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.

Avatar photo
Smiling group of kids after Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class in Calgary

Jiu-Jitsu for Kids with ADHD: What the Research Says (Calgary Parents Guide)

If you’re a parent in Calgary and you’re looking for a structured sport that can help your child practise focus, self-control, and confidence, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is worth a serious look. Some research suggests BJJ and other martial arts can improve areas like hyperactivity/inattention and parts of executive function, though results vary by child and program […]

Jiu-Jitsu for Kids with ADHD: What the Research Says (Calgary Parents Guide) Read More »

Parents and children training together at a family martial arts class in Calgary

Martial Arts for the Whole Family in Calgary: How Training Together Builds Confidence & Connection

When families think about martial arts, they often picture kids classes or adult training, not both. Yet one of the most powerful and overlooked benefits is what happens when families train together. At our martial arts school in Calgary, we’ve seen how shared training experiences strengthen family dynamics, improve communication, and help parents and kids

Martial Arts for the Whole Family in Calgary: How Training Together Builds Confidence & Connection Read More »

Boxing vs Jiu Jitsu for Kids: Which Is Better for Your Child?

If you are a parent in Calgary looking into martial arts for your child, you are probably thinking about confidence, discipline, fitness, self-defence, and helping your child grow into a capable, resilient young person. Two of the most common options parents look at are boxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). They both teach valuable lessons,

Boxing vs Jiu Jitsu for Kids: Which Is Better for Your Child? Read More »

Parents watching their child train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Straight Blast Gym Calgary, supporting learning and confidence on the mats.

How Parents Help Their Child Succeed in Jiu-Jitsu

In short:Parents play a critical role in their child’s success in kids’ jiu-jitsu, often more than natural ability or athletic talent. The way you support training at home and in the gym directly affects your child’s confidence, consistency, and long-term progress. Below are the most important ways parents can actively support their child’s success in

How Parents Help Their Child Succeed in Jiu-Jitsu Read More »

Holiday Jiu-Jitsu bingo cards for Straight Blast Gym Calgary’s kids and adult students, showing fun training and home challenges for the Christmas break.

How to Stay on Track With Jiu Jitsu Over the Holidays (For You and Your Child)

If you train Jiu Jitsu – or your child does – you probably feel the same tension every December: You want to enjoy the holidays, see family, eat good food, maybe sleep in.You also don’t want to throw away all the progress you’ve made on the mats. Short answer:You don’t need a “perfect” holiday. You

How to Stay on Track With Jiu Jitsu Over the Holidays (For You and Your Child) Read More »

Beginner adult learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Straight Blast Gym Calgary, practicing safely on the mats to build fitness and confidence.

Can I Start Jiu Jitsu If I’m Out of Shape or Overweight?

If you live in Calgary and you’re thinking about starting Jiu Jitsu, there’s a good chance this thought has already hit you: “I’m too out of shape for this.”“I’m overweight, I’ll just slow everyone down.”“I’ll be the heaviest, sweatiest person in the room.” Short answer: you can absolutely start Jiu Jitsu even if you’re out

Can I Start Jiu Jitsu If I’m Out of Shape or Overweight? Read More »

Group of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students and coaches on the mats at Straight Blast Gym Calgary, showing a friendly beginner-friendly Jiu Jitsu gym in Calgary.

How To Choose the Right Jiu Jitsu or Martial Arts School in Calgary

If you live in Calgary and you’re thinking about starting Jiu Jitsu or putting your child in martial arts, you’ve probably already typed something like: The problem is simple: every website says they’re “the best.” This guide will walk you through how to actually choose the right Jiu Jitsu or martial arts school in Calgary,

How To Choose the Right Jiu Jitsu or Martial Arts School in Calgary Read More »

Scroll to Top

GETTING STARTED IS EASY!

SIMPLY FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW AND THEN SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INTRO SESSION ON THE NEXT PAGE.

Shortly after we will be in touch with you to confirm your intro session. We are excited to meet you!

HAVE QUESTIONS?

WE WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!

Simply fill out the form below
& one of our amazing
coaches will be in touch asap! We are excited to meet you!

OUR PRICING IS SIMPLE

WE WANT TO OFFER YOU THE PERFECT MEMBERSHIP FOR YOUR NEEDS.

Simply fill out the form below and one of our amazing coaches will send you our current membership information.