Peterson Grapplers

What We Like
- Experienced, decorated head coach
- Diverse martial arts programs
- Qualified, varied coaching staff
- Competitive MMA fight team
- Convenient operating hours
- Additional recovery sauna
What to Consider
- Closed on Saturdays
Frequently Asked Questions
About Peterson Grapplers
Peterson Grapplers, situated in Valencia, California, stands as a premier martial arts academy in the Santa Clarita Valley. Established on October 1, 2015, by Coach Brian Peterson, the gym is a hub for individuals seeking top-tier training in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and kickboxing.
The facility is located at 25583 Avenue Stanford, Valencia, California. Its accessible location in Valencia makes it a convenient destination for residents of Santa Clarita and surrounding areas seeking high-quality martial arts instruction. The gym is easily accessible, offering ample parking and a welcoming environment for both beginners and seasoned martial artists. It serves as a local center for martial arts training, personal development, and community engagement.
Peterson Grapplers offers a comprehensive range of training programs designed to cater to individuals of all skill levels and interests. The gym provides instruction in several martial arts disciplines, including:
- MMA: A complete program integrating striking, grappling, and wrestling techniques.
- Wrestling: Classes focus on developing takedowns, control, and defensive skills under the guidance of experienced wrestling coaches.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Emphasizing ground fighting and submissions, the BJJ program helps students develop a strong foundation in grappling.
- Kickboxing: This program focuses on striking techniques, footwork, and conditioning for both self-defense and competitive purposes.
The schedule is designed to accommodate diverse lifestyles, with classes running Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 1 PM and 3:30 PM to 9 PM. Sunday Open Mat sessions are held from 10 AM to 12 PM, providing an opportunity for students to practice and refine their skills in a relaxed and collaborative setting.
Central to the success of Peterson Grapplers is its team of highly qualified and experienced coaches. Each coach brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their respective disciplines, ensuring students receive top-notch instruction and guidance.
Brian Peterson, the founder and head coach, is a highly accomplished martial artist with over 25 years of experience. His credentials include:
- BJJ Black Belt (awarded in 2008)
- FILA Grappling GI World Champion (2009)
- 4-time FILA World Medalist
Coach Peterson's extensive experience extends to training and cornering UFC and TUF veterans, including Karo Parisyan, Jeremy Jackson, Lodune Sincaid, Joseph Henle, and Vinc Pichel. His dedication to his students and passion for martial arts are the driving forces behind Peterson Grapplers' success. He also serves as the head coach at Valencia High School.
Peter "Sugarfoot" Cunningham is a 7-time World Kickboxing Champion and Hall of Fame Kickboxer. His expertise in striking techniques makes him a valuable asset to the kickboxing and MMA programs. He brings years of experience competing at the highest levels, offering students invaluable insights into the art of striking.
Anton Kalista, a Russian Wrestler specializing in Freestyle, Folkstyle, and Greco wrestling, brings a strong wrestling foundation to the gym. His expertise in wrestling techniques helps students develop a strong base for takedowns, control, and defensive maneuvers. He works with students of all levels, from beginners to experienced competitors.
Jesse "Sui Generis" Strader is a BJJ Purple Belt with expertise in kickboxing, boxing, wrestling, and MMA. His diverse skill set allows him to provide well-rounded instruction in various aspects of martial arts. He's known for his ability to break down complex techniques into easily understandable concepts.
Dave Weber, a former Pro MMA Fighter and BJJ Black Belt, adds another layer of expertise to the coaching team. His experience in professional competition provides students with valuable insights into the realities of MMA fighting. He focuses on helping students develop practical and effective techniques for both self-defense and competition.
The atmosphere at Peterson Grapplers is one of support, encouragement, and camaraderie. Students of all levels train together, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. The gym fosters a strong sense of community, where students support each other's goals and celebrate each other's successes. This supportive environment is conducive to learning and personal growth.
In addition to its comprehensive training programs and experienced coaching staff, Peterson Grapplers offers several amenities designed to enhance the training experience. The facility features a medical sauna, which is designed to aid muscle recovery, improve blood flow, and promote relaxation. This is a valuable resource for athletes looking to optimize their recovery and performance.
Peterson Grapplers also offers branded merchandise, including hoodies, rashguards, t-shirts, and shorts. This allows students to represent their gym and show their pride in being part of the Peterson Grapplers community. The merchandise is a popular way for students to connect with the gym and its values.
The gym operates a YouTube channel called "Teach Me Grappling," which provides valuable training videos and insights into martial arts techniques. This channel allows Coach Peterson to share his knowledge and expertise with a wider audience, extending the reach of Peterson Grapplers beyond its physical location. The channel serves as a valuable resource for students and martial arts enthusiasts around the world.
The gym's fight team, under the guidance of Brian Peterson, has achieved a notable competitive record of 111 wins, 29 losses, and 1 draw in MMA competitions. This impressive record speaks to the effectiveness of the gym's training programs and the dedication of its fighters. The success of the fight team is a testament to the quality of instruction and the commitment of the athletes.
Brian Peterson's influence extends beyond the walls of Peterson Grapplers. He is the creator of "Teach Me Grappling," a popular online resource for martial arts enthusiasts, and he also serves as the head coach at Valencia High School. His commitment to teaching and mentoring extends to both the gym and the wider community.
In conclusion, Peterson Grapplers provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for individuals seeking to learn and excel in MMA, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and kickboxing. With its experienced coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and welcoming atmosphere, Peterson Grapplers is the ideal destination for anyone looking to pursue their martial arts goals in the Santa Clarita Valley.