Straight Blast Gym Portland - BJJ & MMA Gym

"This is Coach Justin, one of the excellent BJJ teachers at SBG Portland. Justin signed me up to the gym, guided me through my entry process, and always has a kind work or thoughtful insight to share with me. Today’s class with Coach Justin was all about escaping your opponent when they’re going for your head on the ground, and boy was it fantastic. And humbling. Coach Justin said today something today like, “if you want to succeed at BJJ you have to let your ego go”, and of course he’s absolutely right. When I got into powerlifting seriously about ten years ago, I took to it like flies take to sh*t—I was naturally strong, and good coaches were able to take me to really incredible strength numbers. But I’m not naturally good at BJJ, and for me to get better, I have to admit that. I have to think through what I’m doing, how I’m doing it, and why in the moment I’m doing it. I absolutely love BJJ, and am grateful that I have this gym within walking distance to train at. The three coaches I’ve worked with—Vanessa, Justin, and Franklin have challenged me like no other, and I’m grateful. And I won’t back down. I’m slowly getting better, but there is a rich depth to this sport that I don’t know if I’ll fully ever explore, but that doesn’t mean I dang well won’t give it my best. I highly recommend this place, both for complete newbies and experienced athletes as well. You will be challenged, and you won’t walk away disappointed."

"Great Gym! Skilled training partners (so you know the instruction is top notch) and the instructors are very welcoming. Overall great place to train."

"A middle-aged blue belt visiting family for the winter holidays. Arranged by e-mail to attend a couple of classes before arriving. The e-mails from staff were prompt and informative. Arriving at the gym all the staff and students were welcoming and felt at home immediately. I participated in a CAP and a Foundations class. Both instructors were very knowledgeable and taught in a progressive fashion that was very easy to understand. As a result, walked out to the gym with a couple of new techniques and a few solutions to problems I was having in my game. Highly recommend if you are in the visiting the area or if you live in the area and are looking for an excellent place to train!"

"Online Member! The scientific method and their constant search for truth and excellence produces great techniques and teaching styles. Coach Matt mentioned the organization was a bit behind with leglocks and would work on it. Coach Frankl puts his brainpower to work and problem solved. Coach Whittier, ahead of the parade with his 40 plus series. Gamification... is a new lingo, concept is exactly what Coach Matt had us do at a seminar. The MMA instruction is excellent. Self-Defense-Fight based education! Very impressive commitment to constant improvement. Highly recommend!"

"Everyone at Straight Blast Gym was welcoming and friendly. They offer a wide range of classes, and the facility is clean and spacious. I took Rick and Vanessa’s Foundations- Stand up classes, and both instructors taught techniques with clear instruction and attentiveness to all members in the class. Would definitely commend this gym!"