Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Herndon, VA

@ Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Classes at Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense in Herndon, VA

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is one of the most effective and well-rounded martial arts and self-defense systems in the world.

Rooted in the principle that a smaller, less athletic person can successfully defend against a larger opponent through leverage, positioning, and technique, BJJ has proven itself in both real-world self-defense situations and high-level competition.

Most physical altercations end on the ground and BJJ was built for exactly that environment.

Grand Master Hélio Gracie, who weighed no more than 145 pounds, refined and innovated the system to work without relying on strength, developing techniques that use body mechanics and leverage to control, neutralize, and submit larger opponents.

What You Will Learn at the Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense

Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense (PSA) offers a modern, welcoming training environment focused on technical excellence and personal development.

Classes cover a comprehensive range of BJJ fundamentals and concepts, including:

  • Escapes from common holds and dominant positions
  • Submissions such as chokes, arm locks, leg locks, and finishing techniques
  • Takedowns drawing from wrestling and Judo adapted for BJJ
  • Positional drilling, guard passing, and guard retention
  • Live training (rolling), situational sparring, and strategy development
  • Submission grappling concepts including catch wrestling and no-gi competition techniques

Beyond self-defense, BJJ offers a challenging and rewarding workout that develops aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, builds confidence, and improves mental and physical health for students of all ages and athletic backgrounds.

Morning and Evening BJJ Classes Available

PSA offers both morning and evening BJJ classes throughout the week, making it easier to find a schedule that fits your lifestyle.

Whether you prefer to train before work or wind down with an evening session, there is a class available for you.

PSA offers both structured BJJ classes and open mat sessions throughout the week — visit the schedule page for current times.

Each class includes guided instruction followed by an open mat for live training.

BJJ classes at PSA are beginner-friendly and no prior experience is required.

Gi and No-Gi Adult BJJ Classes in Herndon, VA

PSA offers both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, providing adult students exposure to the full range of BJJ.

Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes emphasize grips, leverage, and traditional BJJ concepts, while no-gi BJJ classes incorporate wrestling, catch wrestling, Judo principles, and submission grappling in a format directly applicable to both competition and self-defense scenarios.

Loaner gis are available for new students.

All Levels Welcome at Pedro Sauer Academy

BJJ classes at PSA in Herndon are open to adults and teens of all skill levels.

New students and first-timers are actively welcomed and no experience is necessary to attend your first class.

Open mats typically include at least one BJJ black belt on the mat, available to train with, answer questions, and provide guidance.

PSA also offers youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for younger students looking to build confidence, discipline, and foundational grappling skills in a safe and supportive environment.

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a highly effective and comprehensive system of standing and ground defense techniques.

Utilizing rules of leverage, BJJ prepares all individuals to respond simply and effectively to the demands of real life close combat.

The techniques of BJJ were designed to negate the inherent advantages of strength and size, and were again refined and innovated by the late Grand Master Helio Gracie, who himself weighed no more than 145 pounds.

Grand Master Helio Gracie focused only on techniques that emphasized leverage and position of the body to defend and control harmful situations, making BJJ the ideal skillset for anyone seeking optimal self-defense training.

Our Philosophy & Curriculum

Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu philosophy and curriculum, designed by Professor Pedro Sauer himself, are what makes our Academy so special.

The PSA BJJ curriculum is uniquely built on Professor Sauer’s extensive training and competitive success, combined with the priceless wisdom imparted to him by role models of the art, among them both Helio Gracie and Rickson Gracie.

Professor Sauer envisioned an uplifting community where everyone could benefit from the art, returning home to their families energized, injury-free, and confident in their skills

Our key principles are:

Respect for All Individuals: Embracing diversity and fostering a welcoming environment.

Practitioner Safety: Prioritizing injury prevention and promoting healthy training habits.

Proven Effectiveness: Ensuring the techniques taught are truly effective in real-world situations.

Longevity: Cultivating a sustainable training approach that allows practitioners to enjoy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu throughout their lives.

Start Training With Us Now!

Just walk-in with no appointment or without any prior experience and we will take care of the rest.

Or call (703) 444-4468 to schedule a free trial week today!