North Phoenix BJJ Blog | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tips, News & Academy Updates
The Strong Heart Academy blog covers BJJ training tips, kids martial arts, competition prep, and life lessons from the mats — written by Professor Mike Martin and our coaching staff in North Phoenix, AZ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kids BJJ, and Martial Arts Training in North Phoenix
At Strong Heart Academy, our blog shares insights from decades of experience as one of the longest-running Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies in the North Phoenix valley, with lineage connected to Joe Moreira and Caio Terra. Read our articles covering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids and adults, women’s BJJ, fitness, self-defense, competition preparation, and the benefits of martial arts training for the entire family. Our goal is to provide valuable training knowledge, academy updates, and practical BJJ insights for students of all experience levels throughout Phoenix and the surrounding communities.
BJJ Near Desert Ridge & Norterra: Your North Phoenix Jiu-Jitsu Home
Prof. Mike Martin Demonstrating A advanced technique at Strong Heart BJJ Academy in North Phoenix.
If you live or work near Desert Ridge Marketplace or Norterra and you've been searching for a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym you can actually trust, you're probably closer than you think. Strong Heart Academy sits at 3150 E Union Hills Dr #115 — just minutes from both neighborhoods — and has been one of Arizona's most respected BJJ schools since 2009.
No hype, no cookie-cutter franchise curriculum. Just real coaching, a community that shows up for each other, and a school that's been part of North Phoenix for over 16 years.
Easy to Reach From Desert Ridge, Norterra & the 85050 Zip
Strong Heart Academy sits at the intersection of Union Hills Drive and 32nd Street, putting it within easy reach of 85050 residents and commuters from Desert Ridge, Norterra, Happy Valley, Deer Valley, and North Scottsdale. Whether you're swinging by after school pickup or squeezing in a class before or after work, the location fits naturally into a North Phoenix routine.
There are martial arts studios scattered throughout North Phoenix, but Strong Heart Academy stands apart in a few important ways:
North Phoenix has no shortage of martial arts studios. Here's what sets Strong Heart Academy apart.
16+ Years in the Community
Founded in 2009 by Professor Mike Martin, Strong Heart Academy is one of North Phoenix's longest-running BJJ schools. Longevity in this industry isn't an accident — it comes from a consistently high-quality experience that keeps students, and their families and neighbors, coming back.
World-Class Lineage
Professor Mike Martin holds a 4th Degree Black Belt, with every stripe personally awarded by Caio Terra — a 12-time IBJJF World Champion and one of the most decorated competitors in BJJ history. The Caio Terra Association connection means the technical instruction at Strong Heart Academy is rooted in a world-championship-level lineage, not a watered-down franchise curriculum.
Nine Active Black Belt Instructors
Strong Heart Academy is home to over nine active black belt instructors, including specialists in No-Gi BJJ, leg attacks, competition prep, and kids coaching. Professors like Tod Gerrish (2nd Degree, Pan American Champion, Special Forces background), Casey Quist (2nd Degree, No-Gi specialist), and Shea Smith (1st Degree, internationally trained) bring genuine depth to every class.
Programs for the Whole Family
It's common to see an entire family training together at Strong Heart Academy:
Tiny Tigers (ages 5–6): A playful introduction to movement, coordination, and following directions.
Kids BJJ (ages 7–12): Core technique, self-defense skills, and character development.
Teen BJJ (ages 13–17): Advanced training with competition options and a leadership focus.
Adult Gi BJJ: Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the classic uniform.
No-Gi BJJ & MMA: Fast-paced grappling with an emphasis on wrestling and leg locks.
See the full lineup of kids' programs or check today's schedule to find a class that fits.
Morning and Evening Class Slots
The schedule is built around actual North Phoenix routines — early morning rolls for the before-work crowd, and evening family sessions that work around school pickups and travel. Full times are posted at strongheartacademy.com/schedule.
What the North Phoenix Community Says
Strong Heart Academy holds a 4.9-star average across 220+ Google reviews. Students consistently describe the culture as welcoming, ego-free, and genuinely family-friendly — a place where coaches invest in people, not just technique. Whether you've trained before or have never stepped on a mat, you'll find a community here that wants you to succeed.
Arizona ESA Scholarship Accepted
Arizona families may qualify for the state's Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which can cover martial arts training. Strong Heart Academy accepts ESA debit cards for qualified students — ask us how it works when you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a BJJ gym near Desert Ridge or Norterra? Yes — Strong Heart Academy is located at 3150 E Union Hills Dr #115 in North Phoenix, just minutes from both Desert Ridge Marketplace and Norterra.
What ages does Strong Heart Academy teach? Programs run from Tiny Tigers (ages 5–6) through Kids, Teens, and Adults, with both Gi and No-Gi options.
Does Strong Heart Academy accept the Arizona ESA scholarship? Yes, ESA debit cards are accepted for qualified students.
Is a first class really free? Yes — your first class is completely free, no strings attached.Located at 3150 E Union Hills Dr #115, North Phoenix, AZ 85050 — minutes from Desert Ridge and Norterra. Call (602) 487-9828 or visit strongheartacademy.com. Your first class is completely free.