Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Laurel, MD

Technique-Focused Training for Adults of All Experience Levels

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art built on leverage, positioning, and problem-solving. Instead of relying on strength or athleticism, BJJ teaches you how to move efficiently, control space, and apply technique with precision.

At 2nd Gear Jiu Jitsu, our program is designed for real people — adults with jobs, families, and busy schedules — who want to learn in a structured, respectful environment.

Whether you are brand new or returning after time away, you’ll be coached step by step with an emphasis on safety, clarity, and steady progress.

👉 Schedule Your Free Trial Class

What Training Looks Like at 2nd Gear

If you’ve never trained before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. Our classes are intentionally structured to make learning clear and approachable.

In a typical class, you can expect:

Clear demonstrations and explanations
Guided practice time
Controlled partner work focused on learning
A calm environment where questions are encouraged

You are never expected to “keep up” or perform at someone else’s pace. Beginners are paired appropriately and coached throughout the class.

Most students start with a free trial to experience the training firsthand and see if the environment feels right.

👉 Schedule Your Free Trial Class

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training emphasizes:

Body awareness and balance
Staying calm in challenging situations
Technical problem-solving
Control and safety while training with partners

Techniques are taught with care and attention to detail. The goal is efficient movement and responsible training.

Because BJJ relies on leverage rather than size or strength, adults of all backgrounds can train effectively and make progress over time.

Why Adults Choose Jiu Jitsu

People come to Jiu Jitsu for different reasons. Over time, many students find that training helps them:

Learn a challenging skill that stays engaging
Build confidence through consistent practice
Improve coordination and mobility
Train in a focused, distraction-free environment

Progress comes from showing up consistently and learning one step at a time. There’s no rush and no expectation to advance faster than feels comfortable.

A Supportive Training Environment

At 2nd Gear, culture matters.

Our academy values:

Respect between training partners
Safety and communication on the mat
Learning over ego
Long-term development over short-term intensity

You’ll train alongside adults who are focused on improving themselves and supporting each other. Many students describe the environment as calm, welcoming, and easy to settle into — especially for beginners.

Excellent

Ian Lawler

I’m a team Shawn Hammonds Black belt from KY. Highly recommend this school. The instructors and students were extremely welcoming, I had a fantastic training session and met some awesome people! Two thumbs way up ⬆️

Response from the owner:Thanks so much for stopping by and training with us. We really appreciate the kind words. And it was great having you on the mats. You’re always welcome back anytime you’re in the area.

— Kenneth

Joan Baer

I’m an almost 40-year-old woman living with type 1 diabetes, and I’ve been part of the Muay Thai program here since 2023. I came in with zero martial arts experience, just looking for a good workout and a healthy outlet for stress — and I’ve gained so much more than I expected.

I’ve never felt stronger, both mentally and physically. The Muay Thai program is thoughtfully structured, with a new technique taught each month so you can really build your skills over time. There are even opportunities to compete as you progress!

For beginners, the gym provides some gear to borrow, which made starting out less intimidating. What really makes this place special, though, is the community — a welcoming, supportive group that extends across the DMV area. I’ve met so many patient, compassionate people who make training here something I genuinely look forward to.

Highly recommend for anyone looking to challenge themselves, get fit, and find an amazing community. 💪

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the time to write this, Joan. It’s been great having you as part of the Muay Thai program. Thanks for being such a positive presence in the room.

— Kenneth

Zuber Vahora

One of the most friendliest and welcoming gym. The muay thai program is a different breed fit for anyone willing to compete or simply exercise

Response from the owner:Thanks for the kind words. We really appreciate you being such a consistent part of the Muay Thai program. Thanks for helping make the community what it is.

— Kenneth

Davonne McNeely

I been attending this place for 4 weeks going on 5 weeks. I highly recommend anyone that wants to learn material arts to attend here. The instructor is professional he is a good teacher and I can tell he actually likes doing this. The people are nice and welcoming. I plan do adopt this as a lifestyle, compete and grow into this sport. I think this is a very safe space to start. The price is very reasonable. Only recommendations I have is to add a water fountain. Lol. That's all

Response from the owner:Awesome. Glad to hear that you are enjoying your experience so far.

Emily Martins

We are so happy with 2nd Gear Jiu-jitsu. The coaches are wonderful and now all my kids want to join.

Response from the owner:Thank you! Your family has been a wonderful addition to the academy, and we look forward to your return after the summer.

Eman Ali

I am so blessed for my boys to be part of this community! We have been doing Jiujitsu for ten years, three of them were with 2nd gear! So basically this review came little bit late 😊.
Before joining them, I knew exactly what I was looking for and it took us around 3 months going for free trials in almost all the area of Columbia/ Baltimore and its surroundings. And it was a mess in almost all of them. I was told by one of the very famous gyms we want the boys and we will offer you an exceptional discount! At the end we decided on 2nd gear!
What brought us first, was the kind of training provided by the coach at the time and the discipline he brought to the mat. Until we found that we landed on a real hidden gem. Watching different coaches in Competitions and how other coaches yells and gets furious on loss or even sometimes gives the player extra self confidence that they don't deserve, that causes harm rather than good. All this proved to me that Coach Ken deserves the word "Coach" and I feel safe my boys looking up for him as a role model!
This kind of mentality and approach is very obvious in the gym. In 2nd gear you will see people from a very different background and all of them are working together in harmony. There is no room for the stressful , overwhelming social life that is being pushed on the people in other gyms to come together . In 2nd gear, all relationships and feelings are original, true and honest!
Training in 2nd gear brings top notch quality Jiujitsu to the mat with no fake showing off!
I also want to mention that the gym has many coaches and each one is unique in a way, that I wish I can write each one a review if I could! There's so many ways to grow and nourish in this gym and it's not just only in Jiujitsu, but in all aspects of life.

Response from the owner:Every day, we are thankful that you chose us.

Jaz Hanonu Real Estate Agent - Loving Huntsville

My boys started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at 2nd Gear in March 2022. Completely new to the sport. The support and training offered here has positively contributed to their physical, emotional and mental health. We have since relocated, but the mentorship and friendships developed will last them a lifetime.
Physically, the boys became significantly stronger, less clumsy, more aware of their bodies.
Mentally, they found they had the ability to focus, learn and execute.
Emotionally, they began learning that they can be resilient, strong and tough and still be happy and kind.
This is safe place to fail, learn and come back stronger.
Quick Boast: My sons have won multiple medals at local competition.☺️
IRL: BJJ is great self-defense
The coaches are great: Coach Griffin, the private lessons were pivotal, Coach K for welcoming us into your gym and the many invaluable lessons, Coach Pete and the rest of the coaching team. Thank you

Areas for improvement: Communication. As a parent that was new to the gym and sport, there were some things I didn't understand, or I may have missed a message. Thankfully other parents were happy to fill in the gaps, and coaches provided details when asked. I like to plan, so for me, having some details well in advance is helpful.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the feedback. That is definitely something that we can work on.

Nikolaus Smith-Simmons

A family-friendly, laid back gym with a very skilled and knowledgeable staff.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review.

Alisha Winegarden

You should definitely heck this place out!

They have a wide range of upper belt ladies and a solid set of instructions. I had intentionally visited to meet Charlene Dixon, a well known high level athlete in the area.

She helped me work out some of game plans and really supported my decisions to start competing.

It’s a clean environment with such supportive staff and team mates. They also have a deep connection with the local community and other gyms. This place has a lot to offer on and off the mats!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review.

Justin Cutting

I was visiting from the UK and dropped in for a week. Kenneth was extremely welcoming, and his academy has a great range of talented upper and lower belts. The instruction was filled with special nuances you only great from an accomplished competitor. The academy has a very friendly and easy-going community, but the sparring sessions are intense, with short breaks and a lot of strong heavy-weights to roll with. Just note that the academy doesn’t have showers. Overall, a wonderful experience and special group that had me coming back every day for gi and no-gi sessions. Thank you, Kenneth.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review, and feel free to visit us again if you’re in the area.

Yelu Zhou

Dropped in here a few weeks ago and had a great time. Everyone was super welcoming and friendly and the instruction was great.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review.

Tamer Dawud

I enrolled my kids more than 3 years ago now and I am more than satisfied with their progress under the mentorship of Coach Ken and the cultivating family environment among all members of the gym. I recommend you go, try a lesson and you will not regret it.

Response from the owner:I can’t express enough how thankful I am to have your sons training with us.

Riley Santino

Was in town for a few days and walked into class. Had a great time with great coaching and really good rolls. Will definitely be back next time I’m in the area!!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review, and feel free to visit us again.

Isaac Peachey

I was in town for the weekend and went to both a no-gi and gi class. Instructors of both classes were what I would consider to be very high level and extremely welcoming and kind. Everyone I rolled with was very skilled and polite. Cool gym.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review.

danny S.

I was visiting the area for work and looking for a place to get in a good roll while I was out of town. I called a couple of gyms and didn't get any response. That was until I called 2nd Gear Jiu-jitsu. Not only did they answer, but they were happy to host me while I was in the area.
I had a wonderful experience at 2nd Gear. I felt like I belonged right from the beginning (the professor knew I was visiting and greeted me upon arrival) and all the members made me feel welcome. I would recommend 2nd Gear for all levels of BJJ enthusiasts. I hope to return soon! Thanks for hosting me.

Response from the owner:Thank for the review.

Kara Kriete

My 7 year old just started at 2nd gear and has really enjoyed classes. Everyone, instructors and the other kids, have been super welcoming and supportive and have allowed him to build confidence as he learns.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

chad stephenson

I was in the area for a few days and dropped in to 2nd Gear. Kenneth was a great host and I can tell he is teaching high level jiu jitsu and fostering a positive environment for people to learn. Everyone at the gym was nice and very welcoming.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review, and feel free to visit us again.

Kevin Chapman

2nd Gear BJJ offers people of all size, age range, and skill level a safe and professional training environment with a relaxed atmosphere. Coach Kenneth Brown brings a high-level technical approach to teaching based on his many years of successful competition while managing to break down complex concepts into bite sized pieces. His commitment to personal growth transfers well to the students who study under him as he is constantly improving upon not just his skillset, but his effectiveness in coaching. It is this concept of continuous improvement that keeps us all growing and becoming better versions of ourselves. I also know I'm not alone in having had the opportunity to meet some amazing people who have become lifelong friends. If you're reading this, I look forward to seeing you on the mats and sharing a story or 2. OSS!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for this review. And our community is better because you’re a part of it.

Casey Joe

Visiting family in the area, so I dropped in for a 4pm nogi class. I was immediately greeted by the head coach. The coach and all the students were friendly and introductory. During the rolling there was no ego smashing or pretentious rolls. Everyone seemed technical, and paced themselves off their partner, which I really appreciate. Would train here again, highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review.

Maria Paleocrassas

I would like to shout out to Coaches Becca and Tara who have encouraged me to grow in both BJJ skills and in my confidence to exercise them. They listen to you as a person and customize the training you need to what you bring to the mat. We all bring different life experiences, body types, strengths, underlying conditions and preconceived notions to the mat. I am happy to be in a very inclusive, welcoming and supportive team/family/community. I cannot thank you and the other ladies of 2nd Gear BJJ enough. I must add that I love that there is a system of rules and respect that develop a comradery among the members.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review. And we hope to see you training again soon.

Nana Kufuor

It's a positive gym. People are very helpful and willing to teach you. They are mindful of your health. Whether you want to compete or just want to train, the environment is encouraging. Visitors are welcome!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the review. And never forget that you are missed.

Matt Cirino

This is home for BJJ training instructors are top notch 👌

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Peter Kofinas

Professor Kenneth Brown is one of the legends of jiu jitsu, but most importantly an amazing person to get to know and be around with. Coach Ken is the reason I spend most evenings at 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, where everyone is welcome. The academy is fun, diverse, inclusive, with patient and caring coaches for the kids and teens, and highly skilled specialized instruction for adults. I highly recommend to come over to try out a class, just for the opportunity to experience coach Ken’s instruction and great training environment.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

christopher mccoy

Ken Brown is the heart and soul of this awesome gym. You literally will not find a more technically advanced, highly developed grappling coach anywhere. Awesome vibes awesome people and independently owned. Cannot recommend highly enough, wether you’re just starting out, or a black belt ready to compete nationally

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Ramsey Salim

As a parent of a child that attends 2nd gear for the past three months, I am very pleased with the manner in which they conduct their classes. The one-hour classes are always one hour, starting on time, ending on time. That to me is a sign of respect. The coaches encourage and adequately push to students to learn and apply. The coaches are tough, yet caring. Both students and parents of students feel a sense of belonging to this Jiu Jitsu club. There's good sense of comradery between the students and between the parents.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review and feedback.

Ryan Murphy

Great instruction and great community!

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Aj McDougal

I recommend 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It is a good use of my precious free time. As a hobby, form of exercise, and social outlet, I’m always happen to have gone; haven't been disappointed yet. The club has a warm, welcoming, positive, fun environment. Instruction is consistently excellent - well thought out, based on experience, and taught with enthusiasm. Enough training partners come so that I can find someone to help me get better.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Willio Jean Paul

The coaches and students are great! The head coach is very nice guy so I recommend the gym.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Alison Padgett

Coaches are excellent! Very patient with kids. Great environment to learn!

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Peter Kofinas

On September 26 2018 I walked in to 2nd Gear Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a free trial class. Close to 17 months later I was awarded a blue belt. Although I knew I was being evaluated and was expecting the promotion to happen sometime soon, the actual moment it occurred was very emotional for me. In my life I have received several recognitions for scientific achievements, but never for anything related to physical activity, so this is a milestone I will never forget.
I owe everything to Professor Kenneth Brown who has been a wonderful mentor and coach. Professor Brown has managed to coach a clumsy uncoordinated 53-year old person like me and make him stick to the sport, this is not a trivial task. It is much harder than teaching to an athletic, talented, 18 year old. It is because of the training environment he has cultivated at 2ndgear that I have had the mental determination to show up to the academy and train almost every day, whether it has been an intense day at work and I am tired, whether my back, ribs, groin, ankles or other body parts are injured, whether I am doing well or feel frustrated with my progress, whether I notice all these younger people pick up new skills so much faster than me,… I just show up to practice, that’s all there is to do in order to eventually progress. Thank you Kenny for being such a great mentor, coach and amazing person, thank you Prof. Sundar Bjj, Prof. David Adams, Prof. Alex Dugas, and coach Matt Weinberg for the instruction at 2ndgear. I am especially grateful to all my fellow academy members who have been my training partners and have spent endless hours drilling and rolling with me!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words. You have been a wonderful addition to the team.

Shawn Lewis

Great atmosphere, great people, great learning environment. I highly recommend to anyone who is interested in learning or developing Jiu Jitsu skills.

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Kyle Cross

I have been training BJJ for over a decade now across several academies in several states and I judge Coach Kenneth Brown among the best instructors I have worked with. His approach to BJJ is not one of dogma but rather of experimentation, micro adjustments and adaption to each student individually. The best instructors recognize that BJJ is more than physical movement but rather an expression of the student who practices it, and each student is encouraged to find there most efficient, effective style that compliments there build, temperament, and athleticism. Since beginning at 2nd Gear I have had a bit of a BJJ renaissance and feel I am back on the road to ever increasing skill. I highly recommend 2nd Gear to both the beginner just starting there BJJ journey; but also to anyone who has left the art due to injury or a loss of passion. You will find a new home and a new start at 2nd Gear BJJ.

Response from the owner:Awesome! Thanks for the vote of confidence.

Heroscape Warrior

While I only trained there for a short time (had to stop because of a medical issue), while I was there it was a blast. Kenny is a genius and his approach to jiu jitsu makes it fun to learn. The community of people that train with him are great to. Everyone wants to help and egos are checked at the door. 100% recommended

Response from the owner:Thanks! Hope to see you back on the mat one day.

Stephen Marlo

Without a doubt one of the best gyms you could ever train at. Kenneth Brown is one of the many beautiful minds in this special game. It has been and honor and a privilege to learn from him and his gym. I owe a great deal of my success to him and this gym that he has built and I couldn’t imagine training anywhere else. I love the coaches, i love the people, and i love jiu jitsu. Thank you 2nd Gear BJJ!

Response from the owner:Thanks!

Zen Flynt

Good place to learn bjj friendly atmosphere

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Oscar Montalvo

If you're contemplating starting a lifelong martial arts journey there is no better place to do so then at 2nd Gear BJJ. Professor Kenneth Browns knowledge of the art of jiu jitsu is deep and his application has been tested and proven as he is an avid competitor with multiple gold medals and championships under his belt. Most important is his method of instruction is concise and easy to grasp. He has cultivated a learning environment that will meet the needs of students from all walks of life. Beginners, veterans of the art, competitors,fitness/self defense enthusiasts, male/female, kids, etc will find a place at 2nd Gear. Come on down and join the fun

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words.

Copes

Take the plunge. Bow and step on the mats. Shift it into 2nd Gear. Sure you may learn self-defense but did you expect to make friends in a welcoming environment?

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words.

Stephenson Eli

Amazing group oo instructors with the comfort of family. Every instructor and student have given nothing but respect and knowledge each day. A great community to learn and develop new skills.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words. We look forward to your return. Training hasn’t quite been the same without you.

Music Styck Arnis Kiyta

i cant put into words how lead coach ken genuinely cares about people.Their is no arrogance,no ego. if he doesnt know something he will say"he doesnt know".He always,always ,always puts safety first.if you are looking for a first time jiu jitsu experience .Please look no further.the monthly rate is beyond reasonable. The facility is CLEAN!!!!! We also have a wonderful children's program. compassionate coaches.What are you waiting for?????

Response from the owner:Thanks for the review.

Matthew Smith

Fantastic BJJ academy. Great instructor who pays attention to details, provides more than just techniques, but mechanical concepts as well, and motivates the students to do their best. Combined with solid training partners and lots of time slots for classes, makes 2nd Gear exactly what I look for in a school.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words.

Nick Rodousakis

Top notch jujitsu academy and a great place to hone your skills or learn something new on all levels.

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words.

Nathan Brandli

2nd Gear is a fantastic place to train. I have been doing BJJ for a long time on and off again. However I have never progressed as quickly or learned as much in such a short amount of time as I have these past four months because of Kenneth Brown's instruction and the people at 2nd Gear as a whole. Kenny is an amazing instructor who is very passionate about BJJ and always grounded in having the right mindset and focus to improve, learn, and master the art with the greatest possible amount of efficacy. He is simultaneously very laid back in a lot of ways and cares a lot about his students. He also views every obstacle, mistake, or failure as an opportunity to improve and problem solve. Whether you are brand new to BJJ or are looking for a place to push yourself and drastically improve and diversify your game , 2nd gear will definitely provide you with everything you need!

Response from the owner:Awesome. Thanks for the kind words. Can’t wait until you get back from Japan. Look forward to seeing what you’ve learned while abroad.

Who This Program Is For

Our Adult Jiu Jitsu program is a good fit if you’re looking for:

Beginner-friendly instruction
A structured learning environment
Training that fits around work and family
Sustainable, long-term progress

You do not need prior experience, special conditioning, or an athletic background to start.

Try a Free Trial Class

The best way to understand Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — and see if 2nd Gear is right for you — is to experience a class.

Your free trial includes:

Guided instruction
A chance to observe and participate
Time to ask questions after class
No pressure to sign up

👉 Schedule Your Free Trial Class

Training Philosophy

Our Jiu Jitsu program focuses on technical instruction, coaching, and skill development. Progress comes from consistent training, proper instruction, and time on the mat.

2nd Gear BJJ

Prince Georges County

8730 Cherry Ln, Suite 14
Laurel, MD 20707
Driving Directions
Email: [email protected]
Call Today! (240) 786-5553

Our Mission

At 2nd Gear, we’re passionate about martial arts and its power to build strength, character, and endurance. Our programs cater to all ages and skill levels, focusing on technique, strategy, and physical fitness in a safe, supportive environment.