Author name: Mike Sweeney

Mike Sweeney is a life-long martial artist and co-owner of Straight Blast Gym Calgary. He is 3rd degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has also earned a 3rd degree Black Belt in Shotokan Karate, and instructor ranks in Muay Thai kickboxing, Jun Fan Gung Fu, Filipino Martial Arts, and Combat Submission Wrestling.

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BJJ vs. gym

Why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Is Better Than the Gym for Fitness in 2025

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Looking for a fitness routine that goes beyond the treadmill? Discover why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is the ultimate fitness alternative in 2025. From high-calorie burns and full-body workouts to practical self-defence skills and a supportive community, BJJ offers unmatched physical and mental benefits. Say goodbye to boring gym sessions and hello to a more engaging, life-changing fitness journey!

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Micro Monkeys Parent & Kids Jiu Jitsu class

Discover the Joy of Movement with our Micro Monkeys Parent & Kids Jiu Jitsu Class in Calgary!

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Are you searching for a fun way to bond with your 3 or 4-year-old in Calgary? The Micro Monkeys Parent & Kids Jiu Jitsu Class at Straight Blast Gym Calgary is just what you need! This unique program introduces toddlers to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a playful and supportive environment. The best part? Parents join

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Self-defence for women

Why Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Perfect for Women’s Self-Defence?

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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a practical, empowering choice for women’s self-defence. With techniques based on leverage and control, BJJ allows you to protect yourself against larger, stronger opponents. Beyond safety, it builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of empowerment that carries into every part of life. A Smarter Way to Stay Safe Self-defence isn’t

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BJJ for kids

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Safe for Kids? What Every Parent Should Know

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As parents, we want to keep our kids safe while encouraging them to explore new challenges. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a fantastic choice. It offers self-defence skills, personal growth, and physical activity. But you may still wonder, “Is it safe?” At Straight Blast Gym Calgary, safety is our top priority. Here’s why BJJ is

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Beginner Jiu Jitsu class for teens and adults

What to Expect in Your First Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Class at Straight Blast Gym Calgary

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So, you’ve decided to try Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) – amazing! Taking that first step is exciting, but we know that for some people, it can feel a bit intimidating, too. At Straight Blast Gym Calgary, we’re all about creating a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can learn at your own pace, make new friends,

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martial arts class

Karate, Kung Fu, Taekwondo, and Jiu Jitsu

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“Hello. My 5-year-old son wants to learn karate.” We receive some version of this inquiry from prospective Calgary parents at least half a dozen times each week. For many, “karate” remains a catch-all term for martial arts training, much like “Kleenex” for facial tissues or “Band-Aid” for adhesive bandages. It gets even more interesting when

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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu vs Muay Thai Kickboxing for self-defence

1 Comment / Jiu Jitsu /

Hardly a day goes by where I’m not involved in some discussion comparing the merits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu vs. Muay Thai Kickboxing for self-defence. It’s to be expected; both are amazing combat sports, and I’ve taught each for decades. In a perfect world, I’d recommend mastering both. But when it comes to advising the

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu vs Muay Thai Kickboxing for self-defence Read More »

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Rebecca Sweeney

Head Coach

Becca’s athletic journey began in childhood, marked by her incredibly strong work ethic. Introduced to the martial arts when her daughter started training, she initially gravitated toward kickboxing and Muay Thai. Soon after, however, she immersed herself in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA, ultimately turning her passion into a profession by teaching at the academy.

Driven to test her skills, Becca achieved a notable 4-1 record in amateur kickboxing and Muay Thai. In 2006, she made a significant leap into professional MMA. Becca holds the distinction of being the first woman to compete in King of the Cage Canada, boasting an impressive 2-0 professional record. Additionally, in 2009, just under 20 years ago, she earned the rank of Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, becoming only the second Canadian female to have done so at the time.

Experience:

Over 20 years of Martial Arts Experience

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Michael Sweeney

Head Coach

Mike is a dedicated lifelong martial artist committed to sharing his passion and expertise with his students. Training since his early teens, he has extensive expertise in disciplines such as Shotokan Karate, Jun Fan Gung Fu, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Muay Thai Kickboxing, and brings a wealth of diverse knowledge to his instruction. In 2007, over a decade and a half, Mike achieved the prestigious rank of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Black Belt from his Nova União teacher, Wagnney Fabiano.

Affiliated with Straight Blast Gym since 2003, Mike and his wife, Becca, owned and operated a successful martial arts school in Kingston, Ontario for over 23 years. In 2018, they returned from international travels with the goal of using their extensive experience to create the ultimate jiu-jitsu training facility. They initially settled in the Okanagan Valley and immediately began sharing their knowledge with the vibrant community at Pacific Top Team Vernon. Simultaneously, they began formulating a plan to create their new facility in Alberta.

With Mike’s wealth of experience, commitment to growth, and a warm, inclusive teaching approach, you can trust that you’re in the best hands when you train at Straight Blast Gym Calgary.

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44 years of experience

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