Learn practical techniques that work against larger opponents regardless of your size, strength, or athletic background. BJJ is a effective martial art for real-world situations.
Every class is a full-body workout — improving cardio, strength, flexibility and coordination. BJJ keeps fitness exciting with skill-building that never gets old.
Train in a friendly, ego-free environment led by IBJJF World Champion Professor Maycon Carvalho. Our Santa Monica academy welcomes complete beginners through advanced competitors.
Adult BJJ Programs for Every Level
At Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family in Santa Monica, we offer structured adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu programs designed to meet you exactly where you are. From your very first class to preparing for IBJJF competitions, our curriculum is built to develop confident, capable grapplers. All classes are taught by Professor Maycon Carvalho — an IBJJF World Champion with years of experience coaching adults at every level.
Beginners BJJ
New to martial arts? Our Beginner BJJ program is the perfect entry point into the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You’ll learn proper posture, basic positions, escapes, and submissions in a safe, supportive environmen
All Levels
Our All Levels classes are designed for students who have some mat time and are ready to deepen their game, these sessions blend drilling, positional sparring, and live rolling in a structured environment.
Advanced Class
Advanced classes dive deep into complex technique, advanced guard systems, pressure passing, and competition-specific strategies. Whether you compete or simply want to train at a higher level.
World-Class Instruction in Santa Monica
At Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family, you don’t just train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — you train it the right way. Professor Maycon Carvalho is an IBJJF World Champion who has dedicated his career to building a gym where every adult, at any level, can grow.
- Structured curriculum that guarantees measurable progress at every belt
- A no-ego culture — welcoming to beginners, challenging for competitors
- Both Gi and No-Gi training options available
- Flexible scheduling designed for working adults in Santa Monica and the Westside
Real results, kind culture
Hear how our families describe their children’s transformation on and off the mats. Parents love the confidence, discipline, and joy their kids gain at Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family Santa Monica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any experience to start BJJ?
Absolutely not. Our Beginner BJJ program was designed specifically for adults with zero martial arts background. You’ll learn everything from scratch in a structured, welcoming environment. Many of our most successful students came in with no athletic background whatsoever.
Which class should I start with?
If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, start with our Beginner BJJ classes. Once you’ve developed a solid foundation — typically after a few months of consistent training — you’ll naturally transition to the All Levels classes. Our coaches will guide you through the progression.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your free trial class, comfortable athletic clothes (rash guard or t-shirt and shorts) are perfectly fine. Once you decide to join, you’ll need a BJJ Gi for our Gi classes. We can recommend quality options at every budget. No Gi classes require a rash guard and board shorts or spats.
How often should I train per week?
Beginners typically see great progress with 2–3 classes per week. Intermediate students benefit from 3–4 sessions, while advanced and competition-focused practitioners often train 4–5+ times weekly. We offer a full schedule to accommodate working adults and busy lifestyles.
Is BJJ safe for adults with no fighting experience?
BJJ is one of the safest martial arts because techniques are practiced with control and there’s a strong culture of tapping (stopping) before injury occurs. All sparring is consensual and supervised. Safety is our top priority, especially for new students.
Start Your BJJ Journey Today
Your first class is free. No contracts. No pressure. Just great jiu jitsu in the heart of Santa Monica.