Lineage BJJ
44723 St Andrews Church Rd, California, MD 20619, USA
Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in St. Mary’s County, MD. Kids & adults. Four-time state champions, world champions, submission-only training. Try our FREE 7-day intro pass.
44723 St Andrews Church Rd, California, MD 20619, USA
Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in St. Mary’s County, MD. Kids & adults. Four-time state champions, world champions, submission-only training. Try our FREE 7-day intro pass.
Lineage has made me feel comfortable and welcome as a new student. Their instruction is organized and informative. The staff and students are fun and professional. The environment is awesome. Everyone is always willing to share their knowledge and the facility is clean. Couldn't ask for much more from a gym. I highly recommend this gym if you're thinking about starting a journey in BJJ.
Posted 9 months agoLineage BJJ has an excellent instructor who is patient, knowledgeable and makes every class enjoyable. The instruction is clear, the environment is welcoming, and I feel confident in my daughter’s BJJ skills after each session. Highly recommend for anyone looking for quality martial arts training for their kids.
Posted 10 months agoI love Lineage BJJ! The instructors are knowledgeable and patient with my kids and still help them become disciplined. Coach Kevin is super supportive and encourages all the kids! The equipment is clean and well maintained- never a dirty gym smell! The location is convenient and easy to find. We have become an BJJ family and are excited to continue our skills for years to come!
Posted 10 months agoMy son has been training at Lineage BJJ for the past week and a half, and the instructors are simply the best. They’re knowledgeable, firm yet patient, and create a friendly, well-organized environment. It’s the perfect place to help channel my active 5-year-old’s energy in a positive way. I love how supportive everyone is, and we’ll definitely keep coming back!
Posted 10 months agoFrom the first day we started, the staff at Lineage BJJ made my family and I feel comfortable right away. The discipline in every class is impressive and the instructors clearly know their BJJ and Jiu Jitsu. I love the supportive camaraderie among the students – everyone is encouraging and respectful. The professionalism of the teachers shows in how they run each session and keep the atmosphere clean and focused. I always leave feeling more confident in my self defense skills and grateful for the positive environment. My husband and I highly recommend for anyone looking for quality martial arts training.
Posted 10 months agoThe advanced classes were very informative and the coach had a good sense of humor. There was always a primary focus on a specific technique when drilling and not a lot of jumping around. The gym had a lot of talented guys that allowed lower belts to work and gave educated tips.
I travel for work. And it seems like it is so hard to find gyms that is inviting and is willing to let you train. Luckily I walked into lineage Bjj and they were arms open on allowing me there and get my rounds in. I appreciate these guys and I will continue to go here anytime I’m in the area.
I love going to Lineage BJJ. I have trained there since 2023. The staff, coaches and students are extremely supportive and challenge you to be better. I would recommend that anyone who is even slightly interested in martial arts and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to join Lineage BJJ!
We’ve loved having our kids at Lineage!
Lineage BJJ is an outstanding jiu-jitsu school with a fun and welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable. The staff are incredibly friendly, helpful, and always quick to respond to any questions, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. They place a strong emphasis on safety, creating a comfortable environment for everyone, especially beginners like myself. If you're looking for a place to train where you're greeted with open arms and excellent guidance, Lineage BJJ is the perfect choice!
Love this place! I have attended a few of the self defense seminars. All of the instructors are great, friendly & informative!
Quick to respond my email with a phone call to schedule getting the waver done to get me in the next class I could go to . Very kind layed back gym as well as knowledgeable instructors. Great atmosphere will continue to stop by when in town. Front desk, instructors, and students were very welcoming
We absolutely love coming here! The instructors are excellent. They have a lot of patience and really care about teaching. We've had a blast and have and will continue to recommend!!
When I first called Lineage BJJ to ask about the classes, I spoke with the owner who was extremely professional, informative, and transparent. I could hear the passion in his voice while also explaining the difference between these and other martial arts. It was clear he wanted me to be well-informed before making a decision. I signed up our 7-year old son for classes here and they offered a free class and a 10-day trial for $10, which really gave us the perfect amount of time to decide if this was a good fit for him, which it has been. A great mix of discipline with really cool techniques and I appreciate that to level up takes time, hard work, and showing respect to the instructors. In addition, Lineage BJJ hosted a women's self defense class, which probably had close to 50 women and it was absolutely free! I walked away with 6 techniques for if I'm ever in a situation with an aggressor that truly work and are easy to remember. For practice (and fun) I had my brother, who is 6ft, 185lbs, 35 years old, and in great shape, attempt to pull my pony tail from behind. I got a little too into it and successfully took him down to the ground. He was not expecting it, and honestly, neither was I! I should mention I'm 5'7" and don't have much upper body strength. Overall, I recommend trying it out and you can sign-up for month-to-month or a year and then month-to-month. They are willing to work with you. Whitney at the front desk is phenomenal as well and we just felt like family the moment we stepped foot.
While recently visiting southern Maryland, I had the opportunity to train at Lineage BJJ. From the first email exchange, I was impressed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Kevin, the coach for the three classes I attended, was not only knowledgeable but also extremely approachable. He made sure I felt comfortable and included in all activities. The members of the gym were equally welcoming. It was clear that the gym fosters a strong sense of community, which made training with them enjoyable and fun. If you're ever in the area and looking for a place to train, I highly recommend stopping by Lineage BJJ.
Our 4 year old does the mat munchkins program and really enjoys it. The teachers are patient and the facility is clean
Love coming to train here on Sundays . Staff and students are super inviting and friendly. Definitely recommend training at this facility.
So far so good.. I enjoyed watching and learning the steps by step instructions to put a person in a position to leave you alone.. Good defense..
Today our 4 year old son did a drop in free class to see if this would be a good fit from him. From the initial phone conversation, the venue to the actual class was nothing but a great experience! The instructors were so helpful and informative for the parents and there were 3 instructors for the mat munchkins 4-5 year olds class of about 12 children which gave all the children the attention they needed and the instructors were so great with the kids also. The venue was very clean; you can tell they take great pride in their establishment. My husband and I have been looking with trial and error trying to find something to get our son involved with to give him structure , a sense of being a part of something and have fun. We couldn't be more happy with this drop in class. Our son immediately said he wanted to go back and said he had so much fun. So, it looks like we're signing him up! We would recommend Lineage BJJ to any parent who is looking for getting their child in something fun and rewarding!
Lineage BJJ Academy stands out as a community where camaraderie and skill development go hand in hand. The welcoming atmosphere is perfect for anyone starting their Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to hone their skills. Coaches and fellow practitioners alike are dedicated to mutual improvement, making every session both educational and enjoyable. My kids have thrived in the academy's kids classes, enjoying the engaging lessons and excelling in competitions. Whether you're aiming for competition or seeking a unique form of exercise and self-defense, this academy caters to all. It's a place where goals are respected and supported, creating a truly inclusive environment. Joining Lineage BJJ feels like becoming part of a family, one that's enthusiastic about sharing the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
I had an incredible experience at Lineage Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The instructor demonstrated remarkable ability, providing thorough and patient guidance in each class I attended. His expertise was evident, & he fostered a supportive and safe environment for students of all levels. Kevin was intuitive but still took the time to understand individual goals and limitations, ensuring a personalized learning experience. He made learning enjoyable and comfortable for everyone. The camaraderie between students was a standout feature of this school. The sense of community and support among the members was palpable. I was just a drop in from out of town, but I felt welcomed and encouraged by fellow practitioners. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced student, the positive atmosphere is infectious, creating an environment that promotes growth and camaraderie. Overall, this Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school excels in instructor ability, care for the students, and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. It's a place where you not only learn a martial art but also become part of a supportive family. Can’t wait to come back!
I’ve been training at the St Mary’s location for 2+ years and I love it. The instruction and coaching provided is top notch and the students who train here are all great people. You will quickly see that there’s no end to what you can learn and accomplish in this martial art. I would say Lineage bjj is hands down the best place to start your Jiu Jitsu journey!
I am having a fantastic experience with Lineage. Jim, the owner, has created a phenomenal culture here of kindness, consideration, inclusiveness, courage, safety, and respect for each student and teacher. I am a 50 year old, 5’2” 120 lb woman starting Jiu Jitsu for the first time. At any age or size this can be both humbling and intimidating, and everyone I have worked with at Lineage has been encouraging, patient, respectful, and helped me feel safe as I learn. It’s been a phenomenal experience and I so appreciate the transparency, teaching style, leadership, and camaraderie of the team here. Thanks gang!
Outstanding place to train! Jim and his staff are professional, and care deeply about teaching. Student safety is taken seriously. The atmosphere is open and inviting. You couldn't ask for a better place to learn BJJ.
Best Martial Arts school in SOMD! Coaches are great with my kids, and when time allows I try to get on the Mat as much as I can. 6am has definitely been a game changer! Also was able to lose 20 pounds with a healthy diet.
The absolute best place to learn Jiu Jitsu in the area! No other school/academy can compare. The knowledge of coach Kevin and coach Seth has enhanced my game quicker and further than any other place I’ve ever been to and any other coach I’ve had. If you are serious about learning Jiu Jitsu for either self defense, sport or both, there is no other place that compares.
Wish I would have started earlier! Lineage has been a great, their coaches and the attendees really look out for one another and everyone there is open and ready to make each other better.
Lineage is an amazing school with a community that is helpful and feels like family.
I dropped in for a week and the members were welcoming. The instructors were very knowledgeable and explained things in detail. Very clean facility. I would stop by again.
My son started classes at Lineage BJJ this past March. He was cautious and timid at first but quickly came out of his shell here. The instructors are amazing with the kids and everyone is extremely welcoming. Facility is always clean which is a huge plus. Would certainly recommend!
Lineage BJJ is a school with top notch instructors. I was visiting family in town and dropped in. Jim and Gary were very welcoming. Professor Tran taught a very detailed class with great instruction. I look forward to the next time I get to train with this group
I've been taking my son here for over six months now and it has been a really great experience. The teachers are knowledgeable and work with the kids well. My son is always excited to go and really appreciates the challenge. I also appreciate the way the school does billing. Buy a gi, pay the monthly fee and that's it. What you see is what you pay and you don't need a spreadsheet to figure out the monthly cost like I've seen at some junk karate places. It's worth the time and money for sure.
Great place!! My kids love it. The instructor are very professional and great with the kids. Definitely recommend checking them out!
As someone with no experience in martial arts I was nervous to start, but I felt comfortable as soon as I walked in the door. The attitude of the staff shows that this is not just a business but a passion. They are very knowledgeable and go above and beyond to make sure that every student is learning. The other students are also very welcoming and are great partners to practice techniques with. The building is very clean. I look forward to every class, and highly recommend!
Lineage offers Gi and No Gi BJJ and also incorporates self defense and takedowns, making it a very well rounded discipline. I’ve been very pleased with the instruction, the friendly community, and the clean facility. I highly recommend giving it a shot to anyone who is on the fence.
I’ve traveled and trained with people from all over the country. We are truly lucky to have Seth and Jim as our coach’s! The whole gym atmosphere is amazing.
I started as a total novice to BJJ and martial arts in general, but everyone at the gym was so welcoming and helpful! The coaches are both personable and professional. The facility is very clean. The community encourages each other to excel. Highly recommend!
This is a great school for children and adults. My 7 yr old son was nervous for his first lesson, but the engaging teaching and environment had him excited to continue going. I can't wait for the larger facility to be open! EDIT- Larger facility is now open and I have been taking classes as well. It is enormously rewarding, and a very welcoming environment for adults new to BJJ.
I attended a self defense workshop at Lineage BJJ as part of my company's wellness program. Before this session I had zero experience with Jiu Jitsu nor had I ever had self defense training. Jim was a wonderful instructor. He broke the session into various situations that we (we happened to be all women) might find ourselves in and very patiently worked with each of us so we could practice and experience how the defense moves felt as the attacker and the bystander. He even changed the class on the fly based on our questions, and provided an incredibly insightful and valuable course. I would go back to Linage BJJ for more training, and will spread the word to other groups who would benefit from the same type of session.
I took a class with some coworkers and Jim provided detailed and easy to follow instruction. We had so much fun and learned a lot of self defense techniques. The facility is clean and bright and the staff is welcoming. I am excited to take more classes in the near future! Thanks Jim!
I first attended a class at Lineage BJJ in July 2022 with a group of coworkers as part of our wellness group. The class was offered as a top-level tactics training for self-defense. It just so happened that our class was all female and Jim Thrift was able to tailor his lesson to need-to-know moves based on Jiu Jitsu techniques. This was a fantastic class. I learned so much in a short period of time and truly feel more confident with the lessons he shared with us. I highly recommend Jim and Lineage BJJ as an avenue for women seeking to be more confident and learn skills to keep them safe in unpredictable situations.
Great place to learn self defense and Jiujitsu that works. Very friendly, clean, and positive environment to train
This place is amazing. I’ve never been in such a large, open gym that didn’t have pillars in the way and is as clean as it is. Jim the owner, is a veteran and can relate to a lot of the members. You can tell he takes pride in this gym. As an active duty member myself, I don’t have much family nearby and some of the folks have been able to fill that role for me. I look forward to the days I get to go (when my work schedule allows it).
Lineage BJJ is a great place to train whether you are new to the sport or have prior exprience. Teachers and students alike are very welcoming providing a good atmosphere to train in. If you live in the area or are passing by I recommend stopping in.
If you are in the area and looking for quality Gracie Jiu Jitsu look no further. The instructors here are awesome and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend bringing you and your children here to train self defense and confidence. Thank you Jim, Paul, Chris and Gary for letting me come visit and train with you.
I know that it can initially feel intimidating. You have this idea, that you want to learn BJJ. You want to get in shape, grow your confidence, learn self-defense, or whatever it may be, but taking that first step into a world that is unfamiliar to you can seem difficult. You might think that you're too old/young/fat/skinny/tall/short.. I know because I thought the same thing. However, I made that first step and attended my first class, and I discovered something that was unexpected.. Every single person I interacted with was completely cool! Everyone was extremely welcoming and accommodating. Never once was I made to feel out of place or unwelcome. Even though I have never trained a day in my life and knew literally nothing, I was always met with patience and friendliness. This place is special, and the community there feels like a big family. Jiu Jitsu has brought so many unexpected benefits into my life, and if it can work for me, I have no doubt that it can work for you too, regardless of who you are or whatever perceived limitations that you might feel about it.
Excellent Academy to workout at. Jim, Paul, Chris, and the rest of the cadre are very knowledgeable and fun to work with. They promote safety and cleanliness while instructing on tried and true techniques. Strongly recommend for any age student. My daughter and I love this place!
Great place to train ! The Professors and coaches are outstanding! Student safety is strongly emphasized while training. Friendly atmosphere ,the facility is very clean and comfortable.
Lineage BJJ is an exceptional academy with training for all experience levels! I’m 25 and just starting but I cannot express just how accessible Jiu Jitsu is! Whether you’re 50, 20, or 10, BJJ is a great way to increase your fitness, discipline, and confidence and Lineage is the place to do it here in southern MD.
Consistent, clean, and professional gym. Outstanding and personable staff. Great for beginners and advanced grapplers from all walks of life. I would recommend this gym to anyone that wants to up their Jiu Jitsu game in the St Mary’s area.
Bottom Line: Lineage Jiu-Jitsu is fantastic. These guys are a solid investment of your time and energy. Jim and the other teachers are very knowledgeable. They maintain a fresh understanding of the latest techniques through external competitions, relationships with other schools, and regular guest teachers. Most impressive to me is the amount of respect they give students. My family discovered Lineage BJJ when looking for a school for my daughter. At the time she was right on the edge of the age division between child and adult classes. We asked Jim what he recommended for her, and he recommended *she come to both and decide for herself.* This respect for the student is evident in every lesson and the way things are run. The facility is brand new and well designed. Jim has mentioned that he had a special air filtration system installed to help with COVID and other virus exposure. There is also hand sanitizer at the door, and current policy requests that only members come inside to limit exposure. Jim has a video system in place so he can record the teaching part of lessons, and he posts these regularly on the privvate Facebook page. There is only so much that can be done about germs, viruses and other nasty bugs, but Lineage BJJ is doing a bang up job.
The staff here are knowledgeable and create a friendly learning atmosphere for kids.
Jim is very good with the kids and absolutely wants to see the kids or yourself exceed with his training and technics that he teaches, I’m very happy with the experience my son has been having and the attitude of the facility and trainers! I highly recommend anyone and everyone to come and sign up and let your kids or yourself learn great technics in selfdefense in life.
It’s great place to train and very knowledgeable instructors and an awesome work out.
I cannot say enough great things about Lineage BJJ!!! It’s instructors are top notch. It is great to see black belt level BJJ instruction in Southern Maryland. I am a former D1 wrestler and been doing martial arts for nearly 33 years, so I am very particular about the gyms I train at. This is by far the best gym I have trained at on the East Coast. If you live in Southern Maryland near NAS Patuxent River, this is the BJJ place for you, It is a diamond in the rough. As an out of towner (I live in southern Cali), the hospitality the gym, instructors, and students showed me was overwhelming. What I saw was a welcoming gym for all levels of experience (from none to competition colored belt). If you are new to the sport or have children wanting to learn to defend themselves, I would highly recommend Linage BJJ. For the military in the area, this is great place to hone your skills or learn a new one. It is welcoming to the military and law enforcement. Get in here and let’s roll!!!!! Shane Skopak
My son is an extreme empath and needed some activities to help him learn discipline, how to win/lose, and self defense. I benefited greatly in my life learning martial arts and wanted to find a place that has same solid values, family oriented, and taught more than just martial arts. Great instructors, environment, and overall vibe. The classes are starting to grow a bit larger than I think is effective, but I think they are going to start offering more classes to help offset all the new members.
Our son has attended Lineage BJJ for about six months now, and not only has he become more confident, but his social skills have dramatically improved! It took him a week or so to even step foot on the mat, but he is now thriving in this environment. Coach Jim teaches more than just jujitsu, he teaches respect and discipline all while ensuring the kids are having FUN while learning. Coach Gary is also SO great with all of the kids. I am so grateful to all of the coaches!
Wonderful environment for experienced and new BJJ practitioners! Kind and excellent instructors, awesome environment. I plan on dropping in whenever possible!
This is a brand new facility that is hands down the best available in southern maryland and the best I've personally trained in. It's staffed with incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating teachers, in the form of black and brown belts. The customer service is top notch and all of my needs have been immediately met. The membership price is well worth having access to the high level bjj being taught here.
Went to my first week, and I’m hooked! Great atmosphere and quality instruction. Can’t wait to learn more!
From the first day we brought are son we knew it would be his sport. The staff is amazing with the little sharks. We look forward to may more classes in our future. Clean, nice facility with clean bathrooms and tons of changing areas.
Great experience for my five year old ! Good combination of skills , fun, and teaching kids discipline. Very clean and friendly ..only reason we stopped is we’re moving ..can’t recommend enough :)
Stepped in day one, first class and instantly felt welcomed! Like both my son (8yr) and I were family. As what I feel is the most practical real world martial arts for self defense (just my opinion) I’m very much looking forward the the discipline initiative for both my son and I. Hoping to stick with this for a long time to come.
I love lineage Bjj, everyone is so nice and helpful, it feels like we are all one big family. Jim and Shawn are awesome instructors, they make learning jiu jitsu comfortable and fun. I look forward to going to class everyday and love knowing that I am learning skills that could help keep me safe if I ever need it. 120% recommend
I have nothing but good things to say about Lineage BJJ. The instructors are very thorough when it comes to explaining the mechanics and motions of each technique. They are very welcoming to newcomers and treat everyone with respect, regardless of rank. They are also very patient and helpful when it comes to their coaching style. The learning environment is very friendly. Speaking of environment, covid-19 is taken very seriously and the level of sanitation is high enough for students to feel safe while training. If you enjoy martial arts and/or wrestling, I highly recommend training at Lineage BJJ.
I signed up back in January not knowing what to expect. I am was happily surprised with the friendliness of the staff. And how personable and professional they are to everyone. I highly recommend them to everyone!! I love and go on average about 4 night a week schedule permitting! Hope to see you on the mats!!
My son is 5 and he has so much fun! The coach’s are awesome and so patient with the younger kiddos! The gym is always clean and the girl who works the front desk is super nice and helpful with every question I’ve ever had! Would recommend to to anyone looking to get their kiddo more active and socialize !
This class has been absolutely Great for my son! They work at a pace that is comfortable for all kids. I highly recommend this program for anyone looking for self defense, or just a boost of confidence or maybe just looking for something new. Everyone who works there is really friendly and they make sure you have everything you need and answer any questions you may have.
This new facility is really nice and everyone is super nice. The instructors are great with the kids. My 7 yr old son loves coming to classes. Highly recommend!
I have 2 kids age 7 and 5 that have been attending the little sharks program at lineage BJJ for the past 5 months. That building is clean and well maintained. The program is great and both kids love it. Jim the owner is fantastic with the kids mixing in the right amount of fun with instruction. As a parent i am very happy to say the growth I have seen in both of my kids the past 5 months is something I am very proud of. Thanks Jim and the crew at lineage BJJ for everything you do! Mike, Jacob, and Lily
This is a great place to learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with phenomenal instructors. There's always an emphasis on safety during instruction. The team is patient with new students and encourage development.
My teenage daughter recently started with Lineage BJJ. She does not take easily to new sports and she loved it from day one! There is a good mix of male and female participants that makes her feel comfortable. The instructors and other students are patient with her and she enjoys coming home and showing me her new moves. I love that she is learning basic self defense skills!
This gym exceeded my expectations, I was able to add a lot more techniques to my game and tighten up the ones I already knew. Coming from a predominantly No-Gi gym I was able to learn a lot more about the Gi. The environment is very family friendly, and coaches are always helpful. Coach Jim and Coach Sean were great helps, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
I wish the ratings weren’t just good because these folks are great! Forget 5 stars - they earned more. I enrolled my son during this time of crazy COVID and it has been one of the best decisions we have made for him to get involved in. Everyone is nice and very easy to work with. The area is clean and the coaches are just phenomenal with the kids. My son is usually in about every direction like lots of 6 year olds are but here he is focused and eager to learn. I have nothing but great things to say but if you want a place for your kid that helps them learn self-discipline while at the same time building their self esteem this is the place for you.
This is the cleanest and highest quality jiu jitsu establishment I have ever been to. I think jiu jitsu is a beautiful thing meant for everyone, and this is certainly a great place to get involved and train. If you are in the area and have any interest in bjj or self defense, definitely check lineage bjj out.
The facility is incredible. More importantly my children love going to class they have a great time while learning discipline and respect. The coaches are fantastic with the children no matter age or skill level this group is second to none. So thankful to have them in our area.
My daughter Audrey Miller has been attending their little sharks class for a couple of months now! She loves it. The coaches are wonderful with the kids! They are not only learning self defense, but also respect and discipline. Highly recommend!!
This place is wonderful! My son is in the Little Sharks program and it has taken his confidence and self esteem to new heights. We’ve taken him to other martial arts programs in the area and nothing compares to Lineage BJJ. The coaches are incredible! They are super friendly, highly knowledgeable, and wonderful with children. They truly care about the kids and their families. Not only has this program boosted my son’s confidence but it has also helped teach him discipline. There’s not enough words to express how much our family loves this place.
Lineage has been close to my son's heart for almost a year. Just in that time, he has gained an immense level of confidence and skill. The leadership is extremely professional, practical and will spend the time to assist anyone.
I have been attending the Lineage BJJ St. Mary’s location for quite awhile now. It has been an experience well above and beyond what I could have expected. Jim, Jeff and Shawn all go out of their way to ensure you have a safe and fun experience in the gym. I’m addicted, and you will be too! Gracie Jiu Jitsu at its finest!
Knowledgeable and entertaining at the same time!! We have a great time at Lineage BJJ!!
As a martial arts practitioner for the past 20 years, I can write this review in good faith: Lineage BJJ is easily worth your time and money. Their instruction is quite good. Techniques are explained in detail for both concept and technical performance. Their instructors are adept at simplifying and breaking down technique for beginners and offering challenges to more advanced students. They embrace the mentality of "no-one left behind" in their efforts to help students understand and practice the martial art of BJJ. They are patient, understanding, and willing to work with everyone. I cannot recommend this martial arts studio more!
I’ve trained at several academies over the past few years and I can tell you the instruction here is top notch. The large, new facility they are building is going to be phenomenal as well.
The instructors are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They maintain a safe training environment. It's also very cool how close they are to the Gracie family, the founders of the art. This is definitely the best martial arts gym in the area.
My son has been attending since they opened and we couldn't be happier. The teachers are patient and encouraging when showing the kids how to safely perform the moves. My son has ADHD and this has been a great way for him to get some energy out while learning self defense.
The Lineage BJJ team is top notch and you couldn’t ask for a more welcoming atmosphere or team to train with. Joining was the best decision I ever made and their team has helped me get better at BJJ and feel better physically as a result. You can’t go wrong joining a world class gym like Lineage BJJ.
I’ve trained at their Calvert school for a few years because the Coaching is amazing, the mats are kept incredibly clean (that’s important!) and the other students are there to learn, not to flex egos. The St Mary’s school is exactly the same! I highly recommend you come in, bring your kids, and see these guys. You will not regret it!
I attended a BJJ class on Tuesday 8/25/20 and thoroughly impressed with the atmosphere within the academy. All the students seemed genuine and hospitable from the moment I walked through the doors. The instruction given in a way that was easily understood. Students could ask as many questions as needed until everyone was on he same page with the technique. When rolling began, everyone was respectful of everyone else. No one seemed to want and hurt or be to rough, it was very pleasing. I would recommend this academy to anyone who lives around the area. If I did not have a 1.5hr drive, I would make Lineage my BJJ home.
The people at Lineage BJJ have become a second family to me. Starting out at their Calvert location almost 3 years ago it’s great to finally have the same expert level of instruction closer to home. All of the instructors are there to help you learn and adapt the techniques to what works best for you. The training environment is welcoming and I always feel safe. Check them out and you will be hooked.
Lineage BJJ is an incredible place to train and challenge yourself. Jim and the many other instructors have created an incredible environment for students to learn, have fun and be safe. Top notch instruction and welcoming to individuals of any level. Highly recommended!
The quality of instruction and knowledge at Lineage BJJ is amazing. It is one of the best if not best schools in the Southern Maryland area. The instructors always go in depth on every thing they teach, they go step by step even break it down to the smallest amount of detail. So you fully understand the position or move they are showing. If you are looking for top quality instruction and knowledge Lineage BJJ is the place to go.
Lineage BJJ is a top quality martial arts school. The instructors are great at teaching the techniques and offer a friendly space to train. The business side is handled professionally and I feel they do it better than most schools. After training martial arts at several schools over my life, I can confidently recommend Lineage to both new and seasoned martial artists.
Excellent place to train. Trained at the original location in Calvert for a year or so and now there's a location in St. Marys. Highly recommend for self defense or just fitness in general.
I have been a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner since 2007. For me, the art is more than a hobby. It has become a lifestyle. I’d recently moved to Maryland from Arizona for work. One of the first things I wanted to do after accepting the position in the the area was investigate training options in the area. I reached out to Lineage via one of their social media platforms and received a quick and courteous response. After exchanging a few messages, I felt pretty confident that Lineage may be a good option. I walked through the doors at Lineage and introduced myself to the staff. Everyone was polite, professional and very welcoming. When class started, I was happy to see that the professor was covering self defense fundamentals. This aspect of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is criminally overlooked these days (At least in my humble opinion). And while the professors cover more advanced or “sport BJJ” techniques, it’s great to see BJJ instruction as intended by the Gracie family. They know and honor their roots. I would assume this is why the call it Lineage.
I am a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu who has been training and studying the art for over ten years. I know and have trained with many leaders, pioneers, and world champions in this sport- including Gigi Paiva, Bernardo Faria, Rodrigo Freitas, “Barata” Freitas, Marcelo Garcia, Mitch Coats, Cyborg Abreu, Fernando Soluco, and Aldo “ Caveirinha ” Januário. When you’ve met that many champions, you can recognize a legit school immediately. This school is legit. The head instructor and owner, Jim Thrift, has studied under Relson Gracie for decades. As the saying goes, he’s probably forgotten more than most of us have ever known. Jim teaches old school jiu-jitsu with an emphasis on self-defense. He runs a tight ship; he’s also respectful, funny, and disciplined. Know your lineage! If you live in Southern Maryland and want to get a solid base in both self-defense and sports jiu-jitsu, you can’t go wrong here.
Lineage BJJ is an amazing place. The students are welcoming. Instructors are willing to take their time to help you. Oh yeah and thier new space is next door and looks amazing so far plenty is mat space
My son loves going and after just a few weeks he has already learned so much.
The Lineage BJJ Team of coaches take pride in their professionalism, as they teach all ages and levels of BJJ. They have put together the best learning programs for everyone, from a first time ever class to the more advanced classes. I will highly recommend Lineage BJJ to anyone looking for self defense, exercise and mind and body discipline levels.
They are master teachers with an exceptional ability to reach kids. When my daughter turned 5, I wanted to enroll her in a program that taught her real skills and wasn’t just another after school daycare gimmick. We were fortunate that Lineage BJJ had just opened and was offering classes to kids in my daughter’s age group. As a teacher and as a person that has trained in high-quality martial arts schools across the United States and Canada, I was skeptical. We signed up for the introductory trial period, and I was immediately impressed with the quality of instruction and the outstanding character of the teachers. They are master teachers with an exceptional ability to reach kids. I absolutely love watching my daughter train with these guys. Sean Sayers
I’ve done martial arts before(KungFu-striking), yet I’ve never done anything like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu(closer to wrestling). So, being a bit out of my element, I’ve found the professors are very skilled, knowledgeable, professional, yet understanding & caring of every member’s needs/journey. Sure, there’s the obvious physical conditioning(more about cardio, than strength) that comes along while training BJJ. But, even in the recent weather conditions, wearing a gi for both classes I attend(2hrs total), I don’t mind the heat as much as I would normally. Lol. Personally, because it’s more of a self-defense instruction, it’s such a confidence builder moreso than most other “arts” to me. So much so, that, just after a few months of training, my horrible social anxiety is pretty much gone. So, the medication I’d take when needed for it, I just told my doctor I no longer need prescribed to me. It has also given me a new outlook on life, along with helping me deal with some serious personal issues I’m going through at this very moment. Lastly, the friendship(s) developed with other members create almost a tribal strength between each other, that they become like a second family. Overall, training jui-jitsu , especially here at Lineage BJJ is such a positive in my life, that it’s at least taught me how to deal with ANY situation, especially high-stress situations, by reaming calm, and knowing I have more than jus 1-2 options. Whether in here class, as well as in life itself!
The Lineage BJJ team is very helpful and knowledgeable. I decided to join after one of their open mats. I recommend them to anyone who wants to learn a useful self-defense centric martial art.
I've waited many years for a quality BJJ school to open up in my area. I was extremely excited when Lineage decided to open up near me since I followed their sister school and was always jealous of the quality of instruction they had up there. The school and staff are professional, friendly and very welcoming. The quality of instruction is top notch and the pace and intensity is perfect for all levels and skill sets. It's readily evident that the instructors and staff of this school are going to provide a great learning environment for its students. I have a blast every time I attend classes, I'm always learning from their exceptional instruction, and always get a good workout in!
Lineage BJJ was absolutely worth the wait in St. Mary's. They've created (by far) the best kids' martial arts classes in the area. My children beg to attend and are angry when they miss out. Their inclusive adult classes offer an abundance of knowledge and an opportunity to practice for students of all levels. The instructors bring an amazing breadth of knowledge and high-quality, responsible teaching. On top of all of that, the owner is great and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. We're so lucky to have this resource in Southern Maryland.
The leadership at Lineage BJJ is top notch! Everybody is super friendly, professional, and very experienced. They really take time to show you the proper techniques and make sure you understand what is going on. Doesn't matter what your background , physical abilities, limitations, or skill set, this is the place to go if you want to improve and learn in the jiu jitsu and self defense world. Strong military, veteran, and first responder environment (including myself) with high levels of integrity, which makes training at Lineage BJJ that much better! The gym is kept impeccably clean and emphasis on safety of their people is priority. The environment is safe, fun, and relaxed. Bonus: The owner, Jim Thrift, has some great dad jokes :) I'm definitely hooked, and highly recommend Lineage BJJ, you won't be disappointed!!!
I have only been training here for a month but I love it already! High quality instruction and welcoming atmosphere. No matter your age or ability I highly recommend Lineage BJJ for anyone who would like to learn jiu jitsu!
More BJJ in Maryland
Find more academies and competitions in the area.