Discover our amazing local community with your Free and beginner-friendly intro To Jiu Jitsu class
About Smoothflo academy
The Vision
Smoothflo Martial Arts Academy was born out of a deep passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a desire to bring this empowering martial art to the heart of Scarborough. In September 2020, Sam, our founder and head coach, took a leap of faith and opened the doors to the academy.
Sam envisioned a space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds could come together to learn, grow, and challenge themselves in a safe and inclusive environment. The initial days were filled with excitement and uncertainty, but the mission was clear: to make high-quality jiu-jitsu accessible to everyone in the community.
Surviving
As with so many people and businesses, Smoothflo faced an unprecedented challenge as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. The restrictions on physical contact made it nearly impossible to practice jiu-jitsu in its traditional form. However, Sam and the dedicated members of the academy were determined to keep the spirit of Smoothflo alive. Adapting quickly, the academy introduced socially distanced classes, taped mat sections, and innovative training methods, including the use of dummies.
It was a tough period, but the unwavering support from the Smoothflo community kept the academy afloat, covering overheads and ensuring that the dream of building a jiu-jitsu haven in Scarborough remained alive.
Growing
As restrictions began to lift in the summer of 2021, Smoothflo entered a new phase of growth and development. Full-contact training resumed, and the academy saw a surge in membership as new students joined, eager to experience the full breadth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The community continued to strengthen, and the academy’s reputation grew as our students began to achieve remarkable success in competitions.
A highlight came in 2022, when Smoothflo secured third place at the Empire competition in Manchester, competing against some of the largest and most established gyms in the country. This period marked a significant turning point, as the academy not only survived but thrived, solidifying its place as a prominent martial arts hub in the region.
New Beginnings
With the academy flourishing, Sam made the decision to move Smoothflo to a larger facility in 2022. The new space, with its expansive mat area and improved amenities, represented the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the academy. This move was not just about physical expansion but also about setting the stage for the future growth of the Smoothflo community.
The larger facility allows for more classes, more students, and more opportunities to cultivate the next generation of jiu-jitsu practitioners. As Smoothflo continues to evolve, its commitment to providing top-notch martial arts education and fostering a supportive, inclusive community remains as strong as ever. The journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.
