Grappling

Learn practical self-defense skills in Herndon, VA using [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ), with beginner-friendly instruction focused on real-world positions and submissions. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).** This class is designed for **adults** who want a clear, **structured introduction to self-defense** with a focus on basic takedowns and [ground fighting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_fighting). Training emphasizes **foundational BJJ concepts**, including **positional control**, **escapes**, and **high-percentage submissions**. *No prior experience is required.* Instruction is paced for **beginners**, with an emphasis on **safety**, **understanding**, and building **confidence** on the mat. Classes run **Tuesdays** and **Thursdays** from **6:00–7:30 PM** at the [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) serving students from nearby [Reston](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reston,_Virginia) and surrounding [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) areas. Come ready to **learn**, **move**, and **train** in a supportive environment. This [self-defense event in Herndon](https://nvma.group/2026/03/26/intro-to-self-defense-class-at-osma-in-herndon-va/) has been cross-posted on the NVMA website as well as on [Patch](https://patch.com/virginia/reston/calendar/event/20260402/85b3425c-6dfe-4840-b46d-87d129333c4e/introduction-to-self-defense-course-on-april-02nd-2026-at-osma-in-herndon-va).

Learn practical self-defense skills in Herndon, VA using [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ), with beginner-friendly instruction focused on real-world positions and submissions. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).** This class is designed for **adults** who want a clear, **structured introduction to self-defense** with a focus on basic takedowns and [ground fighting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_fighting). Training emphasizes **foundational BJJ concepts**, including **positional control**, **escapes**, and **high-percentage submissions**. *No prior experience is required.* Instruction is paced for **beginners**, with an emphasis on **safety**, **understanding**, and building **confidence** on the mat. Classes run **Tuesdays** and **Thursdays** from **6:00–7:30 PM** at the [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) serving students from nearby [Reston](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reston,_Virginia) and surrounding [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) areas. Come ready to **learn**, **move**, and **train** in a supportive environment. This [self-defense event in Herndon](https://nvma.group/2026/03/26/intro-to-self-defense-class-at-osma-in-herndon-va/) has been cross-posted on the NVMA website as well as on [Patch](https://patch.com/virginia/reston/calendar/event/20260402/85b3425c-6dfe-4840-b46d-87d129333c4e/introduction-to-self-defense-course-on-april-02nd-2026-at-osma-in-herndon-va).

Join us every **Tuesday** from **6:00 PM** to **7:00 PM** at the [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) for a women's only [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) **gi class** designed for **all experience levels**. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).** Beginners and experienced grapplers alike will find a **welcoming**, **supportive environment** where women **train together**, **grow together**, and **push each other forward**. **What to expect**: Each session covers practical BJJ techniques with a focus on real-world **[self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense)**, **body mechanics**, and **positional grappling** \-\- building **functional fitness** alongside genuine **technical skill**. Class runs from **6:00 PM** to **7:00 PM**, followed by **open mat** for those who want to **continue training**, **drill techniques**, or **get additional sparring rounds** in. This class is for you if: * You're curious about BJJ and want to try it in a **women's only setting** * You want to **develop practical self-defense skills** * You're looking for a **fitness routine** that's **challenging**, **fun**, and **actually useful** * You already train and want **dedicated mat time with other women** No gear? No problem! Just show up -- **loaner gis** are available if you don't have one yet.

This is our weekly training session. NOVA Jujutsu is a self-defense focused system incorporating Geri (Kicking), Atemi (Striking), Uke (Blocking), Tai Sabakai (Body Movement), Tai Hodoki (Escapes), Kansetsu Waza (Joint Locks), Nage Waza (Throwing), Shime Waza (Choking), Katame Waza (Grappling), Tantojutsu (Knife), Bojutsu (Bo), Kenjutsu (Sword), and Kata (Forms). Come on down to a class and see for yourself what this group has to offer. You will get a great workout! You will have an awesome learning experience! You will meet some good people! We look forward to meeting you. See you there. TAGS: japanese, martial arts, self-defense, jujutsu, jujitsu, juijitsu, bujutsu, defense, karate, koppo, kenjutsu, bojutsu, tantojutsu

This **no gi class** focuses on **[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) concepts**, including **takedowns**, **positional drilling**, **submissions**, **transitions**, **situational sparring**, **strategy development**, and **live training**. While the class is scheduled for **90 minutes**, it may run longer depending on content and participation. This class includes both **instruction** as well as [rolling](https://www.howbjjworks.com/bjj-blog/2018/7/29/how-rolling-works-in-bjj) (**sparring**) and a **question-and-answer** section. **Some of the topics covered in this class include:** 🤼 **Wrestling** \-\- Takedowns\, ties\, and controlling the stand\-up game using wrestling fundamentals adapted for no gi BJJ competition and self\-defense\. 🤼 **Catch Wrestling** \-\- A traditional grappling system emphasizing submissions and relentless pressure \-\- [catch wrestling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catch_wrestling) concepts add a ruthlessly practical dimension to no-gi BJJ. 🥋 **Judo adapted to no gi BJJ** \-\- Classical [Judo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judo) throws and **off-balancing principles** translated into a no-gi context, giving grapplers a powerful and often underused takedown arsenal. 🧠 **[Constraints-Led Approach](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach) (CLA) to learning and games** \-\- A modern\, evidence\-based coaching methodology that uses structured games and constraints to accelerate skill acquisition naturally and intuitively\. 📌 **Pins** \-\- Controlling and maintaining dominant positions on the ground \-\- [pins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pin_(sport_wrestling)) are the foundation of effective ground fighting and set up submissions, transitions, and pressure. 🔒 **Submissions** \-\- Chokes\, arm locks\, and [finishing techniques](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brazilian_jiu-jitsu_techniques#Submissions_(Most_Frequent_in_UFC_%E2%80%93_Sorted_by_Frequency)) applied from dominant positions -- the ultimate objective of BJJ ground fighting. 🦵 **Leg locks** \-\- Heel hooks\, kneebars\, ankle locks\, and toe holds \-\- [lower body submissions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leglock) that are increasingly central to high-level no gi competition. 🔄 **Guard passing and guard retention** \-\- The core positional chess match of BJJ \-\- learning to break through an opponent's guard while protecting your own is fundamental to controlling a match\. ⚖️ **Kuzushi (off-balancing)** \-\- The Japanese principle of [disrupting an opponent's balance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuzushi) before executing a throw or takedown -- a concept borrowed from Judo that dramatically improves takedown success rates. 🔥 **Pressure and cooking opponents** \-\- Using body weight\, positioning\, and [relentless forward pressure](https://bjjfanatics.com/blogs/news/pressure-bjj) to physically and mentally exhaust opponents -- a high percentage strategy at all levels. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).**

This **no gi class** focuses on **[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) concepts**, including **takedowns**, **positional drilling**, **submissions**, **transitions**, **situational sparring**, **strategy development**, and **live training**. While the class is scheduled for **90 minutes**, it may run longer depending on content and participation. This class includes both **instruction** as well as [rolling](https://www.howbjjworks.com/bjj-blog/2018/7/29/how-rolling-works-in-bjj) (**sparring**) and a **question-and-answer** section. **Some of the topics covered in this class include:** 🤼 **Wrestling** \-\- Takedowns\, ties\, and controlling the stand\-up game using wrestling fundamentals adapted for no gi BJJ competition and self\-defense\. 🤼 **Catch Wrestling** \-\- A traditional grappling system emphasizing submissions and relentless pressure \-\- [catch wrestling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catch_wrestling) concepts add a ruthlessly practical dimension to no-gi BJJ. 🥋 **Judo adapted to no gi BJJ** \-\- Classical [Judo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judo) throws and **off-balancing principles** translated into a no-gi context, giving grapplers a powerful and often underused takedown arsenal. 🧠 **[Constraints-Led Approach](https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach) (CLA) to learning and games** \-\- A modern\, evidence\-based coaching methodology that uses structured games and constraints to accelerate skill acquisition naturally and intuitively\. 📌 **Pins** \-\- Controlling and maintaining dominant positions on the ground \-\- [pins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pin_(sport_wrestling)) are the foundation of effective ground fighting and set up submissions, transitions, and pressure. 🔒 **Submissions** \-\- Chokes\, arm locks\, and [finishing techniques](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Brazilian_jiu-jitsu_techniques#Submissions_(Most_Frequent_in_UFC_%E2%80%93_Sorted_by_Frequency)) applied from dominant positions -- the ultimate objective of BJJ ground fighting. 🦵 **Leg locks** \-\- Heel hooks\, kneebars\, ankle locks\, and toe holds \-\- [lower body submissions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leglock) that are increasingly central to high-level no gi competition. 🔄 **Guard passing and guard retention** \-\- The core positional chess match of BJJ \-\- learning to break through an opponent's guard while protecting your own is fundamental to controlling a match\. ⚖️ **Kuzushi (off-balancing)** \-\- The Japanese principle of [disrupting an opponent's balance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuzushi) before executing a throw or takedown -- a concept borrowed from Judo that dramatically improves takedown success rates. 🔥 **Pressure and cooking opponents** \-\- Using body weight\, positioning\, and [relentless forward pressure](https://bjjfanatics.com/blogs/news/pressure-bjj) to physically and mentally exhaust opponents -- a high percentage strategy at all levels. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**, or **[sign up for a week of training for free](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/).**

10:00 AM - Meet & Create - Depending on the weather we will do a walk about for nature/outdoor photography and content creation. 12noon - Lunch + Networking We’ll head to a local restaurant for lunch and continued networking and conversation.