Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): The Inclusive Martial Art for (Almost) Everyone
Are you searching for a fitness journey that seamlessly blends the raw strength of martial arts with the mental strategy of a chess game? Have you been curious about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Maryland but felt overwhelmed by the choices and unsure about where to begin? Choosing the right Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy isn’t just about finding the lowest price or the nearest location—it’s about understanding the difference in what each school offers and ensuring the style matches your goals and needs.
At Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®, we’ve been the trusted source for authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Southern Maryland for nearly 18 years. Owned and operated by Professor Jim Thrift, a 4th-degree black belt under the Gracie family with nearly 30 years of experience, our academies teach more than just sport-oriented BJJ. We focus on the Gracie Self-Defense System, a proven approach to real-world self-defense that was showcased during the first UFC tournaments and remains unparalleled in its effectiveness.
Unlike many academies that focus solely on sport BJJ or competition, our instruction balances both self-defense and competitive techniques. This ensures you’ll not only excel on the mats but also be prepared for real-world scenarios. While we dominate in competitions by training our athletes to go for submissions rather than relying on points, we also prioritize the practical application of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in everyday life. Point fighting may win matches in tournaments, but it won’t give you the confidence or skills needed in a genuine confrontation.
At Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®, we go beyond traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our curriculum incorporates elements of wrestling, judo, and even striking, making it one of the most well-rounded programs in the area. This comprehensive approach ensures that our students are prepared for any situation, whether on the mats, in competition, or in real life.
We’re proud to be the only school in Southern Maryland offering authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and our approach has been shaped by decades of experience and a deep commitment to our students’ growth. If you’re exploring BJJ schools, we strongly recommend visiting and trying out different academies firsthand to experience the difference in instruction quality and culture. However, when it comes to learning authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu combined with a competitive edge, there’s only one choice: Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®.
We are a community, so drop the "tough guy" act and leave your ego at the door!
A Community On and Off the Mats
At Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®, we’re more than just a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy—we’re a thriving community both on and off the mats. Training here isn’t just about learning techniques or getting in shape; it’s about building lifelong connections and becoming part of a supportive family. From our youth programs to our adult classes, you’ll meet incredible people, forge strong friendships, and grow together as a team.
Our St. Mary’s County location is led by Black Belt Kevin Southworth, whose wrestling pedigree and dedication to the art helped him achieve the rank of black belt faster than any of our students. Kevin brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the mat, making our St. Mary’s location a cornerstone for grapplers of all levels.
At our Calvert County location, instruction is led by an exceptional team, including Black Belts Jesse Cordova and Sean Segreti, who teach consistently and regularly, ensuring students receive high-level instruction every week. Additionally, Purple Belt Jack Sudduth, one of the most active competitors in the Mid-Atlantic region, brings invaluable experience from over 300 competitions in the last three years.
One of the defining aspects of our academy is that everyone is treated equally. Unlike other schools that focus solely on their top athletes or competitors, we ensure that every student, regardless of skill level or experience, is given the same attention and respect. No one is more important than anyone else here. Every student’s journey is valued, and we work together to help each other succeed.
We offer a flexible schedule with morning, afternoon, and evening classes, ensuring that training fits into even the busiest lifestyle. When you look at the total number of classes available across our two locations and break down the cost of membership per class, you’ll find that training at Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA® is not only comprehensive but also incredibly cost-effective. No other school in the region offers as many opportunities to train as we do.
Additionally, our Calvert location offers a free self-defense class every Wednesday for active first responders, including police, fire, and EMS. This program is our way of giving back to those who serve our community while providing them with valuable tools for safety and protection.
Our academy also boasts the largest and most experienced team of black belts in Southern Maryland, which is evident when you visit the instructors' page on our website. No other academy in the area comes close to matching the depth of expertise and experience we bring to the mats. Joining Lineage BJJ® or Calvert MMA® means becoming part of something bigger—a community of dedicated individuals committed to growth, safety, and excellence.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: A true human game of chess. Every movement on the mat mirrors a strategic chess move—requiring you to think ahead, adapt, and outmaneuver your opponent. Like chess, BJJ is a perfect blend of strategy, patience, and execution, engaging both your body and mind in unison.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Human Chess Game
If you’ve ever been captivated by the strategic depth of chess, you’ll feel right at home in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Often referred to as "chess for the body," BJJ challenges you to think critically, anticipate your opponent’s next move, and stay several steps ahead—all while physically executing techniques with precision. It’s not just a workout; it’s a holistic experience that sharpens your body and mind, teaching you to act decisively and intelligently under pressure.
In this human chess game, every roll on the mat is an intricate puzzle. Each grip, sweep, or submission attempt is like a chess piece moving on the board. For every move, there’s a counter, and for every counter, countless possibilities unfold. This continuous interplay between strategy and execution keeps your mind engaged, fostering creativity and adaptability.
The Holistic Nature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a dynamic practice where the synergy of body and mind creates something greater. Physically, it builds strength, flexibility, and endurance. Mentally, it fosters resilience, critical thinking, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Together, these elements create a transformative experience that empowers you both on and off the mats.
When you train in BJJ, you're not just improving one aspect of yourself; you're engaging in a holistic practice that enhances your overall well-being. It’s a journey of self-discovery that keeps you coming back for more, not just because of the physical benefits but because of the intellectual challenge and personal growth it inspires.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art—it’s a transformative journey that fosters physical strength, mental resilience, and lifelong friendships. At Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®, we welcome students of all ages, from three-year-old beginners to seniors in their 70s.
There’s no better time to start than today. Whether you’re looking to compete, improve your fitness, or learn self-defense, our academy is here to support you every step of the way. Take the leap—your future self will thank you.
At Lineage BJJ®, we’re more than a martial arts academy—we’re a family. We don’t just focus on the most competitive athletes or high-level competitors. Everyone matters, and everyone is treated with the same respect and care. Whether your goal is to compete, gain confidence, improve your fitness, or simply discover a new passion, our academy is here to support your journey.
So why wait? The best time to start is now. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will improve your physical health, sharpen your mind, and give you the skills to protect yourself and your loved ones. Come join the largest team in Southern Maryland, meet our incredible instructors, and experience the difference of training with Lineage BJJ® and Calvert MMA®.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Visit our website or contact us today to schedule your first class. Let’s get started on achieving your goals—both on and off the mats!
