Beginner Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Portland for Adults

Grapple Combatives® is our beginner Jiu-Jitsu program for adults who want to learn practical Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) self-defense techniques and fighting principles.

The class is highly structured, methodical, noncompetitive, and collaborative.  It is intentionally designed by instructional designers and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belts for students of all fitness and experience levels who want to build confidence and develop a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This program is well suited for students who value:

• A clear and organized curriculum rather than an unpredictable move-of-the-day format. 
• Consistent expectations and measurable progress. 
• A transparent promotion structure without unnecessary ambiguity. 
• Evidence-informed teaching methods grounded in the learning sciences and designed to promote confidence, motivation, and long-term skill development. 

Grapple Combatives® teaches students 38 essential Jiu-Jitsu techniques and their variations through a structured, rotating 24-class curriculum.

Students learn Jiu-Jitsu positions, escapes, controls, guard passes, counters, grips, submissions, takedowns, and how to use leverage, timing, body positioning, and their body weight effectively against both smaller and larger opponents. The program is designed to help students build practical, real-world self-defense skills while developing a strong technical foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

After completing 100 Beginner classes, students earn the coveted Grapple Combatives Belt and receive a Certificate of Completion. This milestone marks the transition from the Beginner class to the Advanced class, where students work toward earning the Blue Belt and continue progressing through the traditional Jiu-Jitsu belt system. 

Program Progression

38 Techniques + 24-Class Curriculum + 100 Beginner Classes = Combatives Belt + Certificate of Completion.