Why Glen Ridge Chooses Rare Breed MMA

Glen Ridge residents rely on Rare Breed MMA for practical, effective self‑defense training rooted in Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and real‑world situational awareness. Our program is designed for beginners, teens, parents, and professionals who want to feel safer, stronger, and more confident. 

- 5 minutes from Downtown Glen Ridge
- Beginner‑friendly classes for adults and teens
- Women’s self‑defense taught with safety and empowerment
- Clean, safe, modern facility
- Kids & teen programs trusted by Glen Ridge parents
- Real‑world scenario training (standing, ground, awareness)
- No‑ego environment focused on confidence and clarity
 
Students from Glen Ridge consistently tell us they feel more prepared, more aware, and more confident after just a few classes.

Self‑Defense Classes in Glen Ridge, NJ


Practical skills. Real confidence. Safety through awareness and technique.

Programs Offered

Each program is built around real‑world safety, awareness, and practical technique.

- Women’s Self‑Defense — Boundary setting, awareness, escapes, striking basics, and confidence.
- Teen Self‑Defense — Situational awareness, bully‑proofing, grappling escapes, and safe striking.
- Adult Self‑Defense — Practical skills for real‑world encounters using BJJ + Muay Thai fundamentals.
- Kids Martial Arts — Confidence, discipline, and bully‑proofing for ages 3–13.
- Striking Fundamentals — Safe, beginner‑friendly striking for self‑defense.


Self-Defense

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Instructor Highlights

Our self‑defense instructors bring decades of combined experience in:
Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu (Gi + No‑Gi)
Muay Thai striking
Wrestling and grappling escapes
Youth development and communication
Real‑world scenario training

Glen Ridge students often mention: Clear, patient instruction A safe, supportive environment Coaches who make beginners feel comfortable Real techniques that work outside the gym A curriculum that builds confidence quickly

Coach Emilio

Jiu Jitsu Black Belt
MMA Black Belt

Coach Steph

TaeKwonDo Black Belt
Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt

Coach Mike

Jiu JItsu Black Belt
MMA Red Belt

Schedule

Adult Muay Thai: Monday – Friday evenings
Kids Muay Thai:  Tuesday + Thursday  Open Mat: Friday Evenings
Fight Team Training: Saturday mornings

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Reviews

What our customers write about us

What you write here is up to you.

Mark Federico

12-07-2021


The best place to train!!! BJJ, Muay Thai, MMA is all high level here. Owners are great! Coaches are great!

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Kevin

19-08-2021


Amazing environment, people are very friendly and always willing to help you! Coach Emilio is awesome, helps you understand the drill and execute. Highly recommend

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Glen Ridge Self‑Defense FAQ

Is there self‑defense training near Glen Ridge?

Yes — Rare Breed MMA is located just minutes from Glen Ridge.

Is self‑defense beginner friendly?

Absolutely. Our classes are designed for complete beginners.

Do you teach escapes and real‑world scenarios?

Yes — we cover standing escapes, ground escapes, awareness, and safe striking.

What age can teens start?

Teens can start at age 12, and younger kids can join our Kids Martial Arts program.

Do you offer women‑only classes?

At the moment our Women's Program is on hold

Do you offer free trials?

Yes — every new student can start with a free trial class.

Location & Directions 

Rare Breed MMA
65 Washington St Bloomfield, NJ 07003
(5 minutes from Glen Ridge)

 Directions example:

Head south on Ridgewood Ave
Continue toward Bloomfield
Turn onto Washington St
We’re located near the Bloomfield municipal center

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