Come check out your new martial arts option in downtown Portland!!
We provide top tier instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a safe, caring, and positive environment.
Classes and private lessons are available with a 100% free trial!
Our Philosophy
At Lyons BJJ, our philosophy goes beyond just teaching techniques. We embrace Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a grappling sport akin to wrestling and Judo, focusing on technical movement, position, and control. While the ultimate goal in BJJ is to submit your opponent, we prioritize safety and longevity above all else, making this powerful martial art surprisingly accessible to everyone.
Our innovative approach centers on:
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Concepts over techniques
- We believe in giving you the tools to understand the 'why' behind every move, empowering you to adapt and innovate on the mat.
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Exploration and discovery
- Our classes emphasize live training, allowing you to learn through hands-on experience rather than passive lectures.
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Training with resistance
- We prioritize live training to help you apply what you've learned against a resisting opponent, building real-world skills and confidence.
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Personal growth
- Through our innovative approach, you'll not only become a better grappler but also develop problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the mat.
Join us and experience the Lyons BJJ culture – where every roll is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover your true potential in a safe, accessible environment!
Testimonials
Why practice BJJ?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is not just a martial art; it's a tool for personal development in various aspects of life. Below are just some of the valuable skills that BJJ promotes and reasons why engaging in this martial art can be highly beneficial:
Physical Fitness:
BJJ provides a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and endurance. The dynamic nature of grappling and the need for physical resilience make it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their physical conditioning.
Self-Defense Skills:
BJJ emphasizes techniques that allow a smaller or weaker person to defend themselves against a larger opponent by using leverage, technique, and submission holds. This makes it a practical choice for self-defense, giving practitioners confidence in their ability to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Problem-Solving Skills:
Rolling (sparring) in BJJ is often compared to a physical game of chess due to the strategic thinking involved. Practitioners learn to think under pressure, anticipate their opponent's moves, and adapt their strategy on the fly, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Mental Toughness:
BJJ is challenging and puts practitioners in uncomfortable situations, such as being pinned or having to escape from difficult positions. Regular training develops mental toughness and resilience, teaching individuals to stay calm and persevere through adversity.
Discipline and Persistence:
Progress in BJJ is slow and requires consistent effort and dedication. This process teaches practitioners the value of discipline and persistence, as achieving mastery and earning belts is a long-term commitment that rewards hard work and dedication.
Stress Relief:
The intense physical activity involved in BJJ training helps in reducing stress levels. Focusing on techniques and sparring provides a mental break from everyday worries, releasing endorphins and improving overall mental health.
Team Support:
We are a tight-knit community where students train and grow together regularly. This environment fosters friendships, provides social support, and encourages a sense of belonging, which is crucial for mental and emotional well-being.
Humility:
BJJ teaches humility as practitioners are constantly learning and sometimes being bested by opponents. This learning process helps individuals accept their limitations, learn from their mistakes, and remain open to continuous improvement.
Body Awareness and Coordination:
Through learning and executing techniques, practitioners develop a better understanding of body mechanics and improve their coordination. This heightened body awareness is beneficial not only in BJJ but in other physical activities and daily life.
Engaging in BJJ offers a holistic approach to personal development, touching on physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Whether you're looking for a new physical challenge, self-defense skills, or a supportive community, BJJ has something valuable to offer.