Welcome to a place where martial arts transforms lives through friendship, family, and dedication. At Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, we’ve been building a supportive community since our instructor, Andrew Eidson, first stepped onto the mat. Whether you’re seeking self-defense training, physical fitness, or a positive environment for your family, our academy offers more than just self-defense techniques. We provide a home where every member grows stronger together. Our non-ego approach and process-oriented philosophy create the perfect atmosphere for students of all ages and skill levels to thrive.
Meet the Instructor
Andrew Eidson started practicing Judo in 1992 as a junior high student who wanted to learn martial arts after watching The Karate Kid. His interest in takedowns and ground techniques led him to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 1999, where he trained under 6th-degree black belt Paulo Fernando Agusto. After earning his black belt in both arts and testing in São Paulo, Brazil, Andrew now holds a 3rd-degree black belt in BJJ. He spent years as Paulo’s assistant instructor at one of San Diego County’s largest academies before opening his school. Andrew’s teaching philosophy has evolved from creating competitors to supporting families and building community connections. He finds coaching kids particularly rewarding, watching their confidence and behavior transform through consistent training.
Our Mission
Our mission centers on creating a family-friendly environment where Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, becomes a vehicle for personal growth and community connection. We believe that training programs should support not just competitors and fighters, but families seeking positive change in their lives. By focusing on the journey rather than just the destination, we help students develop confidence, discipline, and lasting friendships. Our academy is a testament to martial arts’ transformative power when practiced in a supportive, non-intimidating atmosphere.
WHAT IS 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…
WHAT IS JUDO?
Judo is an Olympic sport and martial art that originated in Japan over 100 years ago. Today judo is the most widely practiced martial art…
KIDS JUDO & BJJ
Building the champions of tomorrow today
At the EIDSON BJJ Academy, we believe that the training your child receives will last a lifetime! JUDO…
Why Choose Us
When selecting an academy to teach you Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, you want more than just technical instruction. You need a place that aligns with your values and supports your goals.
OUR CLASSES at Jiu Jitsu San Diego
Transform Your Life Through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu represents a complete martial arts system that changes how you approach physical fitness and mental challenges. We focus on teaching practical grappling techniques that work regardless of your size or athletic background.
Physical and Mental Benefits You'll Experience
Training in Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, delivers comprehensive fitness improvements that go beyond traditional workouts. Your core strength increases dramatically through constant movement and position changes. Flexibility improves naturally as you learn escapes and submissions.
The mental benefits prove equally valuable:
- Problem-solving skills sharpen through live sparring sessions
- Stress melts away during focused training periods
- Confidence grows with each technique you master
- Decision-making improves in high-pressure situations
- Patience develops through consistent practice
How Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Compares to Other Martial Arts
Unlike striking-based martial arts, Jiu Jitsu specializes in ground combat, where most real fights end up. We teach control positions that allow you to neutralize threats without throwing punches. This approach reduces injury risk during training while providing superior self-defense capabilities.
Key differences include:
- Safe sparring at full intensity daily
- Techniques work against resisting opponents
- No reliance on athletic attributes alone
- Practical applications for real situations
- Progressive skill development through rolling
Your Future Growth in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Long-term Jiu Jitsu practice in San Diego, CA, creates lasting positive changes in your life. Students develop discipline that extends into careers and relationships. The problem-solving nature of our art keeps your mind sharp as you age.
Future benefits include:
- Leadership skills through helping newer students
- Travel opportunities for seminars and competitions
- Lifelong friendships within our community
- Physical fitness that adapts with age
- Continuous learning that never gets boring
Starting your Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, path today at Eidon Brazilian Jiu Jitsu means investing in a healthier, more confident version of yourself. We welcome new students year-round and provide all the guidance you need to succeed in this rewarding martial art.
Master the Art of Judo
Judo provides students with powerful throwing techniques and ground control methods that develop both physical prowess and mental discipline. The beauty of Judo lies in its efficiency. You’ll learn to redirect an opponent’s force against them, making size differences less important. This Japanese martial art builds explosive power while teaching respect and humility through traditional practices.
Solving Common Athletic Challenges Through Judo
Many people struggle with coordination, balance, or fear of falling. Judo directly addresses these issues through systematic training. We start with simple rolling movements and progress to confident high-impact breakfalls. This foundation removes the fear that holds back athletic development.
Our approach tackles specific problems:
- Poor body awareness improves through partner drills
- Limited flexibility increases via dynamic warm-ups
- Weak grip strength develops through Gi training
- Low confidence grows through successful techniques
Building Skills That Last a Lifetime
Judo offers a martial art you can practice well into your senior years. The techniques adapt to your changing physical abilities while maintaining effectiveness. At Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen students continue training productively into their 70s.
Long-term practice provides ongoing rewards:
- Technical knowledge deepens with each decade
- Teaching opportunities emerge as you advance
- Physical fitness is maintained through regular training
- Mental sharpness is preserved via strategic thinking
- Community bonds strengthen over shared experiences
Your investment in Judo training pays dividends throughout life. The throws and pins you learn today become instinctive movements that serve you forever.
Discover Complete Martial Arts Training
Martial Arts training offers a comprehensive path to personal development that goes far beyond simple self-defense techniques. We combine traditional values with modern training methods to create well-rounded practitioners. Our programs integrate multiple disciplines, including Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, to provide students with versatile skills for any situation.
Life-Changing Benefits You'll Gain
Regular Martial Arts practice delivers rewards that extend well beyond the training mat. The advantages multiply over time and can include:
- Easier weight management through intense workouts
- Improved sleep quality because of physical exhaustion
- Sharpened focus through mindful practice sessions
- Decrease anxiety as confidence grows
- Increased energy levels with improved fitness
How Training Impacts Your Daily Life
Martial Arts training at Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu creates positive ripple effects throughout your entire existence. The discipline you develop during class transfers directly to work productivity and personal relationships.
Real-world improvements include:
- Conflict resolution skills from controlled sparring
- Leadership abilities through helping newer students
- Time management from balancing training schedules
- Personal accountability through rank progression
- Emotional intelligence from reading opponents
Your Path Forward in Martial Arts
The transformation begins with your first class. Our experienced instructors guide you through each technique while fostering an environment of mutual respect and support. Join us to experience how Martial Arts training enhances every aspect of your life.
Future opportunities await:
- Competition experiences to test your skills
- Instructor certification for teaching others
- Cross-training in multiple disciplines
- International seminar participation
- Mentorship roles within our community
Practical Self-Defense Training
Self-defense skills provide essential protection that everyone needs in today’s unpredictable world. We teach reality-based techniques rooted in Jiu Jitsu principles that work when confrontation becomes unavoidable. Our training focuses on simple, effective movements that anyone can perform under stress.
The foundation of good self-defense starts with awareness and prevention. Students learn to recognize dangerous situations before they escalate while developing the physical tools to protect themselves if needed. We emphasize control and restraint, teaching you to neutralize threats without excessive force. This balanced approach keeps you safe legally and physically.
The Real Impact of Defense Training
Self-defense education transforms how you move through the world with newfound awareness and confidence. Your posture changes, projecting strength that often prevents confrontations before they begin. The physical conditioning from our classes builds functional fitness that serves you in emergencies.
Training creates measurable changes:
- Heightened environmental awareness in public spaces
- Faster reflexes from repetitive defensive drills
- Stronger grip for controlling aggressive individuals
- Better balance during unexpected physical contact
- Calmer responses to threatening situations
Understanding Modern Defense Principles
Effective self-defense combines physical techniques with psychological preparation and knowledge. At Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, we teach the complete picture of personal protection. Our comprehensive approach ensures you’re prepared mentally and physically for real-world encounters. The confidence gained through consistent training radiates into every aspect of your daily life. Take control of your safety by joining our proven program today.
Core educational components:
- Threat assessment and avoidance strategies
- Verbal boundaries and assertive communication
- Physical techniques scaled to threat levels
- Post-incident protocols and reporting procedures
- Continuous improvement through scenario training
Empowering Youth Through Our Kids Program
Our Kids Program introduces children to the exciting world of martial arts through age-appropriate instruction and engaging activities. Young students develop coordination, discipline, and confidence while learning fundamental Jiu Jitsu techniques in a safe environment. We structure classes to keep children motivated and challenged at every skill level.
Addressing Common Childhood Challenges
Many parents struggle with children who lack focus, confidence, or physical coordination. Our structured training directly addresses these concerns through proven methods that engage young minds and bodies.
We help overcome typical obstacles:
- Short attention spans improve through engaging drills
- Social anxiety decreases via partner exercises
- Physical awkwardness transforms into fluid movement
- Behavioral issues are resolved through clear expectations
- Academic struggles lessen with improved concentration
Essential Information for Parents
Understanding how our Kids Program operates helps parents make informed decisions about their child’s martial arts journey. Classes run in 45-minute sessions designed to match children’s attention spans while maximizing learning. We group students by age and experience to ensure appropriate challenges for everyone.
Program fundamentals include:
- Belt progression system motivating continuous improvement
- Safety protocols preventing injuries during training
- Parent observation areas for watching progress
- Regular feedback meetings discussing individual development
- Special events for building community among families
Dynamic Training in Our Teen Program
The Teen Program bridges the gap between youth classes and adult training with specialized instruction tailored to adolescent development. Teenagers need more than just physical activity; they need purpose and community. We create an environment where teens push their limits safely while building lasting friendships with peers who share their dedication to martial arts excellence.
Proactive Development for Life Success
Starting martial arts during teenage years establishes healthy habits that prevent common adolescent pitfalls. Regular training provides a positive outlet for stress and energy while building the discipline needed for academic success. Teens who train consistently develop time management skills that benefit them in school and future careers.
Preventive benefits include:
- Avoiding negative peer influences through a positive community
- Building resilience before major life challenges arise
- Developing conflict resolution skills early
- Creating fitness habits that last into adulthood
- Establishing goal-setting patterns for future success
The Evolution of Teen Training Methods
Traditional martial arts often treated teenagers as either large children or small adults, missing their specific developmental needs. Modern teen programs recognize that adolescents require specialized coaching that addresses their changing bodies and minds. We’ve refined our approach over the years of working with this age group.
Historical improvements show:
- Adapted techniques for growing bodies and joints
- Age-appropriate leadership opportunities within classes
- Competitive pathways designed for teen development
- Mentorship programs connecting teens with adult students
- Recognition systems that motivate continued progress
Solving Teenage Struggles Through Training
Parents often watch their outgoing children become withdrawn during adolescence. Our program tackles these common teenage challenges head-on. At Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, teens rediscover their confidence through measurable skill improvement and supportive peer relationships.
We address specific issues:
- Screen addiction can be reduced through engaging in physical activity
- Social isolation overcome via training partnerships
- Low self-esteem is rebuilt through achievement recognition
- Aggression channeled into controlled competition
The teenage years shape future adults, and our program ensures that transformation happens positively. Watch your teen grow into a capable, confident leader through consistent training.
Transform Your Fitness with Our Adults’ Program
The Adults Program welcomes practitioners of all experience levels into a supportive community focused on personal growth and physical development. We recognize that adult students bring diverse backgrounds and goals to their training, from stress relief to competition preparation. Our flexible class schedule accommodates busy professionals while providing consistent opportunities to master Jiu Jitsu fundamentals in San Diego, CA, and advanced techniques.
Adults Training Versus Other Fitness Options
Traditional gym memberships often lead to monotonous routines and eventual abandonment. Our martial arts training offers dynamic workouts that change daily while building practical skills. Unlike isolated weight training or cardio sessions, every class engages your entire body and mind simultaneously.
Key differences from conventional fitness:
- Personal attention versus anonymous gym crowds
- Skill development alongside physical conditioning
- Mental engagement through problem-solving scenarios
- Social connections replacing workout isolation
- Measurable progress through belt advancement
Building Sustainable Practice for Life
Adult martial artists at Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu continue training well into their golden years by adapting techniques to their evolving capabilities. We emphasize proper body mechanics and intelligent training methods that preserve joint health while maintaining effectiveness.
Long-term training considerations:
- Technique refinement compensates for decreased athleticism
- Teaching opportunities emerge as knowledge deepens
- Modified training intensity preserves body longevity
- Continuous learning prevents mental stagnation
- Community support maintains motivation through life changes
Your Future in Adult Martial Arts
Beginning your Adults Program journey today opens doors to competitions, seminars, and leadership roles within our academy. Many students discover passions they never expected, from tournament success to becoming instructors themselves. The skills developed extend beyond physical techniques into improved professional performance and personal relationships.
Future possibilities include:
- Local and international competition participation
- Instructor certification and teaching opportunities
- Travel for training camps and seminars
- Mentoring newer students in their journey
- Lifelong friendships with training partners
Adult life brings unique stresses and physical challenges that our program addresses directly. Whether seeking fitness, self-defense, or community connection, you’ll find your place within our welcoming environment. Take the first step toward becoming the strongest version of yourself.
Benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Physical Fitness and Strength
Focusing on improving your physical fitness and building strength is at the heart of learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The training sessions are designed to be rigorous, pushing you to your limits and ensuring that you build the muscular endurance and power needed for effective self-defense.
You’ll see a significant improvement in your overall fitness, as these classes incorporate various techniques that work out all muscle groups. Such intense workouts don’t just boost your ability to defend yourself, but also contribute positively to your health and well-being.
Self-Defense Skills
We emphasize adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a core component of our curriculum because it’s proven to be one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense. This training not only equips you with the necessary skills to defend against larger or stronger attackers, but also instills in you a heightened sense of awareness about your surroundings.
Mental Discipline and Focus
Practicing martial arts does more than improve physical strength; it sharpens your mind, teaching you how to stay calm and focused when under pressure. We are committed to guiding our students through this transformative experience, ensuring they develop not only physically but mentally as well.
Stress Relief and Confidence Building
At this Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy, you can find an excellent way to let go of the day’s stress. This deep focus during practice acts like a mental purge, pushing away all worries and bringing in a wave of calmness.
Practicing Jiu Jitsu doesn’t just lower stress but also greatly increases your confidence. Each training session brings challenges that, once conquered, make you feel stronger and more capable.
Why Clients Love Jiu Jitsu San Diego
FAQs
Do I need previous experience to start training?
No previous martial arts experience is necessary to begin your journey with us. Our instructors excel at introducing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, to complete beginners while still challenging advanced students. We structure our classes to accommodate different skill levels, ensuring everyone receives appropriate instruction and can progress at their own pace.
What age is too late for Jiu Jitsu?
There’s no age limit for starting Jiu Jitsu at our academy, and we’ve successfully taught students who began training in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s. BJJ in San Diego relies on leverage and technique rather than strength or speed, making it ideal for older beginners who want effective self-defense training. We modify techniques as needed and ensure everyone trains at a comfortable pace.
Is Jiu Jitsu 2 times a week enough?
Most students see significant improvements with training 2-3 times per week, though we encourage consistency over intensity. Our process-oriented approach means we celebrate progress at every level, whether you train twice a week or every day. We help each student find a sustainable training schedule that fits their lifestyle and goals.
What should I expect in my first class?
Your first class introduces you to our welcoming community and fundamental Jiu Jitsu concepts in San Diego, CA. You’ll participate in a warm-up, learn basic techniques, and have the opportunity to practice with helpful partners. Our instructors ensure new students feel comfortable and supported, focusing on making your introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, positive and engaging.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Earning a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, typically takes 8-12 years of consistent training, though this varies based on individual dedication and training frequency. We focus on skill development rather than rushing through belt ranks, ensuring each student builds a solid foundation. Our process-oriented approach means you’ll develop real proficiency at each level before advancing.
Do I need any prior martial arts experience to join?
Not at all! We have students ranging from 1st day beginners to 20-year veterans. We encourage you to join us for a session to get a feel for the energy we look to cultivate – one with a welcoming air, where families can come and grow together through a sport that will pay dividends on your future and confidence!
What should I wear for my first class?
That depends on what class you’d like to take! We sell everything you might need here in the dojo, so if you have questions, please connect with our friendly staff by calling us directly at 858-245-2107 or scheduling through our website!
How often should I train to see progress?
Consistent training is key to seeing measurable progress. Typically, students who attend classes 2 to 3 times per week experience steady improvements in their technical skills, physical fitness, and mental discipline. Eidson BJJ provides diverse class offerings throughout the week, including fundamentals, intermediate, and judo sessions, ensuring ample opportunities to train regularly. Ultimately, maintaining a consistent and balanced training schedule, while allowing adequate recovery time, is recommended for optimal development and progress.
Are there classes for different skill levels?
Yes, Eidson BJJ offers classes tailored to various skill levels, ensuring all students receive appropriate instruction:
Fundamentals Classes: Designed for beginners, emphasizing foundational techniques and essential concepts.
Intermediate Classes: Cater to students with more experience, focusing on advanced techniques and strategy.
Open-Level Sessions: Suitable for all skill levels, providing opportunities to practice and improve technique in diverse scenarios.
Kids and Teens Classes: Segmented by age and belt level, these classes ensure age-appropriate and skill-specific development.
This structured approach allows students of all experience levels to progress comfortably and effectively.
Is BJJ safe? What measures are in place to prevent injuries?
Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is generally safe, especially when practiced under the guidance of qualified instructors, such as those at Eidson BJJ. The academy prioritizes student safety by implementing several measures to prevent injuries:
Professional Instruction:
Classes are led by experienced instructors—3rd-degree black belt Andrew Eidson and 7th-degree coral belt Sensei Paulo Fernando—who emphasize correct technique, control, and respectful training practices.Structured Curriculum:
Classes are carefully designed to match students’ skill levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced) to ensure appropriate progression and minimize injury risks.Safety and Conduct Guidelines:
Eidson BJJ maintains a strict code of conduct emphasizing respect, discipline, and control, creating an ego-free environment that reduces the likelihood of unnecessary risks.Controlled Training Environment:
Students train on specialized, padded mats designed to absorb impact and decrease injury potential during throws, falls, and groundwork.Supervised Sparring (Rolling):
Sparring sessions are closely supervised, with instructors actively monitoring to ensure safety and intervening when necessary.Proper Warm-Ups and Conditioning:
Classes typically include warm-up exercises, stretches, and drills to improve flexibility, strength, and conditioning, further reducing injury risks.
By adhering to these practices, Eidson BJJ maintains a safe, supportive, and positive training environment, effectively minimizing injuries and promoting healthy progression.
Can children participate in BJJ classes?
Yes, children can participate in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes at Eidson BJJ. The academy offers a specialized Kids Program tailored specifically for children aged 4 and up, featuring:
Age-Appropriate Classes: Lessons are structured according to age and belt level to ensure proper physical and skill development.
Combined BJJ and Judo Training: Classes integrate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo techniques, promoting balance, coordination, and foundational self-defense skills.
Focus on Personal Growth: Emphasis is placed on building self-esteem, discipline, confidence, and teamwork within a safe and supportive environment.
Experienced Instruction: Led by qualified instructors who prioritize child safety, patience, and positive reinforcement.
Overall, Eidson BJJ provides an encouraging, structured, and nurturing atmosphere ideal for children’s physical, emotional, and social development.
What are the membership options and fees?
Memberships vary based on your preferences and needs. Please call us at (858) 245-2107 for more information!
How does BJJ benefit physical and mental health?
Physical Health Benefits:
Improved Cardiovascular Fitness:
Regular BJJ training involves continuous movement and grappling exercises that boost heart health and endurance.Increased Strength and Muscle Tone:
BJJ develops core strength, muscular endurance, and overall functional strength through dynamic grappling movements and techniques.Enhanced Flexibility and Mobility:
Techniques require full-body movements and stretches, increasing flexibility, joint mobility, and reducing injury risks.Balance and Coordination:
The practice of throws, sweeps, and positional control significantly improves body awareness, balance, and motor coordination.Weight Management:
BJJ sessions are physically demanding and calorie-intensive, aiding weight loss and healthy weight maintenance.
Mental Health Benefits:
Stress Relief:
Regular practice serves as a healthy outlet for stress, anxiety, and frustration by channeling energy constructively.Increased Confidence:
Mastering techniques and successfully overcoming physical challenges boost self-esteem, self-confidence, and a sense of achievement.Discipline and Focus:
Structured training reinforces discipline, mindfulness, and concentration, which positively impact daily life and productivity.Resilience and Emotional Control:
BJJ teaches patience, perseverance, and emotional resilience through challenging yet rewarding training scenarios.Community and Social Connection:
Training in a supportive, respectful, and family-friendly environment like Eidson BJJ fosters strong community bonds and friendships, enhancing emotional well-being.
Overall, consistent participation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Eidson BJJ significantly contributes to holistic health and personal development.
Who are the instructors and what are their qualifications?
Andrew Eidson – Head Instructor
Martial Arts Journey: Andrew began practicing Judo in 1992 and transitioned to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in 1999 under the mentorship of Paulo Fernando Agusto.
Qualifications: He holds black belts in both Judo and BJJ, having tested for his BJJ black belt in São Paulo, Brazil, and is registered under the Federação Paulista de Jiu-Jitsu.
Current Rank: 3rd-degree black belt in BJJ.
Teaching Philosophy: Andrew emphasizes a family-friendly, respectful, and ego-free environment, fostering personal growth and discipline among students of all ages and skill levels.
Sensei Paulo Fernando – Mentor and Advisor
Martial Arts Background: Sensei Paulo has been training in martial arts since 1974, starting Judo at the age of 4 under Shigueto Yamasaki, a protégé of Riuzo Ogawa, the founder of Judo in Brazil.
Qualifications: He is uniquely distinguished as the only individual to concurrently hold a 7th-degree (Shichidan) coral belt in both Judo and BJJ
Competitive Achievements: Sensei Paulo has won 34 gold medals in various Judo championships, including the Brazilian Nationals, California State Championship, and Pan American Masters Judo Championship
Contributions to Martial Arts: After moving to San Diego in 1997, he established one of the largest martial arts academies in the U.S., significantly contributing to the growth of BJJ and Judo in America.
Become Who You’re Meant to Be With Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA
Ready to start training at the best jiu jitsu academy in San Diego, CA? Eidson Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers expert instruction in a welcoming, family-focused environment where students of all ages develop real self-defense skills. Check our Yelp reviews to see why families choose us for their martial arts training. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for training tips and community updates, or call 858-245-2107 today to schedule your first class and discover how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, CA, can improve your fitness, confidence, and overall well-being.