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Grit, Growth and Great Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in North Richland Hills, TX

We do more than teach submissions, we build strong humans. Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu for kids ages 3 and up and adults, in North Richland Hills, TX.

7
Days a Week
Ages 3+
Kids and Adults
Gi & No-Gi
Both Taught
Programs

Find the right mat for you

Adults & Kids programs for ages 3 and up, find the right programs for your family.

Hatchlings BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Hatchlings BJJ

Ages 3 to 4

Our Hatchlings program gives young children a strong start through movement, structure, and play. Classes build coordination, balance, body awareness, listening skills, and physical confidence in a way that matches their age and attention span.

Groms BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Groms BJJ

Ages 5 to 7

Our Groms program is designed specifically for ages 5 to 7. It is the perfect introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through movement, play, and age-appropriate discipline.

Younglings BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Younglings BJJ

Ages 8 to 13

Designed for kids who are ready for challenge, structure, and deeper skill development through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether your child is competitive, curious, or just needs a safe space to be active, we meet them where they are and help them grow through discipline, movement, and fun.

Adult BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Gi & No-Gi

Adult BJJ

All ages and levels

You don't need to be in the best shape of your life to start. You just need to want more from your training: more clarity, more depth, more resilience. We welcome adults of all ages and experience levels, from total beginners to black belts looking for serious rolls.

Women's BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Gi & No-Gi

Women's BJJ

Women of all levels

Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective, empowering martial arts for women, and we are proud to offer a training space where women can move, learn, and train in a safe and inviting environment. Whether you're a total beginner, a lifelong athlete, a mom looking to get strong again, or a competitor seeking clean rounds, you belong here.

Open Mat
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Gi & No-Gi

Open Mat

Open to the community

During open mat, we open our doors to the broader Jiu-Jitsu community. It is a proving ground for live rounds, an easy way back in for returning athletes, and a low-pressure way for visitors to experience our coaching culture firsthand.

Private Lessons
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Gi & No-Gi

Private Lessons

One-on-one and small groups

Sometimes you need more than class. Whether you're brand new and want a strong foundation, preparing for competition, coming back from injury, or craving faster progress, we offer customized one-on-one and small group sessions designed to meet you exactly where you are.

About

Why train at The MATS Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Our mission is to provide outstanding Jiu-Jitsu that builds resilient humans, on and off the mats. We envision a community where Jiu-Jitsu shapes the mind, body, and character of entire families, helping them grow resilient and become their best selves. Here, you will learn to change the way you move, think, and show up. Yes, you'll practice takedowns, passes, and submissions, but just as important, you'll learn how to stay calm under pressure, recover quickly from setbacks, and trust your body. Our approach is built on leverage and precision, not brute force, with a focus on biomechanics, athletic development, and mindset. We design training that works for every body, any age, size, or experience level. Give it six months, and you won't just see a difference, you won't recognize yourself.

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Coaches

Learn from people who care

Coach James Cardo, Black Belt

Coach James Cardo

Black Belt

Head coach and founder. A Dan Covel black belt, with a background in strength and conditioning, exercise science, and performance psychology.

Coach Megan, Purple Belt

Coach Megan

Purple Belt

Originally from Tampa, FL, Megan began her Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2018 at Gracie Apollo Beach. As a coach, she loves guiding students in technique and in building strength, resilience, and self-belief. Her favorite techniques are wrist locks and head-and-arm chokes.

Schedule

Weekly class schedule

Pick the class you want to try — tap any session below and we'll hold your spot.

Foundation Open Mat Adult BJJ Kids BJJ Striking Chess
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
What students say

Loved by our community

I didn't think I'd last a full class as a beginner. Class is now the highlight of my week. I've gotten stronger than I could ever have expected.
Rachel M.Adult BJJ
My daughter went from shy and unsure to strong and focused. She talks about jiu-jitsu all week and loves showing us what she learned.
Antonio S.Groms parent
The Younglings program has completely changed how my son approaches challenges. He's more focused, confident, and respectful.
Steve M.Younglings parent
I was nervous walking into a room full of men, but that didn't last long. The energy here is so welcoming, and the training is the best I've ever had. I feel strong and respected.
MeganWomen's BJJ
FAQ

Questions, answered

New to training? Here's everything you need to know before your first class.

What is the difference between Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu?

Gi Jiu-Jitsu is practiced in the traditional uniform, which is similar to a judo uniform but more fitted. You can use the fabric for grips, control, and submissions. No-Gi is practiced in a rash guard and grappling shorts, so the focus shifts to body positioning, movement, and grips on the body instead of fabric. We teach both because training in both formats builds a complete grappler.

Do I need experience to start?

No. Most people who walk through our doors have zero background in martial arts. Our coaches meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

What should I wear and bring to my first class?

Comfortable athletic clothing with no zippers, metal, or pockets, and a water bottle. Many students start in shorts and a T-shirt for their first class and build from there.

What age can my child start?

Kids can start as young as 3 years old in our Hatchlings program (ages 3 to 4). Groms is for ages 5 to 7, and Younglings is for ages 8 to 13.

Do women train here?

Absolutely. Our women train in all classes, from beginners to competitors. We take great care to keep the training environment respectful, clean, and supportive.

What is open mat?

Open mat is an unstructured session on Sundays at 3:00 PM. There is no lesson plan and no coach leading from the front. You choose your partners and what to work on. Bring both Gi and No-Gi gear.

Can I take private lessons?

Yes. We offer one-on-one and small group sessions with Coach Cardo or a coach of your choice, as a single session, a short series, or an ongoing supplement to classes.

Contact

Come train with us

Questions before your first class? Reach out — we're happy to help.

Address
8701 N. Tarrant Parkway, Suite 100B, North Richland Hills, TX 76182
Free First Class

Your First Class Is On Us

Your first class is simple: we'll get you moving, show you the basics, and pair you up so you can learn by doing. No experience needed, no stress. Just step on the mat and we'll take care of the rest.

“I didn't think I'd last a full class as a beginner. Class is now the highlight of my week. I've gotten stronger than I could ever have expected.”
— Rachel M.

Tap any session in the weekly schedule to fill this in.