Fat Cat Jiu Jitsu

Fat Cat Jiu Jitsu in Montgomery, NY, approaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a complex, detail-rich martial art that requires patience and structured learning. The academy’s teaching philosophy emphasizes mastering the six primary grappling positions—guard, closed guard, open guard, half guard, side mount, and back mount—along with their variations, transitions, escapes, and submissions. This framework helps students build a clear understanding of positional control and technique, aiming to reduce early frustration and keep practitioners engaged as they develop their skills. Training at Fat Cat includes gi and no-gi classes for adults and kids, with age-specific programs starting as young as three years old. The curriculum balances fundamentals with live drilling and sparring, focusing on practical applications of leverage and technique rather than strength. Kids have opportunities to join competition classes and homeschool sessions, while adults can train in additional disciplines like judo, vale tudo, and kali silat. Open mat sessions are available for all ages, providing extra time for practice and skill refinement. The academy operates out of a wheelchair-accessible facility at 157 Ward Street, offering private lessons alongside group classes. Students are encouraged to develop situational awareness on the mats, recognizing positions and anticipating opponents’ moves to improve their control and submission ability. This methodical approach reflects the founder’s understanding that BJJ’s complexity demands a clear roadmap to progress through the art’s many layers.

Amenities