Back to Basics Martial Arts & Fitness

334 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02115, USA

4.9 (47 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi MMA Muay Thai Self-Defense Striking Wrestling

Classes

Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Back to Basics Martial Arts & Fitness Studio is Boston's premier self defense academy. Specializing in the foundations of mixed martial arts, we offer both group and private lessens in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Wrestling, and general strength and conditioning.

https://backtobasicsboston.com/

(339) 927-1951

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Reviews

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Yeso Lee

100% the best training I’ve had. The people are great, the coaching is phenomenal, and the atmosphere is electric. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a competitive athlete this place is for you. Can’t say enough great things, definitely should give it a try.

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Posted 1 year ago
Michael Danzi

Great gym! Came in with no knowledge or experience and learned so much. Everyone is very helpful and it is a great environment in the gym!

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Posted 1 year ago
Kadu Lanes

Started training at this gym looking to improve my game and they have been able to surpass expectations by leaps and bounds thanks to the help of the crew at Back 2 Basics. The feeling of family they have makes you feel welcome and the coaching is high-level. Could not recommend a mma gym more than this one, especially for all levels, those just getting into it and for those looking to compete.

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Posted 1 year ago
Lucas Rodriguez

I entered this gym not knowing ANYTHING about Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai. I was looking for a new activity/outlet and little did I know that i had just entered one of the most truly special places I’ve ever known. My first day, Jeff (the owner/instructor) very happily greeted me and asked me how soon I was available to go into a class. Almost like he already knew I was going to fall in love with the sport and the gym. He was correct… A year later, I look back at my time in this gym so fondly and thankful for what it did for me. I changed so much as a person training here, and the biggest reason came from the confidence and gratitude I gained from training with such superb coaches and a team full of wonderful students all eager to learn. If it weren’t for the fact that I had to leave Boston for work, I’d still be on the Back 2 Basics mats with everyone. Vick, Roger, Jacobo, and Jeff will show you everything you need to know on your first day, and by the end of your first class, they’ll have you eager to come back and learn more! So, if you are reading this and still thinking about whether or not to train at Back 2 Basics, stop what you’re doing, head over to the gym, shake Jeff’s hand and tell him you read Lucas’ google review, and book your first class! To Jeff, Vick, Roger, and Jacobo, you guys are the very best, and thank you for all you do for your students. Miss y'all!

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Posted 2 years ago
Mitch Bonanguro

Super welcoming environment with a fun and casual atmosphere. Don’t be fooled though — this gym has some serious talent, training and instruction. Whether you are interested in striking or grappling, this place offers phenomenal classes. If you’re in the Boston area, would highly recommend this spot.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jack Hoover

After over a year of training jiu jitsu at Back to Basics, I just wanted to add to the pile of 5-star reviews that this place certainly deserves. The coaching and team atmosphere have allowed me to learn so much here, and I will be forever grateful to Jeff, Roger, and the rest of the B2B team for getting me started on my jiu jitsu journey. If you're on the fence about trying jiu jitsu or muay thai at this gym, do yourself a favor and sign up!!

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Posted 2 years ago
Cameron Belden

Whether you’re new to martial arts or want to find a gym with great trainers Back to Basics has it both. I myself wanted to begin training jiu jitsu and muay thai with 0 prior experience, Back to Basics took me in and has taught me so much . The coaches are kind, understanding, and fun. I’m moving to a different part of Boston and will commute to this location because I love it so much.

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Posted 2 years ago
Eric H

Growing up, I went to many different martial arts schools and fight gyms. I can confidently say that Back To Basics has been the most influential and impactful in my life. Not only do you receive masterclass lessons and private classes, but the community built within this gym is like no other. Whether you’re new to combat sports or a seasoned fighter, there's a place for you in this gym Every person who teaches lessons here is highly skilled and talented. The coaches here can break down complex techniques and concepts and make them understandable for everyone so easily. They possess an incredible ability to find the smallest detail in your form and help you correct it. A memorable experience of mine was when Jeff, the owner of the gym, noticed my lethargic movements during practice one day, and instead of assuming I was just being “ tired” or “ not pushing myself hard enough”. Jeff realized that what was happening was that my body was slowly shutting down and my nervous system was going into shock. This level of awareness is on another level, and the coaches here treat everyone with that level of attention. In my 20 years alive I’ve trained at 8 other combat sport gyms and the community at this gym is like no other I’ve experienced. Everyone here is so sweet and patient with you. It doesn’t matter what experience level you have, you will instantly feel welcomed. Thy Gym is also one of the most cleanly fight gyms in Boston.

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Posted 2 years ago
Benny B

Recently went to B2B for an open mat. Jeff welcomed me to the gym, knowing I have my own home gym and was looking to cross train for some extra learning, he was more than accommodating. I had a chance to roll with some super experienced guys without any ego issues, everyone was cool and just trying to get better at jiu jitsu. The facility is clean, the people are chill, the jiu jitsu is fun, can't beat it. They even offer a free women's self defense class sunday mornings before the open mat!

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Posted 2 years ago
Max Kelley

Like some people my Jiu-Jitsu journey started a little late in life, in an attempt to get healthy, make some friends and maybe toughen up along the way. Back to Basics was not my first gym, but the anxiety of simulating a fight in a room full of strangers was all the same when I decided to visit. My first day I was greeted with enthusiasm by the gyms owner and head coach, Jeff. He encouraged me to go out there, do my best and most importantly have fun. My first class was a foundational one, hosted by Jeff’s star pupil, Roger. Between the two of them the experience was so pleasant I had no choice but to sign up for the unlimited classes a month subscription. It’s been nearly two years since then and I can say with confidence I found everything I was looking for and more. I’ve gone from a twice a week enthusiast to a twice a night full blown grappling junkie. The coaches, specifically Jeff and Jacobo, have become more like mentors, pushing me to my limits both physically and mentally. Most importantly, at least to me, the friendships I’ve made here will most likely follow me through the rest of my life. Jeff has done more than given Boston a place to train. He’s created an environment and a culture that can and will change the lives of anyone who gives it a chance. Love y’all ✌🏻

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Posted 2 years ago
Melissa Ervin

I was visiting a friend and got the opportunity to go here and take a class. This class was incredibly helpful and I am really happy in how practical the lesson was about counter techniques for self defense. The instructors were both incredible and very understanding and patient with newcomers to Jujitsu.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jack DeBouter

I had an incredible experience this past year at B2B. Jeff and everyone there have done incredible work in creating the safest, most supportive, and overall best gym environment I’ve ever been a part of and I will miss training here tremendously. I cannot recommend it enough and look forward to dropping in whenever I visit Boston in the future.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jason Thai

Fantastic gym. I've been going to Back to Basics for a few years now, working with Jeff. Jeff and the team do a great job of balancing a friendly / chill environment with the push needed to succeed.

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Posted 2 years ago
Martin Hares

Incredible trainers, incredible training partners, every class it feels like you learn something new -- better technique or a new combo or a new name -- but always something to learn and something to enjoy. An environment that constantly makes you want to improve.

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Posted 2 years ago
Marjan M

I've worked out at different Martial Arts schools and even though I had great experience doing so, none of the dojos compare to Back to Basics! The atmosphere, the caring, the support, the positive feedback and corrections to what you can improve is like no other place I've been! I love and look forward to coming to class! And it's not just the Instructors that are Amazing, the other team members are supportive, caring and friendly as well! I feel like I have a whole new family, my Jiu-jitsu Family!

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Posted 2 years ago
George Williams

Jeff is by far the most outgoing and engaging coach I've ever had. If you want to get better at jui-jistu or muay thai, he will tell you exactly what you need to do. Even though I live relatively far away from the gym, I still make the journey to be a part of a community of amazing people. As a scientist, I was surprised by the amount other STEM people that actively attend classes. If you want to compete, he will help you prepare and sharpen your skills before a tournament or fight. If you want to hang out, you can chill and watch grappling, MMA, ect. Another point to add is the other coaches of the gym are great, both as teachers and people. My favorite coach is Roger. Not only does he motivate me to be better at jui jistu, he rolls at a level that matches his students skill and definitely doesn't overwhelm them in any sort of capacity.

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Posted 2 years ago
David Shutler

Working out at this place gives my life meaning after work. I’m being sarcastic and serious at the same time. I love this place. If you’re a beginner or more advance you should stop in! In addition, you can work out in the back so you don’t have to give up on lifting while training Muay Thai or Jiu Jitsu.

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Posted 2 years ago
Alex Rousselle

I visited for a week, super friendly atmosphere, felt right at home. Good room full of hard workers.

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Posted 2 years ago
Rafael De Ocampo

I'm a Berklee student and the gym is damn near crawling distance from school. The atmosphere is great for beginners and seasoned athletes combined wether you're trying for the first time, visiting on vacation, or just looking to get better. I first started training here 3 years ago as a shy blue belt but came to love the environment and the feeling of being part of a team. Jeff is the spearhead of the energy when we train and, the people who train here regularly have taken on the same vibe even when he's not around. Anyone can walk in to watch or even inquire about the Muay Thai or BJJ program. They are also very dog friendly.

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Posted 2 years ago
X Y

Low key, high caliber! Very welcoming, relaxed, and excellent instruction.

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Posted 2 years ago
nora gv

This place is home away from home! As soon as I walked in, I knew this was the spot to train when I'm in Boston. Great combination of humility, respect, savagery, and legit instruction.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jacobo Apito

Ive been training martial arts for 25 years. I’ve been training at Back to Basics for 2 years now. Back to Basics is the best gym I have trained at by miles. The environment that Jeff fosters is unlike any other. Jeff is the most open minded black belt Ive met. He trains what works, and when presented new knowledge, questions, or ideas, he will assess everything, seek knowledge from others, research, change his mind, empirically show you why you are wrong in an assumption, or ask you to teach him. Despite his years of mastery in martial arts, he is still an active learner. Jeff is tough, but the kind of toughness that supports and makes you want to be better. His instruction, passion, and open minded and concepts-based approach have helped me develop more rapidly than in any other era of my career. I’m always challenged and encouraged- Back to Basics feels like a home away from home. I’ve made lifelong friends and have had my passion for martial arts completely regained. Also the gym is clean and no one gets infections. There’s a lil red head who hangs out there, can’t remember his name. Apparently he’s a “world champion”. He loves cleaning. Keeps the gym in tip top shape.

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Posted 2 years ago
Spencer Wile

Best Gym in Boston for All Levels

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Posted 2 years ago
Ivan Garcia

I was traveling for work and needed a gym to train. Jeff let me come in and made me feel like I was one of his long time students. Jeff is highly skilled and a great instructor. Great place to train, if I find myself back in Boston definitely coming back! Thanks again Jeff!

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Posted 2 years ago
Yo Yo

Best Martial arts gym and best coach in Boston.

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Posted 2 years ago
CAPRILES USA

Jeff runs an outstanding gym offering Bjj, Wrestling, and Muy Thai. The atmosphere is one of a kind, my go to gym in Boston.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jack Cohen

Fantastic MMA gym in Back Bay. Jeff is super friendly, knowledgeable, and funny. Great vibes

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Posted 2 years ago
Hari Choudhury

Regarding the one Jiu-jitsu class I attended , Wed 7-9:30pm no gi beginners and advanced class: Top class gym Jeff the head coach is a legend and creates a great environment. Excellent teacher. Provides context and references for the techniques he teaches Sparring was quality. Great set of competitors on the mats. Jeff leads the room with a lot of energy, during sparring as well. The night I went was just a round-robin, king of the hill, guard passing kind of sparring night. Other: No bare feet allowed in the bathroom. Slippers outside No shoes on the mat No showers

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Posted 3 years ago
Trisha Soo

I enjoyed my time there with everyone that came to the Sunday Women’s Jui Jitsu class. Everyone is so kind and understanding. I walked in knowing nothing of martial arts and now I feel more confident about myself.

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Posted 3 years ago
Rylan Keeler

I have nothing but good things to say about my experience training at Back to Basics. Jeff and the rest of the coaching staff are extremely knowledgable and provide a very welcoming environment for all levels.

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Posted 3 years ago
Anthony Eid

Last summer, I was living in Boston for my job and was unfamiliar with the area's MMA gyms. After researching several options, I decided to check out Back to Basics. From the first class, I knew it was the perfect place for me to spend my summer training. The community at the gym is fantastic because everyone is friendly, supportive, and dedicated to their training. The classes are well thought out, and the curriculum is concise and effective. Most importantly, Jeff is an exceptional coach who empowers his students to develop their own style while also pushing them to surpass their physical and mental limits. Looking back, I have fond memories of my time training at this gym, and I hope to return someday. If you're looking for a truly special place to train, I can't recommend Back to Basics enough. You won't just be welcomed into a gym, you'll be welcomed into a community.

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Posted 3 years ago
Ruben C

Great spot, good vibes. Jeff is super awesome and runs a great place with welcoming vibes and really good students

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Posted 3 years ago
James Afonso

Jeff is a great instructor and knows how to push his students. Great people great training.

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Posted 3 years ago
Vishnu Patel

Jeff runs a good gym with good people and even better Jiu jitsu

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Posted 3 years ago
Ali Bobi

Back to Basics is an amazing place to train with a friendly environment molded by Jeff Perez. To show my appreciation, I have written a rhyming haiku: Jeff is the man. Woo! He is my coach and pal too. We love Jiu-Jitsu.

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Posted 3 years ago
Brenden Riggs

I travel fairly often for work and like to hit up the local Jiu Jitsu Gyms when possible. Though I was only able to attend two classes, it became immediately obvious that there are a ton of skilled people at this gym. And it's clear why: Jeff (the owner) has done a great job of fostering an amazing gym culture here. There's a perfect balance of not taking yourself too seriously, while also seriously working to improve everyone at the gym. Jeff discusses technique with students, but also the mindset/philosophy you should have when rolling. Great gym. Do yourself a favor and stop by if you're in the Boston area.

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Posted 4 years ago
Xanthea Nikopoulos

If I could rate ten stars, I would. I started BJJ on a whim and was so nervous I would be completely out of my element, but I felt so accepted and encouraged with Jeff and the team. Women = completely safe space Everyone = respectful to the max, the more experienced people are always down to help and there is a strong spirit of camaraderie and learning rather than competition Gym = easily accessible on Newbury Street Equipment = always clean and safe Coaches = the best How you feel knowing you get to go here on weeknights and learn to choke people out = badass

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Posted 4 years ago
Will Meadows

This is one of the most welcoming gyms I’ve been too. Jeff cares deeply about each of his students and wants to see them improve. Very happy with my experience here.

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Posted 4 years ago
Brett Turner

I’ve trained at many boxing & mma gyms, and I can’t say enough good things about Back to Basics. The instructors are experienced and charismatic, and do a great job of creating a welcoming & fun environment where people can challenge themselves at their own pace.The people who train here range from first timers to people who are actively competing, and the culture really is one where people check their egos at the door and are really good to each other. All in all a great place to train!

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Posted 4 years ago
Jason Foster

I've been to a lot of gyms and back to basics has by far one of the best environments and communities. Everyone from the coaches to the students are extremely welcoming and the coaching is second to none. Jeff coaches in such a way that everyone will walk away from a class having learned something regardless of skill or prior experience. Regardless of your goals, if you're looking to get in shape, learn self defense, or compete this is an amazing gym.

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Posted 4 years ago
Manuel Sobol

First time doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and had a very positive experience. Jeff is incredibly kind, passionate, and knowledgeable. The community and environment was very friendly and made learning easy. Highly recommend taking a class and training there.

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Posted 4 years ago
Tim Reiss

The instructor Jeff Perez is an incredible professor. I've been working with him off and on for the last 6 months or so and have been learning a ton of exciting techniques. I forgot how addicting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be. He's created an ego-free culture at the gym where everyone is friendly and comes to learn and improve. Highly recommend.

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Posted 5 years ago
Ryan King

I've been training with Coach Jeff for about a year now in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and fitness in both a private and class setting. I can without hesitation say that I am in the best shape of my life both physically and mentally thanks to this training. The Martial Arts program that Coach Jeff provides focuses on the understanding of body mechanics that allow you to feel confident going up against any opponent no matter what advantage they may have over you on paper. At Back to Basics you get out what you put in so whether you want to get into better shape and learn how to defend yourself or become a competitor in your combat sport of choice, there is no better place to reach those goals.

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Posted 5 years ago
Aneesh Naik

I've been training with Jeff for about two years now, since the time he used to teach at Sityodtong Boston. He's able to teach what is an inherently complicated sport in a way that is easily understood, regardless of your current skill level. If effective and practical (and fun!) martial arts is what you are looking for, look no further.

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Posted 5 years ago
Samara Gallegos

I came into the gym with no jiujitsu experience and what I found was a very welcoming environment filled with friendly people who want to learn and have fun. I have known Jeff for four years now from when he used to teach kick boxing lessons at Title. He is very patient and encouraging while he is teaching, and he has a extensive professional background in MMA. The way he teaches breaks down the lessons in an easy and understandable way no matter your level.

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Posted 5 years ago
Porom Shivam Kalita

The best bjj gym in Boston!

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Posted 5 years ago
David Sabin

I've trained in multiple cities under a couple of the biggest banners in jiu jitsu, and Jeff is one of the best coaches I've had. He's an engaging teacher with a focus on technique that has proven effective in both competition and self defense scenarios, irrespective of an individual's body type or athletic ability. If lineage is thing that's important to you, as an SBG black belt, he's got that covered too. Long story short--Jeff's building a fun and dangerous team out in Back Bay, and I highly recommend you come check it out.

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Posted 5 years ago
Jon-Paul Lapena

The people at this gym feel like family. The instructor, Jeff, shows great passion for teaching, and his coaching comes with a lot of patience and attention; shows great respect to the craft. The new gym is intimate, with easy access from the Green Line (about a minute walk). Also, street parking is easy to come by at this time, so I wouldn't worry about paying garage fees. Training in jiujitsu was intimidating for me at the start, but I began to see progress about two-months into it, so stick to it! It's definitely worth the hard work.

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Posted 5 years ago
Cool Chrisy

Don’t get Jeff as ur instructor he sucks.

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Posted 2 years ago