Author name: Mike Sweeney

Michael Sweeney is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt who has been coaching and teaching martial arts for over two decades. He earned his black belt in 2007 under Wagnney Fabiano of Nova União and has been part of the Straight Blast Gym family since 2003. Before opening SBG Calgary in 2018, Mike ran a successful martial arts school in Kingston, Ontario for more than 23 years, where he helped thousands of students — kids and adults alike — find their footing on the mats. When he writes about BJJ, he draws on real experience coaching real people through the same questions and doubts you might have right now.

Avatar photo
Couple drilling Brazilian jiu-jitsu together at SBG Calgary

How to Get Your Partner Into Jiu-Jitsu: A Valentine’s Day Guide (Calgary)

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be dinner and a movie. If you train Brazilian jiu-jitsu in Calgary, one of the best “date ideas” is simple: invite your partner to try a class with you. Not because you want them to become a killer grappler overnight. But because training together builds confidence, shared routines, and a […]

How to Get Your Partner Into Jiu-Jitsu: A Valentine’s Day Guide (Calgary) Read More »

Two students kneel on the mats listening to a Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor

Can Jiu-Jitsu Help Mental Health? What It Helps, What It Doesn’t, and How to Train Smart (Calgary)

A lot of people start jiu jitsu because they want to get in shape, learn self-defence, or try something new. Then they notice something else. They feel calmer after class. Their stress is lower. They sleep better. They’re more confident at work and at home. They’re not as reactive. So the question comes up: Can

Can Jiu-Jitsu Help Mental Health? What It Helps, What It Doesn’t, and How to Train Smart (Calgary) Read More »

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

Jiu-Jitsu for Kids with ADHD: What the Research Says

If you’re a parent in Calgary wondering whether jiu-jitsu can help a child with ADHD, the answer is that it often can. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides a structured environment where kids practise focus, self-control, and problem solving during every class. Some research suggests BJJ and other martial arts can improve areas like hyperactivity/inattention and aspects of

Jiu-Jitsu for Kids with ADHD: What the Research Says 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 »

Adult beginners training Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Straight Blast Gym Calgary

Thinking About Starting Jiu Jitsu in the New Year?

What Calgary Adults 30–50 Actually Need to Know Quick answer: Adults aged 30–50 can safely start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at any fitness level, with beginner programs designed to build confidence, self-defence skills, and long-term consistency. January is when a lot of adults finally decide to act on something they have been thinking about for years.

Thinking About Starting Jiu Jitsu in the New Year? 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 »

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.