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Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is a world class martial arts facility run by 1st degree BJJ black belt and world ranked professional grappler Adam Benayoun. With over 15 years of experience learning from some of the brightest and most decorated minds the martial art’s world has to offer.
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Black Cat Jiu Jitsu. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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Reviews
Patrick Costello
Great vibes.. coach was very welcoming. Learning a pressure pass while BIG is playing... top notch. Will drop in again.
The amount of time and dedication that the coaches give towards each and every student is amazing. The Coaching is top notch! You will definitely have a fun time, but also an experience that sets the standard for high level coaching and training. The BC community is like family, so much love, respect, and sportsmanship is dedicated towards each teammate. The merchandise, shirts, stickers, hats; so much effort and detail… the quality, chefs kiss - detail, couldn’t get any better. Coach Adam is by far the best coach I ever had. He is super kind, humble, funny, and very supportive. Coach Emma is so kind, loving, caring, and a lovable person! So dedicated and devoted. Coach Frank is a kind, funny, and a caring coach - So helpful and supportive towards his teammates and students🧑🦲. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be apart of the BC community! -Bri 🐈⬛😼🔮
Wonderful training space and environment. Adam gives very entertaining and passionate instruction. Every student gets feedback and he asks good tough questions to check for understanding. Wonderful to see another beautiful gym growing in the community. Thanks for your hospitality.
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Posted 1 year ago
Moshos Moschou
Such an awesome place to train. Love the environment, love the people!
My New Year’s resolution was to get back into doing Jiu Jitsu and at 32 years old I was nervous on finding the right gym. After doing trial classes at a few spots I knew black cat was the right fit. The way Adam breaks down drills and explains why on certain things is a big reason I chose here. Also the aesthetic of this gym and how clean it is! Look forward to continuing my Jiu Jitsu journey with Black Cat
After bringing my daughter to the Black Kittens Kids Program and completing an adult class, we decided to transition to Black Cat Jiu Jitsu. This transition will allow for more focused, goal-oriented growth in Jiu-Jitsu, providing a more structured and challenging environment for my daughter's development.
The facility speaks for itself regarding presentation. There is ample parking space and a secure entrance in a tower that oversees the East Coast Interstate 95. I am impressed with the detail inside the facility, such as wall art from competitive accolades, locker rooms with showers, private restrooms, waiting areas, and maintained “clean” mats.
I applaud the level of investment Adam has committed to the program.
Speaking of Adam, I spent time with him and shared our experiences on and off the mat. This helped me understand his approach to teaching and program goals, which solidified my decision to join as a family.
Emma, I greatly appreciate your role in making this transition smooth and easy. The electronic paperwork and portals have made the process a breeze to navigate. Thank you!
Frankie, I am grateful for your initiative in reaching out for the first roll. Thank you!
With the support of the Black Cat Jiu-Jitsu team, I look forward to the growth and learning that lies ahead.
Best regards and blessings to all!
Omar Garay
Coach Adam is very detailed oriented and will perfectly detect the smallest things, so you can better improve your BJJ. He not only pays attention to each individual student and their jiu jitsu, but makes connections to get to know the person themselves. The whole community at Black Cat is very welcoming and skilled. I love it here for the amazing coaches and teammates, the way they teach, and specifically- the women’s only class!
Coach Adam takes the time to explain the positions and fundamental ideas behind the practice of Jiu Jitsu. I'm learning a lot. Clean space, has a SHOWER 👍, convenient to get here. Would recommend.
When I relocated to Virginia, I spent a lot of time researching gyms in the area. I found Black Cat and am so happy I made the decision to starting training here last year.
Adam is a great coach and will force you to think about what you are working on. I've trained at a lot of different BJJ gyms, and the vibes at Black Cat are immaculate. I am pushed to get better and to try techniques I am not good at every single day. It's awesome.
Lots of really tough people to train with and a lot of no-gi classes.
Also, there are cats all over the place so I'd give them a 10 star rating if I could.
Don’t wait to get to Black Cat Jiu Jitsu. Adam’s teaching style is thorough and presented in a manner that promotes deep learning. You quickly realize that he sincerely cares about his students. There is a strong sense of community within the academy and we as students look out for each other’s safety and development. I cannot recommend Black Cat highly enough, I learn during every class and I enjoy the culture that has been created.
Very cool place with cool people. Everyone’s friendly and welcoming. Coach Adam will take the time to adjust your mistakes and correct them. Also the view is very nice.
I’ve tried out 7 different gyms in the DMV to see which would be the best fit and I chose black cat. Here’s why:
Techniques- The training is world class but is broken down into simple terms so that all levels can understand it. Adam (the main coach who teaches most classes) doesn’t want people just memorizing moves-he wants them to understand why they are doing what they do and how each component makes it work. He consistently emphasizes on having a good base and keeping good alignment, which are really fundamental but overlooked by most other gyms. The wrestling class is the same way-wrestling has never clicked for me and always felt intimidating until I started training here. Coach Frank (the wrestling coach) has been doing this for years and he knows how to teach. Coach Emma offers women’s only classes and is a really high level competitor who has won world championships. Having a gym that is invested in their females offering advanced training is really important.
Head coach-It is very evident that Adam cares a LOT about his students. He really takes time to tailor his teaching for each individual. He pushes his competitors hard so that they’re able to do well. It’s obvious that he really wants to help people learn jiu jitsu and goes out of his way to invest in people. He’s overall just a very trustworthy, reasonable, and gracious person.
Culture-I moved to the DMV about a year and a half ago and it had been a struggle to get plugged in for a long time. I work a lot of hours and just moving to a big city felt like a huge adjustment. Black cat has given me a home and something to look forward to after work everyday. There are always people happy to see me and train with me. It’s been since March but it’s really helping me branch out and have a circle in a new place. It seems like black cat showed up for me at a time when I really needed it.
I’ve trained at over 30 gyms around (states and internationally) in the last 6 years, most of which were drop ins and a few permanent ones. Out of all of them, this has been the highest level of training and instruction I have ever received.
Training Partners: There are numerous training partners of all levels and sizes that train on a daily basis. If you want to train with a brown/purple/black belt level partner, they are there every night/day. Need a small yet experienced partner, they train here. Want some wrestlers that can match your level, take it up a notch, or give you space and time to work, you will find that here. The higher belts are extremely helpful and will take time to help provide useful feedback and even mentoring to others.
Culture: The atmosphere with everyone feels very friendly and welcoming. From what I have experienced, both the staff, coaches, and students welcome visitors and new people in with arms wide open (sometimes for chokes too) and introduce themselves. It’s getting to the point where a few training partners and I will start hanging out, outside of the gym setting. This has made some of them feel more familial.
Training and Competition: This has been one of the most detail oriented schools that I have ever experienced. Many of the things that I have learned in both the beginner and mixed level classes are things that I have not really witnessed in most gyms. The fundamentals, such as keeping good posture, body alignment and your base at all times while not giving up a good position is emphasized all the time, but in different ways. Coach Adam will use analogies that are both entertaining to hear, but yet extremely simple to understand. Having these fundamentals talked about daily (and sometimes quizzed) helps promote significant growth in the students. It’s not just glanced over once or twice a month like many schools I have attended do. Everyone trains extremely hard, especially for competition.
Gym Staff: Coach Adam is the main coach/owner of the school and teaches about 95% of the adult classes. Because of that consistency, it seems to be easy to find growth because you have a coach who knows all of the students, how they roll, how to teach them, and their strengths and weaknesses. His analogies of learning certain techniques and concepts is easy to understand but very emphasized to the point where if you use what he gives you, you will see noticeable improvements within days/weeks. He is very passionate in helping his students reach their goals and dedicates time before/after class to speak with anyone and provide feedback if needed. Coach Frankie has some of the best wrestling I have had the pleasure of learning because he teaches in a way where he shows one technique, then how to build off of it with common scenarios. Coach Emma is a very high level grappler that has won world championships, but is also one of the coaches for the kid’s class (along with Coach Frankie)and the All-females class. From what I have witnessed her instruction is not just solid, but helps furthers the growth and discipline in the children and helps the females in her class feel more empowered.
Overall Opinion: The staff and students all come from different walks of life but all share the same love for the sport we practice. Everyone who attends are very welcoming and will provided any visitor/new person with a positive experience.
Amazing place, clean and well organized gym with amazing coaches to go with it. Adam Benayoun provides in depth instruction that has provided me and my peers to success in bettering ourselves and winning competitions. This is a great place to train and pave your way to the path of victory!
Black cat jiu jitsu is a fantastic jiu jitsu academy. Adam takes a lot of pride in providing a clean, safe, and positive space for everyone to train in. Adam is world class in his jiu jitsu technique, and he does an awesome job of teaching that technique to his students. It is great to see how much he cares about the people that train there, and he constantly strives to give them the best jiu jitsu experience that he can. I would recommend this gym to anyone new to the sport, hobbyist, or serious competitor.
Black cat has a 10/10 vibe for its space and people! The studio feels modern and boutique and the style of instruction is engaging and relaxed. Every class I’ve attended my instructors given me and my partner 1:1 attention. Lastly, I love how many other women attend classes here. All these things have made training much more approachable for me as a new student
Great instructors, down to earth, welcoming to those that are just starting the sport. Also a very welcoming place for women looking to train with other women, which isn't something that you see everywhere
Great training environment that is both technical and fun! All the coaches are amazing. Emma tailors her women's classes to focused technical skill development/problem solving, definitely the best women's class I have taken. Frank's wrestling class is perfect for building skills on the feet. Head coach Adam gives world class instruction and is committed to his students developing deep skills in Jiu Jitsu. All around a gem for the DMV BJJ community.
I just started training at Black Cat, and I really like it so far! I’m excited to have a group of ladies who also train on a regular basis! Adam’s teaching style involves the Socratic method where students are encouraged to answer (and ask) questions, which of course keeps students more engaged and paying close attention.
Without a doubt, Black Cat BJJ is Virginia's premier gym, renowned for its supportive community and expert coaching. Whether you're serious about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or simply passionate as a hobbyist, it's the perfect place for you. Huge thanks to Adam, Emma, Frankie, and Ryan for ensuring every session is exceptional!
After joining Black Cat Jiu Jitsu, I have been thoroughly impressed with my experience. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed by a friendly and professional staff who made me feel right at home. The facilities are top-notch, clean, and well-maintained, providing an excellent environment for training.
The instructors at Black Cat are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Jiu Jitsu. They offer clear, detailed instruction and are always willing to provide individual attention to help students improve. The class structure caters to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their training.
One of the standout aspects of Black Cat is the strong sense of community. The members are supportive, encouraging, and respectful, creating a positive atmosphere that makes training enjoyable and motivating. It’s clear that this gym values not only physical development but also the growth of character and discipline.
Additionally, Black Cat offers a variety of classes and training sessions, providing ample opportunities for students to hone their skills. The flexible schedule makes it easy to fit training into a busy lifestyle.
Overall, Black Cat is an exceptional Jiu Jitsu gym that excels in all areas: expert instruction, welcoming community, and excellent facilities. Whether you’re looking to get in shape, learn self-defense, or compete, this gym has everything you need to achieve your goals. I highly recommend Black Cat to anyone interested in Jiu Jitsu.
Started my son here in October 2023 bringing about a year of experience with him. Coaches Emma and Frank are great with the kids and my son enjoys the fact that the instruction is focused and builds on previous lessons each class and the size is kept to a level so that things get overwhelming and feel crowded and each kid can get on the spot correction as needed.
It’s a good mix of experience and new kids and has been fun to watch as they all improve month over month.
Will be starting my daughter in the program this summer as well.
Safe Training Environment
Black Cat is a phenomenal gym run by a great business owner and coach, Adam. He is very welcoming and always remembers you no matter how often you come in (Not sure how he does that). I’d like to highlight something that is often overlooked, but very important, and that is the culture towards females in a male dominated sport. Adam ensures the training space is always very safe for his female students and also offers a women’s only class led by a very talented female coach. He also offers a discounted rate if you chose to only attend the women’s only class, so I would encourage anyone to come try it out if you wanted to learn how to defend yourself or just be a little more active. I would feel very comfortable bringing my loved ones here and I highly recommend Black Cat to anyone looking for a safe training environment!
As a west coast kid that moved to the DMV. I was a little nervous about finding a new Jiu Jitsu gym. Black Cat has become a home away from home. Great insightful / detailed instruction the community is very inviting. If you’re a beginner there’s Intro to BJJ both in the Gi and NoGi as well. Mixed classes is also a welcoming environment as well. I’m thankful to have found Black Cat and will be coming here as long as I live in the area.
I recently moved to the “NOVA (Northern Virginia” area and I am very thankful that I found Black Cat Jiu-Jitsu. The quality of the instructors (Adam (Lead/owner), Frank (wrestling/kids), and Emma (kids)) and training partners is what makes this gym special.
You will most definitely learn the latest techniques used by high level jiu-jitsu practitioners, but more importantly Adam and his staff do an excellent job in emphasizing the “why” and connecting all the movements together. Beyond the techniques/sequences, the concepts of what makes jiu-jitsu are constantly emphasized (Breathing, alignment, base,etc…) creating a strong foundation, which leads to the possibility of exponential growth in your game.
Whether you are a hobbyist, competitor, or anywhere in between, Black Cat jiu-jitsu does an excellent job in creating a safe atmosphere for everyone to train and improve. The rolls are tough and challenging, but there is a focused approach on technique, control, and safety. Adam is also very attentive to each and every member of the gym, while simultaneously creating an atmosphere where Understanding and questions are encouraged.
The vibe created by the gym and training partners is why I committed to Black Cat. Everyone is encouraging, supportive and here to get better. Though preference, you also cannot get a better view while you train. If you’re on the fence about starting your jiu-jitsu journey or need an academy to train at, you can’t go wrong with choosing Black Cat!
I’ve been training BJJ for nine or so years now, and have spent the last year and a half at Black Cat. These are some of the main reasons why I chose to come to Black Cat, and think others should too:
+ World Class Instruction - as everyone has said in their reviews, Adam is not only a world class competitor; he is also a fantastic coach. Personally, my skill level has increased significantly since training with Adam. The other Black Cat coaches, Frank and Emma, are also extremely talented and adept coaches. No matter who is leading the class, you are going to learn something, have fun, and be safe.
+ Great Community - the crew at Black Cat has done a great job of promoting a positive culture. From the staff, down to the white belts, I’ve found that everyone is friendly, and willing to help each other in whatever way they can. Something else I appreciate about the community at Black Cat is that, despite the diverse range of skill level and varying reasons for training (which of itself is something I appreciate), everyone works hard on the mats, while not losing sight of the fact you should do so while having fun.
+ Clean/Fantastic Facility - in addition to great instruction and a positive culture that keeps you wanting to come to back, the peeps at Black Cat do a great job of keeping the gym extremely clean, which keeps able to come back. In addition to frequently (and thoroughly) cleaning the mats and facility in general, there are also showers in each of the changing rooms (which I’ve found to be rare for gyms in the area). On top of that, the gym is also quite aesthetically pleasing, and includes a sweet elevated view of the area.
+ Bonus: Dope Merch/Gear - what’s the point of doing BJJ if you don’t look cool while doing it, and everyone doesn’t know that you do it? The guys at Black Cat are always dropping dope training gear and casual attire that will allow you to check both of these very important boxes.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is a fantastic place for your family to train! Adam, Emma, and Frank are each great coaches but together make an even better team. They each have a wealth of knowledge but it’s how they share that knowledge with the class that makes all the difference. It’s not just demo and go; they explain and engage students throughout the class so you get the why as well as the how.
The atmosphere is always positive, always respectful, and always welcoming to new members. It’s also really clean and in a pretty cool spot.
The Kids Program has been absolutely amazing. My daughter started last October and it’s incredible to see the difference that training with the Black Cat family has made: more ability, more confidence, more grit, not to mention more friends. Can’t imagine training anywhere else!
I have practiced jiu jitsu for approximately 20 years now and I have to say that Adam Benayoun is one of the most thoughtful, kind, and invested teachers I have had the opportunity to work with. Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is a welcoming school that is the unique amalgamation of hard training and a warm safe learning environment, ideal for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.
Been training here almost a year now! Love the schedule, the instruction, and the fact it's off the highway for me is super convenient regardless whether I'm home or at work an average commute to catch a class here is 20-30 min. Adam Benayoun's ability to instruct whether you are a beginner 1st day or a seasoned Jiu-Jitsu practitioner will always have you walking away with a new piece to add to your game.
Very much recommended and excited to see this place grow!
Dropped in from out of town for 2 months to train at black cat. To my surprise it’s one of the best gyms I’ve ever attended. The atmosphere is unmatched and the coaching by Adam is outstanding. The gym is very clean and staff is welcoming. Can’t recommend this gym enough! Professor Adam is truly a master at his craft and can teach in such a way it’s easy to understand and apply.
World class staff who make you feel comfortable. Clean and modern gym. Intimate teaching/training as you are not one of 100 people on the mat training where the instructor doesn't know your name. Adam & the Black Cat team are able to provide high quality BJJ instruction to folks of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a gym in the D.C. area.
Adam is a super attentive coach, with an uncanny ability to distill complex ideas in an accessible way, agnostic of size, attributes, etc. Whether you want to compete at the highest levels, or just have fun and learn to advocate for yourself, he takes time to develop right-sized goals for literally EACH student. As someone who’s been training for over 15 years, I also appreciate Adam’s ability to keep upper belts accountable for continuous skill development, while ensuring that they are motivated on a daily basis. He also likes calling people by their last names for some reason :). Couldn’t recommend BlackCat more!!
Awesome gym, very approachable and helpful instructors! The intro class was perfect for me as a beginner with limited knowledge, and they focused largely on technique and why the moves work, which helped my understanding and execution. Overall, 10/10, will be coming back!
My son and daughter both train at Black Cat Jiu Jitsu for some time now, and I can confidently say that it's been an outstanding experience. The coaches at this academy are truly top-notch, demonstrating a deep commitment to both the safety and progress of their students.
The coaches prioritize creating a supportive and secure environment, ensuring that students can learn and grow. Their professionalism also contributes significantly to the overall positive atmosphere of the gym.
The dedication of Coach Adam and Emma by providing high-quality training shows in every class. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the mat, offering insightful techniques and strategies that cater to both beginners and more advanced practitioners. The personalized attention given to each student fosters a sense of community and ensures that everyone is progressing at their own pace.
What sets Black Cat Jiu Jitsu apart is the genuine care Coach Adam and Emma demonstrate for their students. They are both invested in the success and well-being of each student, creating a supportive learning environment that goes beyond just physical skills. This level of mentorship fosters a sense of camaraderie among students, making the training sessions not only educational but also enjoyable.
If you're looking for a Jiu Jitsu academy in the NCR with top-notch coaches who prioritize safety, provide excellent training, and genuinely care about their students, Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is the place to be. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a positive and enriching martial arts experience.
This gym is Friendly, Professional and Clean! Whether you are a hobbyist or competitor, Adam’s Black Cat crew will get you to be the best version of you.If you want to learn Jiu Jitsu and submission fighting look no further than Black Cat!
Coach Adam is a phenom. Him along with the coaches Emma and Frank have changed my game 180 degrees for the better. So much so I’m changing my middle name to gato.
Adam Benayoun has created a masterful training environment for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the DMV. His instruction is focused not only on the details of every technique to ensure proper form and safety, but he is diligent in explaining the "why" behind positions and movement. This combination provides the students with a complete understanding rather than a "watch and copy" teaching method as other academics usually provide. Adam is fully engaged with each student and gives individualized feedback regardless of the size of the class. Whether you are looking for competition, fitness, self defense, or just a fun hobby where you can be a part of a safe, tight-knit community you have found the right place.
The best jiujitsu experience in Virginia by far. Been to a lot of different gyms. The atmosphere is electric. Beautiful gym. It’s almost artistic how cool it is. Adam, the coach, is the best coach in the area. No one teaches the way he teaches and I really mean that. He has elevated my game faster and more efficiently in three years than anyone had in the previous five. I feel so blessed to have found Adam. He genuinely cares about his students and offers very specific game plans on what to improve and how to do it. His systematic approach to Bjj is just next level. I can’t say enough good things about the guy. I genuinely don’t know where I’d be without him and I don’t think that’s an exaggeration at all. If you’re looking into Bjj as a beginner or even if you have experience already, you cannot do better than training with Adam. I have never had a coach so invested in my improvement. I love this gym and I love this coach. Do yourself a favor and start attending classes there. I guarantee it will be impossible to go anywhere else
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is, without a doubt, a gem in the world of martial arts. I can wholeheartedly attest to the overwhelmingly positive reviews this place has received, as my experience here has been nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I joined, it became clear why this gym has such a devoted following.
Adam Benayoun is an accomplished instructor and competitor, his unique blend of humor and genuine care for his students is what truly sets Black Cat apart from other gyms. Adam's ability to impart his expertise in an engaging and accessible manner is a testament to his dedication as an instructor.
One of the aspects that make Black Cat Jiu Jitsu truly outstanding is the vibe and community that has been cultivated here. From day one, I felt welcomed by this extraordinary group of individuals. It's precisely the kind of environment I've always yearned for in my Jiu Jitsu journey.
The instruction and culture of the gym are geared towards fostering growth and development of effective Jiu Jitsu skills. What I truly appreciate is the emphasis on conceptual-based learning. Adam goes beyond simply teaching techniques; he delves into the underlying principles and strategies, providing a foundation for practical application. This approach has been instrumental in accelerating the progress of myself and others.
If you're searching for world-class Jiu Jitsu gym, look no further than Black Cat Jiu Jitsu.
I’ve been training at black cat for almost a year and there is not enough good that I can say about it. Adam is an excellent coach whether you’re a competitor, a hobbyist, or anyone in between. He genuinely cares about how everyone is progressing and that the product he offers is second to none. The gym itself is immaculate, well laid out, and has a cool vibe. The training partners are the toughest around but also care that everyone is getting what they need. If I could give 10 stars I would. If you’re on the fence about where to train in nova look. I further!
I can’t recommend this academy enough, Adam was my first professor for the first 4 years of training. His teaching style and understanding of jiu jitsu is top notch, whether you’re just starting out or are fine tuning your jiu jitsu years in. If I didn’t move out of the area I would without a doubt still be training under him and host team
Adam benayoun is by far one of the most decorated black belts in the DMV area. He has trained under BJJ legends such as Marcelo garcia and Ryan hall, and is a phenomenal and patient teacher. His facility is beautifully designed , clean and has an amazing view of the city. I highly recommend this amazing gym and instructor
Beginners and experienced grapplers find a home at Black Cat Jiu Jitsu, training with seasoned black belt and international competitor Adam Benayoun. Adam is dedicated to his craft, teaching with precision while explaining the ‘why’ insightfully. Classes are fun and interactive in a safe, respectful environment. The staff is welcoming and professional.
Black Cat’s state of the art training facility is unrivalled. It is spacious, modern and stylish with panoramic windows, showers and locker rooms. The place is immaculate.
If you want a great workout, to learn a new skill or are training for competitions in the DMV, BCJJ earns 5 stars.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu and coach Adam Benayoun provide a great training experience and environment. The quality of the jiu jitsu is top notch, the facility is clean and modern, and the overall camaraderie that Adam and Coach Frank have created makes for a fantastic training venue. I highly recommend Black Cat Jiu Jitsu.
Came into black cat having done a couple of trial classes and never finding a BJJ gym that fit me. Adam made me feel immediately welcome along with everyone else on the mats. Instruction is detailed and drilling is at a pace that allows you to learn, without getting too bogged down by theory, or wrecked all class. I have seen a HUGE difference in my judo newaza and my overall confidence on the ground. I wouldn’t go anywhere else in the DC area to train 💯
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Posted 3 years ago
Ezra Paul
Vibes here are immaculate. Super cool aesthetic, awesome gear, and high level instruction.
Great BJJ (both gi and no gi) gym, great instruction, welcoming atmosphere ! No need to think twice come through. World class instruction from a seasoned and decorated competitor who is encouraging and dedicated to the craft!
Black Cat jiu-jitsu academy is where it’s at! BC is a beautiful training facility with first rate instruction via Adam Benayoun and wrestling instructor Frank Martellotti. Both are amazing instructors/competitors who teach their expression of jiu-jitsu and wrestling to be applied with precision and technique over force. On top of that, the BC merch, style and vibes are second to none! Whether you’re new to training or a bit more seasoned and looking to further your development, look no further.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is an incredible gym to train at. Not only is the facility amazing (also, impeccably clean), but Adam Benayoun gives hands down the best BJJ instruction I’ve ever received. Classes are super informative. You’re not just gonna hit some techniques of the day and roll, but you’re gonna get major insight into the techniques being taught in a really fun and interactive atmosphere. Every class provides some mind blowing epiphany, even if it’s in the form of a tiny detail you had previously overlooked or not thought about. Could not heap enough praise on this spot. Every aspect of it is top notch 👌
Black Cat has got it down right!
Adam’s jiu jitsu philosophy is truly remarkable, not only is the technique world-class, but his holistic approach to the class sets him apart. He creates a safe and respectful mat environment, while also providing 1:1 advice that is tailored to each individual's needs.
I took my first-ever class in Jiu Jitsu 6 months ago with Adam. Black Cat is a highly welcoming place for beginners like myself. Adam is a brilliant teacher who will challenge you to think about the underlying physical concepts behind all of the moves in Jiu Jitsu rather than simply memorizing them. It's been such an interesting experience learning Jiu Jitsu from Adam and something I've highly appreciated along the way is how much he's taught us to prevent injury when rolling with training partners.
You won't regret signing up for the free intro class and trying it out!
There are a lot of things that Black Cat gets right to justify a high rating. The gym is cleaner than most gyms I’ve been in. Also signing up was easy. The schedule posted online is accurate and up to date. They do not have some elaborate pricing plan, nor did they try some weird sales pitch or pressure. Coach Adam is greeted me when I walked in and welcomed me (this is huge).
Adam’s jiu jitsu knowledge is deep and he has a way of explaining concepts that are effective. Learning the ‘why’ behind what we’re doing adds to the mental aspect of the sport. The training partners all seem to take training serious, but not take themselves seriously.
If you are new to the area or just starting with jiu jitsu I highly recommend stopping in Black Cat to try a class and meet the team.
Looking to visit, start training, or switch gyms? You need to check this place out. Conveniently located with ample parking and baller views. Adam Benayoun is one of the best instructors on the east coast with students to back it up.
So ur thinking about joining🤔,welcome I started training under adam when he was at 50/50 and started learning so much from him. He is truly an amazing instructor and cares about the progress of all his students, his attention to detail and explaining every position has helped me a lot. Idky y’all are waiting this is the best place to start or even continue ur jiu-jitsu journey.
Hey how you doing 🤌 So let me get this straight, if you’re reading this review it clearly means you are interested in a jiu jitsu gym. Let me put it to you this way sweetie, if you find yourself in the Springfield, Virginia area and you aren’t going to this gym… You might as well forget about it. Adam’s attention to detail and willingness to support his students makes Black Cat a perfect gym for experienced grapplers or people like me who still can’t tie their belt correctly.
Black Cat is the best place to train in the DMV. Adam is a true professional when it comes to teaching jiu jitsu. The small class size means you get individualized feedback, while still having top tier partners to train with. The wrestling classes under Frank are fantastic as well. I can’t say enough positive things about Adam and Black Cat.
New to bjj and don’t think I could have picked a better gym to join. From the instruction, to the culture/environment, to the facilities. All top notch.
Adam is probably the best jiujitsu instructor I've had. He gives great instruction, explains why, and has attention to detail.
Another thing I noticed is that he will actually go around the room and watch everyone do the technique and give out timely constructive feedback that actually make you better. Not just the upper belts but everyone.
Overall a 5 star instructor and practitioner!
Adam Benayoun is an amazing competitor, and a truly gifted instructor. He cares about the progress of his students, and fosters a positive environment for his students. You can't go wrong with Black Cat BJJ!!!!
Adam is an amazing teacher. Ever time I’ve trained with him it greatly improves my understanding of jiu-jitsu. Consider yourself luck if you are able to learn from him.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu, run by head instructor Adam Benayoun, is a fantastic place to learn jiu jitsu for all skill levels.
If you’re a beginner thinking about trying out BJJ, this place is for you where classes are safe and tailored to your skill level, plus everyone is super friendly.
If you’re an experienced grappler and seeking elite training, this place is also for you as Adam has competed at the highest levels in the sport and triumphed over world class grapplers. You’ll get great, consistent attention and instruction as well as high level rounds to sharpen skills when preparing for high level competition.
Visit Black Cat Jiu Jitsu! Your jiu jitsu will thank you.
Black Cat is a great BJJ gym in the area. I have been learning from Adam for 3 years now. His instruction is top notch. He makes it a point to make sure everyone is progressing in their BJJ journey. The gym itself is modern, extremely clean, and unique. Everyone from the staff to students is friendly and welcoming. Very happy with my experience at Black Cat.
Black Cat is an amazing place to train with truly world-class instruction. Adam has cultivated a welcoming environment for all to enjoy, regardless of experience level. The facility is clean and aesthetically pleasing with a modern design. I did not have any experience training with Adam, but I wish I had. He has a relaxed approach when instructing, which makes all feel at ease. Adam takes his time to work with everyone individually and tailor movements based on need. The members come from all walks of life with varying experience in the sport, but they all welcome you in and want you to succeed. Black Cat's convenient location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the DMV. If you're looking for somewhere to get a good workout in, compete, or learn a new skill, Black Cat is the place.
Adam Benayoun is one of God’s chosen people for a reason. His Jiu Jitsu is smooth as silk and his instruction will bring you to tears of joy. Would rate six stars if I could.
Black cat Jiu Jitsu is a great academy and Adam consistently provides world-class instruction. His class lessons are catered to all levels, from beginners to the more experienced. Everyone should check out this academy if they want a welcoming place to train and take their game to the next level!
Fantastic BJJ academy with one of the best coaches in the area, Adam Benayoun.
I'd previously met Adam while training at Fifty/50 (another fantastic academy that's affiliated with Black Cat), where I was a member of the Fundamentals II program, and there's a good deal of student crossover between the two. Black Cat does feel more like a boutique training experience geared toward competitors/serious hobbyists who really want to take their skills to the next level; similar to the intensely talented competition team over at Fifty/50.
The mats/locker rooms were always clean and the view can't be beat. The Gi/No-Gi classes are all great, and my partners (most of which were much more experienced than me) were always helpful and very welcoming when I started. The smaller class sizes meant more face-to-face time with the instructor than some of the larger classes I was used to (especially in other states), and I found myself picking up important tips from Adam (outside of the day's primary techniques) during every class.
The crew at Black Cat quickly starts to feel like family, and I would highly recommend this academy to anyone who is passionate about BJJ/wrestling, and wants to train with some of the best the sport has to offer.
It is impossible to overstate how great a coach Adam is. His approach is perfect for beginners and advanced classes alike. He is great about making sure you get the reps in on any given technique -- and that you build on them with a bunch of variations over the course of each week. He has a relaxed attitude while still being a stickler for the details and motivating you to train hard.
Adam is one of the best BJJ coaches I've ever had. Apart from his passion for the sport he really loves teaching and helping each individual on their BJJ journey. I always look forward to seeing his students compete and clean house.
Got my first stripe blue belt from coach Adam many years ago when he taught in NYC. He is a great detail-oriented coach who cares about how you are doing.
Look no further!!! Adam Benayoun has created a masterpiece of a gym. From world class instruction from a world class Black Belt. To a stylish and modern amenity filled facility. Black Cat is perfect for people of all ages, size, and skill level. So if your looking to start training, looking for a new gym, or just want to plan a visit. Adam and his crew will be more than welcoming!! Give Black Cat a visit you won't be disappointed!
Black Cat is an awesome place to train. Everyone is really nice and the facility is all new and clean. Whether you are a beginner or have experience, they’re something for you here. Adam is very knowledgeable and detailed during classes.
My favorite BJJ gym in the DMV. Pick a category: people / facility / culture / environment / professionalism / quality of instruction .... If you give Black Cat a shot you will see for yourself that the product and service Adam provides speaks for itself in all the best ways. Top tier place to train BJJ.
Look no further! Black Cat is the best jiu jitsu gym in the DMV. Adam has created a fun, safe, and professional training environment for people of all age, size, and skill level. I’ve trained at a lot of gyms in the area, and this place just has something special. The instruction is world class, the facility is stylish with tons of modern amenities, and the members are all very welcoming. I really encourage everyone to come try a class and see it for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.
Adam has been one of my coaches for nearly 6 years now, and in that time has made an immeasurable impact on my BJJ. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned black belt, Adam is someone who will always take the extra time to help you. It is rare to find a coach who can break down the underlying concepts of jiujitsu in such a digestible way. In those 6 years, I have watched Adam work tirelessly for his goals. That same tenacity and attention to detail can be seen in his space and the culture of his gym. Black Cat is a beautiful boutique jiujitsu academy where the atmosphere is fun but the training is still hard. If you’re looking for a place to train and want high level instruction, this place is worth a try.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is the premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym in the DMV area and owned by the renowned Adam Benayoun. Adam is not only an accomplished competitor in the international black belt circuit but also an incredible teacher who has significantly strengthened my grappling skills over the past four years. Adam’s detail-oriented style and experience against high-level opponents help to provide all of his students with a well-rounded and thoughtful approach towards to jiu jitsu.
In terms of the gym itself, Black Cat has the cleanest and most aesthetically pleasing space I have seen during my travels and is a welcoming environment for students of all levels. Additionally, there is ample mat space, which is well-lit by large windows overlooking the surrounding area, and brand new locker rooms to get ready in. All in all, Black Cat is a wonderful place to start or continue your jiu jitsu journey!
Coming into this gym, you get a sense of welcome. Adam has a superlative understanding of the art, thorough and has a great style of teaching. People are knowledgeable and understanding. The gym itself is super clean, polished and aesthetic. 100 percent recommend.
The best gym I’ve ever been. Everything is clear and nice. Coach Adam is world class and he makes everyone feels welcome here no matter if you’re a pro or a beginner.
Adam is an amazing coach and a world class competitor. He does a great job of balancing hard training with a fun environment. Great to see him with his own gym.
I have never done any sort of Jiu Jitsu / martial arts type of training, so was very apprehensive to start something like this. After reading reviews and doing some research I took a leap of faith and signed up for an intro class and was blown away. I literally signed up for a membership the second class was finished.
The studio is breathtaking with a great view! The front desk staff were so welcoming and accommodating knowing I was a little nervous. Adam (the instructor) did a really great job explaining and walking through the steps. But what really drove me to sign up was how he went the extra mile on how to use what we were practicing in real life scenarios. As a younger women I feel way more confident protecting myself! Very very very impressed and would highly recommend.
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu has completely changed my jiu jitsu in the best way. Adam is an incredible coach and attends to each student to make sure they are progressing. Classes are professionally run, challenging, and fun. I always leave excited to come back for my next class!
