Business Details
32 Years
experience
Portland Martial Arts Training Since 1994
Northwest Fighting Arts was founded in 1994 by Jeff Patterson, a martial artist with over 36 years of experience across disciplines including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Tai Chi, and Eskrima. Our Portland-based academy has trained over 25,000 students through a proven curriculum developed since the early 1990s. We offer classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, with a focus on safety, personal growth, and community building. Our instructors include third-degree black belts and experts trained under internationally recognized masters. We emphasize lifelong fitness, stress relief, and confidence-building through martial arts.The academy provides free first lessons and 30 days of free training to new members. Our programs include Muay Thai, Western Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tai Chi, and youth martial arts. We serve Portland and surrounding areas with a community-driven approach to martial arts education. Our team includes instructors who began as students, reflecting our commitment to organic growth and shared passion. We combine physical training with meditative practices to enhance mind-body connection.
Services
Muay Thai Kickboxing
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
MMA Training
Boxing Classes
Eskrima/Kali/Arnis
Jeet Kune Do
Tai Chi
Qigong
Kids Martial Arts
Women's Fitness
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- Free first lesson and 30 days of free training for new members
- Instructors trained by internationally recognized martial arts masters
- Proven curriculum developed over 30 years of experience
- Community-driven environment with instructors who started as students
- Combines physical training with meditative practices for holistic development
What people say
Lifelong friendships
Expert instructors
Positive environment
Transformative experience
Proven results
Services
Muay Thai Kickboxing
Our Muay Thai program develops striking skills using elbows, knees, kicks, and punches. Students learn self-defense techniques while improving cardiovascular fitness and body coordination. Training includes pad work and partner drills to build practical combat skills and physical endurance.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
This grappling-focused martial art teaches ground fighting techniques for self-defense and competition. Classes emphasize positional control, submission holds, and leverage-based strategies. Students develop problem-solving skills and physical resilience through partner drills and sparring sessions.
Kids Martial Arts
Our youth program combines Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, and JKD to build physical fitness and character. Children learn self-discipline, respect, and confidence through structured lessons that balance technical instruction with fun, engaging activities for all skill levels.
Tai Chi
This traditional Chinese martial art focuses on slow, flowing movements and standing meditation. Practitioners develop balance, flexibility, and mental focus while learning self-defense applications. Classes emphasize mind-body connection and stress reduction techniques.
Women's Fitness
Our women's bootcamp combines kickboxing techniques with fitness training. Participants learn practical self-defense skills while improving strength, endurance, and confidence through personalized instruction and supportive group workouts.
People
Jeff Patterson
Founder/Instructor
36-year martial arts expert with black belts in multiple disciplines. Established NWFA in 1994 after Marine Corps service. Trained under masters including Rigan Machado and Ajarn Chai Sirisute. Author of three martial arts books.
Daniel Tran
Coach
Started training at age 9 under Jeff Patterson. Trained with martial arts legends including Dan Inosanto and Rigan Machado. Specializes in JKD and Filipino martial arts. Full-time instructor since 2017.
Stephen Burtt
Instructor
Began martial arts at 13 with Tae Kwon Do. Formalized training under Sifu Gregory Fong. Joined NWFA in 2017. Focuses on Muay Thai, Boxing, and Escrima. Cum Laude graduate of Portland State University.
Lark Pien
Instructor
Joined NWFA in 2015. Specializes in Tai Chi and internal martial arts. Trained under Grandmaster Sam Tam. Also studies Xing Yi Quan and Bagua Zhang. Emphasizes mind-body-environment relationships in teaching.
Chris Miskell
BJJ Instructor
Joined NWFA in 2018 after family recommendations. Trains under Pedro Sauer and Rigan Machado. Leads curriculum classes for white and blue belts. Focuses on technical development and community growth.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you offer?
We offer Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Eskrima/Kali/Arnis, Jeet Kune Do, Tai Chi, Qigong, Kids Martial Arts, and Women's Fitness programs.
Is there a free trial available?
Yes, we offer a free first lesson and 30 days of free training for new members to experience our programs.
What experience do your instructors have?
Our instructors include third-degree black belts and experts trained under internationally recognized masters like Rigan Machado and Ajarn Chai Sirisute.
Do you have classes for beginners?
Yes, we offer beginner to expert-level classes in all disciplines with instructors who will help you progress at your own pace.
What are your class schedules like?
While specific hours aren't listed, we offer weekday and Saturday classes with flexible options for adults and children.
Videos
Reviews (1)
John Robert Campbell
May 18, 2026
Report
We enrolled in a Thai Chi class here and we are having a fun time learning this art! We highly recommend this place.
