Deanna Orlovski

Paul is nothing less than an exceptional teacher! No matter what skill level you are at, he’s patient while also pushing you to hit your goals. Highly recommend!

Instructors

Posted 1 year ago

AJ Malig

They got the wombo combo of kickboxing and jiu jitsu. Paul is a legit instructor and is very good at teaching all of his people.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

I have had the pleasure of training at Certified Martial Arts. The instruction there is very detailed and really applicable to what you’re trying to accomplish. There are multiple disciplines to learn. The atmosphere is very welcoming and everyone is trying to get better each day in martial arts and as a person. The schedule accommodates for almost every timeframe so you can train all day if you want. They recently redesigned the gym which is cool and the mats are always clean. I really like the jiu jitsu and the no gi training has to be one of the best in Washington. I only use Google to store my pictures and videos but I had to login to share my experience so people will know that great training is available in University Place, Washington and not just Cali and Brazil. Paul is an observant coach and will be able to help you elevate your game.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Noah Roberts

Coach Paul is an excellent instructor and cares about the progress of his students. The community at Certified are filled with friendly and competitive students which makes it great place to learn and grow at.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Grace Cecil

Certified is an amazing gym! Paul is an incredible martial artist and has a huge skill set. I have been in to their open mat dozens of times and everyone is always very friendly.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

David Peck

Certified jiu-jitsu has been an amazing learning environment. Paul is a great and knowledgeable instructor who strives to push his students to be better. Would recommend this place to anyone at any level.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Johnathan Roe

Coach Paul is an amazing coach! His dedication enthusiastic, passion and detail of teaching Jiu Jitsu is truly something to witness. If you’re looking for a gym with amazing staff and amazing atmosphere this place is for you! 10/10 recommend

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Tyler Bourque

Very knowledgeable. Everyone there is very friendly and welcoming and there's certianly no shortage of quality training partners, teammates, and opportunities to learn and grow irregardless of your experience level

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

TayShawn Jones

fire gym. Coach Paul has taught me a lot of things in just 3 months of training on and off the matts helping me become a better person and a better martial artist 🥊

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Dylan Corey

The best coach ever had, best environment for learning about jiu-jitsu from and entry level to the most advanced student. Paul is amazing and a true martial artist and friend

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

leapord claw

Amazing classes really cool coach recommend completely

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Warren Collado

*5/5 Stars - A World-Class Jiujitsu Gym for All Levels!* I've been training at CertifiedMatialArts for almost a year now, and I can confidently say it's the best jiujitsu gym I've ever had the privilege of stepping into. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to stay active and learn new skills or a competitor seeking to take your game to the next level, this gym has everything you need to succeed. The instructors at CertifiedMartialArts are truly exceptional. Not only are they knowledgeable and experienced in the art of jiujitsu, but they're also passionate, patient, and dedicated to helping each student improve. From beginner-friendly classes to advanced training sessions, the instruction is always top-notch. The facilities are equally impressive. The gym is spacious, clean, and well-maintained, with top-of-the-line equipment that's perfectly suited for jujitsu training. The mats are comfortable and safe. But what really sets CertifiedMartialArts apart is the sense of community that pervades every aspect of the gym. From the instructors to the students, everyone is supportive, encouraging, and dedicated to helping each other improve. Whether you're looking to make new friends, find training partners, or simply be part of a vibrant and dynamic community, Certified MartialArts has everything you need. In short, CertifiedMartialArts is the perfect jiujitsu gym for anyone looking to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment. I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of this gym, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a world-class jujitsu experience. *Rating Breakdown:* - Instruction: 5/5 - Facilities: 5/5 - Community: 5/5 - Overall Experience: 5/5

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Kevin Sotomayor

Certified Martial Arts is an incredible gym with a welcoming yet competitive atmosphere. The space is decorated with nostalgic Dragon Ball vibes that make training even more immersive. The community is friendly, the rolls are solid, and the coaching is top-tier. I was in Tacoma for the weekend visiting friends and stumbled upon this spot—easily the right move! I’ll be back this summer. Ossss!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Daniel Medalie

I had the good fortune to recently spend a week in Rio de Janeiro with Paul the head instructor of certified. We were both attending the academy of multi world champion Caio Terra. To say that Paul is a beast is a gross understatement. He's an amazing Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with incredible dedication and skills. I can't imagine a better place to train!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Matthew Tillman

Coach Paul is an absolute madman in the best way possible. His passion for jiu jitsu is clearly evident, and definitely contagious. His attention to detail is the stuff of legend. If you want someone to be deeply invested in you progress and success, look no further. Can’t wait to train with him again, though my feet may tend to disagree!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Hai

AMAZING, there is candy and nice people and candy :D

Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Dylan Potter

GREAT gym and GREAT coaching staff. Paul is a true professional. A must-try gym for anyone interested In getting into Jiu Jitsu or combat sports.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Mario Gaor

Great place to train with dedicated instructors who care about quality. Love the vibes here.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Will Renfro

Awesome drop in class here. Tons of knowledge in the room, and great mindsets all around. This is the best type of training environment you can get. Highly recommend. Thank you for having me!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Stephanie Favela

I joined Certified in March this year, and I can’t express how much it has transformed my experience with training Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I previously had some experience, but had never consistently trained in BJJ. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. They both really took the time to ensure I was getting attention in developing my skills., even in classes with more experienced students. I never felt unsupported or discouraged. Each class is a good blend of instruction and applicable live rolling time. The emphasis on good technique has helped me develop my skills. I have enjoyed the specific attention to detail in learning new techniques. I love how the gym fosters a culture of respect and teamwork, making it a safe space. The people who train here are always helpful and fun to train with. The owner, Paul, truly sets the tone for the entire gym. His passion for Brazilian jiu-jitsu is evident in his own training and coaching. He genuinely cares about each member’s progress and well-being. I wholeheartedly recommend this gym to anyone looking for somewhere to train BJJ.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Miranda Brown

I highly recommend Certified Martial Arts. It's the coolest facility you'll ever go to with the best coaches. I've had a few coaches over the years and Paul has been by far the most dedicated to his career in coaching and in his own training. He keeps things fun yet professional. It's truly inspiring and motivates me to work harder myself. I love the way he explains things and gives reasons to techniques to help you understand what and why you're doing it. His ability to teach individuals of all ages and skill levels makes this a great gym for both children, adults, beginners and advanced athletes. I guarantee you'll see quick growth in yourself and teammates at this gym! Give dragon Paul Z a try and you'll see he's the best!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Michael Ramage

Paul and Rudy are a class act duo that opened their doors to our son Forrest to get some no-gi training sessions in when he’s not training gi at his home gym. I found that there is zero egos at Certified and an open minded, fun atmosphere, yet serious training takes place, which equals quality in my opinion. The team is helpful, supportive and eager to share top notch Jiu Jitsu at the highest level. We really appreciate everyone there and highly recommend Certified Martial Arts to anyone that is interested in starting Jiu Jitsu for the first time or to the highest competitor, you’ll get something out of your time and efforts here!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Austen Bowman

My son and I have had great experiences with Paul as our instructor. He is as good with newbies as he is with skilled students and especially great with children. Personally he is the most driven person I have ever had the privilege to train with. His skill set, strength and conditioning will amaze you

Instructors

Posted 2 years ago

Brendan Oberding

Certified Martial Arts is the perfect place to start/continually learn BJJ! Super friendly community being built that has room for you no matter what kind of background you come from. Paul and Keahi really put every effort they can into your training!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tyree Winfrey

Certified Martial Arts is a great place to learn Brazilian Jujitsu, Judo, Wrestling and Muay Thai striking, Coach Paul is a great coach here with many other coaches we have here at our dojo come by to the dojo during opening hours

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kalani Tiumalu

AAA+ Could not recommend this school more. I stopped in with my son while waiting for my Daughters wrestling match at the High School down the road from the Academy, Coach Paul was super friendly and welcoming. This also translated to the other people there, who all took his lead and were super nice and welcoming as well. He trained with my son 1on 1 since we were the there right when he opened up. We were there for over 2 hours and it was awesome! Coach Paul is definitely amazing with his kids classes. He is very aware of his students different levels and helps with adapting. He is the real deal. We highly recommend Certified Martial Arts- Jiu-jitsu. WE decided to make Certified our home Academy. When it comes to the BJJ, Coach Paul is LEGIT. The instruction was top notch, and rolling with him you can tell he is an exceptional BJJ athlete. All in all, fantastic experience and wholeheartedly recommend this school to anyone interested in BJJ or looking for a place to stop in.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Budo Mvmt

Went there with my boys from OSS BJJ 360 in Bremerton today to check out the open mat. Nothing but super cool people, methodical, technical, respectful and very warm welcoming. We went there to roll with new bodies as to not get too complacent just rolling with only our teammates in Bremerton and what a wonderful and humbling experience it was! Certified , without a doubt, has some amazing talent on those mats! Thankyou Paul and everyone else that was there! If you’re in that area and thinking about starting your grappling journey, GO THERE! START THERE! can’t wait to go back! All my prayers that they grow and flourish! Thankyou so much!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Miguel Lugo

Certified Martial Arts is the place to be in Tacoma if you’re serious about grappling. They have a very fun and welcoming environment that guarantees you’ll be leaving with a big smile on your face after some solid training.

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Seth Vanessa

Coaching at Certified is high level! Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or hobbyist, the competitive yet playful atmosphere here is truly second to none. Highly recommend! 10/10

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Daniel Schabot

Paul is a dedicated Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitor and trainer. I have never seen anyone study more. However, I have a bad knee and cannot participate in BJJ. Paul developed a specific training plan for me to work around my knee issues. He leads me through a full body circuit lifting routine 3 days each week. In addition, he wrote my off day lifting workouts. In one month while putting on muscle I have lost 5 lbs of fat. I highly recommend Paul as a trainer. Even if you don't think you can train in his BJJ classes drop by to see if his other training options might be a good fit for you.

Instructors

Posted 2 years ago

Bailey Woodruff

Certified Martial Arts has a great ensemble of practitioners who are knowledgeable about jiu jitsu. Paul’s demeanor is welcoming to newcomers, and the space, which is tucked off one of the main roads in University Place, is great (nice mat space, bathrooms, places to set your bag/gear). Definitely recommend stopping in for a class (or several).

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Gwendolen Lentes

Paul is an excellent coach and an all around good guy. Paul has a wealth of experience and knows how to share it. If you’re looking to try out jiu jitsu, come check out Certified! This gym is great for kids, beginners, and hard core advanced athletes. The atmosphere is inviting- you can tell by the many women who are regulars. You won’t be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Carlos Seco

Paul is one of the best coaches I’ve came across he really dedicates his time to his craft and students it’s the best training you’ll get I always leave the gym feeling good, confident, and ready for the next session!! everyone I’ve met on the team including other coaches are super helpful, generous, and always will push you to be the best. Sundays are awesome!!!!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Anthony Delawrence

Dropped in for open mat. I couldn’t have picked a better gym to remind me that I have been on a 10 month hiatus. Great group to spend the day with!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Branden Bitticks

Amazing place all is welcome there. You don't have to be skilled already like I wasn't I showed up there just to try something new. What I found was a amazing trainer who actually wants his students to achieve something. It doesn't feel like he's doing it because he has to but that he wants to.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Gabrielle Bement

The owner knows his stuff, super respectful as well. The community is wholesome and very inclusive. If you want to get fit, train to win tournaments in any combat style (wrestling/no gi/gi) this is the place to go, the accountability and teaching methodology is unmatched in the area.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

jeff jowers

Fantastic coaching and a great place to train or learn BJJ. The instructor is fantastic, incredible knowledgeable and will work with you to be the best at bjj based on your goals and what you want to get out of bjj. This place is awesome!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Joe Ferguson

Paul is the real deal, 100% legit! I and especially my daughter, have benefited immensely from his instruction. Paul invests countless hours in his students between drilling, live rolling, hard core competition training, and driving to numerous competitions even to coach a single competitor. You want to advance your game with good body position, solid technique and finishing mechanics, stop pulling guard at other gyms, hit the mats at Certified Martial Arts and learn how to bring it!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Sara F

Paul is the most dedicated jiu jitsu coach and practitioner I know. He has been my coach for over three years and I have learned so much from him and continue to each time I train. If you want to train jiu jitsu, Paul is your guy. Nobody trains as consistently and as hard as he does.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Michael Baran

I’ve known Paul, the owner of Certified Martial Arts for several years. Nearly all instructors in martial arts are knowledgeable and devoted but Paul’s passion for jiu-jitsu goes far beyond those of most others. I’ve found Paul to be professional and patient and is able to personalize his instruction to emphasize the assets and address any weaknesses in each student’s skills. Whether your desire is defend yourself, compete in jiu-jitsu or mixed martial arts and simply want to learn jiu-jitsu for its health benefits, Certified Martial Arts is the place to go in the Tacoma/University Place or anywhere nearby with many current students travelling from much farther away.

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Elijah

Best gym around

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Sean mckenzie

Paul has been my instructor/coach for years! I’ve been around many different styles of coaching but not many are as dedicated, enthusiastic, and detail focused as Paul is. He really does change your mind set w/ each and every round. He is constantly learning him self which in return, will rub off and on you and see great strides in your game. If you’re looking for a gym that has a great environment, this is the place to come too!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

jannith flores

Best BJJ coach around! Paul breaks down every technique to where any child and adult can understand and master fast. He will get you competition ready and encourage all his athletes to compete to get better at their craft. I 💯 recommend to everyone looking to start or continue their journey to go with him as their coach.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Beatrice Pettis

My son, 16, and daughter, 8, have been going to Certified Martial Arts for a couple months now. They have learned so much in such a short time and have gained so much confidence. I highly recommend Paul as an instructor. He works with all ages and levels. His days and hours of business is very convenient.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

keahi makekau

Certified is a LEGIT grappling school, Gi and No Gi, Paul is one of the nicest and most open teachers I’ve ever come across, I’ve been doing Jiu Jitsu just under 4 years and when I moved up here recently I REALLY needed to find a good No Gi school that wasn’t in the middle of Seattle. Certified Jiu Jitsu is that place paul has an unparalleled talent for the leg lock game that I’ve found is hard to find here in Washington. If you’re looking for AWESOME training go sign up here! Not to mention he holds Sunday open mats that are crazy! 10 out of 5 stars.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Pat Garcia

Great atmosphere from anybody just starting or somebody that has been doing jiu jitsu for year and they make you feel at home everybody works together just like Walt Disney says teamwork makes a dream work Paul has a great school going on and it's only going to keep growing and I'm excited to see what he does !!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Erick Hernandez

I ve been training with certified martial arts and Paul for about a year and half and I’ve been loving every second of it,absolutely the place to be to learn high level jiu jitsu from a great coach and high level competitor, always have fun always good sessions for all levels and ages

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

KJ Maggard

Paul is a stud and If you want to learn real, functional jiu-jitsu there’s no better place!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Vanessa Price

Paul is a really wonderful teacher, very knowledgeable, detailed, and patient. I don’t have a lot of experience and still find bjj to be pretty intimidating, but Paul’s classes always create an approachable environment that welcomes beginners and advanced students all the same. I cannot recommend him and CMA highly enough.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Edgar edgar

Great coach. He was able to work with me and my fitness goals, also a great coach for adults and kids alike. His passion for martial arts shows in his coaching.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Katie Marr

Great facility with well run classes. Perfect for beginners or competitors!

Facility Classes

Posted 3 years ago

The Vegan Legend

Paul is an outstanding coach! Great for all ages and levels of knowledge. Weather you are just trying to get in shape, learn something new, or even compete local or at a higher level Paul is the man! The man is willing to train any day and anytime.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Steve Benitez

If you’re looking to keep in shape or take your Jiu Jitsu skills to the next level Certified Martial Arts is the place to be. Awesome facility with a great coach.

Instructors Facility

Posted 3 years ago

Dom Davis

Awesome facility with a Jiu-Jitsu Professor who has techniques from Jiu-jitsu academies all over the world. Coach Paul is highly skilled in teaching all forms of grappling this goes for adults and kids. Also it’s rare to find a Coach who actually rolls/spars with anyone no matter their belt or skill level. If you’re in Tacoma/University Place Area this is a must place to train at. A

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Nick Holmquist

Paul is an amazing coach with a wealth of knowledge! He likes to train hard but also makes his class approachable for new people to feel comfortable. I highly recommend trying a class out whatever your fitness goals may be.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Mclovin400 justus

Awesome for learning new things from an instructor, great place to get into shape in body and mind.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Matthew Lusk

Started my 8 year old daughter here recently and coach Paul has been really amazing with her. Excellent instruction, patient, and kind. 100% recommend to adults, parents looking to build confidence in their kids, or anyone just looking to have a great time and develop a useful skill set.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Rob Kundysek

Paul is an amazing teacher. He works with all skill levels, ages, and backgrounds. I have personally brought my 8 year old son in, my 6 year old daughter, and my 50 year old father and he approaches each situation differently to ensure ALL students have a great time while learning useful and practical self defense methods. We have been to other schools in the area and this is by far the best place to learn, train, and have fun.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Meljay Clapp

I couldn't recommend this gym more! Paul is an excellent teacher and is willing to go at your pace. I've trained with him for two years now and lost 50 pounds so far. He trains people for fitness, self defense, and competition. I have trained in a few different combat gyms and this is the only place where I feel like family, not just another suit.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jose Garcia

If you want to learn under someone who is truly dedicated, very knowledgeable , works extremely hard, and loves martial arts then Paul is the right person for you. Training here will take your jujitsu to the next level!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

JOHN MOREY

I've always had an Amazing experience training with Paul he has taught me so much about Jiujitsu and about myself. If you're loking for the place to learn real combat sports this is the real deal.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Barber Brandon

Awesome gym with a very knowledgeable instructor, I highly recommend this gym if you’re looking for somewhere to train and learn some solid bjj!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jacob Sheehan

Paul has been my coach for over 2 years. I started my jiu jitsu journey with him and I am so glad that I found him. He is highly detailed, knowledgeable, and most importantly skilled in his domain. Over these last years he has become a great coach, mentor, and friend. I recommend people to start training with him all the time and I will never stop!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

David S

Had the pleasure of training here today for the first time. Really nice clean school in a nice part of town, I liked the fact the instructors Filmed the rolls for later reference, a lot of places don’t do that... Paul eat sleeps and breaths jujitsu. I will be joining this gym for cross training.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Stephanie Antrim

Paul has an unparalleled dedication and respect for the lifetime journey of martial arts mastery. His devotion to the different styles and arts as not just an instructor and practitioner, but also as a humble lifelong student, is apparent in his teaching methods and is showcased by the learning outcomes of thousands of students he has brought through the ranks. He has literally travelled the world to study martial arts. I’ve been Paul’s student for years and have taken private lessons from him and it has been and continues to be an honor to train with him. His approach to teaching makes sense, is well organized, and is based on systems-thinking, which lends a sense of consistent progression through his curriculum. I have observed him over the years and I am particularly impressed by his ability to customize his teaching style to any type of learner from any background, ranging in experience, athleticism, age, level of extroversion, and so forth. As a female martial artist, my first priority in finding a studio was safety within a male dominated sport, and I have always felt safe and well protected in Paul’s class. Whether you are a serious martial artist, just beginning your journey, looking for a unique hobby, or just trying to get into shape, Paul can help you reach your goals.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Ken Dunbar

Paul is a true student of Martial Arts and always approaches teaching methodically and diligently.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Certified Martial Arts

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