Business Details
11 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Academy in Eustis, Florida
Grappling Mastery is a premier martial arts academy dedicated to empowering individuals through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, USA Wrestling, and other disciplines. Founded by 3rd Degree Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Official Bang Muay Thai Coach Brian Ruscio, our mission is to help students of all ages achieve personal growth, physical fitness, and self-defense mastery. With over 15 years of combined experience, our team fosters a welcoming environment where beginners and seasoned practitioners alike can thrive.We emphasize technical precision, mental resilience, and character development, serving diverse communities in Eustis, Tavares, and Mount Dora. Our IBJJF-certified instruction and holistic approach to martial arts have earned us recognition as one of Central Florida's most respected academies.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Muay Thai Kickboxing
USA Wrestling
Kids Martial Arts
Self Defense
Rock Steady Boxing
Catch Wrestling
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer IBJJF-certified Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction from a 3rd Degree Black Belt with 15+ years of experience
- Our academy combines multiple grappling disciplines including Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Catch Wrestling
- We provide specialized programs for kids, military veterans, and law enforcement officers
- Our instructors maintain a 100% focus on technical precision and student safety
- We've trained multiple regional competition champions and served Lake County since 2015
Associations and certifications
- IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation)
What people say
Patient instructors
Family-friendly environment
IBJJF-certified expertise
Excellent kids programs
Real-world self-defense
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program develops technical proficiency and mental discipline through structured curriculum. Students learn leverage-based techniques for self-defense and sport competition. The program builds physical fitness while emphasizing strategic thinking and perseverance. With classes for all skill levels, our IBJJF-certified instruction prepares practitioners for real-world scenarios and tournament success.
Muay Thai Kickboxing
This Muay Thai program delivers comprehensive striking instruction using traditional Thai techniques. Students master punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes while developing exceptional cardiovascular endurance. The curriculum focuses on proper form, defensive strategies, and practical application. Our certified Bang Muay Thai coaches ensure safe, effective training for both fitness and competitive purposes.
Kids Martial Arts
Our youth martial arts classes cultivate discipline, confidence, and respect in children aged 5-15. Through age-appropriate techniques, kids develop motor skills, focus, and self-defense capabilities. The program emphasizes character development alongside physical fitness in a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and teamwork.
Wrestling Instruction
This competitive wrestling program follows USA Wrestling guidelines while incorporating practical grappling applications. Athletes develop strength, agility, and tactical awareness through structured drills and live practice. The curriculum prepares students for tournament competition while emphasizing sportsmanship and technical mastery of takedowns and control techniques.
Self Defense Training
Our self-defense program teaches practical techniques for real-world situations. Students learn to recognize threats, de-escalate conflicts, and apply effective countermeasures. The curriculum combines elements from multiple martial arts to address various attack scenarios while emphasizing situational awareness and legal considerations.
People
Brian Ruscio
Head Instructor
3rd Degree Gracie Barra Black Belt with 15+ years martial arts experience. IBJJF-certified instructor specializing in BJJ, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Former Gracie Barra Orlando team member with competition success in NAGA tournaments. Trains law enforcement and military personnel while developing youth programs.
Rita Ruscio
Assistant Instructor
Certified martial arts instructor with expertise in BJJ and Muay Thai. Supports youth development programs and women's self-defense classes. Collaborates with Brian on curriculum development and community outreach initiatives. Known for exceptional student engagement and technical instruction.
Questions
What martial arts do you offer?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing, USA Wrestling, Catch Wrestling, and Rock Steady Boxing programs for all ages and skill levels.
Do you have classes for beginners?
Yes! Our curriculum accommodates complete beginners with foundational techniques and gradual progression. Instructors provide personalized attention to ensure proper form and safety.
Are there family discounts available?
We offer discounted rates for multiple family members enrolled simultaneously. Contact us for specific details about our current family pricing options.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide a 30-day free trial period so you can experience our programs risk-free before committing to membership.
What should I wear for my first class?
For BJJ, wear athletic shorts and a t-shirt. For Muay Thai, bring gloves and hand wraps if available. We provide loaner equipment for first-time participants.
Are there competition opportunities?
We prepare students for IBJJF-sanctioned tournaments and local competitions. Our team has produced multiple regional champions across different age divisions.
Videos
Reviews (6)
R. D.
Dec 03, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
Very welcoming. Was in town on a trip and looking for a place to train. Owner and training partners were great. Good rolls. Clean, modern facility. Would recommend.
Very welcoming. Was in town on a trip and looking for a place to train. Owner and training partners were great. Good rolls. Clean, modern facility. Would recommend.
Austin A.
Nov 29, 2021
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Great time at the Bang Muay Thai class! Coach Dave was super knowledgeable. Warm welcome. Clean, spacious facility. Clear and helpful instruction. Warm and welcoming environment. Hard workout. Good vibes all around! Highly recommend!!
Mae Li W.
Mar 16, 2021
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I only took 3 classes here and love it! Coach Brian is very encouraging, kind, and definitely knows what hes doing. Everyone here is so welcoming and it truly feels like a family here. Im already starting to feel much more confident in my skills. If youre searching for a martial arts school, then this is the definitely the right place for you and/or your kids.
Tish Ann
Dec 27, 2020
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My son (10) has been coming here Monday through Friday for the last several weeks and we have no plans on stopping! He loves everything about this gym. The coaches are phenomenal and do such amazing work with the kids. They are patient and kind with them and every single child that comes here looks forward to it. They really take the time to show the children techniques and enforce what they are teaching them. I cannot recommend this gym highly enough! If you're an adult looking to train in jiu-jitsu or you have children that want to train, this is the place to bring them!
Renee The Real Estate Chick
Aug 16, 2020
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I recently signed my son up for Jiu Jitsu and Grappling with Coach Brian and I cant say enough good things about the class and the team, the whole staff is knowledgeable and takes the time to explain the moves and how to execute them properly. My son loves going to the class which offers not only skills but exercise in addition. We are so happy to be a part of the Grappling Mastery family.
Arsenio Rosa Iii
Jun 10, 2020
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While doing research on schools in the area I had just moved to I was told that this school had a certain reputation (Cobra Kai type) so I decided to see for myself. Turns out there was nothing further from the truth. The coach and all its members have become like family. Not only that but the jiu-jitsu lineage can be verified, their coaches are battle tested and no egos. If youre looking to learn and train this is a great place to do it.
