# 818 Forge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy > Lake Balboa, United States ## Overview **Name:** 818 Forge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy **Description:** Forge Brazilian Jiujitsu Academy is a welcoming gym in Van Nuys, California, dedicated to providing high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction for adults and kids. Founded on the principles of discipline, respect, and continuous improvement, Forge BJJ aims to create an environment where all members can unlock their potential through the practice of BJJ. The academy offers both Gi and No-Gi training, focusing on fundamental techniques, self-defense applications, and competition preparation. The training philosophy at Forge Brazilian Jiujitsu emphasizes proper technique, safety, and a supportive community atmosphere. As a small gym, Forge BJJ takes pride in being client-focused, ensuring that every member receives personalized attention and meaningful results. The academy welcomes students of all experience levels, from complete beginners with no martial arts background to seasoned practitioners. Classes are designed to develop not only physical attributes like strength, agility, and endurance, but also mental qualities such as confidence, discipline, and mental toughness. The gym is led by head coach Alejandro Perez, a black belt under the legendary Jean Jacques Machado. Coach Alex brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his students. He is supported by Coach Sam Lee, a brown belt with over ten years of mat experience who embodies the Forge BJJ lineage, and Coach Anthony Rico, a brown belt with a strong wrestling background who leads the stand-up class every Wednesday. The coaching staff is passionate about helping students master the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while creating a fun, dynamic, and supportive training environment. **Status:** Active ## Contact Information **Address:** 7900 Balboa Blvd., Delta #4, Van Nuys, CA 91406 Lake Balboa, OH 91406, United States **Phone:** (818) 321-4096 **Email:** info@forgebjjacademy.com **Website:** https://www.forgebjjacademy.com/ **Social Media:** - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forgekidsfoundation/ ## Hours of Operation - Monday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM - Tuesday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM - Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM - Thursday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM - Friday: 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM - Saturday: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Sunday: 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM ## Pricing ## Instructors ### Alejandro Perez - Black **Role:** Head Instructor **Bio:** Head coach at Forge Brazilian Jiujitsu Academy with decades of experience teaching BJJ. Black belt under Jean Jacques Machado, known for his welcoming teaching style and dedication to student development. ### Anthony Rico - Brown **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Brown belt with a strong wrestling background, competing since age 9. Passionate about stand-up grappling and wrestling techniques. ### Sam Lee - Brown **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Brown belt with over ten years of mat experience from the Forge Brazilian Jiujitsu lineage. Proud husband, dad, pastor, and coffee roaster who brings passion and dedication to every class. ## Programs ### Adult Fundamentals (Gi) **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Adult Fundamental Classes offer an exciting opportunity to learn Brazilian Jiujitsu in a safe, fun, and supportive environment. Learn the fundamentals, proper technique, and attack/defense strategies while developing physical strength, agility, and endurance. Gain self-confidence, discipline, and mental toughness. **Classes:** ### Adult Fundamentals (No-Gi) **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** No-Gi Brazilian Jiujitsu program for adults focusing on grappling without the traditional gi. Emphasizes wrestling, scrambles, and submission techniques applicable to MMA and self-defense. **Classes:** ### Kids Fundamentals (Gi) **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Kids Fundamental Classes offer children ages 9 and up a safe environment to learn and experience focus, discipline, and respect while learning Brazilian Jiujitsu. Designed to build character and physical skills. **Classes:** ### Kids Fundamentals (No-Gi) **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** No-Gi grappling program for kids ages 9 and up, teaching fundamental BJJ techniques without the gi. Focuses on movement, control, and submissions in a fun, safe environment. ### Wrestling & Takedowns **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** all_ages **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Stand-up grappling and wrestling class taught by Coach Rico every Wednesday. Learn wrestling techniques, takedowns, and stand-up control applicable to BJJ and self-defense. **Classes:** --- **Last Updated:** March 01, 2026 **Data Source:** BJJ.Space (https://bjj.space/gyms/united-states/ohio/lake-balboa/818-forge-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-academy)