Mahopac NY Jiu-Jitsu Gym

ABOUT STRING THEORY JIU JITSU

Sam Bertado - String Theory BJJ
String Theory Jiu-Jitsu

*Placeholder Image. Facility photos coming soon.

CLEAN, PROFESSIONAL, & INCLUSIVE

A SPACE FOR ALL

Our facility is built on professionalism, cleanliness, and a commitment to creating a safe and comfortable place to train. The mats are cleaned daily, the equipment is well cared for, and the environment is kept organized so students can focus on learning. Families, hobbyists, and competitors all train under one roof, creating a supportive community that welcomes beginners while still pushing experienced students to grow. As an affiliate of Essential Jiu Jitsu, we carry the same standards of technical excellence, structure, and professionalism that the team is known for.

The name String Theory Jiu Jitsu nods to the scientific theory that everything is connected, much like each movement in jiu-jitsu. However, the true foundation of our name is the concept of the puppet master; being the one in control, pulling the strings. Jiu-jitsu is shaped by small details, and when you master those details, you are no longer reacting. You are directing the exchange and taking command of the pace, flow, and outcome.

EXPLORE OUR TRIAL CLASS
Sam Bretado - Head Instructor
1ST DEGREE BLACK BELT + HEAD INSTRUCTOR

SAM BRETADO

Professor Sam brings over 17 years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. He began training in Maryland before moving to California to join the world-renowned Art of Jiu Jitsu Academy under the Mendes Brothers, where he earned his purple belt and built a strong foundation in modern, competition-focused  BJJ.

In 2018, Sam moved to New York to train under 2x ADCC Champion JT Torres at Essential Jiu Jitsu, where he earned his brown and black belts and became a core member of the coaching staff. He has led classes at every level—from beginner to advanced—as well as kids’ programs tailored to different ages.

Sam’s teaching style is structured, detail-oriented, and adaptive. He is known for breaking down complex techniques into clear, practical steps, whether working with brand-new students or experienced competitors. His mission is to help every student grow in skill, confidence, and respect for the art of jiu-jitsu.

High Quality Jiu-Jitsu Training in Mahopac NY
IS JIU-JITSU RIGHT FOR ME

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It emphasizes technique and leverage over brute strength, making it accessible for all body types and skill levels.

  • There is absolutely no experience or fitness background required. We believe that you do not need to be in shape, to get in shape. Everyone has their own starting point, and we all know the hardest part is getting started which is why our beginner GI class is a perfect starting point for everyone.

  • Yes! We offer a free 3 day trial for new students to experience our training environment and see if BJJ is right for them.

  • Jiu-Jitsu is a safe and rewarding activity for kids, promoting discipline, respect, and focus while helping improve academic performance and confidence. Classes are always supervised by qualified instructors, and children are paired with partners in their own age group for a safe and positive training experience. Our Kid’s class is designed for ages 5-13

  • If your child feels hesitant, our instructors will work closely with them to build confidence through small, achievable successes. In the early stages, progress comes quickly, allowing students to see their improvement and take pride in their accomplishments. These early wins help even the most reluctant child develop enthusiasm for martial arts.

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JIU-JITSU SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

MEMBERSHIP

Our membership options are designed to support different training schedules, goals, and levels of commitment. Whether you plan to train daily or a few times per week, you’ll find an option that fits your routine when we open.

  • Unlimited Classes — Yearly Contract
    Full access to all classes with long-term savings for dedicated students.

  • 2x Per Week — Yearly Contract
    A structured membership that offers consistency without requiring daily attendance.

  • Unlimited Classes — Month-to-Month
    Unlimited training with the flexibility of no long-term commitment.

  • Weekly & Daily Training Passes
    Short-term options ideal for travelers, busy schedules, or anyone looking to train without a full membership. Feel free to contact us with any membership questions.


WAYS TO SAVE

We offer several discounts to make training more accessible for students and families. These savings apply to select memberships and will be outlined clearly during enrollment.

  • Family Discounts
    Reduced rates when multiple members of the same household train together.

  • First Responder Pricing
    Special rates for police, fire, and EMS.

  • Military & Veteran Discounts
    Exclusive pricing for active-duty service members and veterans.

  • Founding Member Discount
    A limited pre-opening offer reserved for the first 50 members. Founding Members receive our lowest rates for their first 12 months of training with no sign up fee.

Full pricing will be released at launch.

The best rates we will ever offer are available now through our FOUNDING MEMBER DISCOUNT.
BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER