No long-term contracts. No credit card required. No commitment. Just show up, experience world-class instruction, and see why Cornelius families trust Professor Wander Braga to train their children.
"I would give more stars if possible! I have trained around the world and this is by far the most welcoming and comprehensive training group. The instructors are thorough, kind, and challenging in the best ways. Three of my kids also train there — the structure of the classes have kept smiles on their faces and their bodies safe."
"My son absolutely loves training here. The coaches are patient, encouraging and truly care about the kids. He has grown in confidence and discipline since day one. Best decision we made as a family."
"Started as a complete beginner with zero athletic background. Professor Wander and his team made me feel welcome from the very first class. Six months in and I'm hooked — best community I've ever trained with."
"My daughter was shy and hesitant to try anything new. After a few months in the kids program she is a different kid — confident, focused, and asking to go to class. The instructors are incredible with children."
"I was nervous walking in at 42 years old with no experience. Everyone — from Professor Wander to the higher belts — helped me feel like part of the team from day one. Clean facility, structured classes, zero ego on the mats."
"The best jiu-jitsu academy in Lake Norman. Professional, family-friendly, and world-class instruction. My kids look forward to every single class and I've never seen them this engaged in a sport."
"I would give more stars if possible! I have trained around the world and this is by far the most welcoming and comprehensive training group. The instructors are thorough, kind, and challenging in the best ways. Three of my kids also train there — the structure of the classes have kept smiles on their faces and their bodies safe."
"My son absolutely loves training here. The coaches are patient, encouraging and truly care about the kids. He has grown in confidence and discipline since day one. Best decision we made as a family."
"Started as a complete beginner with zero athletic background. Professor Wander and his team made me feel welcome from the very first class. Six months in and I'm hooked — best community I've ever trained with."
"My daughter was shy and hesitant to try anything new. After a few months in the kids program she is a different kid — confident, focused, and asking to go to class. The instructors are incredible with children."
"I was nervous walking in at 42 years old with no experience. Everyone — from Professor Wander to the higher belts — helped me feel like part of the team from day one. Clean facility, structured classes, zero ego on the mats."
"The best jiu-jitsu academy in Lake Norman. Professional, family-friendly, and world-class instruction. My kids look forward to every single class and I've never seen them this engaged in a sport."
Over 60% of our students started with zero experience. Our small class sizes (8-12 students per instructor) and beginner-friendly approach ensure you'll receive personalized attention from day one.
Join 250+ active students training with the #1 Jiu-Jitsu academy in North & South Carolina. Experience world-class instruction from a professor with 40+ years of experience in a family-friendly environment.
Professor Wander Braga has been living Jiu-Jitsu for over four decades — as a competitor, coach, and former professional MMA fighter.
Our academies feel like family. Parents, kids, and adults train side by side in a positive, respectful, and motivating culture.
From 3-year-olds in Little Braga to complete adult beginners, our classes are structured for every stage of the journey.
Kids and adults learn practical, effective self-defense while developing the confidence to handle themselves calmly in any situation. Real skills, real results.
Structured training builds habits that show up off the mat too — better focus in school, more discipline at work, and greater respect for yourself and others.
Train directly under Professor Wander Braga, a 6th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a professional MMA background and a deep understanding of traditional technique.
Parents and kids can train together across our programs. Family schedules, family discounts, and a community that supports every member of the household.
With deep roots in traditional Jiu-Jitsu and a modern teaching approach, Professor Wander Braga has helped students of all ages and levels develop real skills, real confidence, and lasting discipline — on and off the mat.
Traditional Foundation: Rooted in classic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with an emphasis on posture, base, and technique that works for every body type.
Modern Approach: Concepts, drilling systems, and progressions built for how people actually learn today — clear, structured, and effective.
Real-World Skills: A background in professional MMA means the Jiu-Jitsu you learn holds up beyond the sport gym — for confidence, self-defense, and life.
From your child's very first class to adult beginners and dedicated competitors, our programs are designed to meet you where you are and take you further — technically, physically, and mentally.
Train with intensity, build confidence, and take your conditioning to the next level. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced striker, our Muay Thai classes at Cornelius are designed to sharpen technique, fitness, and discipline in a high-energy environment.
Book your free trial class today and experience Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Professor Wander Braga at any of our three academies.
