Our Classes
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Junior BJJ (4 - 7 yrs)
Our Juniors 4-7yrs BJJ class is a carefully designed program that introduces young children to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a safe, playful, and supportive environment. At this age, the focus is on developing basic motor skills, coordination, and an understanding of the fundamental movements in Jiu-Jitsu through engaging games and simple drills. The class begins with a fun, energetic warm-up that encourages kids to move in different ways, such as crawling, rolling, and balancing, all while improving flexibility and strength. The core of the class revolves around teaching foundational BJJ movements like shrimping, bridging, and falling safely, which lay the groundwork for more advanced techniques later on. Students are introduced to key positions, such as guard and mount, through interactive drills that are easy to understand and incorporate into their play. Techniques are taught in a simplified, step-by-step manner, with an emphasis on basic concepts like control, balance, and body awareness. Coaches maintain a positive, encouraging tone, offering plenty of praise and constructive feedback to help build confidence and foster a sense of accomplishment. Above all, the Juniors BJJ class is about instilling core values such as respect, discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, while making sure kids enjoy themselves and develop a love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This class serves as an excellent introduction to the sport, promoting not only physical fitness but also mental focus, confidence, and social skills as children grow and develop on and off the mats.
Class requirements:
Monday (No Gi): Rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
Wednesday (Gi): BJJ Gi with belt (please wear graded belt), mouthguard, water bottle
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Kids BJJ Fundamentals (8 - 15 yrs)
Our Kids BJJ Fundamentals class at DCA MMA is a fun, engaging, and educational program designed to introduce kids from ages 8-15 years old to the core principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while fostering a positive, supportive atmosphere. The class is perfect for beginners, ensuring that every student progresses at their own pace. The session starts with a warm-up that combines games, agility drills, and BJJ-specific movements such as shrimping, bridging, and rolling, which help develop essential coordination, balance, and flexibility. After the warm-up, we focus on foundational techniques that are crucial for building a strong base in BJJ. This includes learning key positions like guard, mount, side control, and back control, as well as basic sweeps, escapes, and submissions. Coaches break down each technique step by step, ensuring that students not only understand the mechanics of each move but also the importance of timing, leverage, and control. Throughout the class, we emphasize respect, discipline, and teamwork, instilling values that extend beyond the mat. Our Kids BJJ Fundamentals class offers a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, empowering DCA MMA kids to gain confidence, improve fitness, and develop important life skills such as perseverance, focus, and resilience. The class is not only about learning BJJ but also about having fun, building friendships, and fostering a love for the sport!
Class requirements: rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Kids/Teens BJJ (8 - 15 yrs)
Our Kids 8-15yrs BJJ class is a comprehensive program designed to accommodate young athletes of all experience levels, from beginners to more advanced members. This class offers a structured environment where kids can learn and progress at their own pace while developing both the technical skills and mental discipline needed for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The session begins with an engaging warm-up that includes dynamic stretches, mobility drills, and fun, BJJ-specific exercises to build strength, coordination, and agility. Following the warm-up, the focus shifts to technique, with coaches breaking down essential BJJ concepts such as guard, mount, side control, submissions, sweeps, and escapes. Each technique is taught in a clear, step-by-step manner, with an emphasis on proper form, leverage, and timing, ensuring that all students, regardless of their experience level, can follow along and understand the material. The class incorporates both individual drills and partner-based exercises, allowing kids to practice new techniques under live, controlled resistance. As the class progresses, students are introduced to light sparring or "rolling," where they can apply their skills in a safe and supportive environment. Sparring is done with attention to safety, and beginners are paired with more experienced partners, or given specific positional sparring, to ensure they are learning at an appropriate level. Coaches provide consistent feedback, offering guidance on technique, strategy, and mental toughness, all while fostering an atmosphere of respect, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. This class is perfect for kids of all levels looking to develop valuable BJJ skills in a positive, supportive environment.
Class requirements:
Monday (No Gi): Rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
Wednesday (Gi): BJJ Gi with belt (please wear graded belt), mouthguard, water bottle
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Kids Competition BJJ (10 - 15 yrs)
Led by Head Coaches and BJJ Black Belts Brandon and Anthony Drilich, our Kids BJJ Competition class for 10–15-year-olds is an exciting and engaging program designed to prepare young athletes for the challenges of BJJ competition, while instilling discipline, confidence, and teamwork. The aim of this program is to focus on the development of both the technical skills and the mental toughness needed to excel in tournaments while fostering a positive, fun environment where kids can grow as martial artists. The session begins with an energetic warm-up that includes agility drills, flexibility exercises, and Jiu-Jitsu-specific movements to help build strength, coordination, and endurance. Afterward, we dive into technique, where young practitioners learn and refine essential BJJ positions, as well as key submissions and sweeps. Throughout the class, we incorporate drills that simulate real competition scenarios, allowing students to practice maintaining control, escaping from bad positions, and reacting to live resistance. The class also includes situational sparring, where kids are paired based on skill level to practice techniques in a safe, controlled setting. Coaches offer continuous feedback on and off the mat to help students improve their timing, strategy, and mental focus. In addition to technical training, we emphasize important life skills like discipline, perseverance, and good sportsmanship—values that are just as crucial on the mat as they are in everyday life. Our Kids BJJ Competition class provides a well-rounded foundation for young athletes looking to compete in tournaments, while also cultivating a love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a sense of personal achievement. Whether they're aiming for their first competition or refining their skills for higher-level tournaments, this class helps students develop the tools they need to succeed. Please note, attendance of this class is through invitation only by head coaches Brandon and Anthony Drilich.
Class requirements: rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Kids Striking Fundamentals (8 - 15yrs)
Our Kids 8-15yrs Striking Fundamentals class is an action-packed program designed to teach young athletes the core principles of striking in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. This class is suitable for all experience levels, from beginners who are new to martial arts to those with more advanced skills, providing a solid foundation in the essential techniques of boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. The session begins with a dynamic warm-up focused on building agility, coordination, balance, and cardiovascular fitness, all while incorporating movements that are directly relevant to striking, such as footwork drills, shadow boxing, and basic defensive maneuvers. After the warm-up, the class delves into fundamental striking techniques, including proper form for punches, kicks, elbows, knees, and defensive movements like blocking, parrying, and slipping. Students practice these techniques through a series of drills that emphasize timing, precision, and fluidity, ensuring they develop good habits early on. Pad work is a key component of the class, with kids working with coaches or partners to strike focus mitts, Muay Thai pads, and heavy bags, reinforcing their power, accuracy, and endurance. Coaches provide real-time feedback, helping each student refine their technique and build confidence as they progress. Throughout the class, there is a strong focus on discipline, sportsmanship, and respect for others, helping children not only improve their physical abilities but also develop important life skills like focus, perseverance, and self-control. The Kids Striking Fundamentals class is a fantastic way for young athletes to gain a deeper understanding of striking-based martial arts while developing strength, agility, and confidence.
Class requirements: MMA gloves (ideally hybrid 7oz MMA gloves) or well fitted boxing gloves, shin guards, rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Kids/Teens MMA (8 - 15 yrs)
Our Kids 8-15yrs MMA class at DCA is an exciting, high-energy program designed to introduce young athletes to the fundamentals of mixed martial arts in a safe, structured, and fun environment. This class is perfect for children of all experience levels, from those just starting out to more advanced students, and provides a well-rounded approach to training in MMA, blending aspects of striking, grappling, and conditioning. The session begins with an engaging warm-up that includes dynamic stretches, mobility exercises, and sport-specific drills to build strength, agility, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. After the warm-up, the class covers key MMA skills, with students learning and refining techniques from disciplines such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, and wrestling. They practice striking combinations, footwork, and defense, as well as grappling techniques such as takedowns, escapes, sweeps, and submissions. Coaches break down each technique in an easy-to-understand, step-by-step format, ensuring that every student can grasp the fundamentals while building confidence. The class includes partner drills, where kids apply techniques in controlled, live scenarios, allowing them to develop timing, reaction speed, and control. Positional sparring is also incorporated, but only at a level appropriate for each student’s experience and comfort, with the focus on applying skills safely and effectively while maintaining good sportsmanship. Throughout the class, coaches emphasize the importance of mental discipline, respect, and teamwork, creating a positive atmosphere where kids can challenge themselves while supporting their peers.
Class requirements: MMA gloves (ideally hybrid 7oz MMA gloves), shin guards, rashguard, pocketless shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Step into the cage with our dynamic MMA Program, where we blend the best techniques from various martial arts to create a comprehensive training experience! Designed for all skill levels, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn striking, grappling, and self-defence in a supportive and motivating environment. OurMMA Adults Classoffers a comprehensive and well-rounded training experience, blending striking (boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing) with grappling (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and submission techniques) to develop versatile fighters. Each class begins with a dynamic warm-up that focuses on mobility, flexibility, and light cardio, preparing the body for the demanding work ahead. Students then practice a variety of striking techniques, from basic punches and kicks to advanced Muay Thai elbows, knees, and clinch work, while learning footwork and defensive maneuvers like slips and counters. In the grappling segment, they master takedowns, positional control, submissions, and escapes, with a focus on both wrestling and BJJ techniques. Live sparring and situational drills are incorporated to test and refine these skills under pressure, and a dedicated conditioning segment builds cardiovascular endurance, strength, and explosiveness through high-intensity exercises and functional movements. The class provides a safe and supportive environment, with individualized attention from experienced coaches to ensure proper technique and gradual progression. Whether training for fitness, self-defense, or competition, students are challenged to push their limits while developing confidence, discipline, and a well-rounded set of MMA skills. Join our community of passionate martial artists and discover your potential while having a blast on the mat!
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves, shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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MMA Fundamentals
The Fundamentals MMA Program for beginners offers a comprehensive introduction to mixed martial arts, combining essential techniques from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, and wrestling in a structured and progressive curriculum. Led by experienced coaches, the program emphasizes proper technique and safety while providing personalized feedback to help participants build confidence. Alongside skill development, the program includes tailored physical conditioning workouts to enhance strength, agility, and endurance. Practical striking and BJJ strategies are integrated into training, empowering students to progress their skillset. Classes begin with a dynamic warm-up to increase flexibility, mobility, and cardiovascular endurance, followed by technique-driven drills that focus on basic punches, kicks, footwork, and defensive movements like slips and blocks in striking. In grappling, students learn the basics of takedowns, positions like guard and side control, and foundational submissions such as arm bars and chokes, along with how to safely escape from bad positions. The supportive, community-oriented environment fosters camaraderie among beginners, while flexible class schedules accommodate diverse lifestyles. With a focus on building technical skill, physical fitness, and mental toughness our MMA Fundamentals Class offers a supportive and encouraging environment for students to develop their abilities at their own pace, whether for fitness, self-defense, or future progression into more advanced MMA training. Participants are encouraged to set personal goals, with coaches assisting in tracking progress and adjusting training plans, making this program the perfect starting point for anyone looking to embark on their MMA journey.
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves, shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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Striking for MMA
Our Adults Striking for MMA class at DCA MMA led by Coach Lucas Grasselli is a comprehensive and high-energy program designed to equip students with the essential striking skills needed for success in mixed martial arts. This class blends techniques from boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, with a focus on the specific demands of MMA, where distance management, timing, and adaptability are key. The session begins with a dynamic warm-up to activate the muscles and improve mobility, followed by technical drills that break down punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, with an emphasis on proper form, speed, and power. Coaches guide students through fundamental striking combinations, defensive movements like slipping, blocking, and parrying, and how to integrate head movement and footwork to maintain balance and control. Throughout the class, students practice on pads, heavy bags, and with partners, simulating real fight scenarios to improve accuracy, reaction time, and conditioning under pressure. The class is structured to cater to all skill levels—beginners focusing on the basics of striking, while more advanced students work on refining their technique, adding complexity to their combinations, and developing fight IQ. Sparring or live partner drills may also be incorporated in a controlled manner to allow students to test their skills in a realistic setting, always under the guidance of a coach to ensure safety and proper technique. Coaches also emphasize the mental side of striking for MMA—teaching students how to stay calm under pressure, read their opponent’s movements, and adjust tactics mid-fight.
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves, shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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Womens MMA
We are thrilled to introduce our new Women’s MMA Program! This comprehensive training experience is tailored specifically for women, focusing on self-defence, fitness, and personal empowerment. Combining elements of striking (such as boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing) and grappling (including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling), this class emphasizes practical self-defense techniques, fitness, and mental toughness in a supportive, women-focused environment. Led by Head Coach Sarah Crooke, this program teaches MMA methods ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and motivated. The class starts with a dynamic warm-up that enhances mobility, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance, followed by technique-based drills to master the fundamentals of punches, kicks, clinch work, and defensive maneuvers. On the ground, students learn essential grappling skills such as takedowns, escapes, positional control, and submission techniques, with a focus on building confidence in both standing and ground combat. Light sparring and situational drills are incorporated gradually, allowing participants to test their skills in a controlled, non-intimidating setting. Additionally, the class includes functional conditioning exercises designed to increase strength, endurance, and agility, helping students improve their overall fitness and combat readiness. Whether training for fitness, self-defense, or competition, our Women's MMA Class provides a positive and motivating space where women of all backgrounds and fitness levels can build confidence, develop practical skills, and push their limits while fostering camaraderie and empowerment.
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves, shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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Cardio Kickboxing
Get ready to unleash your energy with our new Cardio Kickboxing Program! This class is a high-energy, full-body workout that combines the intense cardiovascular benefits of kickboxing with the fat-burning power of dynamic interval training. This class is designed for all fitness levels, offering a fun and challenging way to improve cardiovascular health, strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Participants learn and practice basic kickboxing techniques, including punches, kicks, knee strikes, and defensive moves, all while performing fast-paced drills and combinations that engage the entire body. The class integrates high-intensity interval training (HIIT), alternating between periods of intense activity (such as punching and kicking combinations on pads, bags, or in the air) and active recovery, providing a calorie-torching workout that builds strength, boosts metabolism, and increases endurance. The workouts focus on improving coordination, balance, flexibility, and stamina, with an emphasis on proper form and technique to ensure safety and effectiveness. Whether you're looking to burn calories, tone muscles, relieve stress, or simply have fun, our Cardio Kickboxing class offers a motivating and energizing atmosphere where participants can challenge themselves, improve fitness, and achieve their health goals—all while learning the basics of kickboxing in a non-competitive, supportive environment!
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves or boxing gloves (10-16oz), shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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Sparring and Pads
Our sparring and pad work class at DCA MMA is a session designed to push members of all levels while honing their striking, movement, and testing their fight IQ. This class allows our members to translate the skills they have learnt throughout the week in our Striking for MMA, Adults MMA and Fundamentals MMA classes into practice through controlled sparring rounds. These sparring sessions are designed to challenge both offensive and defensive techniques, with a strong emphasis on timing, distance management and reaction speed. In addition to sparring rounds, this class also focuses on pad work, where each fighter works with a coach or partner using focus mitts, Thai pads, or heavy bags. This portion of the class is key for improving precision, power, and speed in combinations, as well as developing muscle memory. Coaches tailor pad drills to address individual fighter needs—whether that’s improving kickboxing technique, sharpening clinch control, or integrating takedown defense into striking exchanges. Throughout the session, we emphasize building a well-rounded skill set while fostering mental toughness, situational awareness, and adaptability—traits that are essential for success in MMA. Our sparring and pad work class is an ideal way for athletes to sharpen their technical abilities while learning to perform under pressure, setting the stage for future fight camp preparation or general fitness goals.
Class requirements: hybrid (7oz) MMA gloves, shin guards, clean workout clothing, mouthguard, water bottle
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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Class is a comprehensive, technique-driven training program designed for individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, with a focus on mastering the art of grappling and ground fighting. The class begins with a dynamic warm-up that incorporates mobility drills, joint conditioning, and BJJ-specific movements such as shrimping, bridging, and rolling, which are fundamental for building fluidity and agility on the mat. After the warm-up, the class focuses on a variety of core techniques, including guard positions (closed guard, open guard, butterfly guard), sweeps, submissions (such as armbars, triangles, and guillotines), and guard passes, as well as how to control dominant positions like side control, mount, and back control. Students learn to transition smoothly between these positions, improving both offensive and defensive aspects of their game. The class integrates drilling to reinforce technique repetition and muscle memory, followed by live sparring or rolling, where members get to apply the techniques in real-time against resisting partners, allowing them to develop timing, strategy, and problem-solving skills under pressure. Emphasis is placed on using leverage, technique, and positional control rather than relying on strength, making BJJ an ideal martial art for individuals of any size or fitness level. Whether the goal is self-defense, improving fitness, preparing for competition, or simply learning a new skill, our BJJ class provides a supportive, safe, and structured environment where students can consistently improve, develop mental toughness, and build confidence. With personalized feedback from our experienced instructors, students’ progress at their own pace, ensuring that each person gets the guidance they need to refine their technique, improve their conditioning, and develop a deeper understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Class requirements: rashguard, shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Competition BJJ
Led by BJJ Black Belt Daz Monstro, our BJJ Competition class is a focused, high-intensity training session designed to prepare members for the rigors of competition while refining their technique and strategy. The class begins with a dynamic warm-up that targets mobility, joint health, and key movement patterns specific to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, such as hip escapes, guard retention, and wrestling stances. After the warm-up, we dive into positional sparring, where athletes are placed in specific positions (e.g., guard, side control, mount) to work on escapes, sweeps, submissions, and transitions with live resistance. This allows competitors to sharpen their understanding of key positions under pressure. As the class progresses, we focus on situational drills, where athletes are encouraged to execute techniques within a time limit, simulating the high-paced nature of a real competition. Our coaches emphasize not just technical proficiency but also the mental side of competition—developing strategies to control the pace, recognize openings, and stay composed during a match. The class also incorporates feedback and review of specific competition rules, helping athletes understand points, advantages, and penalties. As the session concludes, we engage in full rolls, where athletes can test their skills against various opponents, incorporating the techniques and strategies they've worked on throughout the class. Our BJJ Competition class is designed to build both technical expertise and mental toughness, equipping our members with the tools they need to perform at their best in BJJ tournaments and competitions.
Class requirements: rashguard, shorts/leggings, mouthguard, water bottle
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Open Mat
An Open Mat is a flexible, unstructured training session that offers martial artists the freedom to practice and refine their skills in a self-directed environment. Our open mat welcomes all students and members of the MMA/BJJ community, regardless of experience level, and is designed to provide a space for individual growth and personalized training. During an Open Mat session, there are no formal drills or structured lessons; instead, practitioners can choose to work on specific techniques they've learned in previous classes, drill new movements, or engage in live sparring (rolling or sparring in their discipline of choice, such as BJJ, MMA, or kickboxing). It's a time for students to explore areas they want to improve, whether it's perfecting their guard game in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, refining their striking combinations, or working on their wrestling takedowns. Coaches are typically present during Open Mat sessions to offer guidance, answer questions, and provide feedback, but the primary emphasis is on independent learning, self-reflection, and collaborative practice. Open Mat is also a great opportunity for students to train with different partners, helping them adapt to varying styles and improve their timing, strategy, and problem-solving skills. This open format fosters a sense of community within the gym, allowing practitioners to share knowledge, build camaraderie, and further their development in a relaxed, non-competitive setting. Don’t forget to add in a sauna session when you attend your next Open Mat at DCA MMA!
Class requirements: wear clean workout clothing, always bring a mouthguard if rolling/sparring and appropriate equipment (i.e MMA hybrid 7 oz gloves and shin pads), water bottle