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Welcome to Budo Tatami Team Pedro Sauer, a family-run martial arts academy in Gainesville teaching self-defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu to students all ages.
Community reviews
Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Budo Tatami. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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Reviews
Mumbi Ngugi
i'm new, but i really like the sense of family here. the academy is super nice, the mats are white and incredibly clean. and it is as if a symbol reflecting the clean spirit of the academy itself.
Great family like atmosphere. There’s a great positive culture and tons of knowledge transfer. Sensei Ismael as evolved my game so much and is an even better human being! 🙌🏾 Not only are the Adult classes phenomenal, but also the kids programs are great for kids to get into martial arts and learn skills as well as discipline. Gracias Sensei! OSS! 🤙🏽
Sensei Ismael and his son Kai are very inviting and energetic instructors. Highly recommend this location to anyone looking to start jiu jitsu or kickboxing!
Budo Tatami has been excellent for our son. Great teaching, great workouts, discipline and each week we see much progress! We enjoy attending classes here.
Update- 1.5 years in and now my 3yo and 5yo are in Sensei’s class. I just want to share this: my 5yo struggled for a long while with not wanting to go to jiu jitsu, whining, throwing fits occasionally, being disrespectful to Sensei, you name it. It was stressful for me as well, we live 30min from Budo Tatami and I was ready to throw in the towel. Sensei encouraged me stay strong and work with him as a partner in helping my kiddo. I’m so glad we didn’t give up. Now Brooks is really thriving and he turned a corner, no more complaining, he has pride in what he’s doing, he is showing respect to Sensei, he’s getting consistency and being taught not to give up and see something through even if you don’t always feel like it. I am so grateful to Sensei and his son Kai!
I am so excited about my boys learning from Sensei Ish. My eldest just turned 4 and he’s really loving it. I can tell a difference in his level of respect especially at school he’s very proud of listening and obeying his teachers.
Great family oriented place! I could not think of a better place to have my family around. Great program for the kids and for adults!
If it is for self defense, fitness or just to enjoy the sport, there is no place like this!
I highly recommend Budo Tatami to anyone that is looking for Jiu-Jitsu classes.
My son is seven years old and attends classes twice a week and loves them.
He has been taught many skilled techniques and maneuvers from his Sensei, whom is an outstanding teacher.
His Sensei has also taught my son to be respectful, disciplined, honest and loyal.
The studio is fresh, extremely clean and inviting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Officer Daniel Tinjaca
Sheriff’s office
Budo Tatami excelente escuela de artes marciales, no solo los entrena para defensa propia, sino que también ofrece la oportunidad a los niños de ejercitarse, aprender disciplina y divertirse, a mis hijos les encanta y muy importante para la comunidad hispana, se habla español; todo el personal es muy amable.
It's been a pleasure to come here since the start of 2024 and it has given me a new outlook on how to problem solve in my life but also has taught me a lot about myself. The instructors here are not only knowledgeable but also very friendly and accommodating. You're not just another member on the mat, you're a friend and a partner. I can't recommend Budo Tatami enough for learning any martial art offered here.
Fantastic group! We are lucky to have found Budo Tatami! My daughter absolutely loves it and won’t miss a lesson. Thank you for such a great experience!
Ps. She also loves the movie/pizza nights!
Our son joined the Budo Tatami family about a year ago and it has been the best investment we ever made for our child. It is amazing to see the skills he has learned, the self confidence he has gained, and the admiration he has for Sensei and Senpai. Sensei Ismael is so patient with the children, but he is also fair, and teaches the students valuable lessons about discipline, respect, self control, and friendship. You are treated like family the moment you walk through the door, and the Saturno family is some of the most top quality people you will ever find. Our son has flourished under his mentorship, and we know that in addition to keeping him active, he is learning essential self defense skills that will actually help him protect himself and others if necessary. We simply cannot fully express how much we appreciate Budo Tatami.
My 13 year old daughter has been doing Jiu-Jitsu for a year and absolutely loves it! Sensei has been phenomenal with helping build confidence, stamina, strength and discipline. It’s the best thing she could have done for herself and the first thing she’s wanted to stick with. We love the second family she has found at Budo Tatami!
The instructor is amazing! My son loves going there after school. Classes are not only martial arts but the instructor also takes opportunities to teach the kids life lessons.
If your looking for a place where you can feel at home with people who care about your growth and development I would highly recommend this place. The Proffesor here is one of the most genuine people I've meet and I believe he truly care about his student. The amount of knowledge he has is incredible and proof of this is the white belts under him. They are technical in every move they make and are knowledgeable on why every move makes a difference in thir game. It's been a pleasure being a part of this gym and would recommend it to anyone looking for a jiu-jitsu and kick backing school.
Started my martial arts journey here at Budo Tatami and I couldn’t be happier. Don’t worry if you have no formal experience, Sensei Ismael is a great teacher who helps foster a very positive learning environment. Also, be prepared to get very familiar with the song Roxanne by The Police.
Been training in martial arts for 6 years walk into Budo Tatami 7 months ago to cross train in kick boxing and jujitsu. Was treated like family from the first minute I walk in the door . They have a excellent program . They have help me improve my skills and my physical endurance. One of the best schools I’ve trained at . Highly recommend them for all ages from youths to seniors myself I’m 59 years old
Sensei Ismael is a fantastic instructor with an incredible eye for detail. The culture and atmosphere he brings to his academies is unparelled and highly guided by the principles of respect and honor of traditional martial arts. I trained with him from the ages of 5-18 and have visited many academies across the US afterwards. I have yet to find an academy that can provide the warmth and expertise that he brings. Once you join his academy you truly are a family member for life. I cannot recommend him and his academy enough.
Place is amazing! Sensei is simply awesome, very profesional, polite and super sweet and respectful with students. Mats and all stuff are stunning cleaned, very well organized, a very comfortable atmosphere. Congrats ! You are succeeding already !!!
I absolutely love the kick boxing class!! It’s a great workout and you learn a lot!! Ismael is a very genuine nice guy and a great instructor!! 10/10 highly recommend
Sensi Ismael is a top level black belt for many years, who changed my life through martial arts. You won’t get better training and mentorship anywhere else.
I love Ish's kickboxing classes! Definitely challenges you to do your best and go beyond your limits. Excited for more opportunities in his new location!
My kids had the amazing experience of being part of Sensei Ismael program when we used to live in FL. I was amazed by Sensei's approach and skills when it comes to teaching and educating his students. He created such a huge impact on my 2 orders ones on their earlier years. I wish we could be living close to him and his family just to watch my kids continuing their martial arts journey. I highly, highly recommend Sensei Ismael and wish him and his family the best on this new journey.
Not just a great Jiu Jitsu coach but a mentor. Ismael is someone we will be close to forever. If you have the opportunity, it only takes one visit for you to know your kids are in good hands. My don started with Ismael at the age of four and now ten years and 3 world championships later, my son still keeps in touch and shares his accomplishments regularly. Best of luck Isma! We will visit soon!
This academy is out of this world! Not only I trust my kids with Sensei Ismael, who by the way has 4 boys himself, but it’s like visiting family every time we go there. The professional care and love his students experience in every class they take it’s like nothing I’ve seen before. They learn, they have fun, they make new friends and the energy is unbeatable. He’s not only helping them and teaching them how to defend themselves but creating better individuals long term. Highly recomendable.
The facility is amazing! Clean, bright, and inviting. Has all of the latest training equipment. Ismael is highly professional, courteous, and knows how to communicate with kids kindness, respect and a never-give-up mentality.
Sensei Ismael is not only the best jiu-jitsu instructor but also a kids mentor. He has a passion to share experiences and coach kids with knowledge for their development in everyday life. For more than 8 years our son attended his academy in South FL. We really miss him.
Been with ismael for many years. Not only is he a phenomenal jiujitsu instructor, he is an exceptional instructor when it comes to character development. Hes a Perfect role model from kids to adults. Would highly recommend this academy to everyone looking to start their martial arts journey.
I have known Ismael for 19 years, he has taught my son and daughter since they were little kids. He has been an important and positive influence on my kids development. I also started practicing Jiu Jitsu with him and am still doing it after 15 years. I can’t think of anyone who I can trust more. He is trustworthy and deeply cares for the kids development on and off the mat. Incredible teacher and amazing martial art practitioner.
100% recommended, Ismael is an excellent Sensei, professional and dedicated with great motivational skills. I learned a lot with him, specially and above of all good values!! Thank you Sensei for all your knowledge all those years. It created a good foundation in my character and made me the strong personal who I am now.
Life changing opportunity for those fortunate enough to live near this place! Amazing person in Ismael and top notch instruction from a fellow Pedro Sauer Black Belt! Go learn from the best!
Sensei Ismael is not only in a remarkable instructor and athlete but also an incredible father, friend and husband. He has dedicated his entire life to martial arts and he has become an inspiration for our kids and our entire family. We are very fortunate to have come across him and wish him much success in his newest location.
Ismael is an extremely dedicated, hardworking and talented professor. He is ranked under Pedro Sauer whom is a well known instructor in the Brazilian Jiu- jitsu community. Ismael has two decades of experience working with children, establishing and founding various kids and young adult programs. If you’re looking to be a part of a family or community of a great discipline and lifestyle, this is the place for you!
Ismael is an extremely dedicated, hardworking, and talented professor. Ranked under professor Pedro Sauer, whom is a very talented and known individual in the BJJ community. Ismael has 2 decades of experience working with children and establishing various kids/ young adult programs. If you’re looking for quality Jiu- jitsu and/ or a family/community to be a part of, this is the place for you!
Budo Tatami has a very clean and well laid out facility. Sensei Ismael is the best instructor I have worked with. The way he teaches the martial arts is a great workout and it’s fun. Not only do I feel like I have progressed very quickly but I have made a lot of great friends here and training here has made me better on and off the mats.
Sensei Ismael and the whole family are the best Academy experience that our Family has encountered so far .My oldest son , start as young as four years old practicing martial arts with sensei Ismael there is not place or couching like it . This is a truly experience where the importance of values , mindfulness and Physical really meet . We wish best .
Sensei Ishmael is one of the best coaches I have had. The environment and the culture at Budo is all about respect, love, self control, discipline, loyalty and family. I had a chance to meet an Amazing group of guys that I love training with. When it comes to the the training and skill level, I can honestly That for someone who never practiced BJJ before my game has improved so much just after a few weeks. My flexibility it thru the roof. My cardio is great now, and my overall fitness is better than it has ever been.
I a 100 percent recommend giving this place a shot!!!
Excellent place for training , I love the environment in this gym, Is a family oriented place. Has been awesome for me and my friends The trainers are exceptional, I recommend it 100%,
Ismael is the best coach I have ever trained with! He truly cares about the principles of martial arts and how it leads to being a better individual on and off the mat. He has created an environment for the individual and for the family to feel comfortable and included. I can’t wait to have my son grow up in a environment with him as the coach.
The instructor is excellent. I would highly recommend anyone to visit if they are even remotely interested. In addition to the excellent instruction, I've found the community to be welcoming, supportive, and encouraging.
Sensei Ismael is a one of a kind teacher. He has amazing patience and really cares about you. Jiu-jitsu has not only kept me in shape, but it has also given me confidence.
I have known Sensei Ismael for 25 years, if you want to learn from a great martial artist, or entrust your children to a superb educational experience search no further!
