Driftwood Martial Arts

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training

Driftwood's First Adult BJJ & Self Defense Academy

Professional Instruction
Small Classes
Ages 16+

BJJ Black Belt Professor

Expert instruction from a certified BJJ Black Belt Professor

Personalized Training

Small class sizes ensure individual attention

Mature Environment

Adult-focused training for ages 16 and up

Multiple High level Instructors

There is always a high level instructor present to assist

Clean Easy Access Facility

We pride ourselves on a cleanly inviting, climate controlled training facility

Training Programs

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Ages 16+

  • Fundamental techniques and concepts
  • Advanced strategy and positioning
  • Live training and sparring
  • Competition preparation (optional)

Focus: Technical excellence and practical application

Instructor(s): Todd "Pops" Nelson, Alicia Nelson, Trevor Nelson

Old Man Jiu-Jitsu Logo

Old Man Jiu-Jitsu

Ages 40+

  • Energy-efficient techniques
  • Strategic positioning and control
  • Injury prevention and longevity
  • Wisdom over athleticism

Focus: Sustainable training for lifelong practitioners

Instructor(s): Todd "Pops" Nelson

Self Defense

Ages 12+

  • Situational awareness
  • Practical escape techniques
  • Confidence building
  • Real-world application

Focus: Practical skills for personal safety

Instructor(s): Todd "Pops" Nelson

Women's Only BJJ & Self Defense

Ages 12+

  • Female-only training environment
  • BJJ fundamentals and advanced techniques
  • Women's self-defense applications
  • Confidence building in safe space

Focus: Empowering women through martial arts

Instructor(s): Alicia Nelson

The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.

Meet Your Instructors

Black Belt Instructor
Todd "Pops" Nelson

Todd "Pops" Nelson

Old Man Jiu-jitsu Specialist

Creator and instructor of the specialized Old Man Jiu-jitsu program. Expert in energy-efficient techniques and strategic training for mature practitioners. Proves that age and wisdom triumph over youth and speed.

Brown Belt Instructor
Alicia Nelson

Alicia Nelson

Women's Only Programs

Exclusively instructs our female-only BJJ and Self Defense classes. Experienced female instructor providing a safe, supportive environment for women to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and practical self-defense techniques.

Brown Belt Instructor
Trevor Nelson

Trevor Nelson

Competition Training & Advanced Techniques

Dynamic instructor bridging traditional techniques with modern competition strategies. Brings energy and innovation to classes while maintaining respect for fundamental principles.

Our Schedule

Find a class that fits your schedule. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Old Man Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense classes run throughout the week for all skill levels.

Driftwood Martial Arts Family

Who We Are

Driftwood Martial Arts

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Professor

Professor Nelson has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 7 years, and earned his black belt under Rudy Vasquez. He has trained extensively in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as well as self-defense applications, and has taught seminars alongside renowned instructors like Carlos Machado. He's passionate about helping students of all levels achieve their goals on the mats, and it's with this passion that Driftwood Martial Arts was built to provide expert Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense instruction in a focused, adult environment.

Professor Nelson's fellow instructors include his wife Alicia, a highly skilled BJJ instructor and Brown Belt who leads our Women's program, and his son Trevor, a skilled and dynamic instructor and Brown Belt who bridges traditional and modern techniques while maintaining respect for fundamental principles.

Our Teaching Philosophy

  • Personalized small classes for maximum attention
  • Adult-focused training that respects your time and goals
  • Technique and strategy over pure athleticism (Warmups are optional)
  • Longevity and sustainability focused
  • Building confidence through practical repeatable skills

Our Facility

The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.
The Driftwood Martial Arts Gym and Training Mats.
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Why Train With Us

Mature Adult Environment

Focused training environment designed specifically for adults 16 and older. No distractions.

Small Class Sizes

Maximum individual attention with personalized instruction tailored to your goals and experience level.

Expert Instruction

Learn from a certified Black Belt Professor with extensive experience in both BJJ and self-defense applications.

Specialized Programs

Unique Old Man Jiu-jitsu program designed for mature practitioners who want to train smart and sustainably.

Reliable Community

Train with committed adults who value consistency, respect, and continuous improvement.

Women's Only Programs

Dedicated female-only BJJ and self-defense classes taught exclusively by experienced female instructor Alicia Nelson in a supportive environment.

Our Pricing

Great martial arts training with no hidden fees, no contracts, and 100% transparency.

Ends 7/31

Founders Membership

$100 / Monthly

Programs Included

BJJSelf DefenseOld Man Jiu-Jitsu 40+Women's Only
  • Unlimited BJJ Classes
  • Access to on-site gym
  • 10% Off Private Lessons

Additional Family

One Family Member

$75 / Monthly Per Member

Requirements:

  • Existing Membership

Additional Family Members

$50 / Monthly Per Member

Requirements:

  • Existing Membership
  • Min. 1+ Family Members

Standard Membership

$150 / Monthly

Programs Included

BJJSelf DefenseOld Man Jiu-Jitsu 40+Women's Only
  • Unlimited BJJ Classes
  • Access to on-site gym
  • 10% Off Private Lessons

Additional Family

One Family Member

$125 / Monthly Per Member

Requirements:

  • Existing Membership

Additional Family Members

$100 / Monthly Per Member

Requirements:

  • Existing Membership
  • Min. 1+ Family Members

Drop-In / No Membership

Day Pass - Options

Programs Included

BJJSelf DefenseWomen's Only

One Class

$25

All Classes

$35

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the hardest thing about training Jiu-Jitsu or self-defense?

Summoning the courage to walk in the door and give it a try.

Are there warmups before class?

Not usually. You're welcome to arrive early and warm up on your own before class starts. Occasionally a warmup is built into the lesson itself, typically to prepare for a specific technique.

How are classes handled for beginners?

We have multiple instructors on the mat to cover every skill level. Depending on class size, beginners may be grouped separately so instruction matches their experience.

Do I need to be athletic or in shape to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Not at all. Jiu-Jitsu is its own athletic practice and you'll build fitness through training rather than needing it beforehand. If you also run or lift, just be mindful of overuse and recovery time.

I'm over forty or in poor shape, am I going to get brutalized?

Not at all. Our "Old Man Jiu-Jitsu" program is designed for our more mature students. Age isn't a disadvantage when training is approached properly.

I'm a woman, is it safe for me to train Jiu-Jitsu?

Yes. We believe every woman benefits from training Jiu-Jitsu, and you always have a say in who you train or roll with. Our ladies-only classes are taught by a female instructor.

Do you train children under 16?

Yes, but only alongside a parent or guardian who trains with them. Our program is built around adults and runs on a tight schedule, which doesn't suit most younger kids. If you have a child between 8 and 15 and want them training alongside you, we're happy to accommodate you both.

What is Gi and No-Gi?

Traditional Jiu-Jitsu is trained in a Gi, a durable jacket, pants, and belt built to withstand gripping and pulling. No-Gi means training in shorts, a t-shirt, or a rash guard instead.

Do I need to buy any equipment for Jiu-Jitsu or self-defense training?

No. Shorts and a t-shirt work fine for No-Gi classes, and we have loaner Gis available for Gi classes at no charge. Self-defense classes are always No-Gi. We do recommend a rash guard or spats for comfort and abrasion protection. Eventually you'll want a Gi of your own, and we can help you order one, or you can buy elsewhere. Gis typically range from $25 to $300.

Do you offer branded equipment and if so, must I wear it?

Yes, we offer branded equipment, but you're never required to buy or wear it. Anything comfortable and not offensive to others is fine. If you'd like to order gear, see an instructor; we special-order at no markup, and the best pricing comes during group buys.

Do classes generally start on time? If so, what if I'm late?

Yes, classes start and end on time. If you're running late, come in quietly, wait for the instructor to finish speaking, and join in at the next natural break. The facility is small enough that you can watch from the side until then.

Do you offer free classes?

Yes. New students get one free trial class, and members can bring a friend or family member to select self-defense classes at no charge.

Can I just watch a class for free?

Yes. You can watch up to three classes for free. This doesn't count against your free trial class.

What if I only want to roll and not participate in the instruction portion of the classes?

That's fine. Membership includes access to open rolling as well as instruction, and attending either portion is entirely optional.

What if I don't want to roll?

You're never required to roll. New students aren't permitted in full rolling until they reach two stripes on white belt. Until then, you'll participate in randori or positional sparring only. Instructors track your progress through rolling and observation either way, so it factors into promotion regardless.

What if I can only make one or two days a month?

Your progress will be slower, but you'll still improve. Any training beats none.

What is the recommended number of Jiu-Jitsu classes for a standard student?

Two days a week is the baseline. Anything less than that and progress slows significantly. More than that speeds things up, but watch your recovery time to avoid injury from overtraining.

How do you promote students and based on what?

Promotion is based on technique, attendance, and time at rank. There's no formal testing, but you're expected to know the material. Instructors evaluate you continuously and report your progress to the Professor, who makes the final call.

How long does it take to achieve a rank in Jiu-Jitsu?

It varies by student, but on average: two years from white to blue, four years blue to purple, four years purple to brown, and four years brown to black. Most hobbyists reach black belt in 12–15 years.

Do I need to compete in order to grow or rank in Jiu-Jitsu?

Not at all. Rank isn't based on competition, and fewer than 1% of practitioners ever compete. People train for fitness, mental health, camaraderie, or personal growth. Why you train is entirely up to you.

Are there any "cult-like" rituals or behaviors I'll be expected to take part in?

No. If you've seen that at another gym, you won't find it here. Our focus is strictly on training and building your Jiu-Jitsu skill set. Come in, say hello, and enjoy the class.

Are there black or brown belts at all times during training and rolling?

Yes, at least one is always present during class and open rolling.

I have a wrestling or Sambo background, does that translate to Jiu-Jitsu?

Partially. Your stand-up game will transfer well, but Jiu-Jitsu is primarily a ground game, so expect an adjustment. Sambo is fairly close aside from its striking component. Wrestlers tend to hunt the pin, which carries little weight on its own in Jiu-Jitsu.

Do you allow wrestling shoes on the mat?

Yes, as long as they're mat-only shoes that are never worn outside the facility.

Does my rank from another school apply if I train here?

Yes, once we can verify it. Typically through your performance in class and rolling, and occasionally by speaking with your previous instructor. We take rank seriously but aren't gatekeepers; if your skill doesn't match your stated rank, we'll hold off on promotion until it does.

Can I attain the rank of black belt in this school?

Yes, provided you meet all the requirements. Joining at brown belt requires at least one full year of training here in addition to the usual criteria. A black belt under our name also requires a clean criminal background check — students with a violent or sexual offense history will not be promoted to black belt.

Can I be injured training Jiu-Jitsu?

Yes — like any combat sport, there's always some risk, and injury prevention is a major focus of our instruction. The biggest risk usually isn't the technique, it's ego.

Do I need to sign a liability release waiver?

Yes.

How are memberships handled?

We offer several membership plans with transparent pricing on our website. Canceling a recurring plan requires two weeks' notice so we can stop billing in time.

What if I'm unable to pay for a short period? Can I still train?

Talk to an instructor privately. We understand finances can get tight, and we'd rather work with you than see you stop training.

Do you offer discounts or credits for additional friends or family I bring in?

Yes — see our published rates for family and same-household discounts.

What if I need to pause my plan for a time?

We can pause your plan on request. Note that a paused membership doesn't include facility access or training during that period.

Can I change my plan if I want?

Yes, just speak with an instructor to make the change.

What if I miss a few days, weeks, or months and didn't tell you. Can I get a credit or refund for the time missed?

No. We keep the facility and instruction available; making the most of that access is on you. We don't issue credits or refunds for missed training time, regardless of reason.

Can I bring a small child to class while I train?

Yes, as long as you supervise them yourself. This is an adult facility, and you're fully responsible for your child's safety while you train.

Start Your Training

Your First Class. Completely Free

Ready to Begin?

Take the first step toward mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a professional, adult-focused environment.

Location

521 Grande St, Unit D Left Side
Driftwood, Texas 78619

Contact

Phone: (512) 212-3111
Email: hello@driftwoodmartialarts.com

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