Advanced No-Gi & Submission Grappling Classes in Northridge

 

No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practiced without the traditional uniform (the “gi”). This style of grappling emphasizes speed, agility, and a reliance on body control, underhooks, and overhooks rather than fabric grips. Submission grappling is a broader term that often refers to this style of No-Gi, with a strong focus on using submissions like chokes and joint locks to win a match.

 

Advanced classes are designed for students who have a strong foundation in the fundamentals and are ready to delve into more complex techniques, strategic drilling, and higher-intensity live sparring (known as “rolling”).

 

 Top Academies for Advanced No-Gi & Submission Grappling in Northridge

 

Several highly-rated academies in the Northridge area offer excellent programs that cater to advanced No-Gi and submission grappling practitioners.

 

1. Gracie Barra Northridge

 

 Overview: Gracie Barra Northridge is a prominent BJJ academy known for its world-class leadership under Professor Romulo Barral, a BJJ Hall of Fame member and a 10-time world champion. The academy offers a structured curriculum that includes dedicated No-Gi classes.

 No-Gi Program: The No-Gi program at Gracie Barra Northridge focuses on BJJ techniques adapted for a faster-paced, more dynamic style of grappling. Without the traditional gi, students learn to rely on body positioning and agility to execute techniques effectively. The curriculum covers a wide range of strategies, from takedowns and guard passing to submissions and escapes, all adapted for No-Gi.

 Advanced Training: While the No-Gi program is open to all levels, the academy’s Advanced Program (GB2 & GB3) is where students refine their skills through high-level drills, detailed positional work, and increased sparring intensity. These programs are designed for practitioners aiming to sharpen their technical skills, prepare for competition, or deepen their understanding of Jiu-Jitsu’s strategic layers.

 What Students Say: Online reviews from students consistently praise the high-quality instruction and the “family-like” and supportive atmosphere. The gym is described as a clean and safe facility with professional instructors who are patient and dedicated to their students’ growth. Some online comments mention the competitive nature of the gym and its strict uniform policy, but the consensus is that the instruction is top-notch.

 Location: 19520 Nordhoff St 10th, Northridge, CA 91324

 

2. Legacy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu West Valley

 

 Overview: Legacy BJJ has a reputation as a family-friendly and supportive martial arts academy. It offers a variety of classes, including a dedicated No-Gi program.

 No-Gi Program: The No-Gi program at Legacy is designed to enhance athleticism and build a more fluid, faster-paced style of grappling. The classes emphasize control through body leverage and positioning rather than clothing grips, which is beneficial for both sport grappling and real-world self-defense. The program is open to all ages (15 and up).

 Advanced Training: Legacy also offers an Adults Advanced program that is tailored for practitioners with a solid grasp of fundamentals. This program delves into complex techniques and strategies, focusing on jiu-jitsu theory and application, and includes intense drilling and positional sparring.

 What Students Say: Students praise the “friendly and welcoming vibe” and the quality of instruction. The academy is noted for its clean facility and professional coaching team.

 Location: 9054 Tampa Ave, Northridge, CA 91324

 

3. Checkmat Northridge Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

 

 Overview: Checkmat is a well-known Jiu-Jitsu team, and its Northridge academy is led by Arnaldo Maidana, a highly decorated black belt and accomplished competitor. The academy has a reputation for being a family-friendly place to learn the sport, with a strong focus on technical details.

 No-Gi Program: Checkmat Northridge offers a No-Gi program that focuses on submissions and a faster-paced style of grappling. The curriculum is designed to help students develop their athleticism and apply techniques without relying on the gi.

 What Students Say: Reviews highlight the high-level coaching from Professor Maidana, who is known for his “eye-pleasing grappling style” and his competitive success. Students also appreciate the academy’s clean facility and supportive community.

 Location: 8415 Reseda Blvd, Northridge, CA 91324

 

4. Hayastan MMA Academy – Northridge

 

 Overview: Hayastan MMA is a full-service MMA gym offering a wide range of disciplines, including Judo, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This is an excellent option for those looking to develop their grappling skills in the context of Mixed Martial Arts.

 No-Gi Program: Their BJJ program includes No-Gi training, which is crucial for MMA and submission grappling. The academy provides a challenging environment for all skill levels.

 What Students Say: Reviews highlight the high-level instruction and the professional training environment. The gym is known for having a clean and modern facility.

 Location: 8845 Shirley Ave, Northridge, CA 91324

 

 Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

 

Northridge offers a robust selection of academies for advanced No-Gi and submission grappling. When making your choice, consider the following:

 

 Coaching Style: Do you prefer the highly competitive style of a champion like Romulo Barral, or the more family-friendly atmosphere of a gym like Legacy?

 Curriculum: Do you want a program that is part of a large, standardized organization like Gracie Barra, or a more specialized local academy?

 Training Environment: Is a clean, professional, and ego-free atmosphere a top priority? All the gyms mentioned are noted for this.

 Free Trial: Most of these academies offer a free trial class. This is your best opportunity to experience the training firsthand, meet the instructors, and find the perfect fit for your goals.

Advanced No-Gi & Submission Grappling Classes in Northridge