Brea Jiu-Jitsu

Business Details

14 Years

experience

Your Premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Brea, CA

Brea Jiu-Jitsu has been dedicated to advancing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training since its founding in 2012. Our academy combines classical techniques with modern methodologies, including video analysis and strategic warm-ups tailored for competition success. Led by IBJJF-certified 3rd-degree black belt Dan Lukehart, we offer programs for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to elite competitors. Our facility in North Orange County serves communities including Brea, Placentia, and Fullerton, providing a welcoming environment for athletes of all affiliations.

With a focus on technical excellence and practical self-defense applications, we have produced multiple championship-winning students while maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere that discourages toxic competition culture. Our progressive curriculum and innovative approaches, such as algorithm-driven learning platforms, set us apart as a leader in BJJ education.

Services

Kids Jiu-Jitsu Adult BJJ Training Competition Preparation Women's Classes Juniors Program

Details

Year established: 2012

Highlights and features

We offer IBJJF-certified instruction from a 3rd-degree black belt with over 15 years of teaching experience
Our academy produced adult Pan Championship winners and world-class competitors
We combine traditional techniques with innovative learning methodologies and video analysis
Our family-friendly environment serves students from 4 years old to advanced black belts
We welcome athletes of all affiliations without political restrictions

Associations and certifications

IBJJF

What people say

Expert instruction Championship results Family-friendly Effective self-defense Knowledgeable coaches

Website

Update Listing

Services

Kids Jiu-Jitsu

Our kids program develops martial artists aged 4-13 through age-appropriate techniques and conceptual learning. Students gain self-defense skills, physical fitness, and competitive readiness while maintaining a fun, non-violent approach. The curriculum emphasizes grappling control over striking for safe, effective conflict resolution. Regular sparring sessions prepare students for real-world scenarios while fostering discipline and confidence.

Adult BJJ Training

Adult classes focus on technical mastery and competition preparation for all skill levels. Our progressive curriculum builds from fundamental positions to advanced strategies using video analysis and algorithm-driven learning tools. Students train in live rolling sessions that simulate real combat scenarios while developing physical conditioning and mental resilience. The program has produced multiple IBJJF championship competitors through its systematic approach to skill development.

Competition Preparation

Specialized training for competitive athletes includes advanced technique refinement and tournament strategy development. Our competition team receives personalized coaching for IBJJF and other major events, with access to high-intensity sparring sessions and performance analysis. The program has consistently produced medalists at World, Pan, and No-Gi Championship levels through its combination of technical instruction and practical application.

Women's Classes

Women-specific classes focus on practical self-defense techniques and physical empowerment. Instruction emphasizes leverage-based techniques that overcome size disadvantages through proper mechanics and strategy. Students develop situational awareness and boundary-setting skills alongside technical proficiency. The supportive environment encourages personal growth while maintaining the same rigorous standards as our general adult program.

Juniors Program

Designed for ages 4-7, this introductory program uses playful methods to teach fundamental grappling concepts. Classes incorporate games and light exercises to develop coordination and body awareness while subtly introducing BJJ principles. The curriculum prepares students for more advanced training through structured play that builds comfort with physical contact and basic positional control in a non-intimidating environment.

People

Dan Lukehart

Head Instructor & Owner

IBJJF-certified 3rd-degree black belt under Beneil Dariush with 18+ years teaching experience. Developed innovative online learning platform JiuJitsu.net and produced top-selling instructional content. Former elementary school music teacher with specialized expertise in youth martial arts education.

Nolan Stuart

Competitive Athlete

Adult Pan Championship winner who earned recognition on BJJ Heroes. Regular competitor in IBJJF events and integral member of the academy's tournament team. Demonstrates the effectiveness of Brea Jiu-Jitsu's training methodology through consistent championship performances.

Questions

What age groups do you accept?

We offer programs for children aged 4+, adults of all levels, and competitive athletes. Our Juniors Program starts at age 4 with conceptual learning through play.

Do you offer free trial classes?

Yes, we provide complimentary introductory classes with no appointment needed. Simply visit during scheduled class times to try our program.

What makes your BJJ instruction unique?

Our curriculum combines traditional techniques with modern methodologies including video analysis, algorithm-driven learning, and strategic warm-ups for competition success.

Are there competitive opportunities?

Yes, we have active competition teams for kids and adults with proven success at IBJJF World, Pan, and No-Gi Championships.

What equipment is required?

We provide affordable gi options ($80 with belt) but don't require purchases. Students need comfortable workout attire and a willingness to learn.

How are students promoted?

Promotions are based on skill mastery, attitude, and work ethic through instructor evaluation rather than scheduled testing with fees.

Videos

Reviews (6)

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Andrew Kwong

Jul 29, 2021 Report

Ive trained at a multitude of different jiu jutsu gyms and no gym has progressed my jiu jutsu skill level as much or as fast as here. From my experience those who train at this gym for the first time become very skilled very fast thanks to coach dans non patented teaching methods. In addition as a small business and as a business owner Dan is the most honest, straightforward, and kind business owner I have seen or heard of. Theres no doubt that he started this gym because he genuinely loves jiu jutsu and helping people in their life journey. First class is free come try it.

Happy Wife Mom H.

May 06, 2020 Report

My family and I love Brea Jiu Jitsu! My boys have been attending Coach Dan's class over a year now. It is well-structured, most importantly, it is fun and engaging. Not only kids learn jiu jitsu, kids learn how to be curious just about anything. Coach Dan is great with kids of all ages. With the "new normal", kids classes have been successfully transitioned to Zoom. My boys always look forward to it. We are very grateful to have found such a wonderful dojo. I highly recommend Brea Jiu Jitsu to all families.

Brent S.

Jan 13, 2020 Report

I've trained at Brea JJ for over 5 years, under Coach Dan. Simply put, this is a great place to train BJJ. From Dan's technical coaching to video analysis to rolling with world class professional athletes (some world medalists/champs), this gym has been like a second home to me. The environment is always light, courteous, and friendly. There is no extraneous fluff - no bow in/bow out, belt testings, or gym politics. There is just good jiujitsu with good people. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, you will find yourself feeling comfortable and having a good time when training

Kristen H.

Aug 27, 2018 Report

We are truly thankful to have coach Dan be apart of our sons life. Coach Dan always take a few minutes to teach the kids something cool and educational on top of Jiu Jitsu. Today they were scanned to be printed in a 3D printer.
He's great with kids and makes sure they learn and practice each move till they retain and demonstrate with confidents. We highly recommend Brea Jiu Jitsu!

Spencer Mendivil

Aug 11, 2017 Report

This would be my home gym if I lived in the area. Dan is a great teacher. The entire team is a bunch of great guys and top notch competitors. Also the great thing about this school is the frequent visits of some of the world's best.

Daniel P.

Apr 03, 2017 Report

This is a great place to train at. Dan's approach to jiu jitsu is unlike any you'll encounter anywhere else. Very interactive style. He will sometime break down a technique on a large tv screen he has then tea h the fiber details of that technique. I've never seen that done anywhere else. His fundamentals are some of the best around, but he doesn't neglect the current popular tournament techniques. The mat area is large and he has a shower so that you can rinse off after training. Doesn't get much better than that. Check this place out. Well worth it.