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Checkmat Northridge is at 8415 Reseda Boulevard, Unit 11, in the Northridge neighbourhood of Los Angeles, in the San Fernando Valley (91324). It also trades as Northridge Jiu Jitsu. Checkmat was founded in 2008 by the Vieira brothers, Leo, Ricardo and Leandro, and its headquarters are in Signal Hill, Long Beach.

The head instructor is Arnaldo Maidana, a black belt and Checkmat team member. He received his black belt in December 2013 from Gilberto Gabas in Araçatuba, Brazil. His lineage runs through Marcelo Behring and Rickson Gracie back to Helio Gracie. He is an active competitor, and his results include:

  • IBJJF No-Gi World Championship: gold at black belt in 2017, and silver in 2014 and 2015.
  • IBJJF American Nationals: gold in 2015.
  • IBJJF Pan Championship: silver in 2018 and 2020, and silver at the No-Gi Pans in 2021.
  • Coloured belts: Brazilian National champion at brown belt (2013) and Rio Open champion at purple belt (2011).

The academy teaches both gi and no-gi, with separate children's and adult classes and group and private lessons. The kids program includes anti-bullying training. The site does not list a women-only class or a dedicated competition team, so ask if you need either.

The academy is open on weekdays from early morning into the evening, with morning and late-afternoon-to-evening class blocks, and from mid-morning to mid-afternoon at weekends. Business listings show it closed on Sundays, so check the current timetable before planning a weekend session.

Visiting and first class

  • Trial and drop-ins: the academy site links to membership sign-up and a waiver but does not publish a trial or drop-in policy, so contact the school first.
  • Checkmat headquarters: the team's headquarters academy is in Signal Hill, Long Beach.

Details above were checked on the academy site, a business listing and Wikipedia in October 2026. Confirm the current schedule with the school before you go.

Sources