Emerald Coast Jiu Jitsu (Beach Jiu Jitsu)

Every session at Emerald Coast Jiu Jitsu starts on the mats of a 6,000-square-foot facility tailored for serious training. Students in Panama City Beach will notice zoned areas for beginner and advanced classes, a Muay Thai training zone with heavy bags, gym equipment for warm-ups, and full shower facilities. The space is designed to keep the focus on learning and progression, with open mats and a parents’ seating area complete with a coffee shop. The academy is led by Thor Shaffer, a 2nd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a 4th degree black belt in Goju Ryu Karate, who brings over 30 years of martial arts experience to his classes. He is joined by Professor David Hulsey, also a 2nd degree BJJ black belt with a background in gymnastics and powerlifting, and Professor Priam Shaffer, a first degree black belt who has been competing since childhood and has earned multiple IBJJF Pan Am and World podium finishes. The staff also includes coaches with deep credentials in Judo, wrestling, Muay Thai, MMA, and more, providing a broad technical foundation for students interested in cross-training. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction here covers fundamentals, all-levels, and advanced gi classes for adults, with structured progression and regular open mats for live practice. Drop-ins are welcome, and students also have access to Judo, wrestling, Muay Thai, and even yoga and breakdancing classes, reflecting the academy’s commitment to a complete martial arts education. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and all programs are run under the guidance of experienced, credentialed instructors.

Amenities