Business Details
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in Benton, IL
Arsenal Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was founded by Professor Sam Burns, a Second Degree Black Belt with nearly three decades of martial arts expertise. Our academy combines traditional techniques with modern advancements to provide comprehensive training for individuals of all skill levels. Professor Burns integrates his extensive law enforcement and military experience with competitive martial arts training to deliver practical self-defense instruction. We offer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Striking classes designed to develop physical fitness, mental discipline, and real-world combat readiness.Our mission is to empower students to protect their life, liberty, and property while fostering personal growth through martial arts. With flexible class schedules and free introductory sessions, we make martial arts accessible to the Southern Illinois community. Our approach emphasizes continuous improvement for both instructors and students, ensuring we remain at the forefront of martial arts education.
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Kids BJJ
Striking Classes
Introductory Sessions
Open Mat Training
Highlights and features
- We have 30 years of martial arts experience combined with law enforcement expertise
- Our instructors integrate modern combat science with traditional techniques
- Free introductory classes available for new students
- Specialized training for real-world self-defense scenarios
- Flexible schedule with evening and weekend class options
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program develops ground fighting techniques and submission holds. Students learn leverage-based self-defense strategies effective against larger opponents. Classes emphasize practical application through live sparring sessions.
Kids BJJ
Age-appropriate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction builds children's confidence and discipline. Curriculum focuses on bully prevention, physical coordination, and character development in a safe, structured environment.
Striking Classes
Striking instruction covers boxing and kickboxing techniques for stand-up combat. Students develop proper form, footwork, and defensive maneuvers through bag work and partner drills.
Introductory Sessions
Free introductory classes provide new students with fundamental technique instruction. These sessions cover basic positions, safety protocols, and training expectations before joining regular classes.
Open Mat Training
Supervised open mat sessions allow experienced practitioners to refine techniques through partner drills. These sessions focus on technical development rather than competitive sparring.
People
Sam Burns
Professor / Owner
Second Degree Black Belt with 30 years martial arts experience. Combines law enforcement expertise with competitive training to teach practical self-defense techniques for real-world applications.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Striking (Boxing/Kickboxing) for comprehensive self-defense training.
Are there classes for beginners?
Yes, our free introductory classes and flexible schedule accommodate students of all experience levels.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gis for BJJ classes and have equipment available for striking sessions.
Do you offer children's programs?
Yes, our Kids BJJ classes teach age-appropriate techniques focusing on confidence building and bully prevention.
What experience do your instructors have?
Professor Sam Burns holds a Second Degree Black Belt with 30 years martial arts experience and law enforcement background.
Are there open mat practice sessions?
Yes, supervised open mat sessions are available for technique refinement during designated summer hours.
Reviews (3)
Lance Cockrum
Aug 29, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Jiu jitsu, self defense, striking, fitness, Confidence, no matter what your reasons are this is the place to be to improve your self both mentally and physically!!
Jiu jitsu, self defense, striking, fitness, Confidence, no matter what your reasons are this is the place to be to improve your self both mentally and physically!!
James Pritchard
Oct 21, 2019
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I am a local law enforcement officer. I have been at Arsenal for a while now. When I first started it was just a way to help with the job. Now it's a passion. Sam makes it realistic but also fun. Sam is knowledgeable about every aspect of self defense and goes above and beyond to help you learn how to protect yourself. Sam brings a sense of family and makes this a great environment for the beginner or the most experienced. Hope to see you on the mats soon.
Gini Jeffries
Oct 20, 2019
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I've learned so much here. When I started, I was very shy and couldn't imagine being able to learn any of it. The instructor Sam is great, and everyone here is like my family. I recently started competing, I never thought I would get this far but being here makes it fun and I can't wait to see where I go from here!
