Originally from Philadelphia, Todd Nathanson began his martial arts training with American Boxing. He furthered his education by wrestling, and then becoming a black belt in Kenpo karate, as well as Kung Fu moving on to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

He was fortunate enough to spend time and train extensively with several members of the Machado family in Tarzana, and became an active competitor with an impressive list of accomplishments.

In keeping with his reputation as a top BJJ sportsman, he displays all the traits of any true martial artist.

Todd began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1993 and has received a 3rd degree black belt from Jean Jacques Machado (The highest, and only, black belt degree awarded by Jean Jacques Machado).

Out of dedication, he spends long hours on the mat striving to pass on the knowledge of his beloved art to his numerous students at his school in Chatsworth, located in Southern California.

“No question is too insignificant to ask,” says Todd.

“The only poor question is one you do not ask. I’m glad to offer the knowledge that enables me to help someone progress. Being an instructor is as much about how you relate to your students, as much as it is about how much you know. You can have the best techniques in the world, but if you don’t know how to transfer the information then your knowledge is worthless.”

No matter how refined his jiu-jitsu techniques are Todd recognizes the need for versatility.

“No modern martial art is a complete system in itself. Our style is no more or no less than other martial arts,” he says.

“Jiu-Jitsu does not contradict other martial arts. It compliments them.”

This realistic approach has enabled Todd Nathanson to be widely regarded as one of the top BJJ instructors in the United States.