Justin Lough Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Justin Lough Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been part of the Purcellville, Virginia community since 2012, shaped by the experience and dedication of its founder, Justin Lough. A third-degree black belt, Justin spent a formative period training in Brazil under Ramon Lemos and alongside Gui and Rafa Mendes, refining his style and work ethic in the heartland of the art. His lineage traces directly through Abmar Barbosa and Robert Drysdale, connecting the academy to some of the most respected names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Justin’s approach draws on over two decades of training and competition, including a gold medal at the 2007 Sao Carlos Championships in Brazil, and is informed by his academic background in kinesiology and strength training. The academy offers a structured class schedule for both adults and youth, focusing on authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a strong self-defense foundation. Adult students can attend up to thirteen classes each week, with an emphasis on practical self-defense skills woven into every session. The kids and teens program is supported by multiple black belt instructors at every class, and the youth team has earned recognition in regional competitions throughout Virginia, Maryland, and DC. Women’s self-defense is a particular priority, with Kristi Lough—a black belt, accomplished competitor, and advocate—leading programs tailored to empower and support female students. Instruction at JLBJJ is hands-on and personal, reflecting the family-owned nature of the school. The team includes assistant instructor Branden Risso, who progressed from blue to black belt at the academy and brings competition experience and mentorship to the mats. In addition to regular classes, the school hosts open mats, drop-in visitors, and private seminars, and is committed to accessibility with a wheelchair-friendly facility. The academy continues to evolve, but its foundation remains rooted in the authentic, competition-tested jiu-jitsu that Justin brought back from Brazil to Purcellville.

Amenities