Welcome to Theesuhs, the world leader in promoting prosocial physical activity participation and pioneering risk prevention strategies across the lifespan. The journey began in the rugged terrains of Lesotho, Africa, where during a 2011-13 Peace Corps mission, the seeds of our vision were planted. What started with training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors on a makeshift mat of cardboard over concrete, has now evolved into a global beacon of wellness in martial arts.

At Theesuhs, we are driven by a core question that arose from an injury during those initial training sessions: “What injuries occur in submission wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA, and can we train for a lifetime?” This inquiry ignited a passion to enhance the safety and sustainability of martial arts practice, leading to our pioneering research and initiatives.

Over the years, we have expanded our focus to encompass multiple dimensions of wellness, including evidence-based family programs, substance use, violence prevention, mindfulness training, and more. We are dedicated to supporting not only trainees but also instructors and association leaders with comprehensive screening, credentialing, and ongoing education.

Our accomplishments include conducting the first studies of injuries within the club sport grappling community, which have significantly contributed to our understanding and prevention of common injuries. This research further developed into the “Train for Life Census,” an initiative aimed at gathering comprehensive data from martial arts enthusiasts, athletes, and their families to better support their lifelong journey to stay active.

The leadership at Theesuhs brings together an impressive amalgamation of expertise and experience. Our head of research and evaluation holds a graduate-level education in Prevention Science, a seasoned public health professional with decades of grappling experience and coaching, certification as an ACSM Exercise Physiologist, federal law enforcement and emergency medical background, and professional public health consultation. This diverse expertise ensures that our programs and research are grounded in scientific rigor and practical application.

At Theesuhs, we are more than just a martial arts organization; we are a movement dedicated to ensuring that martial arts can be a safe, lifelong journey for everyone. Follow our work and lend your support to promote resilience and thriving!

Train 4 Life!