2nd Gear Jiu Jitsu

“On September 26 2018 I walked in to 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a free trial class. Close to 17 months later I was awarded a blue belt. Although I knew I was being evaluated and was expecting the promotion to happen sometime soon, the actual moment it occurred was very emotional for me. In my life I have received several recognitions for scientific achievements, but never for anything related to physical activity, so this is a milestone I will never forget. I owe everything to Professor Kenneth Brown who has been a wonderful mentor and coach. Professor Brown has managed to coach a clumsy uncoordinated 53-year old person like me and make him stick to the sport, this is not a trivial task. It is much harder than teaching to an athletic, talented, 18 year old. It is because of the training environment he has cultivated at 2ndgear that I have had the mental determination to show up to the academy and train almost every day, whether it has been an intense day at work and I am tired, whether my back, ribs, groin, ankles or other body parts are injured, whether I am doing well or feel frustrated with my progress, whether I notice all these younger people pick up new skills so much faster than me,… I just show up to practice, that’s all there is to do in order to eventually progress. Thank you Kenny for being such a great mentor, coach and amazing person, thank you Prof. Sundar Bjj, Prof. David Adams, Prof. Alex Dugas, and coach Matt Weinberg for the instruction at 2ndgear. I am especially grateful to all my fellow academy members who have been my training partners and have spent endless hours drilling and rolling with me!”

“Professor Kenneth Brown is one of the legends of jiu jitsu, but most importantly an amazing person to get to know and be around with. Coach Ken is the reason I spend most evenings at 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, where everyone is welcome. The academy is fun, diverse, inclusive, with patient and caring coaches for the kids and teens, and highly skilled specialized instruction for adults. I highly recommend to come over to try out a class, just for the opportunity to experience coach Ken’s instruction and great training environment.”

“I recommend 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It is a good use of my precious free time. As a hobby, form of exercise, and social outlet, I’m always happen to have gone; haven't been disappointed yet. The club has a warm, welcoming, positive, fun environment. Instruction is consistently excellent - well thought out, based on experience, and taught with enthusiasm. Enough training partners come so that I can find someone to help me get better.”

“You should definitely heck this place out! They have a wide range of upper belt ladies and a solid set of instructions. I had intentionally visited to meet Charlene Dixon, a well known high level athlete in the area. She helped me work out some of game plans and really supported my decisions to start competing. It’s a clean environment with such supportive staff and team mates. They also have a deep connection with the local community and other gyms. This place has a lot to offer on and off the mats!”

“I was visiting from the UK and dropped in for a week. Kenneth was extremely welcoming, and his academy has a great range of talented upper and lower belts. The instruction was filled with special nuances you only great from an accomplished competitor. The academy has a very friendly and easy-going community, but the sparring sessions are intense, with short breaks and a lot of strong heavy-weights to roll with. Just note that the academy doesn’t have showers. Overall, a wonderful experience and special group that had me coming back every day for gi and no-gi sessions. Thank you, Kenneth.”