Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu2023-11-30T20:18:43-05:00

Instructor: Brandon Hornby

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art, combat sport, and a self -defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. Jiu-jitsu is a grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force him to submit. Due to the fact that control is generally easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the technique of Brazilian Jiu jitsu is centered round the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless.

Class Structure

Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes start out with a warm-up usually consisting of jogging, bear crawls, and shrimp drills on top of many other exercises. We then learn and go over one or two techniques that fit in with the position we have been drilling for the week. In order to create muscle memory, we then drill the move we have learned on our fellow training partners. Often times, once drilling is done, we then continue onto live sparring (rolling) in order to put our techniques into practice.

What to Wear

When visiting for your first time, please wear basketball shorts and a t-shirt. A mouth guard and cup are recommended, but not required. If you have a gi from another martial art (Judo, Karate, etc.) feel free to wear that.
If you plan on signing up and continually attending Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, a BJJ gi is required.

Meet Instructor Brandon Hornby

Brandon is a Roanoke native and started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2008.  All of his ranks – including black belt, were earned under Tim Mannon, a 4th degree black belt under Renzo Gracie.

Years of competition in BJJ and amateur MMA have constantly put Brandon’s skills to the test.  Brandon has also supplemented his training to include Judo, in which he currently holds the rank of brown belt, and Muay Thai kickboxing.

Brandon looks forward to sharing this knowledge with all who want to learn.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Contact Us
How is Krav Maga training different from other martial arts?2019-11-24T10:19:45-05:00

Krav Maga training focuses on realistic scenarios and attacks, developing the self-defense mindset, and developing the skills you need to survive an attack.

How will Krav Maga Training benefit me?2019-11-15T13:57:47-05:00

Our classes have numerous benefits. You will learn important self-defense skills, improved physical fitness and confidence to name a few.

Do I have to sign a contract?2019-11-15T13:57:17-05:00

No, unlike our competitors, we do not do any long-term contracts.

Do you have limits on how many times per week I can train?2019-11-15T13:57:08-05:00

No, all our memberships, adults and children, allow our students unlimited access to our schedule. You can train as many times per week as you wish.

How many times per week SHOULD I train?2019-11-15T13:56:58-05:00

We recommend that you train at least two times per week. Successful self-defense training is largely dependent on developing muscle memory. Being able to retain the information and recall it quickly takes practice, repetition, and drilling. But the right amount of training is really a personal decision based on age, body type, work and family schedule, etc. We recommend that you start with a moderate schedule and work your way up to more frequent training as you go.

What should I bring/wear to class?2019-11-15T13:56:47-05:00

Wear comfortable, clean, tasteful clothes that you can work out in and whatever shoes (optional) you would normally wear day to day. Students are free to use MMA style gloves for striking. For beginners and guests, we have loaner gloves at the center that you are welcomed to use. A mouthpiece and groin protection (for males) is not required but highly recommended. We recommend students bring a water bottle as well.

Does KMR have changing rooms?2019-11-15T13:56:36-05:00

Yes, we offer private changing rooms.

How do I choose which classes to attend or which classes for my child to attend?2019-11-15T13:56:26-05:00

Adult beginner students may attend all Level 1 classes and our Saturday morning Mixed Level class. For first time adults, we recommend attending one of our Level 1 classes. For our children’s program, White, Purple and Blue belts can only attend the beginner Young Warriors classes and the Mixed Warrior classes. Young Warriors that are Green, Brown and Black belts, can attend any Young Warriors classes.

Do I have to be in good shape to join or try a class?2019-11-15T13:56:13-05:00

Absolutely not! We have men and women start at all fitness levels. You do not have to be in shape to get in shape. Krav Maga training will improve your strength, endurance and overall fitness level.

What age ranges are in your adult classes?2019-11-15T13:56:00-05:00

We have a wide range of ages in our adult program. We have teens, young adults and middle age students from all walks of life. We currently have a student who is 81 years young!

What is the structure of a KMR class?2019-11-15T13:55:38-05:00

A typical class will start with a dynamic warm-up which could include functional training drills, functional fitness drills, partner drills, calisthenics and body weight exercises. This will be followed by some sort of striking techniques/combinations and self-defense principles. Class will end with a final drill. Our classes are a mixture of supportive, fun, serious, focused and goofy. There are moments of intense concentration… moments of fun & games… moments of encouraging one another to keep going and do your best… and so much more. It’s a vibrant blend of fun, focus and passion.

Do you have a referral program?2019-11-15T13:55:17-05:00

Of course! If you refer someone to our academy and they sign up with a membership you will receive a t-shirt of your choice free!

“Bryan is a great instructor with wealth of knowledge and awesome team to train with.”
Ram
“Very amazing school the staff are all very knowledgeable and will work with you and your skill level to help you grow and learn more.”
Jacob
“This a highly recommended class for those looking to get in better shape and learn some self- defense at the same time. Instructors are top notch, the passion they have for KravMaga shows through with each and every class. They will push you to be better and feel better about yourself. Keep up the good work guys!”
Rob
“The adult class is great for fitness and self-defense as well. The instructors are knowledgeable and encouraging. This is a tough class, but Bryan makes it work for all age and level adults as well. There is a real sense of camaraderie within the class from day one.”
Chad
“Started a little over a month ago and I love it! The classes there are truly for EVERY age and fitness level. I look forward to going to class because I learn something new about the art of Kravmaga and myself each and every class. The classes build confidence and strength while the instructors are super approachable and make the class fun. Bryan and John do a fantastic job of breaking down each move into manageable steps along with telling you why proper form is to your advantage. Any hesitation about joining this class went away after my first class – I was hooked. It’s a great way to get in shape and learn how to defend yourself in a protected environment with great instructors. Top notch!”
Michelle