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Discover the Art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in San Mateo! Build confidence, learn self-defense, and make friends in a supportive environment.
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu San Mateo. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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Ryan Norton
I recently had the opportunity to drop in at 10th Planet San Mateo while on a business trip, and I couldn't be more impressed with the experience.
From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the friendly and professional atmosphere. The facility was clean, well-equipped, and had a great vibe.
Coach Adam stood out immediately as a top-notch instructor. His ability to break down techniques and explain them in an easy-to-understand manner was exceptional. He not only demonstrated the moves but also provided detailed explanations on the underlying principles, which really helped to solidify my understanding. Adam's passion for teaching and dedication to his students was evident in the class.
The training session was intense, with plenty of tough rolls. The students at 10th Planet San Mateo were skilled, respectful, and always ready to challenge each other in a positive and supportive way.
Overall, my visit to 10th Planet San Mateo was fantastic. The combination of Coach Adam's excellent instruction and the high-level training partners made it an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to improve their jiu-jitsu skills while being part of a great community.
I'll definitely be back the next time I'm in town!
Incredible gym with an incredibly welcome atmosphere. Gym owner is a world class Jiu jitsu athlete himself. Highly recommend if you’re in the area to train or looking for a new gym
Got to stop by for a drop-in while training out of town and had an awesome experience. Adam, the owner, provided great instruction and everyone was super welcoming. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in town!
Recommend dropping in. Coach Ian was knowledgeable and gave great instructions . Members were welcoming and had some super fun rolls. I had a great experience here. Thank you all!
Really Awesome people here at 10th planet Jiu jitsu San Mateo. Attended an afternoon class led by coach Rich. He was extremely technical, sound and emphasized positioning over submission. Very clean establishment and made me feel at home.
I don't know what's all the bad talk about 10th planet, but the San Mateo academy definitely put on a good name. Highly recommend training here if you are a local. I just visited from out of state and it was an amazing experience.
OSS!
This place is legit, probably the one of the most welcoming atmospheres I’ve ever felt, everyone wants to help you improve and reach your goals. Definitely check it out.
I have the pleasure of training at the 10th Planet San Mateo Jiu Jitsu academy and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed with my experience. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and kindness by the instructors and students alike. The facility is top-notch, with plenty of mats to accommodate the diverse range of classes offered.
What stands out most to me, however, is the quality of the instruction. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and able to effectively communicate the techniques being taught. They are also highly attentive, ensuring that each student receives individualized attention and correct any mistakes we make. The academy's approach to jiu jitsu is well-rounded, focusing not only on the physical aspects of the sport but also the mental and spiritual aspects.
I am also impressed with the positive and supportive community that the academy fosters. The students are encouraging and uplifting to one another, making the training environment enjoyable and comfortable.
Overall, I highly recommend this jiu jitsu academy to anyone looking to take their training to the next level. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, you will find a welcoming and supportive community here. I give this academy 5 stars!
Was visiting the Bay Area for the holidays and was looking for some open mats and found this spot. Adam and Alan were incredibly welcoming and hospitable. The training room had that perfect mix between a casual environment and serious technical sparring. If you’re ever in the area I would m recommend people stop by. The training is super good and Adam/Alan are world class grapplers!
After months of thinking about trying jiu jitsu, I finally decided to do a trial class at 10P San Mateo in September and instantly became hooked. I came in with no knowledge of BJJ, but the instructors (s/o Ian & Alan) and other members were very welcoming & helpful since day 1.
Unfortunately, I am relocating back to SoCal and am bummed I wont be able to continue learning & training with this crew.
I hope to find a new spot in SoCal with the dope culture & environment 10P San Mateo has. Appreciate y’all for getting me started on my BJJ journey!
Adam is awesome! He really fosters a great training environment as he cares about helping me with my technique and always makes me feel welcome every time I go to class! He has competed and won at the highest level of no-gi jiu jitsu/grappling so if you want to learn from the best, please check this place out!
Stopped by today after lunch and was greeted by the head instructor and owner. Amazing gym, conveniently located by down town. If I lived closer I would definitely train here.
I searched up a few different places to roll before deciding on 10th planet. The instructors are top notch, professional and also very approachable. the training environment is a nice blend of competitive and friendly. 5 stars, highly recommended!
Our son loves the mini jitsu class with coach Ian. He’s amazing at what he does and it shows in every class. The kids are not only getting good exercise, but learning self discipline and confidence. Our son has made a lot of progress already, and we’re looking forward to seeing how much more he can make through the end of the program!
I’ve been going to 10th planet in San Mateo for over a month now & I absolutely love it. The teachers are amazing, & the other students are so welcoming and friendly. I’m so glad I’m part of this gym, and I can’t believe I didn’t start doing this sooner. If you’re seriously thinking about doing jiu jitsu, don’t hesitate to come to this school.
10th planet San Mateo is a great school with great instructors. They have a range of classes throughout the day for various skill levels.
The team was extremely helpful and patient when teaching new techniques and they go out of their way to make new members feel apart of the family.
I'm very new to jiu jitsu and it has been a really great experience with amazing coaches. Welcoming environment for beginners with fundamental classes, all-lvl classes and also child classes. Their schedule provides a lot of different times for anyone working or busy lives. If you're on the fence about trying something new I definitely recommend the trial class and stepping out of your comfort zone. I only wish I had signed up sooner. If you're not new like I am it seems like you would have a lot of experienced partners to drill with and excellent coaching staff to learn from.
Incredible coaching abilities for all levels, these folks are the real deal. Great supportive team, great mix of people. I can't say enough good things. Drop in and take a free intro class, you'll be happy you did!
10th Planet SM is a fantastic academy. The instructors are skilled technically and do a great job communicating the techniques in each class. The training partners are great too, there is a sense of community at every class I attend. I started jiu jitsu late in life and in only two months went from knowing nothing about jits to feeling confident when I roll with other white/blue belts. I started my 3 year old daughter in the tiny jits class and she loves it and loves being able to do jiu jitsu with her Dad.
If you want to get good very fast, this is the place to get the most value immediately. one year here will make you amazing compared to a year anywhere else. I truly believe this and felt it when the white belts were kicking my butt.
Every class has so much content and useful details, its like a seminar in every class! The content is very technical. The instructors and members dont pressure people to roll excessively if not comfortable or just not up to it, and plenty of people who want to drill vs sparring.
All the higher belts are super helpful and so gently beat you up, its wonderful :D
I've been coming to 10th Planet San Mateo for approximately 2.5 years.
Great community, quality instruction, and great learning experiences are a few of the reasons why I don't plan on leaving anytime soon. Hat tip to Adam, Alan, Gregor, Ian, and all of the other un-mentioned instructors at our school - they go the extra mile for the students.
Because of our community, jiujitsu has morphed from a casual curiosity into a lifetime obsession. Physically, it helped me build functional strength, flexibility, and cardio. Mentally, it's boosted my confidence, helped me reconnect with flow states, and trained me to solve complex problems under pressure. These are skills that are highly applicable in and outside of the mats.
If you're on the fence, give it a shot. You won't regret it.
Great place!! Everyone is super chill and welcoming. The jiu jitsu is next level and has helped me improve a lot. Very focused gym. They have a 6 AM class M - F. Clean facility. Come check it out!
This review is long overdue. ^_^ My son and daughter (mini-jitsu program) both train at 10th Planet JJ in San Mateo. They were brand new to BJJ when they started at 10th Planet. They have grown a lot over the year in terms of their confidence, discipline, and toughness.
Before I joined I was really worried about finding a place that had a good balance between being "good with kids" while not sacrificing the quality and rigor of teaching an effective martial art. The instructors are hands down the absolute best you're going to find. Tony, Ian, Adam...the whole staff is caring, patient, and disciplined. They treat each kid with respect and adjust lessons to their levels so everyone feels included. They're also all laid back and down to earth as well.
Overall an amazing place to learn, play, and improve yourself for all ages. If you're looking for a place for your kids to learn BJJ - 10th Planet in San Mateo should be top of your list.
Extremely knowledgeable and patient instructors, and the culture is very welcoming to newcomers. Lessons contain several levels of complexity to allow everyone to benefit by choosing to focus on either the basics or more advanced techniques.
Great coaching and instruction (sensei Tony and Ian are legit!). My daughter Ava has been attending ever since they started the 4-7 yr old kids class and she loves it! She has done bball, gymnastics, tap, ballet, karate, kuksoolwon, swimming, in additional to BJJ. By far BJJ (and gymnastics) is her favorite. She loves 10th planet so much that she always stays for the next class of older kids just to watch.
Fantastic school, and I say this relative to other schools I've trained at. Good with kids, both beginner friendly *and* world class athletes training here. It's an uncommon to find those under the same roof, but 10th Planet SM delivers.
My kids train there. They have a great kids program!
The instructors teach their little students BJJ techniques, and also lessons important for life: focus, determination and hard work, though, the latter feels like playing games with Adam and crew!
The program is elaborate, with sessions ranging from drills to sparring for kids. It is a relaxed atmosphere and safe for kids.
Through hard work, and learning to challenge themselves, my kids are learning a lot and having fun!
I have 2 boys in the Junior's Jiu-Jitsu class, 13 and 9 years old. They are both on the smaller side and have experienced some sort of bullying. We decided to enroll them so they have some knowledge of self defense. They both enjoy the classes and instructors. The instructors are great with helping the kids feel at ease and provide a fun learning environment.
Since they started the class, they are both more confident and feel safer that they have learned techniques to help themselves. Thanks 10th Planet San Mateo!
Adam was nice enough to set up a seminar for some colleagues and I. Extremely professional instructor with a state of the art facility. He was kind enough to invite us to train with his students during open mats following our seminar.
10th Planet San Mateo is an awesome place to learn jiu jitsu, and is home to a great community of people. It's a place where guys and girls from all walks of life come together to progress as grapplers and human beings. I came in with no grappling experience, but quickly fell in love with jiu jitsu at this gym. Training at 10th Planet San Mateo is now what I look forward to the most on a daily basis. Beginners are eased in, and safety is a big priority. Signing up for this gym was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and I'd highly recommend it to others.
When I first started my journey into Jiu Jitsu I had bounced around a few gyms trying to find the perfect fit. Within minutes of my first class at 10th Planet San Mateo I knew immediately that my search was over. From the time you start your intro with instructor and GM Ian Sulcer you get your first glimpse of how phenomenal the training and instruction is in this facility. Once you move into class, you're surrounded by so many others hungry to become stronger, better, and healthier versions of themselves as fighters and as people. Sensei and gym owner Adam Sachnoff goes above and beyond every day with the help of his team to ensure each student is not only learning but growing, whether you're a world class fighter or it's your first day, they're willing to break down every technique step by step to make sure you know what you're doing and more importantly WHY you're doing it, which was what I noticed and really appreciated from day 1. In only 6 months of training I've learned so much about myself and I've grown to love Jiu Jitsu so much that it's now one of the most important parts of my life and will continue to be in the future. I've gotten stronger, fitter, more flexible and confident, and my stress levels are at all-time lows, all thanks to the crew at 10th Planet San Mateo. I can honestly say now my training sessions at 10th Planet San Mateo are what I look forward to most every day! If you're curious about learning Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing or wrestling I cannot recommend this facility enough. Come see for yourselves or in the words of Master Eddie Bravo..."Look into It".
Started here last week after taking a few weeks off and have attended two classes. Very welcoming environment with high quality instruction and a fair price for the area.
The number of positive reviews here speaks for itself! I’ve been with the gym a little over 2 years at the moment, and I can truly vouch for all of the praise. I came in with no sports or martial arts experience, but have now been able to walk around much lighter and healthier. Adam and his crew continue to cultivate highly skilled competitors while still prioritizing a very safe and supportive learning environment. His facility is also incredibly clean with tons of supplemental fitness equipment for kids as well as adults. The shower, changing rooms, easy parking, and variety of classes also makes it convenient for training around commute or work. The cheerful community always keeps me coming back. When you decide to come through, feel free to say hello!
An uplifting and safe environment to learn A++ jiu jitsu and kickboxing. I started 2 years ago after NEVER having heard of it! I felt welcomed from day 1. I've learned so much about myself, about jiu jitsu, and lost 20+ lbs in the process.
Reasons why you should go:
+ safe environment (esp for women)
+ friendly and respectful training partners
+ no bs, no politics
+ get fit and have fun doing it
+ make life long friends/family
+ get humbled af
If you're on the fence, just take one intro class and then decide :)
Awesome school with very technical instructors. Adam is a world class black belt who is also a great teacher, which is super important because that is not always the case. What I like best about our school is that we are always trying out new types of drills, warm ups, situational sparring, etc. Consistent experimentation in figuring out the best way to learn and progress. Highly recommend!
Very clean facility matts feel great to roll on and me personally as a newbie to the world of jiu jitsu the instructors are awesome. They are patient and respectful to you and your skills. The camaraderie is great between students and overall its always a great time being there.
This gym is amazing! Superb instructors, lots of mat space to train, and a supportive community that will help you improve and achieve your jiu-jitsu goals. Honestly the best decision I've made was to start training at 10th Planet San Mateo. Check out a class and you won't be disappointed.
Started training with Big Red in 2016 and can say proudly that I’m happy to be a part of the 10th Planet San Mateo family. I would recommend to anyone whether you are looking to try jiu jitsu for the first time, or you are already the seasoned savage.
- safe and controlled drilling atmosphere
- solid training partners: friendly, no egos, all skill levels
- clean training area
- detailed technique and instruction
- varied class availability for your schedule: early mornings, lunch, evenings, weekends
Amazing school that is like another home. Amazing instructors and teammates that are like family. When lifting weights became monotonous to me, I was seeking a supplemental activity to bolster my workouts. This place shattered expectations and not only elevated my physical fitness, but took me on a more important journey of growing spiritually and mentally. It's provided me with a more positive and forward-thinking mindset, stress inoculation, and increased confidence.
Whether you're looking to compete or simply get a good workout in, this place is for you. The school's curriculum and format caters to anyone who is interested in self-development and personal growth.
10th Planet San Mateo has great instructors (Adam and Allan) and a student base that is skilled and eager to get better (but not headhunting psychos). It's easy to get into a rhythm of going to class regularly when your instructors + classmates are easy to hang out with.
The quality of instruction here is some of the best out there. Adam and his instructors take the time to show the fundamentals of no-gi jiujitsu which enable the students here to become well rounded fighters with a long term perspective on the game. For someone my age that’s getting back into bjj this means a whole lot. Thank you 10th Planet San Mateo!!
So, since I always end up thinking too much and rewrite my words until I end up with an blank page again, which isn't very helpful for reviews, I'll go with a stream of consciousness approach. Get ready for words...
It's taken some time to recognize the different ways that jiu jitsu has impacted my life, and I think the main reason for that, and why it seems so difficult to put into words, is because of how much it changed. I barely recognize the person I was before starting jiu jitsu. It has made me feel comfortable being inside my own body, mentally and physically.
I started out at the recommendation of my wife after being frustrated with being unable to manage it through time at the gym alone (also, I hated going to the gym). I was vaguely aware of what jiu jitsu was before attending my first class, but the main appeal was that it was something different, and that there was no striking involved. I had never done a forward roll before, let alone a backwards one, and I had never even thought about learning how to break my fall, or how to then stand up in a technically correct way. How did I get up from the floor before? Probably pretty awkwardly. It also made me realize just how completely helpless and incapable I was at defending myself, even in a controlled environment. How are you supposed to escape from a person that is on top of you?
Practicing self defense was never the intention, but neither was meeting new people. I had no idea of the extended community I was joining and how welcoming it would turn out to be. While going to the gym I might be surrounded by random people, here didn't have that same uncomfortable feeling. Not that I would be remembering many names for a while, but there was more of a sense of camaraderie in knowing that everyone was once where I was, and that they were there to help guide me through motions that I didn't yet know I was capable of making. Learning how to do things less badly slowly over time, Adam and the other instructors were always there to make adjustments during training and offer support and feedback along the way.
I can't imagine not doing jiu jitsu at this point. Now a few years later, having to scramble and move because otherwise I'm going to be trapped underneath the big guy has enabled me to surpass my physical fitness goals (dropping from 225 to 185), but more often it just helps as a form of stress relief and mental reset--which might seem strange, but when being choked with only a few seconds of consciousness left, things are put into a clearer perspective.
This is my second BJJ school. It works good for me for different reasons. 1. Week long theme in technique. I have chance to remember and drill through details (I'm not a gifted grappler and it take time for me). 2. Techiques usually taught in pairs with counter. This is great for trying it in rolls. 3. Situational sparring from position being drilled to try apply it in practice. 4. Open mat with practically unlimited rolls after class. 5. No gi. I like no gi much better, because it is dynamic. 6. Adam has assistants, higher belts, that look after student and ready explain, answer question or fix you. Definitely worth checking out.
I checked out eight different schools when I moved to the Bay Area before finally settling on 10th Planet San Mateo. I'm on the smaller side, and have typically chosen schools with smaller instructors in the past, but Adam, Saad, and the other teachers are great at showing moves that everyone can use, and providing modifications if necessary. There are also a fair number of other girls that train here, and everyone is very welcoming. The kickboxing classes are taught by a true fighter and are fantastic as well.
I’ve been training at 10p San Mateo for a year now and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Adam and Alan are world class instructors and competitors. They’ve created an awesome environment for growth and development. There’s also many other great people to learn from at the gym, several I consider to be close friends. I’m very pleased with my experience at 10p SM and highly recommend.
Before I joined 10th Planet San Mateo I researched a couple of gyms. Most didn't offer a warm up, and dove right into the technique. The instructor stood around after not really doing much. Then I discovered 10th Planet. Not only do we have a warm up for the body, but we also have warm ups for the technique which are super important for a sport like jiujitsu. What impressed me the most is the level of instruction Adam provides. He breaks down techniques to their core, explain's why they work, and how to counter those same techniques! In other gyms you simply drill the technique and if you're lucky you'll get a little theory as to why they work. I think the most valuable aspect of Adam's teaching is how he builds on a technique. We spend an entire month on a technique so that it gets into our muscle memory. No we don't drill the same "move" all month long. What we do is build from that move, say back takes, we drill an aspect of the back take one week, and . then move to a different aspect the next. And unlike other gyms where the instructor does nothing, Adam and the other coaches go around and actually help you out with the techniques. The give you instant feedback and instant correction. If you've never done any time of martial arts don't worry! At 10th Planet San Mateo, they break down the class into sections - intro, beginner, advance. You'll be well taken care of. No matter what your goal is, compete, get in shape, self-defense etc. 10th Planet San Mateo and the high quality instruction will help you meet them!
I have to say that as one of the smaller females in the gym, I have never felt so safe training. I've trained at other gyms before, but the physical safety and secure I've experience here keeps me coming back. That and the friendships I've built with everyone. Come give us a try!
Great school, great instructors, great students. The vibe here is super friendly and welcoming for every type of person. We have world class competitors as well as students who can only carve out an hour or so for 6am class once in awhile because their kid is nuts and won't sleep because apparently her leg bruises hurt even though she doesn't have any bruises and I'm pretty sure she's lying for attention and trying to ruin my plans to get to the gym. You'll get a great workout here, learn incredible technique, and make friends along the way. Highly recommend.
I had been interested in trying Jiu Jitsu for a few years but wasn't sure if it would really be for me. I finally took the plunge and came to 10th Planet San Mateo because of their reputation for training/teaching No Gi BJJ. As is the case for many like me, I am now fully addicted! If anything I wish I had more time during the week to dedicate to training. My experience so far has been fantastic. I came to 10th planet with no significant martial arts background and for someone like me learning BJJ can be intimidating and overwhelming at first. But, the instructors and the students at 10th Planet have all been welcoming, patient, encouraging, and friendly. Each session I learn something new, improve, struggle, get humbled, gain confidence, gain fitness, gain flexibility, and leave wanting more! It might not be for everyone in the end, but if you are interested in BJJ and looking for a great place to train with great people I'd highly recommend 10th Planet San Mateo.
I found 10p San Mateo after moving here from New York and looking for a new place to continue on my jiu-jitsu journey, and from the minute I walked in I felt like I was a part of the family. No matter the age or experience, I’ve gotten to know and train with so many great people, and my knowledge and technique has continued to improve with every class. Can’t thank Adam, Ian, Alan, and everyone else for providing such an awesome environment, and I hope anyone reading this decides to stop in and give 10p jiu-jitsu a shot!
I started training last September at 10th Planet San Mateo because I wanted to try something new. I never would have known I'd gain more than just the knowledge of Jiu Jitsu. This gym is like a family; Always welcoming and full of life! I've gained confidence, self-defense techniques, and a handful of friends as well. If you're debating on trying something new, all you need to do is take the first step and tryout a class, you won't regret it!
Just got in a sesh. Adam is an awesome guy and instructor. Learned a great sequence today, met some friendly and talented partners, picked up some tips and it was a great experience.
I am so fortunate to have this gym near my house. Adam is a world class instructor (check out his resume) and has such a great attitude and gift for teaching. Everyone is welcoming and the support and help from all belts is amazing. Beware! You will become an addict if you join this gym. You won't want to miss class.
I always considered myself an athletic person and wanted to get back into shape by combining a lot of different things (cardio, resistance training, and stretching my mental prowess) and doing any sort of martial arts can be a daunting task. Combine that with being a woman in a male-dominated sport, and it was downright debilitating. But not 10th Planet San Mateo.
I was immediately accepted by everyone. I've taken early morning, afternoon, and evening classes and you will see a lot of familiar faces.
The atmosphere is always about pushing yourself to get better in technique and making sure to take care of yourself. If you're not feeling good, Adam is really understanding.
It really feels like the best kind of family to have.
Also, Kenya's kickboxing classes are 2nd to none!
There are number of classes offered throughout the week to fit your schedule: morning classes for early risers and afternoon classes that are perfect during your lunch break, along with evening classes. Door is also open over the weekend and there's kickboxing as well! All levels are welcome so don't hesitate to call Adam.
I started training jiu jitsu with my 8yr old son two years ago and have become hooked on this sport. We were super fortunate to find Adam Sachnoff - a world class jiu jitsu competitor and coach in San Mateo. Adam has developed a superb team culture for kids and adults at his gym and I highly value and appreciate the friendships I’ve developed there. Jiu jitsu is by far the most challenging and rewarding sport I’ve ever tried (it develops coordination, balance, flexibility, cardio endurance, strength and mental stamina). Check out 10th Planet San Mateo and Red Training Center to meet and train with great people.
Excellent grappling instruction for novice and advanced students. Adam is a world class BJJ instructor, always providing sufficient attention to all students to ensure the techniques are taught correctly. Additionally, the culture of 10P San Mateo is welcoming and friendly to drop ins and novices, I immediately felt comfortable even though I had no prior athletic experience.
Best jiu-jitsu gym in the Peninsula! Adam is a great teacher and competitor and it is a great place for women to train, learn to defend themselves, get in great shape, and have fun doing it :)
10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is HANDS DOWN the BEST gym in the Peninsula!!!!! Head Instructor, Adam "Big Red" Sachnoff, is a not only a highly decorated competitor (having one a gold medal at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation's World Championship amongst many other prestigious tournament wins) but also a GREAT teacher. He is really nice, funny, approachable, and easy going so he is awesome with complete beginners as well as advanced jiu-jitsu students; he is also a really good instructor to children as the kids' program is doing very well. Adam has a way of communicating details to EVERYONE so that no one is lost during class.
You won't find a better training environment in any other gym as EVERYONE is very friendly and welcoming of all those who come in. It is a perfect gym for literally ALL WALKS OF LIFE. It doesn't matter if you're old, over-weight, out of shape, or any combination of the 3; it doesn't matter if you're a collegiate athlete in phenomenal shape; it doesn't matter if you're a man or a woman: this gym accommodates EVERYONE with all sorts of backgrounds.
No matter what you're looking for in jiu-jitsu you will find it here. If you want a fun and challenging way to get in shape rather than just running on a treadmill and/or lifting you should definitely try it out. If you're looking to compete in jiu-jitsu tournaments you should definitely check it out as the competition team is FIERCE.
Regardless of why you want to try jiu-jitsu and what you're looking to get out of it you will definitely find it at 10th Planet San Mateo!
Great school. Great instruction. I just wish they played music while rolling. I prefer some smooth jazz. Clarinet solos pair well with darse chokes, maybe some Chet Korea with my donkey guard. A little Kenny G would go a long way, so for that reason I am only giving 10th Planet San Mateo a rating of 4.6. Luckily for them, this rounds up to five stars. More smooth jazz please. And remember, the customer is always right.
Adam is both a world class competitor and instructor. Adam has helped my Jiu Jitsu a tremendous amount. Anyone from a beginner with no experienced to advanced will learn a lot here. The gym has a good environment good energy and a instructor who truly cares about his students. If your looking to learn Jiu Jitsu this is the place you will want to train at.
I was sent a random text for an offer of 2 weeks free trial classes. When i accepted within 2 minutes of offer, i was directed to fill a questionnaire because spaces were limited. Part of the questionnaire was why i chose it's facilities, if i saw myself going a minimum of 2x a week, and if i saw myself spending $165 a month.
During this pandemic, not too many people can afford pricey memberships. So my current situation did not see myself enrolling after trials. But that did not mean i would not consider after.
After my responses, i was notified that the trials were not being offered and i would be placed on a wait list.
If that was an attempt to lure me in using a free trial offer, their plan not only failed, but it also cause an unpleasant welcoming.
TL;DR: 5 stars for community, -2 for management shadiness, -2 for safety (bjj + covid). For the full review, see yelp.
A strength of this gym is a large community of dedicated practitioners at a variety of belt levels. The instruction is also good. Alan Sanchez in particular is laid-back, clear, encouraging, and generally a great teacher on top of being an accomplished competitor. If you are focused on mid-peninsula competition no gi jiu jitsu, 10p SM is the place to go.
For my own part, I ended up reluctantly canceling my membership at 10p SM. This is for two main reasons: 1.) a major injury that I suffered, and how it was handled, and 2.) recurring difficulties with the owner, Adam Sachnoff. I wish I'd known about these issues before getting locked into a contract, so that's why I feel compelled to share my experience with you.
First, the story of my injury: about two months into training at 10p SM, my MCL popped so loud people could hear it across the room. I would not be fully healed for four months. That day, I had just submitted my fellow white belt training partner, and rather than slapping hands and rolling again, he got mad. He angrily flung my legs in an awkward, nonsensical direction, and my knee popped. The instructor, rather than setting the tone against such outbursts, had been on his phone the entire time (as was his habit) and did not raise his head even as the much of the class gathered in concern.
I approached the instructors afterwards to see if any good could come from debriefing the incident. Their attitude was, "Sorry, injuries happen in jiu jitsu". Of course that's true to some extent, but it doesn't mean that it's ok to have sloppy revenge injuries in an unsupervised class of white belts. Nevertheless, they didn't change anything, or even say a brief "let's try to be more careful" to the class. As a cherry on top, they went on to promote the perpetrator while I was still out injured.
The most significant issues I ran into with Adam revolved around COVID safety. I have a PhD in Epidemiology and wanted to help the gym, so I approached Adam about donating my time to improve our setup. Nothing that I suggested imposed costs on the gym. If we needed to buy something, I always offered to buy it myself and provide it to the gym for free.
Surprisingly, Adam was not willing to make any changes. He would not allow students to organize into a masks-only training pod. He would not ask the instructors to wear masks to decrease spread between pods. He would not deviate at all from his original plan, which included such knowledgeable attention to detail as "tempature checks" upon entering the gym's "loby". For good measure, he deleted my post on the team page about the benefit of masks.
Later on, I approached Adam again, hoping that a small group of us could train in the gym during off-hours. His conditions for this were that 1.) our masked group had to share the mat with an unmasked group, 2.) we could not bring in fans for ventilation or air filtration, 3.) we would have to pay the full membership price despite not having access to classes. When I said this wouldn't work for me, Adam suggested I train at a different gym.
At this point, I asked Adam for a refund of my remaining training balance so I could pay the fees at the new gym. At first, Adam told me that the money was non-refundable. There was no support for this in the contract. When I politely asked him to consider the many ways his rejection would not hold up, he abruptly agreed to write a check for the requested amount "ASAP". As a final and fitting note, Adam later asked that we chat for 5 minutes before he mailed the check. Rather than trying to end things on a positive note, it turns out that he was trying to negotiate me down on the amount that he had already willingly agreed to in writing. I had discounted over $500 already, so ultimately Adam agreed the requested amount was more than fair, and he issued the refund. He then quietly unfriended me on Facebook.
