Adults
Train in a Certified Gracie Training Center program that pairs modern Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with the deep roots of Traditional Japanese Ju-Jutsu.
About the Program
Practical, proven Jiu-Jitsu for adults of every level — from your first class to advanced self-defense, taught by certified Gracie instructors in a welcoming, small-group setting.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Master self-defense that works for anybody — literally. As a Certified Gracie Training Center, Kanjizai guides every new student through the Gracie Combatives program: 23 structured lessons built around the most common real-world threats, designed to be effective regardless of your size, age, or athletic background. This is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in its original form — not sport, not competition, but practical survival skills you can use on the street.
- 23 fundamental lessons covering the most critical self-defense scenarios
- Accessible to all ages, body types, and fitness levels — no experience needed
- Certified Gracie Training Center under Grandmaster Rorion Gracie
- Builds street-ready confidence from your very first class
Related reading: What to Expect at Your First Jiu-Jitsu Class in Towson · Why Jiu-Jitsu Is The Best Martial Arts For Self-Defense
Self-Defense Mastery
Go beyond modern BJJ and train in the complete art. Kanjizai's Self-Defense Mastery curriculum merges the original battlefield techniques of Traditional Japanese Jujutsu with the ground-fighting efficiency of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu — creating one of the most well-rounded self-defense programs available in Baltimore. From unarmed defense to weapons training, every technique is chosen for real-world reliability, not sport performance.
- Unarmed defense, throwing techniques, and standing joint-locks
- Modern weapons training, disarms, and firearm retention
- Strategies for defending against multiple attackers
- Striking combinations not typically found in BJJ programs
Private Training
The fastest path to your goals is a program built entirely around you. Private lessons at Kanjizai are available as a standalone training method or as a complement to regular classes — either way, you get undivided coaching attention and a plan designed around your specific needs, timeline, and physical ability.
- Competition prep, scenario-specific training, or personalized self-defense goals
- Combine Jiu-Jitsu with structured fitness — coaches certified in personal training, MMA conditioning, and nutrition
- Accommodates unique physical limitations and prior injuries — we've worked with blind students, amputees, and more
- Available for individuals, families, and small groups
Start Training Free for 10 Days
Experience Towson's award-winning Jiu-Jitsu academy firsthand. Book your free intro session and get 10 days of unlimited classes — no experience or commitment required.
Why Train in Our Adult Program?
Our adult program is designed to go beyond just physical training. Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or advancing your skills, our structured programs provide practical self-defense, expert instruction, and a supportive environment to help you grow with confidence.
Train in proven techniques from Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu designed for real-life situations
Start with structured fundamentals and progress at your own pace—no prior experience needed
From ground control to standing defense, weapons awareness, and strategy, you’ll build a well-rounded skill set
Supplement your group classes with private sessions tailored to your goals, fitness level, or specific needs
Whether your goal is to get in shape, gain confidence, or compete, our program supports your journey
Train alongside a diverse community in a safe, respectful space where all ages, body types, and fitness levels are welcome
★★★★★
“My 5-year-old absolutely loves this Jiu Jitsu place! The instructor is amazing with the kids, patient, and knows how to make learning both fun and effective. The atmosphere is positive and welcoming, and we’ve seen great progress in both skill and confidence. Highly recommend for any parent looking for a great martial arts experience for their child!”
★★★★★
“Extremely attentive and didactic instructor during my first class. He explained everything with a lot of patience and clarity. I felt comfortable from the start and left the class feeling curious and excited to continue.”
★★★★★
“Our family has been going to Kanjizai for a while now. We really enjoy it and our kids get a lot out of it. Sensei Kevin is so great with them. He is just firm enough to keep class on track but also exhibits a high degree of patience with them. I love to watch him teach a class and I really value the diversity that is offered here. I highly recommend checking it out!”
10-Day Gracie Kickstart
Step 1
Free 10-minute private intro
Step 2
Loaner gi provided
Step 3
Train any class for 10 days
Step 4
Nothing charged until day 11
10-Day Gracie Kickstart
Step 1
Come try a class
Step 2
Start anytime
Step 3
Loaner gi provided
Step 4
Nothing charged until day 11
Simple, Honest Tuition
Individual memberships
$125/month
4 classes per month
$175/month
8 classes per month
$195/month
Unlimited classes
Family memberships — covers the whole family
$225/month
4 classes per month — whole family
$325/month
8 classes per month — whole family
$365/month
Unlimited classes — whole family
Private Lesson Packages
30-minute lessons
60-minute lessons
Start Training Free for 10 Days
Experience Towson's award-winning Jiu-Jitsu academy firsthand. Book your free intro session and get 10 days of unlimited classes — no experience or commitment required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gracie Jiu-Jitsu the same as BJJ?
Yes. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the original form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), developed by the Gracie family around leverage and technique rather than size. Many BJJ schools today focus on sport competition, while Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at Kanjizai keeps the focus on real-world self-defense for kids and adults.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes! We offer one-on-one private lessons for all ages. 30-minute lessons are $55 for 1 (use within 30 days), $200 for 4 (use within 60 days), or $450 for 10 (use within 90 days). 60-minute lessons are $100 for 1 (use within 30 days), $350 for 4 (use within 60 days), or $800 for 10 (use within 90 days). To reschedule a booked lesson, cancel at least 24 hours before its start time.
How much does tuition cost?
We keep tuition simple, and there are no contracts — ever. Individual memberships are $125/month for 4 classes per month, $175/month for 8 classes per month, or $195/month for unlimited classes. Family memberships cover the whole family: $225/month for 4 classes per month, $325/month for 8 classes per month, or $365/month for unlimited classes. The best way to start is our free intro plus 10 days of classes.
What makes your studio different from your competitors?
There are many great martial art schools in our community and each has a unique benefit. However, we pride ourselves on teaching students to be well-rounded martial artists inside and outside of our studio. We focus on safety and fun as our two pillars of education, and we're an award-winning academy recognized by the Baltimore Sun Readers' Choice and rated 5.0★ by our families on Google. Apart from the physical, our members are a close-knit, supportive community. We pride ourselves in being a martial arts family.
What are your instructor's credentials?
Head Instructor Kevin Lockett opened Kanjizai in 2012. He has over 25 years experience in martial arts, and has trained with some of the top instructors in the world. He received his first instructor certification in Ise, Japan in 2007, under Grandmaster Shoto Tanemura, then expanded his credentials in 2015 by becoming a Certified Gracie Trainer under Grandmaster Rorion Gracie.
When can I start?
Our classes are on-going, and use a rotating curriculum. New members can begin their journey anytime. The first step is the toughest, and there is no cost or obligation to get started. So we recommend you start training as soon as possible!
How safe are your classes?
Safety is our #1 priority at Kanjizai. With beginner-level classes, and an atmosphere of positivity, students help each other to grow and progress safely. Senior students take on roles as leaders, not enforcers. Kanjizai students learn early that the best way to progress quickly is to help their classmates progress along with them.
Can I send my child with a nanny/caregiver?
Yes, although we highly recommend parents to stay and watch their child's first class. This helps in their confidence and comfort level, but more importantly, we want you to see firsthand what makes our academy such a great place for your child to train.
Do you have belt testing fees?
Our belt testing fees are $50. For adults in our Gracie University program, there may be other testing fees due to the Gracie organization.
Will Jiu-Jitsu increase aggression in students?
No. Training in jiu-jitsu teaches the opposite of violence and aggression. The focus is on staying calm, maintaining self-control, and behaving honorably in all scenarios, in and out of the academy. Jiu-Jitsu translates to "the gentle art," and emphasizes a defensive mindset.