Learn from experienced instructors
Explore martial arts excellence with our experienced instructors in Reading, PA. All adult jiu-jitsu classes are led by black and brown belts with extensive grappling experience, ensuring top-notch instruction for your martial arts journey.
Erik Faust
Owner, Black Belt
Email Erik
Erik is the owner and head black belt of Berks County Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BCBJJ). Erik’s martial arts journey began as a child and later in his life, he also boxed professionally. Erik has been training for over 15 years and is currently a second degree black belt.
Jose Ortiz
Black Belt
Jose is one of the main instructors at Berks County Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He teaches many adult classes throughout the week as well as playing a huge part in the kid’s program.
He credits the UFC as his introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Training jiu jitsu is a very important part of his life now and in addition to gaining confidence, he has also been able to be more outgoing and socialize on a regular basis. Eating healthier and exercise have also become part of his daily regimen.
Not only has Jose met some of his closest friends through training, he was also introduced to his wife Shaye.
THOMAS CANSECO
Brown Belt
Thomas Canseco is our 6 AM Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor (gi and no-gi). He has been a BJJ practitioner for over 15 years. Tomas is also a Chiropractor and owner of Fit Vida Chiropractic.
He feels doing both has helped him understand the body’s biomechanics at a different level. It has helped him formulate treatments to help athletes recover faster, as well as improve his own jiu-jitsu game.
Thomas believes BJJ makes you physically and mentally strong. You are constantly being put to the test with every opponent. You need to train your mind to focus on the task at hand while managing adversity under pressure.
Through his personal struggles, jiu-jitsu has helped him stay in a positive and healthy mental environment. He encourages people of all ages to try this discipline, no matter how young or how old.
Lindsey Bates
Professional Boxing Coach
USA Boxing Certified Coach, Military Veteran, Olympic Trials, 8 National Boxing Tournaments, 5 National Champions, 4 State Champions
Dmitriy Poltavskiy
Strength & Conditioning Coach
BS Exercise Science, Certified Nutritionist, BJJ Purple Belt, Former Competitive Powerlifter, Competitive Bodybuilder