Building Confidence, Together
More than a gym — a family-centered community rooted in safety, discipline, learning, and belonging.
For Joshua and Michelle Posey, community and family are at the heart of everything. Married since September 2000, they are the proud parents of seven children—four boys and three girls. Martial arts is a family affair for the Poseys, with all seven children having spent time training on the mats. Joshua himself has been a dedicated Jiu-Jitsu practitioner for over six years, and the entire family trains together in honor of Uriah Sagri.
For over a decade, Joshua and Michelle have owned and operated Swimtastic Swim School in Waukesha, dedicating themselves to the safety and development of local youth. The transition to Open Guard Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a natural extension of that same mission.
The common thread is simple: building unshakeable confidence in our youth. Whether it is having the confidence to be safe in the water, or the confidence to walk the streets securely, the goal is to equip children and families with the skills they need to navigate life safely and boldly.
When the opportunity arose to take the helm at Open Guard, the choice was easy. The decision was entirely driven by the incredible community and the welcoming environment originally created by the LaPaz family. Joshua and Michelle are committed to preserving and growing that legacy, anchoring the academy in four core values:
A safe, ego-free training environment for every student.
Building character and self-discipline through consistent training.
A proven curriculum that ensures real, measurable progress.
A welcoming family where every student belongs from day one.
Open Guard is heavily focused on family and youth programs. When a brand-new student walks through the doors, the goal is for them to instantly feel welcome, supported, and like they are already a part of the family.
We are constantly evolving to better serve our community. Open Guard is currently expanding, adding an additional 2,000 square feet of refreshed mat space that will be dedicated to youth events, specialized training, youth obstacle training, and more.
Additionally, we are thrilled to announce that Cold Fire Wellness is coming to the facility in late 2026. Inspired by athletes who need quick, high-quality recovery, Cold Fire Wellness will provide a premium environment featuring ice plunges and red-light therapy to help you recover as hard as you train.
Refreshed mat space for youth events, specialized training, youth obstacle training, and more.
Ice plunges and red-light therapy coming late 2026. Recover as hard as you train.
Whether you are looking to build discipline in your children, find a new competitive outlet, or simply get into the best shape of your life surrounded by good people, there is a place for you here. Step onto the mats and discover what you're capable of.
