Kids No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Fresno - Ages 3-16 - Taught by Black Belts
PMA is Fresno's Home of Jiu-Jitsu Since 1996
Kids No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Fresno - Ages 3-16 - Wrestling & Submissions
No-Gi jiu jitsu is submission grappling without the traditional gi, incorporating a faster pace, more dynamic movement, and techniques that work in real-world situations.
At Pacific Martial Arts, kids learn no-gi from black belt instructors and Division 1 wrestlers, developing a complete grappling game that combines takedowns, control, and submissions.
Since 1996, PMA has been training kids in authentic no-gi grappling. Our kids place 1st-3rd at World League, earn medals at Jiu-Jitsu Con (15,000 competitors), and win at USA Wrestling Championships. This success comes from high-quality instruction, wrestling integration, and training volume that builds skills over time.
Kids who train no-gi at PMA develop speed, agility, and confidence. They learn to adapt quickly, scramble effectively, and execute techniques without relying on grips. These skills translate directly to self-defense situations and make them better all-around grapplers.
5 Reasons to Choose PMA for Your Child's Jiu-Jitsu Training
Black Belt Instruction
Kids learn from experienced black belts who understand child development and age-appropriate teaching. With 36 active black belts in our school, we have the depth of expertise to provide quality instruction across all programs.
Division 1 Wrestlers Teaching
Not just "wrestlers" - Division 1 collegiate wrestlers including a national champion teach takedowns, top control, and scrambling. Kids learn wrestling technique from the highest level coaches available in Fresno.
Complete Grappling System Included
Kids' no-gi membership includes Gi Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo. Training across all grappling disciplines creates well-rounded athletes with diverse skills. This cross-training is included at no additional cost.
Training Volume That Builds Skills
Kids can train up to 3.5 hours daily, six days per week. This volume of training from quality instructors accelerates skill development. The flexibility in schedule and training hours available makes PMA an ideal environment for serious development.
Competition Success
Our kids place at national and international tournaments because they're taught by instructors who compete at high levels. Competition results prove the effectiveness of our training approach.
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
We maintain quality instruction by limiting students per coach. With our depth of instructors, we keep ratios low to ensure every child gets attention.
30 Years Experience
We've been teaching kids grappling since 1996. We've refined our approach over three decades and know what works for different age groups and skill levels.
Join Today to Give Your Child Confidence Through Competence
We teach Confidence Through Competence. At PMA we promote when you're genuinely ready. Every student progresses differently, depending on your capacity to learn, performance under pressure, and training frequency.
Some students progress faster, others slower. We watch you train daily. We see your progress in live rounds. We know exactly where you are in your development. There's no belt test - we simply promote you when you've earned it and when we know you’re ready.
Book your FREE Kids Jiu-Jitsu Class below.
No-Gi Age Groups and Class Structure
The gi fundamentally changes how jiu jitsu is practiced. The added grips from collar, sleeves, and lapels create more defensive options, slower pace, and emphasis on technique over athleticism.Here's why the gi matters:
Little Ninjas (Ages 3-5)
Our youngest students learn no-gi fundamentals adapted to their developmental level. Little Ninjas train within classes but are grouped separately. They focus on basic movements, body control, and fundamental positions through age-appropriate games and drills.
Youth (Ages 5-16)
Within classes, we organize kids by age and development. Typically ages 5-10 train together, and ages 10-16 train together. This ensures appropriate partners and instruction tailored to their stage.
Transition to Adult Classes
At age 16, kids begin transitioning to adult no-gi classes. Some mature students join adult classes earlier if they're physically ready and match the size requirements.
Class Structure
All kids no-gi classes are one hour. This provides enough time for dynamic warm-ups, technique instruction, drilling, and live training without overwhelming younger students.
Schedule Flexibility
Classes run six days per week across our 4 locations. Train at any location with your membership for maximum schedule flexibility.
Who Teaches Kids Jiu-Jitsu Classes?
Black Belt Instructors
Meet Our Black Belt Instructors for Kids No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
- Matt Smith - 4th degree black belt (David Camarillo lineage)
- Eduardo Crema - 2nd degree black belt, North American Brown Belt Champion
- Josiah Roland - Black Belt
All Instructors Background Checked - Every instructor is cleared to work with children. Safety is our top priority.
Women Instructors Assist - Women instructors regularly take part in assisting with kids classes, providing positive role models for all students.
Division 1 Wrestlers on Staff - Multiple D1 collegiate wrestlers including a national champion integrate wrestling techniques into no-gi training. Kids learn authentic wrestling from coaches who competed at the highest collegiate level.
Eduardo Crema brings elite-level competition experience to kids no-gi instruction. As an ADCC competitor and North American Champion, he teaches techniques currently being used at the highest levels of no-gi grappling. Kids benefit from this world-class expertise.
Meet Our Kids No-Gi BJJ Instructors
Matt Smith
Founder & Head Instructor, 4th Degree Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Matt Smith brings over five decades of martial arts experience and educational leadership to Pacific Martial Arts, which he founded on June 1, 1996. His lifelong dedication to personal development, disciplined training, and sharing martial traditions has earned him recognition across multiple disciplines.
Eduardo Crema
2nd Degree Black Belt
Originally from Venezuela, Eduardo Crema is a 2nd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over a decade of teaching experience, having earned his black belt in 2017. With a foundational background in high school wrestling, Eduardo brings a dynamic and technical approach to both Gi and No-Gi training and competition.
He is a decorated competitor, holding the title of North American Brown Belt Champion, with multiple podium finishes at IBJJF Opens and ADCC Opens
Josiah Roland
Black Belt
Tiago Scalco is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with a strong competition background and roots in the Atos Jiu-Jitsu lineage. He has competed at the highest levels of the sport, earning podium finishes in IBJJF tournaments and showcasing his skills on professional stages such as Fight 2 Win.
With years of experience both competing and coaching, Tiago brings a technical, detail-oriented approach to training. His style reflects a balance of high-level competition strategy and practical application, helping students develop both confidence and precision on the mats.
Kids' No-Gi vs Gi: What Kids Learn
What Kids Learn in No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
Faster Pace - Without gi grips, movements happen quicker. Kids develop faster reactions, better scrambling, and dynamic transitions.
Wrestling Integration - Takedowns become essential. Kids learn single legs, double legs, high crotch attacks, and wrestling-based top control from Division 1 wrestlers.
Practical Self-Defense - Real situations don't involve gi's. No-gi techniques work when someone's wearing a t-shirt, hoodie, or athletic gear - the clothes kids encounter daily.
Different Submission Chains - Guillotines, darces, arm bars, and back attacks work differently without gi friction. Kids learn no-gi specific submission entries and finishes.
Athletic Development - The faster pace and explosive movements build cardio, agility, and functional strength. No-gi is an intense full-body workout.
Grip Fighting Changes - Instead of collar and sleeve grips, kids learn wrist control, underhooks, and body locks. This grip fighting translates to wrestling and real-world applications.
Recent Kids No-Gi Competition Achievements:
- 3rd Place at Jiu-Jitsu Con 2025 (15,000 competitors)
- Multiple World League Championships
- Season Champion in World League
- USA Wrestling Championships placements
- Regular podium finishes at local tournaments
Tournament Prep Practices - Before tournaments, we host special prep sessions. We review competition rules (different federations have different rules), develop game plans, rehearse strategies, and add resistance so kids execute under pressure.
Wrestling Technique for Kids in No-Gi
PMA's wrestling integration gives kids a significant advantage in no-gi grappling:
Takedowns Taught:
- Single leg attacks
- Double leg attacks
- High crotch entries
- Ankle picks
- Snap downs to front headlock
- Arm drags to back takes
Top Control and Pressure - Division 1 wrestlers teach proper top pressure, ride control, and how to maintain dominant positions. Kids learn to control opponents from top positions effectively.
Scrambling Fundamentals - When positions break down, kids learn to scramble effectively, recover position, and capitalize on opponent mistakes.
Why Wrestling Matters - Every no-gi match starts standing. Kids who can't take opponents down or defend takedowns start at a disadvantage. Our wrestling integration ensures kids are confident in the standing phase.
Tournaments We Attend:
- World League (Stockton, CA - we take 20-40 competitors)
- Jiu-Jitsu Con
- GrapplingX (local major tournament)
- IBJJF tournaments
- USA Wrestling Championships
Getting Started with Kids No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu at Pacific Martial Arts
Ready to let your child try Jiu-Jitsu? Contact us to schedule a FREE first class and discover why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become one of the fastest-growing martial arts for kids in the world. Our instructors and coaching staff will help you find the right program and class schedule for your child.
Whether you’re looking for effective self-defense, a fun workout, or a way to build character and discipline, learning Gracie Jiu Jitsu at PMA provides kids the tools for success. Join our academy and help your child become part of Pacific Martial Arts' thriving kids martial arts community.
With locations in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, and Oakhurst, we serve adults and kids throughout the Central Valley who are passionate about learning authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under top-level black belt instructors.
Contact us today to learn about current programs, special offers, Summer programs for kids, and family discount options at our school
PMA Fresno, CA
PMA Madera, CA (Tesoro Viejo)
PMA Clovis, CA
PMA Oakhurst, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Please see below for answers to questions that new students and parents ask about our Kids No-Gi BJJ programs. Visit the Kids Gi Jiu-Jitsu page for more information about our other program.
How do I start learning No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
The best way is to book your free consultation. We'll answer any questions you have and help you get started with a free class so you can see how fun our BJJ program really is. Our curriculum is beginner-friendly, which is another great reason to choose PMA. We introduce you to fundamental techniques gradually, allowing you to build confidence as you learn more complex techniques.
What age can my child being training in No-gi BJJ at Pacific Martial Arts?
We offer programs starting at age 3, thought the fastest way to determine if your child is ready is to bring your child to a free class.
Can I get a free No-Gi BJJ class to try it out?
Yes, of course! Click the "Book Your Free Consultation" button below or click here to book your free consultation and join us for a free class.
How often should my child train in No-Gi BJJ?
2-3 times per week for steady progress. Some kids train daily (up to 3.5 hours). It depends on their age, interests, and schedule.
How does No-Gi BJJ prevent bullying?
- Physical confidence - kids know they can defend themselves
- Mental toughness - handling adversity in training transfers to handling adversity in life
- Respect learned - you learn to respect training partners who can submit you
- Discipline developed - bullies lack discipline; BJJ builds it
- Composure under pressure - when someone's on top of you, you learn to stay calm
Jiu jitsu teaches kids when to walk away, when to de-escalate, and when physical defense is necessary. They develop judgment and restraint alongside physical skills.
What are the physical benefits for kids training in No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu at PMA?
- Full-body workout building functional strength
- Improved flexibility and coordination
- Better balance and body awareness
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Healthy habits established early
- Energy outlet for active kids
What are the mental benefits for kids training in BJJ at Pacific Martial Arts?
- Discipline and focus
- Goal-setting and achievement
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Resilience and perseverance
- Respect for authority and peers
- Confidence through competence
What Safety Protocols does PMA use for Jiu-Jitsu grappling and sparring?
- Coaches and assistants spaced throughout training room
- We stop and reset kids if they get too close to each other
- If submission is getting close, we step in and reset
- We follow IBJJF rules (if technique isn't allowed in competition, we don't allow it in training)
- Sick, injured, or kids with skin infections don't spar
- We do not teach leg locks to kids (not legal in kids' divisions)
- All techniques follow IBJJF kids competition rules
- We have a zero tolerance policy for bullying among students and we have a Disruptive Behavior Policy
Can parents watch classes?
Parents can watch every class, however we don't allow parents coaching their kid if the parent isn't a student (prevents injury from bad advice)
What are your mat cleaning protocols?
- Mats disinfected before every session
- After sessions: dust mopped with clean dustmop
- Sprayed with hospital-grade disinfectant/fungicide
- No-rinse cleaner used
- Wiped with new microfiber mop
What does my kid need to start?
First Class (Free Trial):
- Shorts and t-shirt
- Water bottle
- Arrive 10 minutes early
- No gi needed for trial
After Joining:
- Gi uniform included with $50 enrollment
- If training more than twice per week, get a second gi (can purchase at PMA or online)
Do kids have to compete?
No. Only about 10% of kids compete. Most train for fitness, confidence, and fun. Competition is optional.
Get Started
Free Consult & Free Class
Book a Free Consultation to share your goals then join us for a Free Class to get a feel for our classes, community, and coaches.
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Hours of Operation
Fresno Location
Mon, Wed, Fri: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm
Tues, Thurs: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sun: 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Clovis Location
Mon, Wed: 4:00 pm – 8:00pm
Tues, Thurs: 6am-7:30am, 9am-10:30am, 4pm-8pm
Sat: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Contact Us
4 Locations
Pacific Martial Arts Fresno
(inside Herndon Valley Fitness)
6735 N. First St., Fresno, CA 93710
Pacific Martial Arts Clovis
275 N Clovis Ave., Suite 147, Clovis. CA 93612
Pacific Martial Arts Madera (Tesoro Viejo)
14566 CA-41, Madera, CA 93636
Pacific Martial Arts Oakhurst
40278 Oak Park Way, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: (559) 436-4641
Email: [email protected]
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