Beginner-focused training
A structured path through the language, movement, positions, escapes, and control that underpin jiu-jitsu.
Freedom Academy presents
Freedom Foundations
You've always wanted to try jiu-jitsu. This is your starting line.
An 8-week program for adults who want to learn the fundamentals without feeling lost, intimidated, or out of place on the mats.
8 weeksBeginner program
October 13Program begins
$459Full program
Have questions first? Talk to our team.
A better way in
Starting is the hard part.
Most people do not hold back because they cannot learn jiu-jitsu. They hold back because the first step feels intimidating.
Maybe you have wanted to try jiu-jitsu for a while. But there is a lot to learn. You do not know the terminology, what happens in class, or whether you will be fit enough to keep up.
So you wait. And “someday” keeps getting moved down the list.
Professor Craig Funk has spent 20 years training jiu-jitsu and 10 years building Freedom Academy. Freedom Foundations is his answer to the part that stops most people from ever beginning: giving true beginners a clear, welcoming place to start.
What the program includes
Built for your first eight weeks.
You will learn how to move safely, understand the main positions, and build enough context that regular classes start to make sense.
Full class access
Train in Freedom Academy's regular group classes throughout the program, including self-defense and sport jiu-jitsu, gi and no-gi.
Your gi is included
Your training gi is part of the program. If it has not arrived by your first class, we have a loaner ready for you.
A gym you can walk into
A clean, family-friendly room with people who remember what it felt like to be new. No ego required.
What changes when you start
More than a workout.
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Move with more confidence
Get more comfortable using your body, learning physical skills, and working with another person.
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Learn real self-defense concepts
Build a practical understanding of control, positioning, escapes, and composure under pressure.
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Find your people
Train alongside people who show up, work hard, and make a room feel more welcoming than a typical gym.
Meet your professor
Professor Craig Funk
Craig has trained at martial arts schools around the world. What he is most proud of at Freedom Academy, though, is its culture: serious training in a space where people can still be human, ask questions, and begin at their own pace.
“If you feel intimidated, I made this program for you.”
Frequently asked questions
Good questions. Straight answers.
I have never done jiu-jitsu. Is this really for me?
Yes. Freedom Foundations was designed for people with little to no experience. You do not need to know the terms, the positions, or what you are doing before you arrive.
Do I need to get in shape before I start?
No. Training is where you build fitness, coordination, and confidence. You can work at your own pace while you learn.
Do I need to buy a gi?
No. Your gi is included with the program. If it has not arrived before your first class, a loaner is available so you can train right away.
Can I train outside the beginner program?
Yes. Your enrollment includes access to Freedom Academy's regular group class schedule during the eight weeks.
Will I be expected to spar right away?
No one expects a new student to walk in ready for live training. First, you will learn how to move safely, understand key positions, and work with training partners.
What happens after the eight weeks?
You will have a clearer understanding of the fundamentals and can continue training in Freedom Academy's regular programs with much more confidence.
Still deciding?
Ask us anything.
Starting something new should not feel like a pressure situation. Leave your details and our team will reach out by text or email.
Not ready to commit? That is okay. We are happy to help you decide whether this is the right starting point.
Freedom Foundations
You do not have to know anything before you start.
You just have to start.
Give yourself eight weeks to learn the basics, get comfortable on the mats, and find out what jiu-jitsu can become for you.
8-week programBegins October 13Gi included$459 total
Reserve My Spot
“I can't wait to meet you. I'll see you on the mats.”
Professor Craig Funk