About Tidewater Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Welcome to Tidewater Jiu-Jitsu Academy, 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 Tidewater Jiu-Jitsu Academy, 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.
David Styron
"Tidewater Academy is a first class operation. My 10 year old daughter took a BJJ lesson at a camp and decided she wanted to pursue training in BJJ, so we went to Tidewater Academy for their youth program. Owner/instructor, Jonathan, is an amazing teacher of the art and works very well with the kids. My daughter loves the classes and has enjoyed making new friends with her classmates. Training BJJ has made her a more confidant young lady, and it has made her stronger physically and mentally. Highly recommend Tidewater Academy's youth BJJ program."
Zach Nielsen
"I was looking for a gym to train while in the area visiting my in laws. Amazing open mat today. Great guys. Super skilled group of mainly higher belts. Ever super cool and welcoming. Highly recommended."
Clifton Frazier
"After moving to a new home in 2011 and training BJJ for a couple of years, I decided to stop-by Tidewater BJJ in order to find a new place to train. What a great decision.... Jonathan and Dan are fantastic instructors/people and their facility is top notch. I started at their academy as an experienced blue belt and felt like a new white belt when rolling with the guys at the academy.... The technique they teach and the manner in which they teach it are exemplary, and you really get a feel that they care about your progress and try to explain things multiple ways in case sometimes you just aren't getting it. Both Dan and Jonathan kicked by rear-end every time we were on the mat, but it was great being tested by such high caliber instructors. Yes, they don't just teach, but they get on the mat and roll with you regularly.... Not many BJJ instructors do that week-in and week-out. I left Tidewater early in 2013 as a new purple belt, but not because I wanted to. I am a member of the US Navy and had to leave because of a new duty station. If not for that, I definitely would still be training there. Great Academy, Great Instructors, Great People, and Great Training. Continued success to Tidewater BJJ.... you guys earned it. ~Cliff"
Mike Allen
"Great place to learn jujitsu and roll, Dan & Jonathan strive to make sure we learn the very best techniques and that we all have fun. Everyone there are so nice and cool, no big egos to deal with and just great people. Even guys from other schools come just to roll. I have made some of the best friends anyone could have. I look forward to many years of coming to Tidewater Jui-jitsu, it is the highlight of my week."
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
648 Grassfield Pkwy #18, Chesapeake, VA 23322, 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