About Defiance Jiu Jitsu
Welcome to Defiance Jiu Jitsu, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Defiance Jiu Jitsu, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors

John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Ian Dwyer
"I began my Jiu-Jitsu journey here about four months ago, and it's changed my life. I walked in, nervous, having never done a martial art before and was met with a friendly team, insightful coaching, and a very high standard of hygiene and facility cleaning. Professor Jesse and the coaching staff break down fundamental to advanced techniques in a detailed and logical fashion. They are always accepting of clarify questions and understand how to deliver techniques in clear, direct steps. The gym offers all levels of classes from competition to beginner which allows a student to grow as a hobbyist, fitness enthusiast, and/or competitor to their preference. This gym take their core philosophy, a rising tide raises all boats, to heart. Many times while trying to figure out a move, the guidance and insight of the upper belts has been the difference between success and failure. This gym is very family oriented, and the parents I train with say nothing but good things about the quality of their children's program. Even as a beginner, my confidence, fitness, and jiu-jitsu knowledge have grown to a degree I never thought possible, and I look forward to growing as a practioner of bjj. I highly recommend this gym."
Sean Karstedt
"Coach Jesse cultivates an inclusive and positive culture for learning for all genders and body types at Defiance Jiu Jitsu. The coaching team provides clear breakdowns of both beginner and advanced techniques and the members of the Academy are welcoming and helpful. My family participates in both the adult and kid’s programs and I can attest that the coaching is engaging and fun in both programs. The facilities are kept clean and there are clear guidelines on hygiene for the health and safety of Academy members. My family came to Defiance Jiu Jitsu searching for healthy physical outlets that would resonate with our children. As I watched my 4-, 6-, and 8-year-old children on the mats and the care the coaches took to help each student learn fundamental movement, mobility and control techniques, I began to realize that even I could start Jiu Jitsu at 51. My family and I have been training at Defiance Jiu Jitsu for more than two years now and I feel grateful to have found the Defiance Jiu Jitsu coaches and team to help us to be our best in this art. I recommend giving Defiance Jiu Jitsu a try if you’re looking to challenge yourself, learn self-defense, build fitness and confidence while having fun. I hope to see you on the mats!"
Ryan Walling
"Dropped in for a class on a Sunday. The coach and students were very welcoming and a pleasure to roll with. Sometimes showing up to a new gym with a white belt on you become a play toy for the Jiu Jitsu players. I definitely left this place feeling enthusiastic about Jiu Jitsu even after taking a couple months off. This gym has a really good vibe and culture. As a person in his mid-forties, it’s nice to train at a place where you feel safe and the level of instruction is at a digestible pace."
Chad Isenhart
"Best gym in the area. 2 of my kids have trained at Defiance and we’ve love their approach and coaching styles. It has helped my kids grow in confidence! Highly recommend Jesse and the team here"
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
5401 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM