John Kelsey
Great facility, great people. Check it out, you’ll thank me later 👊🏼
Tampa's Top BJJ Academy for Kids & Adults
Build Real Confidence with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa — No Experience Needed
Since , we’ve helped Tampa residents grow through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa inside a gym where beginners feel at home, kids stay engaged, and parents see a real difference within 60 days.
Build Genuine Confidence, Discipline, and Focus
Life skills that show up at home, at school, and at work.
Progress You Can Actually See
Clear belt criteria, honest feedback, and no guesswork about where you stand.
A Welcoming, Ego-Free Environment
A mat full of people who show up to work hard and support each other.
Coaches Who Know Your Name
Instructors who genuinely invest in your growth — not just your technique.
106+
Five-Star Google Reviews
18+ Years
Proudly serving Tampa since
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NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?
Which Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa Class Is Right For You?
The Real Challenge
Why So Many Tampa Residents Are Turning To BJJ
Most people who walk through our doors aren’t sure what to expect — they just know they want something more. More confidence. More mental clarity. More capability. Something that genuinely challenges them in ways a traditional gym never could. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa is that thing. And Martial Arts Advantage is where Tampa residents come to find it.
We’ve built an academy where beginners feel welcome from day one, progress is visible and measurable, and students genuinely look forward to every class.
Our programs are rooted in the core principles of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa — leverage, technique, and control — making it one of the most practical martial arts for self-defense, fitness, and mental resilience. Whether you’re stepping on the mat for the first time or returning after years away, Martial Arts Advantage offers structured, results-driven training with no fluff and no fake toughness. Just real skills built through real training.
For Adults
You Haven't Reached Your Full Potential Yet
There's a version of you that feels grounded, confident, and capable under pressure. BJJ training is the structured path that helps you find and develop that version of yourself — class by class, rep by rep.
Your Mind Never Fully Switches Off
Work deadlines, responsibilities, and daily stress pile up fast. After a session on the mat, our adult students consistently report feeling calmer, sharper, and more in control than they have in years. BJJ demands your full attention — and that focus resets your mind like nothing else in your week.
Your Current Routine Has Stopped Challenging You
Repetitive gym routines eventually plateau. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a skill you can chase for decades — one that constantly evolves, challenges your mind, and keeps you fully engaged long after the novelty of other workouts has worn off.
You Want Self-Defense Skills That Actually Work
Knowing you can handle yourself in a real situation matters. BJJ is built on leverage and control — so you learn to manage a larger, stronger opponent without relying on strikes or raw power. At Martial Arts Advantage, that quiet confidence comes standard.
For Parents
Tired of Activities That Don't Build Real Character?
Many programs keep kids occupied — but few build lasting discipline or genuine confidence. BJJ is different. It teaches focus, respect, resilience, and self-belief that carries directly into school and everyday life. Parents consistently notice the shift within the first 60 days.
Your Child Deserves Real Confidence — Not Just Participation Ribbons
Trophies handed out for showing up don't build real self-esteem. Genuine confidence comes from earning something difficult. At Martial Arts Advantage, your child will set goals, push through challenges, and experience authentic achievement through a clear belt progression system — learning that effort matters and that they're far more capable than they think.
Your Child Struggles With Focus and Self-Control
Focus is rarely taught — and the gap shows up in classrooms every day. Short attention spans and lack of follow-through are increasingly common. Our kids' BJJ classes are intentionally structured to address this. Every session demands attention, forward thinking, and discipline. Over time, those habits stick — on the mat and off.
You Want Them Safe — Without Living in Fear
Bullying is real. Social pressure is real. And you can't always be there. BJJ doesn't teach your child to fight — it teaches them to stand firm, hold their space, and carry themselves with a calm confidence that naturally discourages conflict. And if a situation does escalate, they'll have the skills and composure to handle it.
How It Works
Four Simple Steps to Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Tampa
No complicated sign-up process. No pressure. Just a clear, straightforward path to your first class on the mat.
Book Your Trial Class
No commitment required. Just show up in comfortable clothes and an open mind.
Experience a Real Class
Train with students at your level, learn foundational movements, and get a genuine feel for what BJJ training looks and feels like from the inside.
Choose Your Program
We'll help you find the right schedule and training path for your goals — gi, no-gi, or both.
Start Your Journey
Begin progressing through the BJJ belt system with clear milestones, honest feedback, and real results.
Student Success Stories
Tampa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Reviews — What Students & Parents Say
Real results from students and families training
Rebekah Gandy
We love Martial Arts Advantage. I have been taking my youngest here for almost a year and the changes in his attitude and mindset have been so impressive. It has helped him across the board. The instructors are all wonderful at their job. So glad we chose MAA!
Madi Baldwin
My son has been doing karate with them for a while now he loves it. The instructors are all very respectful and very kind. I would 100% recommend this place for anybody looking to get into Karate.
Tiffany Stears
This has been the best experience for our son. The discipline, the exercise, the structure.. it’s all been great! My son enjoys going to every single class with a smile on his face
Claudia Espino
My son loves his classes! Very good teachers and students! Good environment
Esther Tilley
Our kid has just started. They had run a promo, so we signed up. They were very communicative and clear! He enjoyed his introduction lesson. They are teaching discipline and life skills to accompany the class and we truly appreciate their well-rounded approach.
Jessica Bunch
I love their professionalism, and their dedication. My son says he has made friends and he likes going cause he learns new things every week.
Hannah Cole
We started taking Tai Kwondo as a family last month at MAA. We are all loving our classes. I also love the character emphasis and see a difference in my childrens' respect and responsibility not only at class but at home.
Katie Sparks
Our daughter has been going to MAA for about a month now. She loves it!! She is motivated at home to get her "homework" done each week. I see her randomly practicing around the house, so I know she is definitely getting something out of this. I really like that we don't have a set schedule. We can take her to class that fits our needs for the week. I feel like things are always changing for us, so not being limited to one specific day a week is really helpful even though we do our best to stay consistent. The instructors are all very nice and welcoming. For her age group, they keep it fun and engaging. I definitely recommend Martial Arts Advantage.
Sheri Downs
This place is awesome and the folks that run it even more amazing. Great with children and know how to relate to all people. Highly recommend them!
The Solution
How Martial Arts Advantage Creates Real Change — Not Just Another Activity
Training isn’t about memorizing techniques. It’s about becoming someone more capable, more disciplined, and more confident. Here’s what sets our approach apart from every other option in Tampa.
A Structured System Built for Real Progress
Our curriculum is designed to carry students from their very first class through advanced levels, with clear milestones at every stage. Whether it's day one or year five, you'll always know what you're working toward. Students training consistently 3 days a week typically earn their first belt within 1 year. The path to black belt takes around 10 years of dedicated training. We teach both gi and no-gi so you develop a well-rounded BJJ game.
Instructors Who Are Genuinely Invested in You
At most academies, instructors demonstrate a move and move on. Not here. Our black belt coaches learn your name on day one, remember your goals, and follow up on your progress every session. Teaching isn't a side task for them — it's their commitment.
Skills That Extend Far Beyond the Mat
Discipline, humility, perseverance, respect — these aren't words on a poster here. They're embedded in every drill, every belt evaluation, and every interaction inside the academy. One parent told us their son went from avoiding eye contact to leading class projects at school. Another said BJJ completely changed how they handle stress at work. The mat teaches more than technique — it changes how you show up in life.
A Community That Has Your Back
No egos. No cliques. No intimidating atmosphere. From your very first session, you'll feel the difference — rolling partners who respect your pace, instructors who celebrate every milestone alongside you, and a room full of people genuinely pulling for each other.
Master Anthony Kuntz
Owner/Head Instructor
“What I love most about martial arts is that it’s one of the few things that truly develops the whole person—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It challenges you, humbles you, and builds you at the same time. There’s nothing more powerful than watching someone do something they didn’t think they could do and realizing they’re capable of so much more. I run a school because I believe deeply in that transformation, especially for kids. In today’s world, so many children struggle with confidence, focus, and resilience. Martial arts gives them a path—a place where they can grow stronger, learn discipline, and build real self-belief in a positive, structured environment. The impact I love making every day is helping students see themselves differently. Watching a shy child gain confidence, a distracted child develop focus, or a hesitant student become a leader—it never gets old. We’re not just teaching kicks and punches, we’re helping shape how kids show up in life, at school, at home, and in their future.”
Our Programs
BJJ Classes in Tampa for Every Age and Experience Level
From a child’s very first class to an adult chasing their blue belt — we have a program built for you. Explore the options below and find your perfect fit.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes (Ages 5–12)
Confidence, Focus, and Real Skills for Every Kid
Our kids’ BJJ program is built to give children more than just a physical outlet — it gives them structure, direction, and the confidence to handle whatever life throws at them. Through consistent mat time, kids develop discipline, resilience, and self-belief in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Parents regularly tell us they notice the difference at home and at school within the first 60 days.
- High-energy, age-appropriate classes kids actually look forward to
- Grappling fundamentals with no strikes and no hard contact
- Bully awareness and practical self-defense skills
- Improved focus, listening, and self-control
- Clear belt progression that builds lasting confidence
- Great for beginners, shy kids, and highly active children
Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes (Ages 18+)
A Real Challenge, a Strong Community, and Skills That Last
Our adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa are designed for professionals, parents, and anyone ready to invest in themselves. No fitness background required — just a willingness to show up and work. You’ll build strength, mental clarity, and practical self-defense skills while training alongside a community that genuinely supports your growth. Gi and no-gi options available to fit your schedule and goals.
- Full-body conditioning — cardio, strength, mobility, and endurance
- Gi and no-gi training available to match your goals
- Practical self-defense skills grounded in leverage and control
- Mental clarity and stress relief built into every session
- Supportive, ego-free environment for all experience levels
- Flexible class schedule — start any time, no waiting for a new cycle
Ready to Find Out What Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa Can Do For You?
The mat is waiting. Whether you’re a parent looking for something that truly builds character in your child, or an adult ready to invest in your own growth — our trial class is designed for exactly this moment. Show up, train alongside real people, and find out firsthand why Tampa families keep coming back.
Spots in our trial program go fast. Book yours today and take the first real step toward something that will genuinely change you.
Real Results
What Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Actually Does For Tampa Students and Families
These aren’t highlight reels. These are real people who walked through our doors unsure of what to expect — and walked away genuinely transformed.
Marcus, 8
Kids BJJ Program
BEFORE
- Struggled with focus and frequently acted out in class
- Was being picked on at school and didn't know how to respond
- Showed little confidence and gave up when things got hard
- His parent said he needed structure but nothing had clicked yet
AFTER
- Stays composed at school and handles peer conflicts calmly
- His teacher noticed a dramatic improvement in focus and cooperation
- Walks with purpose and speaks up with real confidence
- Earning stripes on his belt and pushing for the next level every class
Derek, 38
Adult BJJ Program
BEFORE
- Hadn't exercised consistently in years and felt burnt out
- Chronic stress with no real outlet to decompress
- Felt stuck in a routine that wasn't challenging him anymore
- Had tried several fitness programs but none held his attention long-term
AFTER
- Lost 20 pounds and feels stronger and sharper than he has in a decade
- Uses mat time to reset mentally — says it's better than therapy
- Built genuine friendships inside the academy community
- Recently earned his first stripe on blue belt and is training consistently 3 days a week
Jordan, 16
Teen Program
BEFORE
- Disengaged, spending most of his time on screens with no real direction
- Anxious around peers and avoided most social situations
- No extracurricular involvement and little motivation to change
- His parents were genuinely concerned about his trajectory
AFTER
- Trains multiple times a week and motivates himself to show up
- Now helps coach younger students during Saturday classes
- GPA went up — credits BJJ for teaching him how to focus and stay disciplined
- Targeting his full blue belt before graduation and already planning ahead
Why Martial Arts Advantage?
Why Tampa Families Choose Martial Arts Advantage Over Other BJJ Academies
There are other BJJ academies in Tampa. Here’s why the families who train with us wouldn’t trade this for anything else.
Instructors Who Teach — Not Just Demonstrate
Every black belt on our team is technically excellent and fully committed to quality instruction. They're educators first and competitors second.
Beginners Are Genuinely Welcome Here
Our programs are built from scratch for people with zero experience. The learning curve is intentional, gradual, and never overwhelming.
Character Is the Core of Everything We Do
The techniques are the vehicle. Respect, perseverance, and self-mastery are the destination.
You'll Always Know Exactly Where You Stand
Clear belt criteria, regular evaluations, and coaches who give honest, constructive feedback — so your next step forward is never a mystery.
Age-Appropriate in Every Way
Class structure, drill intensity, rolling level, and belt expectations are all carefully calibrated to the specific age group on the mat.
A Facility That Reflects Our Standards
Clean mats, professional equipment, and an academy environment that feels safe, focused, and high-quality from the moment you walk in.
Gi and No-Gi Training Available
Most of our members train both. Gi develops patience, grips, and positional control; no-gi sharpens speed, movement, and scrambles. Together, they give you the most complete BJJ game possible.
Meet Your Instructors
Certified Black Belt Instructors Who Care About Your Success
Our instructors aren’t just technically skilled — they’re genuinely committed to the people they coach. Here’s who you’ll be training with.
Master Anthony Kuntz
Owner/Head Instructor
Becky Kuntz
Program Director
Mr Jared Northup
Dylan Bowman
Coe Potter
Professor Matheus
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa Classes in Tampa? We’ve Got Answers.
The most common questions people ask before their first class. Still have something on your mind? Call (813) 832-8800
What is the difference between Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa and traditional jujitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) evolved from traditional Japanese jujitsu but places a much stronger emphasis on ground fighting, positional control, and submission techniques. While traditional jujitsu includes standing throws and strikes, BJJ focuses on taking opponents to the ground and using leverage-based submissions — making it highly effective for real-world self-defense regardless of size or strength.
Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu useful in a real fight?
Yes. BJJ is widely regarded as one of the most practical martial arts for real-world self-defense. It teaches you to control a larger, stronger opponent using leverage and technique rather than brute force. Most real altercations end up on the ground, which is exactly where BJJ training focuses. Students build both the skill and the composure to handle physical confrontations calmly and effectively.
Is BJJ the hardest martial art to learn?
BJJ has a reputation for being technically demanding, largely because it involves a complex system of positions, transitions, and submissions that take years to master. That said, beginners at our Tampa academy progress quickly in a structured, supportive environment. The learning curve is real, but it’s also what makes BJJ so rewarding — there is always something new to work toward.
What is special about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
What sets BJJ apart is its emphasis on technique over athleticism. A smaller, less powerful person can realistically control and submit a larger opponent through proper leverage and positioning. Beyond the physical skills, BJJ develops mental resilience, problem-solving under pressure, and a level of confidence that carries into every area of life. It’s often described as physical chess — and our Tampa students feel that from their very first class.
Does BJJ rely more on technique or strength?
Technique is the foundation of BJJ. While fitness and strength are helpful, the art is specifically designed so that proper leverage and positioning outperform raw power. This is one of the reasons Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa attract such a wide range of students — from kids and beginners to experienced adults — because the mat levels the playing field for everyone.
How long does it take to earn belts in BJJ?
The BJJ belt system requires genuine time and consistent effort. Students who train approximately 3 days a week typically earn their first belt within about 1 year. The full journey to black belt takes around 10 years of dedicated training. Progress is based on demonstrated skill and character — not just time on the mat — so every promotion means something real.
What should a beginner expect in their first BJJ class?
Your first class at our Tampa academy will be welcoming and approachable. You’ll start with a warm-up, observe a technique demonstration, and practice basic movements with a partner in a controlled, low-pressure setting. You won’t be thrown into full sparring on day one. Our instructors are experienced at working with complete beginners and will make sure you feel comfortable and know exactly what is happening throughout the class.
Is BJJ effective for self-defense?
Absolutely. BJJ is one of the most proven and widely respected martial arts for real-world self-defense. It is a core component of mixed martial arts and is taught to law enforcement and military personnel around the world. Our programs at our Tampa academy teach practical techniques built for real situations, not just sport competition.
What equipment or gear is needed for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Tampa?
For your trial class, just wear comfortable athletic clothing. Once you decide to enroll, a gi (training uniform) is required for gi classes and is available through the academy. For no-gi classes, board shorts and a rash guard are standard. Our team will guide you on exactly what to get once you sign up — no need to purchase anything before your first visit.
What is the difference between gi and no-gi BJJ?
Gi BJJ uses a traditional training uniform, and the fabric itself becomes a tactical element — grips on the collar, sleeves, and lapels are central to technique. No-gi BJJ is practiced in athletic wear and removes cloth-based grips, placing greater emphasis on body control, underhooks, and faster-paced movement. Many of our Tampa students train both, as each style sharpens different aspects of your overall BJJ game.
Martial Arts Advantage
Tampa
South Tampa, Davis Island, Beach Park, Hyde Park, Tampa Heights, Seminole Heights, Harbor Island
- West side of Dale Mabry just south of Bay to Bay
- Parking and entrance in back
- Sunday
- Closed
- Monday
- 10:00 am - 09:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 10:00 am - 09:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 10:00 am - 09:00 pm
- Thursday
- 10:00 am - 09:00 pm
- Friday
- 10:00 am - 08:00 pm
- Saturday
- 09:00 am - 01:00 pm
Fill Out the Form Below to Claim Your Class Pass!
By opting in, you agree to receive periodic text messages & emails from Martial Arts Advantage. Your information will never be shared. Reply STOP to cancel. Standard rates may apply. View our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy.
⚠️ WARNING: This Offer Expires Soon...
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