Paragon Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Kickboxing

Paragon Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Kickboxing is guided by Ricardo “Franjinha” Miller, a black belt under Romero “Jacare” Cavalcanti and a multiple-time world champion with a long competitive career. Franjinha helped establish Paragon Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Santa Barbara in 1998 and has maintained a presence in Ventura County since 2002. His approach balances rigorous competition training with a focus on developing individuals who succeed both on and off the mats. The academy’s roots run deep in the central coast martial arts scene, reflecting Franjinha’s commitment to sustained growth and leadership. Training at Paragon includes a broad range of classes designed to meet diverse fitness and skill goals. The academy supports a strong competition team, regularly preparing athletes for international tournaments. Beyond adult programs, Paragon places particular emphasis on its kids’ curriculum, cultivating the next generation of practitioners known as the Paragon Panthers. The youth program integrates physical challenges like a climbing wall and ropes, fostering both confidence and coordination alongside technical skill development. Facilities at Paragon accommodate focused training with a large main mat for group sessions and a smaller mat for individualized work. Strength training equipment is available to complement martial arts practice. The gym’s layout includes separate men’s and women’s restrooms with showers, supporting convenience for daily training routines. The environment reflects Franjinha’s personal investment as a father, encouraging family participation where relatives often train side-by-side in both kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This dynamic shapes a training space where discipline and camaraderie coexist naturally.

Amenities