Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Martial Arts Classes in Kennesaw
Join Our
BJJ Academy
Welcome to Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a family-oriented BJJ academy in Kennesaw! This is a safe space where students can train in martial arts and work on their personal goals. Whether it’s for building confidence for children, finding a fun hobby for adults, improving health and fitness, or preparing for competition, students learn skills that serve them on and off the mat. Anyone can join us and discover their full potential!
Book a FREE Class!
You can begin training at no cost. Sign up for a FREE class in BJJ or Judo today to see how you can rise up!
Who We Are at
Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our School
We pride ourselves on providing students with the best training environment possible. Students enter a calm, respectful space where they can have fun and feel like a part of a family. Classes are relaxed while staying productive. We encourage students to do their best, pushing them to fulfill their true potential. Instructors are always attentive during class, finding the best way to help students on their personal journeys. Students can learn from experienced martial artists who care about safety, growth, and community!
Our History
When Brandon Nelson’s coach asked him to take over the school in 2026, he was ready. She had run the academy since 2019 and knew Brandon could continue her legacy. And he stepped up to the challenge.
As the leader of the academy since January 2026, Brandon has worked to make the academy the best it can be. That has included upgrading the mats and renovating the lounge space. Before leading the academy, Brandon had 20+ years of martial arts experience, including a three-stripe brown belt, receiving his black belt in December, and competing in Taekwondo at the Junior Olympics. His vast martial arts experience has helped him transition into this leadership role. Now, as the owner of Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he is committed to changing lives for the better in Kennesaw!
Receive Unlimited BJJ Classes!
Dive into training with our unlimited membership offer. Sign up for a year of training at $180/month and see what you can accomplish!
Meet the Team
Our BJJ Instructors
Everyone coaching at Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Kennesaw has helped build the best environment possible for martial arts learning. Their expertise and commitment to helping students grow has created a special atmosphere for everyone in the community. Meet the team below!
Brandon Nelson
Owner & Head Instructor
BJJ Brown belt under Coachojojo.
“With years of experience on the mats, BJJ has become more than a discipline for me it’s a passion and a way of life. I’ve trained extensively under Coach Joanie, whose guidance has shaped both my technique and my teaching style. I’m committed to helping students of all levels grow in skill, confidence, and understanding of the art. See you on the mats” – Brandon
Joanie Chamberland
Head of Affiliation
Ashlee Bernhardt
Operations Director
Gerry Tano
Instructor
Training in Judo since 2002 and holds a 3rd-Degree Black Belt.
In addition to Judo, Gerry is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has trained since 2007. In his early 20s, he also trained and competed in mixed martial arts, earning a 7–1 amateur record and a 3–1 professional record.
Outside the dojo, he is a career IT professional, a devoted husband, and a proud father to a daughter and son. He continues training and teaching martial arts to stay healthy, embrace the competitive challenge, and build lasting friendships within the martial arts community. He believes martial arts offer lifelong benefits both on and off the mat.
Yeager Bezuidenhout
Instructor
BJJ Purple belt under Coachojojo with 8 years of experience.
He’s passionate about the art and especially enjoys teaching and helping others grow on the mats. While Jiu Jitsu plays a major role in his life, nothing means more to him than his family: his wife and their 10-year-old son. Whether he’s training, coaching, or just rolling for fun, Yeager brings a down-to-earth attitude and a genuine love for the game.
Our Academy Schedule!
Make sure to explore our academy schedule. Discover the best time for you and your family members to train!
Learn More About Our
Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Programs
All of our programs are designed to help students achieve their goals on and off the mat. Whether students are looking to improve their fitness or self-defense skills, or compete, our curriculum can help them be their best. Find the best program for you and rise up!
Juniors Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Ages 5+
Our Juniors program is centered around growing the person as well as the martial artist. This is a respectful environment where students learn discipline, self-control, and fundamental Jiu-Jitsu. We work closely with parents, staying up to date on grades and making sure each child is developing properly.
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
We make sure everyone receives the training they need to succeed in class. Our Adult BJJ program is split between advanced and fundamentals classes. Students train in a space that is tailored to their development on the mat. There’s a space for everyone!
Adult Judo
Ages 13+
Our Adult Judo classes are home to some of the best training around. Taught by Gerry Tano, students learn another side of grappling in a friendly, active environment where they can have fun and learn elite skills.
Words from Our Community
Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been a place anyone could become a part of and thrive. Our team has brought together high-level martial arts with a family culture that is safe, friendly, and supportive. And you don’t need to just hear it from us. Check out our student testimonials to see how the academy has changed lives for the better!
“Everybody’s just trying to help each other get better. Glad we found this place – just wish I’d started ten years ago!”
“Coach Lauren is exactly what my 6 year old needs in a coach. She is the perfect balance of patience and assertiveness. She encourages the kids but also keeps them focused.”
“I had a really great experience at Rise Up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Even though I’m not experienced in martial arts, everyone there made me feel welcome right away. “
“Wonderful staff and very clean studio. Definitely recommend using this gym. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. Great environment for training.”
“Instructors are knowledgeable, professional and patient with new students…Look no further than this gem, right here in Kennesaw. Don’t take my word for it, see it for yourself.”
Book a FREE Class!
You can begin training at no cost. Sign up for a FREE class in BJJ or Judo today to see how you can rise up!
Contact Us Today!
Come train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with us! We welcome students from Kennesaw, Acworth, Marietta, and Woodstock. You can find us off exit 4 on I-575 in the Orchard Square shopping center near Publix!