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Join Carlos Machado Jiu Jitsu Lake Highlands in Dallas for a transformative Brazilian Jiu Jitsu experience. Discover the intense power of BJJ now!
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Carlos Machado Jiu Jitsu Lake Highlands. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Lake Highland BJJ and to Professor Santos. From my very first day, I felt a warm welcome that made all the difference. Under Professor Santos's guidance, I have not only learned so much but have also felt supported and encouraged every step of the way. Thank you for creating such a wonderful environment!
I cannot say enough great things about Professor Santos and the team. Everyone respects each other, it's fun, they are kind and super knowledgeable. My son loves it and since joining, our 4 year old has become more confident and is beginning to excel at school even more. Highly reccomend.
We just signed up, Jazmine and Marcio are genuine people, they were so welcoming. So far in the classes there is alot of positive and stern interaction. You can really feel the love in this group. So glad we joined.
My 5 year old daughter started coming to the Jiu Jitsu and Capoeira classes here and she not only absolutely loves it but it has already made her more confident and attentive.
Both Mr.Santos and Jazmin are very patient with all the kids and it is quite evident that they have built a wonderful community here.
I have 2 teenagers who have been attending jujitsu and capoeira for about 2 years. Before finding this awesome place I researched and visited several places around the area, I was not convinced. Once I visited this place, I knew this is where I wanted my kids to be, it is a fun, safe environment where all the staff is friendly and they really love what they do. They transmit that to their students, the love for jujitsu. My kids not only learn capoeira and jujitsu they have learned self discipline, responsibility, respect, dedication, determination, life skills that they can only acquire with caring and loving instructors. This place is always clean and well taken care of. I am grateful to the instructors, I have seen how my kids confidence and self esteem have greatly improved. I recommend this place 100%
My grandchildren love coming to their Jiu Jitsu classes. Mr Santos, Ms Jazmine and Ms Luna really make each student feel special and unique. They are professional, empathetic, and caring. The entire atmosphere is like a big family. We love CMJJ!
CMJJ Lake Highlands is an amazing place for ANYONE to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The instructors are very knowledgeable, professional, and thorough. They stress safety, fun, at all classes and all levels. Challenge yourself, challenge your family and come see what it is about.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu Academy is exceptional!
This is one of the best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies I’ve ever experienced. Carlos Machado’s teaching style is outstanding, blending deep technical knowledge with a supportive and motivating environment. The attention to detail, professionalism, and dedication to helping students improve truly set this academy apart. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, the quality of instruction and the positive atmosphere make training here a fantastic experience. I highly recommend Carlos Machado’s academy to anyone serious about learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Ps: Thank you so much Professor Márcio Santos
Great Gym!!
The instructors are highly skilled, approachable, and passionate about teaching. They break down techniques in a way that's easy to understand and ensure every student receives personalized attention.
“Fantastic place for kids to learn jujitsu! The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and great with children. My son has gained confidence, discipline, and new skills while having a lot of fun. Highly recommend!”
My kids love going to class. Felt so welcome when we first joined back in March of this year. They enjoy learning techniques and hanging out with their friends they have made. They feel all proud whenever promotion day comes it shows all their hard work, dedication, and commitment. Ms. Jasmine, Ms. Luna, and Professor Santos are the best teachers to learn from. Couldn’t have picked a better place to come and learn jiu jitsu.
The classes for kids are exceptional, and not only focus on learning jiu jitsu skills, but also communication skills, character building and self confidence. The classes feature monthly themes like gratitude, personal hygiene and discipline. Professor Santos and the instructors are warm and welcoming, and we're glad to be part of this school.
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Posted 1 year ago
Kathryn Guerra
The classes for kids are exceptional, and not only focus on learning jiu jitsu skills, but also communication skills, character building and self confidence. The classes feature monthly themes like gratitude, personal hygiene and discipline. Professor Santos and the instructors are warm and welcoming, and we're glad to be part of this school.
This is one of best ways for me to keep in shape. It's so much fun that I keep coming in. Great instruction, friendly and helpful training partners. The staff are great and always helpful. It is worth much more than what you pay to join.
We love coming here! The instructors are strict and patient at the same time. It’s so impressive how they handle a large group of kids. My two sons have very different personalities and are both getting so much out of the class!
Mr Santos and his team of Ju Jitsu teachers are true professionals who know how to encourage students to do well. His patience and enthusiasm for teaching are rewarded by the happiness of the students and their eagerness to learn.
Great atmosphere for kids of all ages! We’ve been looking for a sport that our daughter connected with and this is by far the most engaged she’s been. Great staff, people and the content is not only engaging within the context of the sport but also with character building. I was apprehensive at first with a daughter doing such a physical sport but she fits right in. Highly recommend!
Absolutely the greatest program around! Our whole family is involved and by training together in such a welcoming environment we are able to reinforce the positive lessons taught in each and every class. Building stronger bodies and minds one class at a time as a result of such thoughtful and engaging professors!!!
We have loved bring our daughter since Day 1 from the instructors to the students everyone is GREAT! My daughter’s confidence has skyrocketed in the 11 months she’s been doing it and overall it’s just an incredible place to be!
My kids have been doing jiu-jitsu and capoeira here for a while and I have nothing but good things to say about this place. The professors are extremely dedicated to the students, not only in helping them learn the techniques but also in becoming better versions of themselves. The whole community is extremely wholesome and I, along with the kids, have made lasting friendships.
Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu Lake Highlands is hands down the best place to train! The instructors are not only incredibly skilled but also approachable and supportive. They take the time to explain techniques in detail, making sure everyone understands and feels confident on the mats.
The environment here is friendly and welcoming. The facility is clean, spacious, and well-maintained. It’s clear that the team here truly cares about providing a great experience for everyone. If you’re thinking about starting BJJ or looking for a new academy, you won’t find a better place than this. Highly recommend!
Highly recommend this place if you're interested in learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I've been training there since 2019. My oldest is in the teens class and my youngest trains capoeira there. The professors and fellow students make this school a gem in the Lake Highlands area. It's a great place to learn. For anybody who has teens, the group of teens here are amazing. They are super supportive of each other!
I live about 30 min away on a good day, and there are many closer jiu jitsu schools, but I absolutely love this school. The whole team truly cares about the kids development and not only in jiu jitsu (which is great) but personal as well. They talk about values and give the kids examples on how to treat people. It’s a phenomenal school!! 100% recommend it!
Absolute best martial arts school in Dallas for all ages and skill levels. Friendly, welcoming environment with instructors who care about student’s progress. Lake Highlands is lucky to have this school in the neighborhood. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Capoeira classes offered are great for entire family.
This is a nice place to train with the whole family. Place is clean, teachers are very nice and partners are very friendly. Come, enjoy and make friends.
Came in for a free class trial and I had a great time! Everybody is very friendly and knowledgeable, especially Instructor Marcio. Gym is spacious and clean located in a nice shopping center.
They are great! This is a very welcoming and accommodating school. I immediately felt like part of the team. I would highly recommend giving them a try.
Incredible 2 year experience thus far and no plans to stop. Professor Marcio and Team maintain a clean, safe, and encouraging environment for their students both on and off the mats. Could not be more pleased with the staff, fellow students, and environment at Machado Jiu-Jitsu Lake Highlands! Thank you Professor Marcio, Karina, and Jazmine!
**5 Stars - A Jiu-Jitsu Haven for Enthusiasts and Families Alike**
From the moment I stepped into this gym, I was greeted by an atmosphere brimming with positivity and camaraderie. The people here are not just great; they're exceptional. Each member, from the trainers to the students, exudes a welcoming vibe that instantly makes you feel like part of their jiu-jitsu family.
The technical training is top-notch and thoroughly professional. Coaches are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their art, ensuring that each session is both educational and engaging. They pay close attention to detail, helping everyone, from beginners to advanced practitioners, improve and refine their techniques.
What sets this gym apart is the perfect blend of fun and professionalism. The environment is lively and full of laughter, making each class enjoyable and something to look forward to. Despite the fun, there's a strong sense of discipline and respect that resonates throughout the gym, reflecting the true spirit of jiu-jitsu.
The family-friendly atmosphere is palpable. Parents and children train together, strengthening not just their physical abilities but also their familial bonds. It's heartwarming to see the sport being passed down and appreciated across generations.
Moreover, the connections made here go beyond the mat. There's a sense of a strong, supportive community where everyone uplifts each other. Whether it's in training, competitions, or personal growth, the support system here is remarkable.
In summary, if you're looking for a place that offers excellent technical training, fosters strong connections, and balances professionalism with a fun, family environment, then look no further. This jiu-jitsu gym is more than just a training facility; it's a place where laughter, learning, and respect coalesce, creating an experience that's truly enriching and memorable. Highly recommended!
Two of my four kiddos attend classes here and we love it! The other two will definitely jump in once they are old enough.
Mr. Santos, Ms. Jasmine, and Ms. Karina are always welcoming, kind, respectful, patient, and professional. They also focus on a value each month and talk about this with the kids at each class (ex: good sportsmanship, honesty, generosity, etc).
The physical activity and skills learned are fun and practical. I also love that values are taught on and off the mat!
Professor Santos and his coaches are the nicest and most experienced people I have met in a long time. They listen to their students and take the time to understand and help each one individually. The class mix is excellent with having higher and lower belts always in attendance. Professor Santos tries to structure each class to the level of students that come in so everyone can learn a new technique or grow one that they already know. There may not necessarily be a lot of women but there is always 1-2 women in each class, plus the womens only classes that not only teach techniques that are for our bodies but also give you a good laugh after a long week.
Amazing gym! Everyone has such a nice spirit and energy! I been going here for some time and I am not only learning how to become a better roller but a better human. Professor Santos is amazing and such great teacher who displays humility.
I started jiu-jitsu a few months ago and I really love this school, not only for the jiu-jitsu but also for the friendships and community. My son has been going here for over a year and he's made so much progress. The class schedule is extremely flexible. The adult classes are great and the kids classes are even better. They also have a strong women's community full of both seasoned and beginner athletes. If you want a good workout, to try something new, and gain a new skill - come roll with us! This school is truly open to everyone at any skill or physical level.
Best jiu jitsu school in Dallas. Marcio has a lifetime of old school jiu jitsu knowledge. Great for all skill levels. Every member is family here. Come check it out!
Gym is awesome Dropped in while in town For work some of the best mats and completion both gi and No gi supper cool clean and competitive environment 10/10
It is my favorite place to be. The encouragement and willingness to pass on knowledge by instructors and classmates is second to none. I would suggest jiu jitsu at Machado to anyone looking for positive gains in stress management, fitness, weight loss, and self defense etc. The list goes on...
My son and I absolutely love this school! You have a sixth degree black belt teaching the kids not only Jiu Jitsu but valuable lessens and virtues. The whole staff is amazing. Professor Santon and Ms. Jazmin and Ms. Luna are absolutely amazing! Definitely recommend this amazing Jiu Jitsu school!!
Great school! Really positive atmosphere and an excellent learning environment. All the instructors are extremely knowledgeable and teach in a way where there is something to learn at every level. I'm really enjoying my time training here, would highly recommend!
Love training here! In such a male dominated sport it was really important to me to find a gym where I felt safe and welcome and this is the place! I've learned so much here, the teachers, coaches and staff are all amazing and have created an environment where all the students really care about each others progress and well being
Update: We are 7 years into our journey and I would add more stars if I could! Both my son and I are still training, and my daughters are now as well! The whole family loves training with Professor Santos and Ms. Karina! And ladies - the Saturday ladies only class is so fantastic!
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My son has been training here for a little over a year, and we have no doubts we hit the jackpot with Professor Santos and Baca! My son has gone from the quiet kid in the corner, to the kid making sure the quiet kid in the corner knows he isn't alone.
I am not athletic or graceful (or into public humiliation), so I fought signing up for a few months. What a mistake I made waiting! Everyone at the school is extremely welcoming and helpful, on and off the mat. No egos, no bravado, no BS.
Come visit the school, you will not be disappointed!
At age 47 I tried an intro class mostly out of curiosity. That was 2.5 years ago. I love this place! Professor Santos is a master teacher and has created a family environment that is welcoming to all ages and skill levels. Ms Karina, Ms Jazmine and all the coaches are just great to train with. BJJ is an awesome sport and the best workout I’ve ever had. Don’t think twice about giving Lake Highlands Machado BJJ a try!
Wonderful gym that I joined when I moved to the area. Very friendly with a great schedule of classes. Welcoming instructors. Good for all levels. I'm so happy I found this gym.
Great place to train and learn Jiu-Jitsu . Professor Santos is extremely knowledgeable, has a pleasant way of teaching and the team will treat you like family.
Come give it a shot!
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Posted 4 years ago
Jennifer Spencer Odom
Wonderful gym and family environment. The instructors are warm and caring and my kids love them!
Amazing school, they treat you like family and make you feel at home. Anyone, from beginner to black belt, can learn here and have fun doing it. Can't recommend this place enough, best decision I ever made!
Top notch instruction from a top notch instructor. A fantastic place to train with great people from all walks of life. A family atmosphere where everyone cares for each other. If you have thought of trying bjj or already train and are looking for a school give CMJJ a try. My son has trained under Professor Santos for 8 years. I have trained under Professor Santos for 6 years. This school just grows and grows. A testament to Professor Santos and the atmosphere he has created. No egos to worry about at this school, just great people helping each other to improve every time we step on the mats. If you've considered bjj and haven't pulled the trigger stop waiting and come see what it's all about. I'm glad i did.
I can't recommend this place enough! The professor is amazing! He's very qualified and compassionate and teaches to all skill levels. The members are some of the sweetest people you'll ever meet and only want you to succeed. The gym energy is inclusive and welcoming to all backgrounds and fitness levels. TRY👏A👏 FREE👏CLASS👏
Definitely THE spot to train jiu jitsu in Dallas. I've been training there for two years. Prof. Marcio Santos is a gifted instructor and has a deep knowledge of the discipline. His teaching style really embodies what it means to care for students. He knows his stuff, and can walk the walk (if you don't believe me, roll with him for 5 minutes and you'll find out for yourself). The academy is a great family environment and people are respectful and fun to be around.
Our 6 year old has a lot of difficulty focusing, but Mr Santos does an amazing job engaging him and is very patient. Would recommend this school to anyone.
I dropped in today passing through Dallas. Everyone was extremely friendly, and welcoming. The lesson of the day was going over some scissor sweep set ups from closed guard! I had a great time, thank you again.
Had my first class tonight. No formal training, and extremely out of shape. Guys were great. Helpful and understanding. I will say this, this is much like hauling hay. You'll either get in great shape or die.
Great place. Mr. Santos is amazing with the kids, and an even more amazing instructor. The atmosphere is perfect and everyone feels comfortable right away.
I've been going here for a little under 5 months and it had been a wonderful experience. Everyone here is so lively and welcoming and Prof. Santos is not only a skilled professional but is also very caring. I would recommend anyone looking for a good workout and great friends to come here!
This school is so friendly and welcoming and that good attitude comes from the top down because of Professor Santos. He is patient, friendly and always accommodating. He gives very thorough instruction and his attention to detail makes all the difference.
I was looking for something that would be a full body functional workout. I got that here and much more! It is a family atmosphere and everyone treats each other with the utmost respect. Marcio Santos is truly a master in both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Capoeira. He is the humble professor and one of the greatest instructors I've had in my life.
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Posted 10 years ago
Adam Myers
Great family atmosphere with an extremely knowledgeable and patient instructor. I have brought my friends and family to join here!
RCJ Machado Lake Highlands is the best Martial Arts / Jiu-Jitsu School I have ever trained at. Mr. Santos is always there and greats everyone with a smile, handshake and/or hug. He is very attentive of different physical abilities and pushes you just enough.
The students at RCJLH are also 2nd to none, always willing to help regardless if it's your 1st day or 1,000th day.
My sons and I will never train anywhere but RCJ Lake Highlands.
Try it and you will be glad you did.
When my family joined this school a year ago, I didn't realize how it would impact our family for the better. My shy daughter has excelled in school and I know training here is the reason why. Professor Santos is an amazing teacher and cares of his students and his dedication shows. Mr. Baca teaches the kids class and you see how much the kids love him. I'm so happy to have found the right martial arts school for my family to train at.
I have been a student here for a few months now and it is beyond amazing.
Professor Santos is a 4th Degree Black Belt and is one of the nicest guys that you could ever hope to meet. The people who train here are also amazing. There are men and women training of all ages and athletic backgrounds and the kids program is very active.
If you are looking to get in shape, learn self defense, or just pick up a new hobby then this is the place that you need to be.
Mr. Santos is the REAL DEAL! Have been to BJJ gyms in several different states and I am glad to call this one my home. The atmosphere is very open and a constructive learning environment, not at all intimidating for new students. The more senior students are always eager to help and assist in anyway possible plus Mr. Santos makes BJJ a modern art form!
Our oldest has been with the school a while and loves it here, but my youngest is what truly excites me. She has Aspergers and has major issues with people being in her physical space. We decided to try her in BJJ to see if it would help...at first, she would panic when someone would get in mount, etc...total crying breakdown..but we kept teaching her to breath and stay calm, and she has had MAJOR improvements. You can see her stop, take a breath, and focus to not panic. The guys were totally patient and sweet with her. She has really started looking forward to classes, and I can't say what a turn around this is...Thanks RCJ Machado!!!
I'll give my honest opinion. It was alright in the beginning. Had no problem. The first time I thought it might be an issue was when this freaking maniac with 3 stripes on his white belt went all crazy on a higher belt that was just chilling. Early morning, like 6AM. No worries, but the professor was just just smiling. That crazy maniac attacked me too , and was all smiles. No problem
Then after 2 weeks thwhem I apply the same technical to someone els3, the professor scold3dd me in front of everyone. . Lol So I left.
Not really for the white belt beginner. You will need some (a lot) of prior jiu jitsu knowledge to get much from this school. No beginner classes and no structured curriculum makes this a challenging place to learn