At Downriver Jiu Jitsu, we provide Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction for kids and adults in a welcoming, family-oriented environment. Whether you are brand new to martial arts or an experienced student looking to continue your training, our classes are designed to help you build practical skills, confidence, discipline, fitness, and a strong technical foundation. Since 2010, we have been proud to serve the Downriver community with experienced instruction, age-appropriate kids programs, adult Gi and No-Gi training, and a team atmosphere where students can learn, challenge themselves, and grow at their own pace.
Beginner-friendly Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Kids & Adults in Downriver
No experience is needed to get started. Our instructors teach techniques step by step in a supportive, family-oriented environment where kids and adults can build confidence, improve fitness, and develop strong Jiu Jitsu fundamentals at their own pace.
Serving the Downriver Community Since 2010
For more than 15 years, Downriver Jiu Jitsu has helped kids and adults develop skill, confidence, discipline, and a lasting connection to the Jiu Jitsu community. Our academy combines experienced instruction with a welcoming team atmosphere where students can grow from their very first class through advanced levels.
Located in Riverview, Downriver Jiu Jitsu proudly serves students from Trenton, Southgate, Wyandotte, Woodhaven, Brownstown, Flat Rock, and surrounding Downriver communities.
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Lineage
Helio Gracie ⇒ Royler Gracie ⇒ Saulo & Xande Ribeiro ⇒ Brent Insco
Meet Professor Brent Insco
Professor Brent Insco is the first and highest-ranking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt in the Downriver area. He received his third-degree black belt on June 21, 2022, marking more than two decades of dedication to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He trained extensively under world champions Saulo Ribeiro and Xande Ribeiro and was personally awarded his black belt by Saulo Ribeiro, giving Downriver Jiu Jitsu a direct lineage through the Ribeiro brothers to Royler Gracie and Helio Gracie.
An active competitor, Professor Brent has earned medals at regional and international tournaments, including the 2025 IBJJF Chicago Spring International Open, the 2024 IBJJF Virginia International Open, and a bronze medal at the 2012 IBJJF Master World Championships. Since opening Downriver Jiu Jitsu in 2010, he has coached children and adults of all experience levels, helping students develop strong fundamentals, advance through the ranks, and succeed in competition.
Before beginning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Brent earned a black belt in NAAMA Karate and taught karate for nine years. He also holds a degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University. His background as an educator, combined with decades of martial arts experience, shapes a clear, structured, and individualized approach to teaching both children and adults.
Professor Brent also works as a strength and conditioning coach through Insco Strength Training, located adjacent to Downriver Jiu Jitsu. His certifications include Certified Functional Strength Coach, Training for Warriors Level 1 & 2 Instructor, IKFF Kettlebell Instructor, and NSPA Certified Program Design Specialist.
He continues to train, compete, and learn from teammates and association members, bringing that knowledge back to the students of Downriver Jiu Jitsu.
From First Class to Black Belt
At Downriver Jiu Jitsu, students are supported at every stage of their training—from their very first class through advanced ranks, including black belt. Professor Brent Insco has spent years developing students with different goals, whether they are training for competition, fitness, self-defense, confidence, or simply the challenge and enjoyment of learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The focus is on steady progress, strong fundamentals, and helping each student grow at a pace that is appropriate for them.
