Fundamentals Program

The Fundamentals Program is designed to guide students through the essential techniques, positions, and concepts of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a clear and structured way. We focus on simplifying Jiu-Jitsu so beginners can learn without feeling overwhelmed, while still building a strong and effective foundation.

Each class combines:

• Clear, step-by-step instruction
• Drilling for skill development
• Controlled practice and situational training

This allows students to develop coordination, timing, and awareness on the mats while learning how to apply techniques in real scenarios. Beyond technique, we emphasize understanding and application, helping students think, adapt, and solve problems during training. The environment is welcoming, structured, and beginner-friendly, making it the perfect starting point. At the same time, experienced students benefit by revisiting and sharpening their fundamentals – the true key to long-term success in Jiu-Jitsu.

Advanced Program

The Advanced Program is where students begin to truly develop their game. Building on the Fundamentals curriculum, this program dives deeper into:

• More complex techniques and combinations
• Strategy, timing, and transitions
• Less common and more dynamic situations

Students are introduced to live sparring and situational training, where they learn how to apply techniques against resistance. This is where critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving are developed. Classes are more intense and require greater focus, discipline, and awareness. This program is ideal for students who are ready to grow beyond the basics and start refining their personal style in Jiu-Jitsu.

Requirement: White belt with 2 stripes and above.

Competition Training

Our Competition Program is designed for students who want to push themselves and test their skills at a higher level.

This class focuses heavily on:

• Live sparring and high-paced rounds
• Competition-specific strategy and scenarios
• Mental preparation and performance under pressure

Students learn how to manage matches, control pacing, and execute techniques in real competition settings. Whether your goal is to compete or simply train at a higher intensity, this program will elevate your conditioning, discipline, and mindset. EDJ School of Jiu-Jitsu has produced World, Pan American, and European Champions at all belt levels, and this program reflects that standard.

Entry: By invitation only.

Women’s Only Program

Our Women’s Program is designed to provide a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment for women of all experience levels. Whether your goals include:

• Self-defense
• Fitness
• Confidence
• Competition

This program adapts to support your journey. Classes (Gi & No-Gi) are structured to help you learn step by step, while building strength, resilience, and confidence both on and off the mats. You’ll be part of a supportive community of women who encourage and motivate each other throughout the process. This program is led by Kimberly Bowser, a multiple-time Pan American, European, and World Champion, who brings not only elite-level experience, but also leadership, mentorship, and a real understanding of the journey. Whether you’re stepping on the mats for the first time or returning to training, this is your opportunity to grow in a positive and powerful environment.

All belt levels welcome.

No-Gi Program (Seasonal)

Our No-Gi Program is a seasonal training block that expands your Jiu-Jitsu by focusing on grappling without the traditional gi. This format emphasizes speed, timing, and body control for a more dynamic, fast-paced training experience. Without gi grips, students learn to control and attack using:

• Underhooks and overhooks
• Body positioning and pressure
• Head control and movement
• Timing and transitions

This builds a deeper understanding of leverage and connection, essential skills that carry over into both gi training and real-life self-defense. Classes cover a wide range of techniques, including takedowns, guard passing, submissions, and escapes, all adapted specifically for No-Gi. There is a strong focus on fluid movement, continuous transitions, and maintaining control without relying on grips. Each session includes:

• Functional warm-ups
• Technical instruction and drilling
• Situational training
• Live sparring in a fast-paced environment

As a seasonal program, No-Gi is offered during specific times of the year to give students a fresh perspective, challenge their game, and complement their overall development within the EDJ curriculum. Open to students who have built a solid foundation, this program ensures a safe and productive training environment for everyone on the mat.

Requirement: White belt with 2 stripes and above.

Private Lessons & Small Groups

Private lessons and small group training provide a focused, personalized approach to learning Jiu-Jitsu. These sessions help students progress faster through direct attention, detailed feedback, and a training plan tailored to specific goals. Whether you’re looking to:

• Refine your technique
• Prepare for competition
• Build confidence as a beginner
• Break through plateaus

Our instructors will guide you step by step with a structured, intentional approach. Small group sessions offer the same benefits, with the added advantage of training with partners in a controlled, focused setting. Available for all ages and skill levels, these sessions are open to both academy members and visitors.

Instructor Certification Program

The EDJ Instructor Certification Program is designed for students who want to grow beyond training and begin developing as leaders, coaches, and future instructors. This program offers a structured path to teaching Jiu-Jitsu with clarity, professionalism, and purpose. Students are guided through the core principles of instruction, communication, class structure, safety, and leadership, reinforcing that great coaching is about much more than knowing techniques. The program focuses on developing:

• Teaching skills and communication
• Leadership and professionalism
• Class structure and organization
• Safety, awareness, and student management
• Understanding how to teach beginners and build strong fundamentals
• Confidence in leading drills, warm-ups, and portions of class

At EDJ, we believe instructors should lead by example and represent the values of the academy both on and off the mats. That is why this program is designed not only to strengthen teaching ability but also to build character, responsibility, and leadership presence. This is an ideal program for students who want to assist in classes, become better training partners, grow into coaching roles, or prepare for greater leadership opportunities within the academy.

The Instructor Certification Program reflects our long-term commitment to developing high-level coaches and building a strong, professional team culture.

Entry: By approval only.