Smarter Jiu Jitsu. More control. Faster progress.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Tribeca, NYC | Beginners Welcome

At Control Theory Jiu Jitsu, we don't just teach moves, we teach systems.

Our approach is built around leverage, timing, positioning, and decision-making so you can control situations instead of reacting to them. Strong fundamentals. Athletic movement. Real-world effectiveness in a way that's safe, intelligent, and built for the long haul.

Jiu jitsu is more than a sport. It builds confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills that carry over into everyday life.

We train with purpose. We build skill step by step. And we prepare you to be calm, capable, and in control — on the mats and beyond.

Meet Coach mike

Meet Your Instructor Coach Mike Pastor is a 1st Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt with 20+ years in the fitness industry. He's trained men and women of all levels and backgrounds — from complete beginners to competitive athletes. His approach is methodical, patient, and built around helping you actually understand jiu jitsu, not just memorize moves. Mike trains out of The Livewell Company in Tribeca, NYC.

Why Train at Control Theory?

We teach systems, not just moves Everything builds on itself. You'll understand why each position works — which means you'll actually remember it and be able to use it.

It works for real life
The confidence, focus, and calm you develop on the mat carries over everywhere, work, family, stress. It's physical training that also builds mental toughness.

Safe, intelligent training
We prioritize technique over intensity. No reckless sparring, no macho culture. The goal is for you to be training consistently for years, not burning out in months.

Built for beginners
No experience needed and no ego allowed. Classes are structured so you're never thrown in the deep end. You'll learn at a pace that makes sense for your body and your schedule.

You don't need to be in shape to start Jiu jitsu is what gets you in shape. Strength, mobility, coordination, and endurance all improve naturally as you train. Just show up.

A community that has your back
Your training partners are working professionals, parents, and everyday people who show up to get better. Everyone here remembers their first day.

Ready to start?

Ready to try something different?

Whether you've never stepped on a mat or you've been curious about jiu jitsu for years — this is the place to start. No experience needed. No ego. Just clear instruction, real skills, and a community that's got your back.

Your first class is free. Come see what it's all about.

📅 Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
7:00pm – 8:00pm
📍 256 West Street, Tribeca

Come Train With Us!

Located inside The Livewell Company

256 West Street (between Laight St and Vestry St), TriBeCa, NYC 10013

Contact Us

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you have questions or you're ready to book your first class, just reach out. We'll get back to you quickly and set you up with your free class. No experience needed. Just show up willing to learn.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Like any physical activity, there is always some risk. But our goal is to reduce that risk as much as possible through intelligent training.

    At Control Theory Jiu-Jitsu we focus heavily on:

    • Proper technique before intensity

    • Controlled training partners

    • Structured classes instead of chaotic sparring

    • Learning how to protect yourself and your training partners

    Most injuries in martial arts come from ego, speed, and lack of structure. We remove those factors as much as possible.

    Our priority is simple: help you train consistently for years, not burn out in months.

  • No.

    Many of our students start in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond.

    You do not need to be in shape to begin. Training is what gets you in shape.

    Classes are structured so beginners can learn at a manageable pace while gradually building:

    • Strength

    • Mobility

    • Conditioning

    • Skill

    You don't need to show up ready. You just need to show up willing to learn.

  • This is one of the most common concerns people have.

    Many people picture a room full of aggressive fighters. In reality, most of our members are working professionals, parents, and regular people who simply want to improve themselves.

    Our culture is built around:

    • Respect

    • Learning

    • Helping training partners improve

    • Leaving ego at the door

    Everyone remembers what it felt like to walk in for the first time. You won't be expected to know anything.

  • Yes.

    Consistency matters more than volume.

    Even 2-3 classes per week is enough to make meaningful progress if the training is structured properly.

    Our classes are designed so that each session builds on core concepts. That means you don't need to train every day to improve.

    Many of our members balance training with:

    • Careers

    • Families

    • Other responsibilities

    The key is sustainable training, not burnout.

  • A regular gym gives you equipment.

    Jiu-Jitsu gives you coaching, skill development, community, and accountability.

    When you train here you are developing:

    • Real self-defense ability

    • Strength and conditioning

    • Mental resilience

    • Problem-solving under pressure

    • A community of people pushing each other to improve

    Many people spend years paying for a gym membership they barely use.

    Our goal is to create an environment where people actually show up and train consistently.

  • No.

    Beginners start by learning fundamental positions, movements, and concepts.

    You will first work through:

    • Technical instruction

    • Controlled drilling

    • Situational training

    Only when you are comfortable will you gradually be introduced to live sparring.

    And when that happens, it is done in a controlled and safe environment.

    Learning Jiu-Jitsu should feel challenging but manageable, not overwhelming.

  • We offer a simple, transparent membership option at $200/month which gives you access to regular classes each week.

    We also offer:

    • Introductory trial options for new students

    The best way to understand what works for you is to come in for a trial class and talk with us afterward.

  • Your first class is designed to be welcoming, structured, and beginner-friendly.

    A typical first class looks like this:

    1. Brief introduction to the academy and how class works

    2. Simple warm-up movements that help you understand how your body will move in Jiu-Jitsu

    3. Step-by-step technique instruction

    4. Partner drilling where you practice the movement in a controlled way

    5. Optional light situational training depending on your comfort level

    You will never be expected to keep up with experienced students on day one.

    The goal of your first class is simple:
    learn something new, move your body, and see if you enjoy the process.

  • No.

    This is like saying you need to get strong before lifting weights.

    Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective ways to build:

    • Strength

    • Endurance

    • Mobility

    • Body awareness

    Most people begin training while they are still getting into shape, and that’s completely normal.

    Classes are designed so you can work at your own pace while gradually improving your conditioning.

    The hardest part for most people is simply walking in the door the first time.

  • Very little.

    For your first class you only need:

    • Comfortable athletic clothing

    • A water bottle

    • An open mind

    If you decide to continue training, we will help you get the basic gear such as a Jiu-Jitsu gi or no-gi training gear.

    There is no pressure to buy expensive equipment right away.

    Our goal is to make starting as simple and accessible as possible.

  • That’s completely fine.

    Trying something new takes courage, and the only real way to know if you enjoy Jiu-Jitsu is to experience a class.

    Some people fall in love with it immediately.
    Others decide it’s not for them.

    Either way, there is no pressure and no obligation.

    Our goal is simply to give you the opportunity to try something challenging, learn a new skill, and see how it feels.