Expect to encounter high energy when you enter Impact Jiu Jitsu Fountain Hills, 11010 N. Saguaro Blvd.

On the last day of school before summer recess, about a dozen youngsters practiced climbing a wall, executed cartwheels and handstands, and focused on gymnastic ring exercises.

After relocating to Fountain Hills, Michael and Samantha Currier opened Impact Jiu Jitsu Fountain Hills, a national franchise, in May 2018.

They said they recognized a need to bring their love of Jiu Jitsu to the community. Jiu Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that has evolved over centuries in Japan. The name translates to “The gentle art.”

Primarily for self-defense, it utilizes leverage, timing, mobility and pressure over size and strength, giving the smaller opponent an advantage.

Impact Fountain Hills teaches both gi and no-gi jiu jitsu with a focus on class content, personal growth, coaching and a social network of friends.

“We pride ourselves on hard work and creating an environment that is friendly, fun and safe for individuals of all shapes, sizes and skill levels,” Currier said. “Our members range from hobbyists to competitive athletes to those wanting to learn self-defense, all training and working together toward a common goal.”

The fitness center also teaches Tumblefit, a children’s program that combines gymnastics, fitness, movement and body awareness to teach children how to be physically active for life.

“The popular program teaches kids to be active and healthy while jumping, crawling, flipping, cartwheeling and having fun,” Currier added.

Fourth-degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Michael Chapman founded the business in 1998 and now has 15 locations in four states, home of 46 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belts

Currier started gymnastics training in 1991 and was a nationally ranked gymnast until 1999, when he transitioned into coaching. He was a head coach at Camp Woodward in Woodward, Pa.

He was an assistant coach at Penn State University. He started coaching jiu jitsu in 2014.

A youth cheer camp is scheduled for July 29-Aug. 2.

The business can be reached by calling 480-685-7088.