Adult No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Learn real self-defense in a friendly, safe class with no experience needed.
73 Reviews - 4.7 Star Average
Group photo of SFS members

Jiu-Jitsu Is for Everyone at Michigan Institute of Athletics

Whether you’re brand new, it’s been a while, or you’re a seasoned competitor we have classes for you. You’ll learn to control space, escape safely, and stay calm under pressure…without needing to be the biggest or strongest person in the room. We have classes for beginners of all ages, doesn’t matter if you’re a parent who works a full time job, or someone wanting to push the sport to the highest level
Expect to build: positional control, escapes, 2–3 high-percentage submissions, balance, and confidence at everyclass
two SFS members training and having fun
What People Are Saying About Michigan Institute of Athletics
  • I’ve been training at MIA for almost a year, and I love it. I drive an hour one way, and the excellent classes and awesome coaches make it worth it. There is so much I get out of their program, that I feel like I can’t get anywhere else. It is very professional, and I love that there is something for everyone at MIA. I take part in BJJ, kick-boxing, boxing, wrestling, punches & Crunches, and yoga. I’ve been to a couple other gyms before, but I feel like MIA really helps me grow as a person, and as an athlete. The coaches are very involved, no matter the level of the student. You meet so many talented people. We are all one at MIA. You’ll feel the support from your coaches and your team mates, whatever your personal goals may be.
    Sarah Mcdonald
    .
  • An unexpected blend of "something for everyone". We were first introduced to MIA's owner James Gray about 7 years ago when my son took his first Jiu-Jitsu class (under Scorpion Fighting Systems). We were nervous as he was a non-athletic, timid and claustrophobic 12 year old. One thing became quickly apparent. James Gray is incredible with kids. He is a gifted jiu-jitsu teacher and practitioner that also connects and is compassionate with kids. What impressed me most was seeing how my son grew in confidence and abilities through this program.

    This guy that is so great with kids is also a true warrior that trains up other warriors. Along with competing at the highest levels of jiu-jitsu and MMA himself, Jim and the rest of the MIA team have developed dozens of world class fighters including some that have made it to the largest of all stages - the UFC.

    That covers two ends of the spectrum while I fell in the middle training as a guy in his mid-40's that just wanted to stay in shape while learning practical self-defense techniques. To be honest, it was the most satisfying and enjoyable sport of which I have participated. I unfortunately had to step away but I still have a great love for the program.

    John Belyk
    .
  • MIA is a great place for any athlete wanting to up their game to the next level! It’s also a great place to bring your children. We have an exceptional coaching staff, that has been working with kids of all ages for many years.

    It is absolutely amazing what James Gray has done. What started out as a Jiu Jitsu gym in the basement of his house, is now a compound containing everything an athlete or an aspiring athlete needs. Literally everything!
    Collin Anglin
    .
  • MIA has something to offer any athlete, no matter their experience or fitness level - mixed martial arts, brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, boxing, yoga, wrestling, nutrition guidance, massage, and more - all under one roof. There is literally no better place in the state for martial arts instruction, whether for beginners or experienced athletes looking to up their game. I've been a member at MIA for over 18 months and I can honestly say it will be a life-long gym for me and my family.
    Jennifer Gross
    .

All Levels Jiu-Jitsu Schedule

All Belt Ranks And Experience Levels

Advanced Jiu-Jitsu

Colored Belts Only

Meet the Coaches

  • James Gray
    Owner & Head Coach:
    Scorpion Fighting System
    Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with 20+ Years Experience
    Professional MMA Fighter and Coach
  • Danny Berry
    Jiu-Jitsu & MMA Coach
    Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with 15+ Years Experience
    Professional MMA Fighter And Coach
  • Brian Fornasiero
    Jiu-Jitsu Coach
    Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with 18+ Years Experience
  • Erik Mason
    Jiu-Jitsu Coach
    Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt with 6+ Years Experience

First Time Coming to MIA? Here's How To Get Started

  1. Starting Your Free Trial
Everyone gets a 1 week free trial to try out all of our classes. Come in during the week 6pm Monday-Thursday 15 minutes before class starts to get signed in. During the week classes start at 6pm Monday-Thursday.
2. What To Bring
  • Come to class in a rashguard or fitted T-shirt and athletic shorts (no zippers)
  • Water or sports drink
  • Good Hygiene (no one wants a stinky partner)
3. Class Structure
  • Warm ups
  • Learning the technique or concept of the day
  • Positional drilling
  • Live rounds (optional)

Why Do Jiu-Jitsu?

  • Improved physical fitness
    Jiu-jitsu enhances strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health through dynamic training.
  • Stress reduction
    Regular practice provides a healthy outlet for stress, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
  • Self-defense skills
    Learn effective self-defense techniques to increase confidence and personal safety.
  • Increased discipline and focus
    Jiu-jitsu cultivates mental discipline, focus, and concentration, applicable to all aspects of life.
  • Community and camaraderie
    Train alongside like-minded individuals, fostering a supportive and motivating community.
  • Boost in self-confidence
    Mastering new skills and overcoming challenges builds self-esteem and confidence.

Jiu-Jitsu FAQ's

Find answers to common questions and address any concerns you may have about our Jiu-Jitsu classes.
Still Have Questions?
Feel free to write and call us
2244 Euler Rd #104, Brighton, MI 48114
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