Self-Defense Classes in Somerville, MA
Practical Self-Defense Training Just Outside Boston
Welcome to the Brazilian Martial Arts Center (BMAC) in Somerville, MA. Most self-defense courses are a single weekend. You learn a few moves, feel better for a month, and never try them against someone who is actually resisting. We teach it the way it holds up: live, with a partner, every week. You will be a beginner among people who were beginners too, and your first class is free.
BMAC Has Been Family-Owned Since 2001
While Muay Thai is a core pillar of our program, the center is named to honor the rich tradition and heritage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated in Brazil and has become one of the most effective and respected martial arts globally. At BMAC, we strive to preserve and promote the techniques, values, and culture of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while making it accessible to everyone. Regardless of your background, fitness level, or prior experience, our doors are open to anyone interested in learning and practicing this incredible martial art.
BMAC has also been featured in The New York Times, highlighting its prominence and reputation in the martial arts community.
Mathew H.
“I have been training both BJJ and Muay Thai at BMAC for a little over a year and love it. Great instructors and training partners. A very welcoming and motivating environment, filled with great people."
Sarah S.
"Love this place. I’ve been doing Muay Thai here for the last 6 months and am hooked. I know it can be intimidating, especially for females in a male dominated sport, but you will find nothing but love and hard work at this place."
Brian H.
“Marcello is a great teacher along with his staff. From the minute you walk in you feel welcome. Everyone respects each other and it feels like a family. The coaching is top notch but the environment is my favorite thing about this place. Highly recommend!”
Start With a Free Self-Defense Class
Want to learn to protect yourself? Book a free trial class at BMAC. Whether you're in Boston, Somerville, Charlestown, Cambridge, Everett, Medford, Belmont, or Arlington, MA, come in and try it. No experience needed, and nothing to buy.
What to Wear: Wear comfortable athletic clothing like a t-shirt and shorts or workout pants. We'll provide all the necessary equipment and guidance to get you started.
Prefer to talk to someone? Simply call Marcelo at (617) 628-3800 with questions or to book your free trial class.
Two Ways to Learn Self-Defense at BMAC
Real confrontations have two phases: the part where you are on your feet, and the part where you are not. BMAC teaches both, and you can start with either.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is built for the position almost everyone finds frightening, underneath someone bigger than you. You learn to stay calm, protect yourself, get back up, and control a stronger opponent without throwing a punch. Our BJJ program is led by five black belts.
Muay Thai teaches you to read distance, cover up, and hit back hard enough to create the space to leave. It is also the fastest route to the conditioning and nerve that make everything else work. Three of our instructors hold the black prajioud.
Not sure which suits you? Come in for a free class and try one. Most people end up doing both.
Empower Yourself with Self-Defense Classes
At BMAC, we understand the importance of feeling safe and confident in any situation. Our self-defense classes are designed to equip you with practical skills and techniques that can be applied in real-world scenarios. Whether you're interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, or Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), our self-defense programs focus on empowering you to protect yourself effectively.
You'll learn how to use leverage, striking, and strategic defense to handle various threats. Our classes are suitable for all skill levels and are designed to build your confidence, awareness, and physical fitness.
Kids and teens learn the same skills with the emphasis where it belongs: staying calm, setting boundaries, getting away, and telling an adult. Most of what they take home is the confidence that stops them being a target in the first place. Our kids classes cover it, and so does our anti-bullying FAQ.
Ready to take the first step towards a safer, more empowered you? Fill in the "Ask Your Question" form at the bottom of the page to schedule your free self-defense class today!
Convenient Location with FREE Parking Right off I-93 Exit 21
Our state-of-the-art facility in Somerville, MA, is conveniently located right off I-93 at Exit 21, making it easy for you to access top-quality martial arts training from various towns in the Greater Boston Area:
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Boston, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Charlestown, MA
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Cambridge, MA
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Everett, MA
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Medford, MA
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Belmont, MA
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Arlington, MA
Address
Brazilian Martial Arts Center
700 Mystic Avenue
Somerville, MA 02145
Phone: (617) 628-3800
Private Self-Defense Lessons with Marcelo Siqueira
Some people would rather learn without a room full of people watching, or need to cover specific ground quickly. Marcelo teaches private self-defense sessions one to one or in small groups, built around what you actually want to be ready for. He holds a 5th-degree BJJ black belt, a 4th dan in Wado Ryu karate, a judo black belt and a black Muay Thai prajioud, and has been teaching in Somerville since 2001.
Ready to get started? Fill in the "Ask Your Question" form at the bottom of the page to inquire about scheduling your private class with Marcelo today!
Join the BMAC Community
At BMAC, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and supportive community for all our members. Whether you’re looking to compete, improve your fitness, or learn self-defense, our experienced instructors are here to help you reach your goals.
