3 Elements BJJ and MMA

3 Elements BJJ and MMA in Erie, Pennsylvania, traces its roots back to 2005 when Marc Yates founded the gym to share Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s culture and benefits. Yates earned his black belt under Robert Drysdale before passing ownership to longtime students Tom and Brad Gardner in 2014. Brad leads the BJJ instruction as a black belt under the BJJ Revolution Team, a lineage that connects through Rodrigo Medeiros and Julio “Foca” Fernandez, while Tom assists and coaches MMA classes. The gym’s approach centers on mastering the foundational elements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: escape, control, and submission. Students at 3 Elements train in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with classes scheduled Tuesday through Thursday and an open mat on Saturdays. The school also offers MMA, wrestling, and kickboxing classes, reflecting a mixed martial arts curriculum that supports both striking and grappling development. Kids’ BJJ classes are held on Saturdays, providing instruction tailored to younger practitioners. The coaching staff includes Jeremy Sakuta as head striking instructor, complementing the grappling focus with dedicated stand-up training. The facility at 5718 Wattsburg Road is wheelchair accessible and supports a variety of training formats, including family BJJ sessions designed for up to four participants. The schedule accommodates different training interests and skill levels, with drop-in options available. The program’s evolution and coaching continuity reflect its commitment to practical skill development within a structured system, grounded in a respected competitive lineage.

Amenities