About

The Stronghold CrossFit & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is family-owned and operated by Mike and Raquel Cusi and Ray Regno. In early 2007, Mike and a group of friends would meet weekly to train Jiu Jitsu in a friends garage. In mid 2007 they began to do CrossFit in a nearby park. It was inevitable that they would outgrow the garage and Mike soon began to look for places to open up a gym. When Mike’s mom mentioned of a space opening 2 doors down from her English tea room, Mike, Raquel and Ray jumped at the opportunity. One month later in October 2007 The Stronghold officially opened its doors in Point Loma. In August 2011, The Stronghold opened its 2nd location in Eastlake.

Whether our students have been training with us for years or a week, you’ll always be treated like family. You won’t always just come work out and leave after your hour’s done. The Stronghold aims to provide high quality instruction while striving to build a strong community among all of our students. There’s a reason why the Stronghold family continues to grow and remain close-knit. Don’t take our word for it though, stop on by and see what we’re all about.

The Stronghold’s name comes from the Scripture: Psalm 18:2.
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my STRONGHOLD.

Instructors

Michael Cusi
Mike has been training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2000 and received his Black Belt from Roy Harris in 2010. He is currently continuing his training with Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles. He started CrossFit in 2007 and is a certified Level 1 Trainer, CrossFit Olympic Weightlifting Coach, and American Kettlebell Coach. It has always been his dream to start an academy and takes great pride in seeing his students progress both on and off the mats. He runs The Stronghold with his wife, Raquel, brother-in-law Ray, and has a 3-year old son and an 1-year old daughter.