—skills that carry over into school and everyday life.
At this stage, the impact of Jiu Jitsu is incredibly significant. Training helps instill discipline, perseverance, and confidence, while giving kids the tools to set and achieve goals. As they progress, they not only learn a practical and effective martial art, but also develop a mindset of resilience and respect that can shape their future in powerful ways.
Pinning Pandas (Ages 4-8)
Our Juniors program is designed for older kids who are ready for a more focused and skill-driven approach to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In this class, students dive deeper into the technical side of Jiu Jitsu. They build strong fundamentals, sharpen their techniques, and begin to develop an understanding of how to apply their skills with precision and confidence.
Alongside traditional BJJ training, Juniors also enjoy a dynamic No-Gi/Striking class. Here, they explore the basics of Muay Thai and learn how striking can complement their Jiu Jitsu, giving them a more complete understanding of martial arts.
The true heart of this program lies in the growth kids experience on and off the mats. They learn discipline, respect, and perseverance, while also building a strong sense of community. The bonds formed in class often grow into long-lasting friendships, creating a supportive environment where students motivate and inspire one another.
Within our instruction, we also dedicate time to anti-bullying strategies—equipping our students with the confidence, awareness, and tools to handle difficult situations in a safe and respectful way. The Juniors program is about more than just martial arts—it’s about helping kids grow into confident, resilient, and connected individuals, all while developing skills they can carry with them for life.
Adults Beginner Program
*No Experience Needed (Ages 15+)
Our Beginner Program is designed specifically for adults with little or no experience.
You will not be placed into advanced classes or expected to already know anything. Classes are structured and coached step-by-step so you always understand what to do.
We focus first on comfort and safety. You’ll learn how to move on the ground, escape common positions, and control an opponent using technique — not strength or athletic ability.
New students are carefully paired with appropriate training partners and supervised during all drills. You are never required to spar until you feel ready.
Many of our members hadn’t exercised in years before starting. You don’t need to get in shape before joining — training is what gets you in shape.
Your first class is a guided introduction where we walk you through everything and answer any questions. The hardest part for most people is simply coming in the first time.
We offer a free trial so you can meet the coaches, see the environment, and try two classes with zero pressure.
Adults Gi & No Gi (Ages 15+)
Our adult classes focus on developing real jiu-jitsu skills through instruction, drilling, and live training in a supportive team environment.
Students learn how to apply techniques against a resisting partner, improve timing and control, and build confidence through consistent practice.
Gi training emphasizes control and technical precision using grips, positional strategy, and problem-solving.
No-Gi training is faster paced and movement-based, focusing on positioning, transitions, escapes, and submissions without the traditional uniform.
Both styles complement each other, and many students choose to train in both.
For adults who are completely new to jiu-jitsu, we typically recommend starting with our Beginner Program first so you can learn the basics, understand how classes run, and feel comfortable before joining the full training classes.
The best way to see if training is a good fit is to try a class. We offer a free trial with no pressure.
