The Mount BJJ & MMA - Mount Airy

The Mount BJJ & MMA - Mount Airy anchors its program in the experience and vision of owner and head instructor Jim Herman, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over a decade on the mats and more than 30 years in martial arts overall. Jim is a certified Level 1 and Level 2 Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor, a retired police officer, and a former defense tactics instructor for the Montgomery County Police Department. Alongside Jim, the coaching staff includes Amad Jones—who brings competition and teaching experience in gi and no-gi BJJ, Muay Thai, Judo, and MMA—Laura Eyler, who specializes in technical instruction for women and kids, and Sensei Mike Lathwood, a judo black belt with decades of grappling and coaching experience. Rounding out the team is Guto Santos, a São Paulo native and accomplished competitor with a black belt earned under Talita Treta and a history of success in Brazilian and world championships. Training at The Mount covers a wide range of martial arts, with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at its core. Both gi and no-gi classes are available for adults and teens, with beginner-friendly fundamentals and open mats for live rounds and positional work. Young students have their own dedicated programs, including the Mini Monsters class for ages 3–6, standard kids’ BJJ, and a homeschool kids’ option. Women’s-only BJJ classes create a focused space for female students, while the academy’s judo, boxing, and MMA programs offer opportunities to develop striking, takedowns, and self-defense skills under experienced coaches. The schedule also includes open mat times for adults, teens, and kids, giving all ages the chance to train beyond structured classes. The Mount operates as a family-owned academy and serves students from Mount Airy, Urbana, Ijamsville, and surrounding Frederick County communities. Its blend of traditional BJJ, judo, and striking arts makes it a practical choice for families, working adults, and cross-training grapplers. Drop-ins are welcome, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for newcomers and visitors to get on the mats.

Amenities