BJJ COACH International Association | Tacoma, WA

Programs

Adult BJJ
Kids BJJ
Private Lessons
Competition Team
Kickboxing
MMA

Live Schedule

Location

3635 S Lawrence St, STE G, Tacoma, WA 98409

Next door to Flags A' Flyin on S 38th & Lawrence

Open live directions map

Academy Gallery

Best of Tacoma Awards

Academy Lineage

MITSUYO MAEDA
CARLOS GRACIE SR.
CARLSON GRACIE SR.
RICARDO DE LA RIVA
MARCELLO C. MONTEIRO
MICHAEL PROCTOR SR.

Instructors

Professor Marcello C Monteiro

Professor Michael Proctor

Professor David Gines

Coach Donnie McMasters

Coach Chris Kuykendall

Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

  • 01. Always be respectful.
  • 02. Always address Professors and Coaches properly.
  • 03. Uphold our principles on and off the mats.
  • 04. If late, wait outside until permitted.
  • 05. Bow on and off the mats.
  • 06. No leaving mat area without permission.
  • 07. Maintain posture during instruction.
  • 08. Talking minimal and relevant only.
  • 09. No foul language.
  • 10. Be humble.
  • 11. Believe & Achieve.

Etiquette

  • No shoes on mats.
  • Bottled drinks only.
  • No electronics in training area.
  • Change only in designated areas.
  • Gear stored properly.

Hygiene

  • Maintain hygiene.
  • Uniform clean.
  • Trim nails.
  • No jewelry.

Uniform

  • Academy patches required.
  • No other school patches allowed.

Spectators

  • Remain in designated seating.
  • Devices silent.
  • No coaching students.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu FAQ's

1. What can BJJ and your school do for me?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu builds real confidence, functional strength, and mental discipline. Training consistently improves your conditioning, mobility, focus, stress management, and overall mindset. Students also gain a powerful sense of community — you’re not just joining a gym, you’re joining a culture built around respect, accountability, and personal growth. Whether your goal is self-defense, fitness, competition, or a life change, BJJ gives you measurable progress month after month.

2. Do I need to be in shape to start?
No. BJJ gets you in shape. Classes scale to your level — beginners start slow, learn positioning, drills, and controlled technique. You’ll build cardio naturally through training, not by needing it beforehand. Everyone starts at zero.

3. Am I too old?
Absolutely not. We have students in their teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. BJJ is a lifelong martial art that adapts to your body and your pace. Your age is not a barrier — your consistency is.

4. Will I be expected to compete?
Competition is optional. You will never be pushed to compete unless you want to. We offer competition training for those who choose that path, but regular classes are designed for all skill levels and all goals — lifestyle, fitness, knowledge, or self-defense.

5. Do I need prior martial arts experience?
None. Most students start with zero experience. The curriculum is structured for beginners first, then builds layer by layer into advanced concepts. You learn fundamentals at your own pace.

6. Do you offer beginner-friendly classes?
Yes. We have structured classes that teach the core positions, movements, transitions, and submissions in a controlled, easy-to-absorb format. Instructors guide every step and ensure beginners never feel overwhelmed.

7. Do you offer striking classes?
Yes — we also offer Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. These classes complement BJJ perfectly and are excellent for cardio, timing, confidence, and self-defense.

8. Will BJJ help me lose weight?
Extremely. Rolling, drilling, and class structure burn calories fast and build lean muscle. Most students see changes in weight, energy, and confidence within the first few weeks — BJJ is one of the most effective and enjoyable forms of fitness you can commit to.

9. What does a typical class look like?
Classes usually follow this structure:
• Warm-up: mobility, movement patterns, light conditioning.
• Technique: step-by-step instruction, drilling, learning positions.
• Live training: situational training → controlled rolls → optional sparring.
Each class builds on the previous one, creating a steady progression in skill and understanding.

10. Do you offer family or multi-student discounts?
Yes. We support families training together and offer reduced pricing for households with multiple members training.

11. How much does membership cost?
Pricing varies depending on training goals, programs, and membership type. We offer multiple options — adults, kids, full access, and specialty programs. Contact us directly for the most accurate plan based on what you want to achieve.

12. What age can kids start?
Kids classes start at age 5. The program builds confidence, discipline, coordination, bully-proofing, and respect — all while teaching real martial arts skills in a safe, structured environment.

13. How long does it take to earn a Black Belt?
BJJ is earned, not given. On average, it takes 8–12 years depending on consistency, attitude, effort, and dedication. There are no shortcuts — every belt represents real skill and real work.

14. How do I get started?
Schedule your free class, show up with comfortable athletic clothing, and be ready to learn. You can also call 253-254-6538 to speak directly with the academy.

Try a Free Class