Baltimore Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Baltimore Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Essex, Maryland is known for its deep roots in grappling and a coaching team that brings decades of experience across wrestling, BJJ, MMA, and striking arts. The academy was founded in 2005 by Lee Synkowski, a 4th degree black belt under Phil Migliarese, who has over 150 competition wins spanning BJJ, submission grappling, judo, and MMA. Today, the school is led by owner Rob Sullivan, a professional mixed martial artist and black belt, and head instructor Chris Balint, who earned his black belt after years of training and competition, particularly in submission-only formats. The coaching staff includes accomplished competitors and educators like Scott Aumen, a longtime PE teacher and youth coach, and Ann Russell, who leads the women’s program. Classes at Baltimore BJJ cover a wide range of ages and interests. Adult students can train in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, kickboxing, and MMA. The youth program is taught by experienced instructors with backgrounds in both wrestling and BJJ, focusing on building skills and confidence for kids and teens. The academy also offers women’s-only classes led by a competitive brown belt, giving women a dedicated space to learn and train. Open mat sessions are available and welcome drop-ins, making it easy for visitors or traveling students to get in quality mat time. The academy’s teaching philosophy reflects its instructors’ diverse backgrounds: fundamentals are emphasized, but students are encouraged to pursue competition, self-defense, or personal growth at their own pace. With a facility that is wheelchair accessible and a schedule that includes options for every level, Baltimore BJJ maintains its reputation as a place where grapplers of all backgrounds can learn from a team with real-world experience in the art and sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

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