BJJ Gyms in Salt Lake City, United States

Combat Arts Strength and Conditioning

Combat Arts Strength and Conditioning was established in 2015 by 3rd degree Pedro Sauer black belt John McKean in Salt Lake City, Utah. The gym is affiliated with Master Pedro Sauer, a world-renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor who trained extensively with the Gracie family in Brazil. Combat Arts has grown from humble beginnings into a diverse and welcoming community dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, and functional fitness training. The training philosophy at Combat Arts emphasizes that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is part science, part art, teaching commitment, discipline, flexibility, humbleness, and a positive attitude. The gym is supportive and welcoming of all who show up to the mats with a friendly attitude and willingness to learn. The schedule alternates weekly between Gi and No-Gi training, allowing students to focus deeply on one style each week. The community includes practitioners from all walks of life, fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. Head instructor and owner John McKean has over 20 years of training and competition history in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His journey began with a year-long immersion in Brazil in 2005, training with the Gracie family and learning the roots of BJJ. In 2006, he moved to Salt Lake City to train under the legendary Pedro Sauer, eventually earning his 3rd degree black belt. John is also a former professional MMA fighter (4-2 record) with 15 years of functional cross-training for combat sports. His competition achievements include multiple IBJJF medals: 2021 Masters World Championship bronze, 2021 American Nationals silver, and numerous gold medals at IBJJF open tournaments as a black belt. The gym also offers Group Fitness classes focusing on general fitness and injury prevention using kettlebells, barbells, bodyweight movements, and cardio with progressive strength training concepts.