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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Adult students wearing newly awarded blue belts at Straight Blast Gym Calgary, post-promotion photo.

How Long to Get a Blue Belt in BJJ in Calgary? Real Timeline + 90-Day Plan

Short answer: Most beginners in Calgary can earn a blue belt in 18 to 36 months. Your timeline depends on attendance, consistency, coach feedback, and staying healthy. If you are weighing BJJ vs the gym, this guide shows what affects your timeline, what blue belt means, and how to set up your first 90 days […]

How Long to Get a Blue Belt in BJJ in Calgary? Real Timeline + 90-Day Plan Read More »

Two adults training Jiu Jitsu under coach supervision in Calgary

Shift Work and Jiu Jitsu: Training for Nurses, First Responders, and Trades in Calgary

Short answer: If you are looking for jiu jitsu for shift workers Calgary, here is a simple plan. Choose from our daytime, evening, or weekend slots to anchor 2 classes per week. Our experienced Black Belt coaches lead every class. They set the pace, and scale the work for safety. If you have had a tough

Shift Work and Jiu Jitsu: Training for Nurses, First Responders, and Trades in Calgary Read More »

Two kids training Jiu Jitsu safely while learning self-defence skills in Calgary

Can Jiu Jitsu Help With Bullying? Calgary Parents’ Guide

Short answer: Yes. Jiu Jitsu can help children handle bullying by building confidence, teaching clear boundaries, and giving them safe ways to escape and seek help. At Straight Blast Gym Calgary, we focus on prevention first, self-defence as a last resort, and consistent habits that grow real confidence. TL;DR What counts as bullying? Bullying is

Can Jiu Jitsu Help With Bullying? Calgary Parents’ Guide Read More »

BJJ for law enforcement

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Law Enforcement in Calgary: Why BJJ is Essential for Subject Control

In high-pressure situations, control matters more than force. That’s why more and more police and security professionals in Calgary are turning to BJJ for law enforcement as the foundation for subject control training. Unlike traditional tactics that rely on pain compliance or brute strength, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses on leverage, technique, positional dominance, and practical

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Law Enforcement in Calgary: Why BJJ is Essential for Subject Control Read More »

Jiu Jitsu Builds Grit in Kids

How Jiu Jitsu Builds Grit in Kids: Why Sticking With It Matters

Short answer: Jiu Jitsu builds grit in kids by giving them small challenges they can overcome, one class at a time. With steady coaching and clear milestones at Straight Blast Gym Calgary, children learn focus, frustration tolerance, and follow-through. TL;DR When parents bring their kids to Jiu Jitsu, they’re often looking for confidence, self-defence skills,

How Jiu Jitsu Builds Grit in Kids: Why Sticking With It Matters Read More »

Japanese Jiu Jitsu vs Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Calgary

Japanese Jiu Jitsu vs. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: What’s the Difference?

Short answer: Japanese Jiu Jitsu is a traditional system with strikes, throws, joint locks, and some groundwork. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu specialises in live, partner-based grappling, positional control, and submissions. For most beginners in Calgary, BJJ offers the best mix of fitness, confidence, and practical self-defence. If you have been researching martial arts in Calgary, you

Japanese Jiu Jitsu vs. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: What’s the Difference? Read More »

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