ABOUT

ABOUT HENDO BJJ

At Hendo BJJ, we're more than a martial arts academy; we're a community rooted in the principles of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Our training philosophy and core values guide our training and our interactions with each other.

We follow the Gracie and Machado families' training philosophies, emphasizing leverage, timing, and fundamental perfection in our BJJ techniques.

Regardless of size, speed, or strength, we believe that with proper training and dedication, anyone can master the art of Jiu-Jitsu. We stress humility, self-control, dedication, and the pursuit of perfecting techniques over beating training partners.


We believe that BJJ can be a life-long sport when practiced safely and with good training partners. We're not here to hurt people but to lift people up.

Our Core Values

1. Safety & Humility Are First And Foremost

If you have ego, then you can't keep your safety and the safety of others as a priority. Safety and humility go hand-in-hand. This is rule number one. This rule also applies to the culture and environment of our gym; we believe people should feel safe, comfortable, and accepted

2. Respect The Lineage And The Academy

We teach fundamentals from the source. Professor Larry Shealy learned Gracie Jiu-Jitsu from legendary figures such as Rorion Gracie, Rickson Gracie, Royce Gracie, and the Machado Brothers. Larry is a 4th degree Black Belt with Master Rigan Machado. We believe fundamentals and perfect practice are at the core of growing excellent Jiu-Jitsu skills. Rorion Gracie once said "The water is the purest the closer it is to the source."

4. Everything is Earned

No participation trophies at Hendo BJJ. If you get a stripe or a new BJJ belt be proud; you earned it. This is as important with our children program as it is our adult program. There are no shortcuts.

What will get you fired from Hendo BJJ

  • Not abiding by Core Value #1. Being unsafe, and/or demonstrating repeated ego-driven behavior without correction will lead to you being asked to train elsewhere.
  • Not trusting the program. Not listening to your professor or coaches, asking about BJJ belt promotions (or being too obsessed with stripes/belts vs. learning) or doing things your own way will not only cause you to stall in your Jiu-Jitsu journey, it will degrade your ability to be a good team member.
  • Foul language, putting down/hurting others with your words and actions, Gossiping
  • Stealing
  • Lying
  • Racism or Sexism and any harassing behavior comments or behavior.

The Hendo BJJ Kids Creed

I intend to develop myself in a positive manner, and avoid anything that will reduce my physical health and mental growth.


I intend to develop my self-discipline, to bring out the best in myself and others.


I intend to use what I learn in class constructively and defensively, and never be abusive or offensive.

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