BJJ Black Belt & Owner, Ground Rules Academy

I’m a college chemistry professor turned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor and the founder of Ground Rules Academy in Pleasanton. My goal is simple: provide high-quality, beginner-friendly Jiu-Jitsu instruction in the Tri-Valley that develops not just technical skill, but real resilience, confidence, and problem-solving ability for students of all ages.

My Background

I earned my PhD in physical chemistry from MIT in 2015 under Nobel Laureate Moungi Bawendi. It was my first exposure to a world-class training environment, and I learned far more than technical skills — it was a window into the mindset of elite performers.

After graduate school, I taught chemistry at San Francisco State University and Las Positas College. I’ve always enjoyed finding clear, accessible ways to explain complex concepts. Those teaching skills translate directly to the mats.

My journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began right after college. I fell in love with no-gi in 2006 but was sidelined for several years by chronic back pain. With help from medical professionals and a lot of self-work, I resolved the issue and returned to training in 2014. Jiu-Jitsu became the perfect place to apply the resilience, grit, and perseverance I developed in graduate school — but in a physical, practical context.

I earned my black belt in 2024 and opened Ground Rules Academy to create the welcoming, logically structured training environment I wish I had found earlier. I’m proud to run a school that makes Jiu-Jitsu accessible for everyone — kids to adults, beginners to competitors.

Key Credentials

• PhD in Physical Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt

• Author of Ground Rules: Simple Physics for the Grappling Arts (Coming soon to Amazon)

• Chemistry Professor and BJJ Club Advisor at Las Positas College

• Former collegiate discus thrower with extensive strength, conditioning, and mobility experience

History of Ground Rules

While training, I became frustrated with the occasional sloppy use of physics terminology on the mats. I started taking detailed notes on how techniques apply basic mechanics from white belt onward. By the time I was approaching black belt, the book Ground Rules practically wrote itself.

I also realized my impact as a college professor felt limited — students were in my class for only a few months and were often disengaged from the material. As an educator, I wanted a more engaging subject, longer-term relationships, and the ability to teach resilience across a wider range of ages. Ground Rules Academy was launched in August 2024.

After two years of building a strong community, we joined JG Academy / Aspire to Inspire in 2026. Their team shares our core values: provide a great training environment, help students grow, and welcome everyone.

Teaching Philosophy

At Ground Rules Academy, we don’t just teach techniques — we teach why they work. I break moves down using principles from physics (leverage, momentum, base, friction) and basic anatomy. Understanding the “why” makes learning faster and more intuitive. Can’t remember the exact steps of a takedown? No problem — control the center of mass.

Youth classes focus on coordination, safe contact, and fun grappling games that build real skills. Adult classes emphasize a supportive, clean, and challenging environment. Beginners are always welcome, and I’m committed to helping every student progress at their own pace while building a strong sense of community.

Outside the Academy

When I’m not on the mats, you’ll find me training in the garage gym, spending time with my wife and two kids, or enjoying the outdoors — camping, hiking, and archery. I also play guitar and look forward to family game nights (Magic: The Gathering is a current favorite with my son). My mind rarely stops thinking about Jiu-Jitsu.

You can follow my personal journey at @russjensenphd on Instagram. For academy updates, class highlights, events, and promotions, follow @groundrulesacademy.

Ready to train? I’d love to welcome you to the mats for a free trial class. Come experience the difference a science-backed, community-focused approach can make.