Checkmat Valencia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
28059 Avenue Stanford, Santa Clarita, CA 91355, USA
28059 Avenue Stanford, Santa Clarita, CA 91355, USA
I started training at Checkmat Brazilian Jiu Jitsu around the holidays last year, and to be honest, I was pretty nervous at first. I didn’t know what to expect or how to carry myself, especially in a sport that involves such close contact. But from the moment I walked in, Professor Art, Professor Leka, and everyone at the school made me feel incredibly welcome. Professor Art guided me throughout my first few practices with patience, encouragement, and clear instruction. As a complete beginner, I really appreciated how supportive and helpful he was while I was learning techniques I had never done before. One of the first things I noticed was how clean the mats were and how huge the academy is..definitely a big plus! More importantly, there’s a strong, close-knit family vibe at Checkmat that makes you feel like you belong. Fast forward four months, and I’ve truly grown to love this sport. The Professors and fellow students continue to inspire and motivate me to push myself, stay consistent, and keep growing. Not to mention, it’s such a great workout! If you're thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I can’t recommend Checkmat enough!
Posted 1 year agoMy buddy Matt has been trying to get me to a class for years. I had a great time at open mat. Everyone was super respectful of my training level and kind. Professor Daniel was really impressive to watch as well! 💪🏼🫡
We love this gym! Professor Art and Professor Leka are so good with our boys… plus what is better than a family owned/operated small business? Highly recommend!
We've had an amazing experience with Checkmat Valencia. Professor Leka, Professor Art, and the Checkmat team are absolute professionals. They have world class technical experience, but perhaps more importantly, they have a deep understanding of how to relay their experience and passion to their students. My 8-year-old son has been attending Checkmat for about 8 months and he loves it. I noticed his self-confidence grow since he started with Checkmat. He tells me his favorite days are the days he goes to jiu jitsu. He's tried multiple sports and has never shown as much enthusiasm as he has for jiu jitsu and a huge part of that is Checkmat's approach to introducing children to jiu jitsu. This is a super kid friendly place. I have so much confidence in this program that I encouraged my 5-old son to try it. Professor Art and Professor Leka welcomed him to trial experience and he had so much fun he joined and is now a member of the Checkmat family. I highly recommend this program. The children grow in their self-confidence, their self-awareness, inner (and outer) strength, discipline, and most importantly, they have fun!
I’ve been training at Checkmat Valencia for 5 years now and my kids ages 4 and 5 both are being training there for almost a year now. Prof Leka and Prof Art are amazing teachers and they have a very talented staff as well. The Kids classes offer a fantastic environment for children to learn valuable life skills. They take amazing care of the kids and you can tell they discipline them and make it fun for the kids at the same time. I noticed a behavior change in my kids. They feel more confident and behave much better since they start training. I train 3x a week with a great group of people. Everyone from top to bottom is very nice and the atmosphere is great. Checkmat Valencia is vey family oriented and I recommend this place to anyone who wants to learn Jiu-Jitsu!
We have been coming to Checkmat for 4 months and our only complaint is we wish we had started sooner! Confidence is so important for our youth but especially for us our young daughters. My girls have learned a confidence in themselves and their strength that we couldn’t have ever taught them without the help of the training Checkmat provides. It truly is a family establishment- Professor Art and Professor Leka really care about their students and their well being. They take the time to help them grow and learn their strengths. My daughters are in the kids class and the lessons are geared toward having fun but learning important lessons at the same time. We’ve also noticed a new sense of respect for themselves and others. It’s become a family affair for us- while my husband haven’t joined quite yet we get to play with our daughters and they show us the new techniques they’ve learned. We are so happy to be part of the Checkmat family and would recommend it to anyone. The confidence building alone is worth every penny. We plan on being around for a long time and look forward to the future strength and confidence our family will gain!
I came here during open mat a couple years ago and this weekend as of January 2025 to roll with my friend. I currently go to a different BJJ gym because I live out of town. Professor Art, Leka, and other coaches are very professional and friendly. Even the other colored belts were very friendly towards me (being a newbie white belt myself). If I lived in town, this would be my first choice BJJ gym to go to. I recommend anyone, brand new or experienced to go here!
Amazing place, they have a large and exceptionally clean facility to train and learn! Absolutely amazing and very knowledgeable instructors that foster growth! Everyone is so welcoming and great, definitely the best place for anyone who wants to grow their knowledge/skillset!
My 8 year old and I both currently train at Checkmat Valencia and I am enrolling my younger son this winter. Not only does Checkmat have a great class range and schedule (beginner - advanced), they also have top notch coaches and professors. I can’t say enough positive things about this program.
Great culture, welcoming environment, easy-to-follow and formulaic instruction - what more could you ask for? Professors Leka and Art are world class. After switching a few gyms due to logistics and trying out a handful of others, I have found my BJJ home. As on older student, it was important for me to find a gym that had a mix in demographics and age - Checkmat Valencia has it all and is a perfect fit!
I have attended classes at Checkmat Valencia for a few months and my experience has been great! The professors are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and encouraging. I also appreciate that the classes are structured to allow for technical instruction as well as free sparring where we can explore different techniques we've been learning. Overall, Checkmat Valencia creates a great environment for students of all levels and I would highly recommend for anyone interested to give it a try!
My sister has been training here for years and she says a lot of good things thats why I know she really enjoys training at Checkmat. She invited me to train at Checkmat Valencia BJJ. It was my first time to try jiu jitsu and I had a wonderful time. Professor Art was amazing especially he knows it was my first time, he was really patient with me yet making sure I was doing things the correct way. Everyone was nice and very welcoming.
Both Professor Art and Professor Leka are always so kind and patient. They always make sure to create a friendly and welcoming environment.
The coaches are wonderful and always push you to do your best
Never tried bjj before, so was a little anxious to start. But both Professor Leka and Professor Art are so welcoming and kind, as is the whole Valencia Checkmat community. SO happy I chose to start my journey here. If you're thinking about it, do it!
It could be very intimidating going into it, but after my first class I was hooked! The environment is welcoming & encouraging. I get a great workout, hang out with amazing folks & most importantly reap the mental benefits. I haven’t trained for very long but so far I’ve gained confidence, focus & overall mental health improvement! I appreciate the feedback from Professor Art when rolling, those that have been there longer than I have always give pointers and great feedback as well. It’s awesome, just do it. I almost joined a different Academy in the area but was immediately put off by how money driven it felt. Grateful for Checkmat Valencia!
I started learning/training BJJ with Checkmat Valencia about 2 months ago. I was initially hesitant and nervous to join, but everyone at Checkmat was/is very welcoming and encouraging. Prof Leka and Art are extremely knowledgeable and truly enjoy teaching. They do a great job pushing you past your comfort zone physically and mentally. That said, they also go out of their way to check up on your wellbeing. Looking forward to continuing my growth through BJJ with the Checkmat family!
The coaches are very friendly and encouraging. They are also good at discipline while teaching young kids. I have two daughters ages 8 and 7 and they love going to Checkmat.
Checkmat Valencia is AWESOME! Are looking for a BJJ gym where the vibe is built around teammates helping to bring each other up, where you will be challenged and pushed to be the best you can be, where you will get excellent instruction and have a lot of fun? Then this is your gym! The facility and mat spaces are great, but more importantly the people are GREAT. Professor Art and the Team are so welcoming. You will be able to feel the positive vibe immediately. This is more than a gym, it's a Family.
Best gym in Valencia! Not only are the professors so welcoming and helpful, but every single student is, too. I’ve never felt so comfortable trying something new for the first time. It was challenging AND fun! And as a clean freak, it’s a super clean gym too lol
Learning/Training BJJ at Checkmate Valencia is fantastic! Professors Leka and Art are both very experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate about teaching. They create a welcoming and supportive environment for all levels, making you feel like part of the family from day one. I definitely suggest this place to anyone trying to improve their BJJ skills!
It was my first time trying ju jit su-- let alone any contact sport, and to say I was nervous is an understatement. But from the moment I stepped foot in the gym, I was welcomed with warm smiles and open arms. Professor Art and Professor Leka were so encouraging and helped me through the whole process. Professor Art was incredibly patient with me and taught me everything step-by-step. And the place is so clean! I loved being there and I'm so grateful I had the chance to try ju jit su for the first time in such an amazing environment.
My family and I were visiting friends from across the pond who have been attending Checkmat Valencia for many years. They invited us to experience BJJ firsthand. The welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. As someone with limited experience in martial arts, I initially had concerns about potential injuries, but these worries disappeared instantly. Everyone was incredibly mindful and kind. I highly recommend this place to anyone interested in practicing martial arts within a supportive and friendly community!
My husband thought my son would enjoy ju jitsu. A good friend of mine recommended Checkmat Valencia. I’ve never seen my son so involved and motivated to go to training without us pushing him. Checkmat Valencia has been such a positive and motivating environment not to mention they keep such a clean gym. In such a short time I’ve noticed my son mature and has shown positive changes. He never stops talking about what a wonderful environment it is and how everyone pushes each other to become better. Now my husband and I are a part of this bjj family and am excited to grow! I look forward in watching my family grow in the sport of Brazilian jiu jitsu with Checkmat Valencia. Thank you for being such a family oriented, clean, and positive environment!
Checkmat has been great for my 5 yr old. He enjoys learning new moves, control and some direction in an event he can use to protect himself. It has been a great sport/extracurricular activity for him.
Checkmat is a great school. My 11 year old and my 15 year old have learned so much from these amazing instructors. The school is beautiful, big and clean. I would recommend Checkmat to anyone wanting to learn bjj. It's amazing for adults and children or anyone wanting to join an awesome family.
Checkmat is well-maintained, and the sense of community is strong. We've seen remarkable improvements in my son's confidence, discipline, and physical fitness. Highly recommend Checkmat Valencia to anyone looking for top-notch jiu jitsu training!
Checkmat is our new home! I'll give you a little back story! We have been in the jiujitsu world for 11 years and are so grateful to have it in our lives. My son started training at 3 years old and is now 14. Jiujitsu has been instrumental and so important to our family. We are very grateful for his Professors along the way who have taught him so much. He wouldn't be where he is today without them! We came to Checkmat about 4 months ago after my son decided that he didn't want to wrestle in high school (we originally left jiujitsu to wrestle when my son was in 6th grade to prepare for the high school sport). When he decided that he wanted to go back to straight jiujitsu, we were looking around at our options. Checkmat came very, very highly recommended from dear friends of ours. We wanted to go to a place that was going to challenge our son and one that felt like a family. We had made so many life long friends at our last gym that we wanted the same here. And that is exactly what Checkmat is. They are so welcoming and transparent about everything. Any questions we had, were answered. We're very thankful to be here and excited to see where this leads our son! If your looking for a great place to train with honest, kind and genuine people, this is it!
We signed our daughter up a few months ago and let’s just say from start to finish they were so helpful and friendly. My daughter was a bit Nervous but when she got there and met Professor Art she relaxed, he is so helpful and very kind and explains in detail. This place is very family oriented and my daughter loves to go. I highly recommend your lil ones to go.
Hi, Thank you Art and Leka for taking the time to show us around and explain the process for Jiu-Jitsu @Checkmat. You both made us feel at home. You made our daughter's transition much smoother than what I thought it would be.😘 Thank you for the incredible experience my daughter has had in your Jiu-Jitsu class. Your dedication, patience, and expertise have made a profound impact on her. She looks forward to each class with enthusiasm and has grown so much in confidence and skill. Keep up the good work. Thank you for creating such a positive and encouraging environment. We truly appreciate all your hard work and commitment. Vilma P.
I've been attending BJJ classes at Checkmat Valencia for several months now and I have been loving every single opportunity I get in learning and training BJJ with all the friendly and positive people here. Ever since I attended my free trial/class, Professor Leika and Art have been very helpful in teaching us the fundamentals of BJJ. Also, in case you are hesitant on trying a new thing in your life, do not worry, Checkmat Valencia has a very welcoming community who will not only cheer you on in tough days but also celebrate with you in good days. I can truly say that I have found a home to learn/train BJJ at Checkmat Valencia.
I love going to Checkmat Valencia. I have wanted to learn Jiu jitsu for years but was always hesitant because it’s a male dominated sport. But Professor Leika and Professor Art have created a very safe, supportive and welcoming environment with as many women students as there are men and I have found some truly great friends along the way. If you’re curious about self defense I highly recommend this gym!
What a fantastic gym. I was visiting Valencia for 2 weeks and, as a recently minted (middle aged) blue belt, was looking for a gym to train at. There were a shocking amount of options and I have no doubt I made the right choice coming here. Two things stand out. First, the instruction was excellent. Clearly delivered, calling out the mistakes people make and how not to make them, making sure both the person trying the move and the person having it done to them are equally active. Professor Vieira was incredible. Second, the welcoming and friendly culture. Just about every single person there at one point or another came up to me, introduced themselves, and gave a fist bump. People were happy to roll with me and there was no ego or macho stuff going on. Just friendly people who also took their training seriously. Art, who helped me get signed up and ready to go, was very friendly and helpful, quick to reply to texts and to make sure I was taken care of on the days he wasn't there. If you're in or even near Valencia, I highly recommend training here.
Our daughter who is visiting for the summer has had the privilege of attending several classes. We have heard many great things about professor Art and the checkmat jiu-jitsu staff, from our family who has been going for many years. We are happy to hear that our daughter is enjoying, learning and being welcomed with open arms. Great place to take children of all ages and experience what jiu-jitsu is all about.
My son has been attending jujitsu classes at Checkmat Valencia for a couple years now and it consistently continues to be an uplifting, positive, and encouraging program! I have watched my son gain confidence and take pride in his accomplishments! I would recommend Checkmat Valencia to anyone looking for jujitsu classes for their child.
Amazing gym! Had the pleasure of stopping by to train with my nephew and had an amazing class! I am a black belt and have trained all over the world and Art and Leka are both world class instructors with an awesome facility! If you’re in the Valencia area and looking for a place to train, look no further! I can’t wait to train there again!
I stumbled upon Checkmat Valencia with no background in Jiu-Jitsu, but from the very first trial class, I was hooked! The welcoming atmosphere, dedicated instructors, and supportive community made all the difference. Jiu-Jitsu has become more than just a hobby; it's a passion and a way of life for me now. It's an experience like no other, and you won't know what you've been missing until you step onto the mats. Don't hesitate—join and embark on an incredible journey of self-discovery, fitness, and camaraderie. Thank you, Checkmat Valencia, for changing my life for the better!
Found an awesome temporary home at Valencia Checkmat, while my spouse healed from an unfortunate accident. Professors Art & Leka are outstanding duo, their academy is emasculate clean and professional. The members there, are skillful, respectful & great people to be around in and out the gym. I’m a firm believer in giving respect to earn respect, had a great experience while there. My last day there was a bit bitter sweet, didn’t want to leave. It’s not a goodbye, it’s just I’ll see you later. I would like to visit again when ever possible. Thank you everybody 🙌🏻🤝🤝👏🙏🏼
Both of my kids go to the Intro to BJJ class and love it. Professor Art and Professor Leka do an excellent job with the little ones by keeping a structured class where the kids are able to learn the basics. The concepts are presented to the kids in a fun manner which make it easy for kids to understand and perform! I attend the adult classes which are also excellent. The people are great and the coaches and professors do an excellent job of creating a learning environment for students to grow!
I've been training at this gym for several months, and my experience has been entirely positive. It's an exceptional environment for both learning and personal growth. The cleanliness of the mats and the expansive training space are notable highlights. Having the opportunity to observe and learn from Professor Leka, a world-class athlete, is genuinely special—her technique and grace are inspirational. Professor Art is equally impressive, offering a cool and welcoming atmosphere. Together, they have cultivated an organized, family-friendly gym that fosters development. This dedication is evident in their students. The community here is fantastic; I've formed great friendships, and training sessions are always rewarding.
Absolutely love coming to the classes! From the people and instructors this place is fantastic! Can’t recommend it enough to my friends and family who are looking to defend themselves.
We absolutely LOVE Checkmat!! Checkmat is clean, professional, educational and has the most amazing instructors. It is a very encouraging vibe and I love the teamwork aspect. This facility is family owned (which I personally love) and they very much invest in their students and families who join. My son has learned SO much this past year and this place has not only taught him skills physically, it has also taught him emotionally. My husband and I attribute his confidence to Checkmat, which as a parent, we can all agree that it so important!! I cannot recommend this business enough. We are excited to start our daughter when she turns 4 so she can build the same confidence and skills our son is building. Thanks, Checkmat!
I love this place! The professors are amazing and make everyone feel happy and included. They also make the environment comfortable to ask questions when u are unsure and need help! The people that go here are also great. It is just a great and enjoyable atmosphere to learn jiujitsu.
Checkmat is a great place to train in jiu jitsu. The atmosphere is friendly yet traditional. I highly recommend Checkmat for children, women, and men who wish to train in jiu jitsu. I am very happy training at Checkmat.
Having practiced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over five years and trained under esteemed instructors like Cobrinha and Romulo Barral in the past, my journey in the art reached new heights upon discovering Checkmat BJJ in Valencia, California. Led by the legendary Professor Alessandra "Leka" Vieira, the first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt female world champion in 1999, alongside her husband, Professor Art Jamgochain, this academy embodies the pinnacle of excellence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction. Professor Leka's legacy as a pioneer in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and her unparalleled expertise in the art are evident in every aspect of training at Checkmat BJJ Valencia. Her ability to impart knowledge with clarity and precision has greatly enhanced my understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques and strategy. Moreover, Professor Art's passion for the sport and his dedication to creating a friendly family environment make every training session a rewarding and enjoyable experience. What truly distinguishes Checkmat BJJ Valencia is its embodiment of family and community spirit. From the moment you step through the door, you are greeted with genuine smiles and a sense of camaraderie that transcends the mats. Professor Leka and Professor Art foster an inclusive atmosphere where practitioners of all levels feel supported, respected, and encouraged to excel. Moreover, the academy's dedication to honoring veterans, military personnel, and law enforcement is exemplary. Professor Leka and Professor Art recognize the sacrifices made by these individuals and express their gratitude all the time. This commitment to service and appreciation further enriches the academy's sense of community and respect. Personally, training at Checkmat BJJ under Professor Leka and Professor Art has been a transformative experience. The supportive environment, combined with expert instruction and genuine care for students' well-being, has propelled my growth both on and off the mats. Checkmat BJJ Valencia isn't just a place to train—it's a sanctuary where passion, camaraderie, and excellence converge, making it unequivocally the best place to hone one's craft in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Going on 5 months attending classes. Early morning class is very useful for me as I work long hours and commute. Nothing but good things to say about the professors and fellow students. Good diversity of students from all walks of life and all levels of experience. It’s a welcoming place where everyone is there to help you get better. Professors are accessible and work with you at your level while pushing you to elevate. Gym is spacious and clean. Will be enrolling my child soon as well. Jujitsu training had an immediate impact on my health and wellness. Don’t wait. Showing up is half the battle.
Whether you have experience or starting fresh, this place has a wealth of knowledge. Every professor is patient, understanding, and provides incredible instruction. In addition, the community here is highly supportive. It’s like having another family! I appreciate everyone involved immensely! Being new to the sport of BJJ was initially daunting but I feel safe, confident, and excited with every class. I look forward to continuing with CheckMat Valencia for years to come!
I came from a different gym and found that the way this gym operates, from the way they treat each member, the structure, the level of experience and expertise is superior to most gyms. Professor Leka is so knowledgeable and friendly, it is an honor being taught and guided by her. The gym is spacious. The white belts have options to train with only white belts as they learn the sport. It offers great exercise, you meet amazing people, and engage in a great competition sport if you'd like. I highly recommend Checkmat Valencia.
Checkmat Valencia hosted an amazing workshop for my Girl Scout Troop. Professor Art greeted us as the door and instantly connected with the girls. He created a workshop that was fun, yet taught the girls important skills like how to handle bullying, how to use multiple self defense move in various situations, how to fall properly, and he started and finished with a game. It was an awesome experience for the girls (and their leaders). I HIGHLY recommend Checkmat Valencia.
Checkmat Valencia is by far one of the best programs out there! My child has more confidence, athleticism, and enjoys attending the class. Art & Leka are very proactive and do a fantastic job communicating and sending updates. You are always aware of what is happening at Checkmat Valencia.
I’ve been coming to Checkmat Valencia for ~ 8 months and can say the facility is spacious, clean, and well kept. The instruction is top notch and the student base is a great mixture of hobbyists and competitors. Very welcoming to new students of all shapes and sizes. 5/5 would recommend.
This is the best BJJ training facility in SCV by far!! Since my first day I went in for a class it has been nothing but a fun and welcoming experience. Professor Leka and Professor Art are very professional and personable. This is a great place to train BJJ for all levels!!!
Where else can you train with a worldclass athlete and hall of famer like Professor Leka Vieira? The moment I entered the gym I was glad to see how clean and organized things were not to mention the energy and variety of people (teens to 50+ yrs young) at different skill levels. What continues to impress me the most is the culture Professors Art and Leka have created. Everyone I’ve rolled with has been patient, respectful and completely unselfish with their knowledge. Their approach to instruction is easy to understand, safe and challenging no matter what your skill level. If you’re looking for a BJJ academy, Checkmat Valencia is a MUST VISIT.
I’m a member of Checkmat Valencia and this gym immediately exceeded my expectations. As a new member, I was welcomed by the staff and members. This gym has world-class instruction and an extremely supportive environment. Checkmat Valencia is like a family that pushes each other to improve. There’s a good balance of slowed down instructions, so you can learn, coupled with free training where you can pick up the pace. This place is addicting, in a good way!!
My kids have been training at Checkmat for close to a year now, and I am genuinely grateful to have found this gym. The instructors are kind, knowledgeable, and welcoming. The gym itself is large, immaculate, and provides ample parking. As a mother my number one priority is the safety of my children. I have absolutely no qualms regarding their care and safety at Checkmat Valencia. One of my kids is on the shyer side, and the instructors worked at his pace, allowing him to get comfortable and build his confidence slowly without adding any unnecessary pressure. My husband is also a gym member and is very happy here as well. In due time it'll be my turn to begin training, and guess where I'll be signing up? That's right, Checkmat Valencia. 😉 **Restrooms can be an issue. The gym is located in an industrial area, so the nearest bathroom is around the block. Be prepared to drive to the restroom while your children are at practice. As someone who travels a good distance to get to the gym, and waits through 2 classes, this detail is important, especially when one of your kids needs to use it while the other is in class. I've been LUCKY on several occasions to make it to the nearest restoom around the block with my kids. Honestly, they shouldn't have to pee in a bush. A porta potty is one idea that would help fix this. As a paying costumer I expect better accommodations. Aside from this is issue, the gym is great. ***I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me about this issue in person. I'd like to publicly acknowledge and thank you for handling the situation with grace and respect. Although we came to an impasse, I appreciate, that in the end, we came to a peaceful understanding. You made me very comfortable, and allowed me to speak my mind and voice my opinion without any anger or judgment, so again, thank you. Two things can be true at once. I may not like, nor agree with the entirety of your restroom policy, but I now have a better understanding of why you enacted such regulations to begin with. And although I do not like nor agree with ALL regulations set in place (specifically those that make my life a little harder), your gym is still a great place for my family to train. Thus, I have retracted my previous rating and changed it back to the original 5 stars.
My husband, Eddie, started practicing jiu-jitsu at Checkmat Valencia a year ago. He absolutely loves it! He speaks highly of the professors and coaches, the facility and other teammates. He enjoys it so much, he often trains twice a day. It makes me happy to see him so dedicated to jiu-jitsu. I know a big part of that is due to the support and positive learning environment Checkmat offers.
I recently had the pleasure of trying out a class at Checkmat in Valencia, a Brazilian jiu jitsu gym, and it was an incredible experience! The professor leading the class, Professor Leka, was truly amazing. Her genuine love for the sport was so apparent and contagious. The class was a perfect blend of fun and challenge, making me work up a great sweat. Rolling with fellow participants was a highlight, especially getting to spar with the professor's 18-year-old prodigy who was nothing short of amazing 🥵. What made the experience even better was the warm and welcoming atmosphere. I felt super encouraged throughout the class. Checkmat is definitely a place where passion for Brazilian jiu jitsu shines bright! 🥋😊
Best place to learn Jiu-jitsu by far. All the professors are great!
What a wonderful place we found! My son is a beginner and had no idea what he was getting into the second he walked in the door. He’s now been coming for a few months. Everyone here is so kind and amazing. They have made my son and our entire family feel so welcomed and loved. Highly recommend.
My husband and I had our son enrolled in the intro to bjj class over the summer break. Professor Leka and Professor Art were patient and made the class fun for him while learning different moves. Our son was initially very nervous to start class, but the professors and coaches were very welcoming. My son became excited to go to class and looked forward to it each week. You can tell that they really care about their students and that helped make it a great experience for our son.
Benn training here for years learning from the absolute best. Leka and Art are the most genuine and down to earth people you have ever met and have run an amazing gym that teaches you everything you need to know about yourself, mentality, and community. 5 stars
My Son trains here twice a week and in their summer program too - I looked around at other school but was taken aback on how welcoming and structured this school is. The training days are held to a high standard of discipline and are very respectful. My son loves the school and I have seen genuine improvements in high attitude, focus and skill level
Once upon a time there was a six year old boy who was so sweet and kind (we will call him Sweet Kid) that one might’ve called him the P word (I mean a PUSHOVER). Kids at school would cut in front of him in line for lunch, they’d ignore him when he informed them their time was up on the swing, and he’d be constant victim to very lopsided pokemon card trades because he wouldn’t speak up. So Sweet boy’s parents enrolled him in jiu jitsu at Checkmat, hoping that it might give him a tiny bit of confidence to defend himself against the evil characters inhabiting his world. Cut to 6 months later: The Sweet boy was waiting for his turn on the swings, loudly counting to 30 as the kids are told to do. When his countdown reached 0 he let the Swinging Kid know that his time was up. However, Swinging Kid didn’t want to stop swinging and didn’t care that his time was up and would regularly ignore Sweet Boy’s pleas to share the swings. Unfortunately for Swinging Kid, this wasn’t the same Sweet Kid that he previously encountered. To Swinging Kid’s complete surprise, Sweet Kid grabbed the chain of the swing and stopped the boy from swinging any longer and then told his friend “go tell the yard duty, I’ll make sure he doesn’t swing any more.” Swinging Boy tried and tried to pump his legs and get momentum to keep the swinging going (apparently is was quite comical) , but it was futile as Sweet Boy was no longer having any of it and stood holding the swing. Soon the yard duty arrived and kicked Swinging boy off the swings for the rest of recess and every day since then Sweet Kid has enjoyed the swings along with his classmates, and was never to be cut in front of or taken advantage of again. The End What’s the moral of this very long story you ask? There really is none, I just like to ramble. But it does serve as a real life example of how Professor Vieira and Professor Art and the rest of the staff at Checkmat changed the life of a six year old boy and instilled in him a level of confidence and power that is going to serve him for the rest of his life, and for that, I couldn’t speak more highly of an establishment and what they do for the kids they teach. Also, Sweet Kid now has a pretty mean arm bar.
Me and basically my whole family having been training at Checkmat. I’ve been an athlete my whole life, and can confidently say that this place has made me find a whole new love for a sport I was unaware about. It’s because of this great environment and amazing experience, that I will definitely be having my future kids enrolled in bjj. This place has my heart
Checkmat Valencia is the complete package. Friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to help at a moments notice. Clean mats and hygenic students. But most importantly, globally recoginzed talented instructors.
I am visiting CA from out of state and my friend encouraged me to join a training session with her at Checkmat Valencia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It was my first time ever trying jujitsu… So I was naturally very nervous…but the team and Art made me feel so at home. Everyone was so friendly and kind. Art and the team took the time to teach me different moves and worked with me step-by-step until I felt comfortable. I am so thankful they allowed me to join for the day and I can’t wait to train with them again in the future!!
I was very nervous and afraid to try BJJ in the beginning and I never thought I could do it. After the first class I took, I was hooked. Professor Leka and Professor Art were very welcoming and I felt at home being at their school. The school has a warm family-oriented environment and I feel very safe learning jujitsu from them. Highly recommended!
I have been at CheckMat for months now. The professors are absolutely wonderful. CheckMat is a very supportive, kind, caring and healthy environment. I have loved every single class and feel I am improving immensely. I am so blessed to be part of this wonderful team!
Training is never boring here. The instructors are very inspiring and passionate. You gain not only friendship but also a sense of family once you sign up.
Checkmat Valencia is an amazing Brazilian jiu-jitsu academy with excellent instruction. The community is tight-knit and supportive, which is evident from the moment you step in the doors. The environment is welcoming and all the instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, personable and patient. The fundamentals are emphasized strongly, and the instruction caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced. The Checkmat Valencia team is phenomenal. They are passionate about the art of jiu-jitsu and are committed to providing a positive and inclusive training environment. They focus on technical abilities, strategy and developing correct movement patterns. The professors take the time to break down techniques with great attention to detail, making sure to emphasize the importance of posture, positioning and leverage. The facility has two training rooms that are both very clean and well-maintained. They also offer a variety of classes ranging from beginner to advanced, self defense, Gi and No-Gi , as well as kids and teen classes. Everyone is encouraged to train at their own pace, and the instructors are always willing to work with students to help them reach their individual goals. If you're looking for a great Brazilian jiu-jitsu academy, Checkmat Valencia is definitely worth checking out. The instruction is excellent, the community is welcoming, and the training environment is top-notch. In a word, it's simply fantastic, I found my home away from home. I would highly recommend this academy to anyone looking for high-quality jiu-jitsu instruction.
I absolutely reccomend Checkmat Valencia to anyone looking to get into BJJ. The atmosphere is very friendly, especially for beginners. They are also a very family friendly place. I frequently bring my kid to sit on the sidelines and watch during class. The professors and the students have all been very helpful and welcoming to the gym! I am very thankful to have found this gym.
Checkmat Valencia’s a very welcoming and warm environment. The professors are great teachers and know how to work with everyone. Great people surrounding you and overall a fun and hard working environment where everyone pushes each other to bring the best out of you.
Professor Leka, professor Art and their team are world class. Our kids love training here. It’s not just martial art skill they’ve learned, but life skills as well. Professors here genuinely care!..wish we can say that about other youth programs we’ve tried. We love seeing our kids confidence grew over the years we’ve been here. We cannot recommend Checkmat Valencia highly enough!! 5 stars!!
They are wonderful teachers who have taught my son CONFIDENCE! One boy at school grabbed him and TRIED to hurt him and he did a move that he was taught and the boy ran off. Plus, they are nice and teach manners. Great place to be.
Checkmat Valencia is an amazing school with awesome instructors. Every session is always a fun, challenging, and positive experience. Professor Leka and Professor Art instruct and train at many levels, allowing for much learning and growth opportunities for all. From personal experience, the fine details they teach in their techniques is on another level, where you either learn something new, or further refine what you may already know, each and every session you attend.
Checkmat Valencia is an amazing place to train! All instructors are top notch and very knowledgeable. I can’t say enough great things about Valencia Checkmat and Professor Leka and Art. My 6 and 9 year sons have been training at Valencia Checkmat for almost a year. Checkmat Brazilian Jiu-jitsu has provided them with an appropriate outlet to exert their energy while acquiring the discipline of bjj and a great balanced physical fitness program. The repetition of carefully structured jiu-jitsu moves and exercises are something the boys look forward to. Professor Leka and Professor Art have helped them learn sportsmanship, responsibility, team work, setting future goals, patients, self control, self confidence, and social skills. Professor Leka's credentials are second to none.
My son found his happy place at Checkmat. His passion for the sport has grown thanks to the support he has received from Prof. Leka and the coaching staff. It’s been a year since we joined the gym and my 6 and 9 year old look forward to each training day. As a parent, I love how organized the program is. The classes are right sized to ensure the kids receive quality instruction. There is a balance between hard work and play. My husband and I couldn’t be happier and highly recommend Checkmat !
I have been training at Checkmat since January and this gym has exceeded all of my expectations. The professors at this gym really make you feel like you are apart of the Checkmat family from day 1 and are amazing at explaining technical concepts. Not only do the professors want to see you succeed, but so do the other students in the class (regardless of belt level). Overall, joining Checkmat was a great decision and I would recommend them to anyone looking to join Brazilian Jiu Jitsu either casually or competitively.
My experience with Checkmat Valencia has been amazing. Having never trained a martial art before, I was hesitant to join, but on my first day everyone was very welcoming. No matter what skill level an individual is, the Professors and others students are always willing to help and motivate the person to improve. I would definitely recommend becoming a part of the Checkmat family!
Great place for women looking to train! This gym has a great community of women who train regularly. You will never be the only girl in class again. And the men are all respectful and good partners. Professor Leka and Professor Art are both amazing instructors and very encouraging. They create a supportive community for all. Entire families train here - kids and their parents. You’re not just joining a gym, but a family.
Great place to start or get back into BJJ. The professors are knowledgeable and the people are incredibly friendly. Before I made the decision they let me drop by and watch a class. I know others drop by and try out a class as well.
Checkmat is a great place to train bjj, started with my oldest child and now the whole family is in. Highly recommend for anyone beginners or advanced!!
I've been a member at Checkmat Valencia for almost a year now, and I don't regret a single minute of it. The gym is big and always clean. Both staff and team are great. I've learned so much since I've begun my bjj journey and truly appreciate how supportive everyone is. Sign up. You won't regret it.
Great place for beginners! Schedule is structured in a perfect way and the training is top tier. Shout out to the Professors for creating an environment that makes everyone feel welcome. Can’t recommend enough!
I started jiu jitsu before the pandemic and got back into it a year ago. During that time we moved to Valencia. I’m so glad we found Checkmat Valencia. We were worried about starting again at a new jiu jitsu school but the instructors and fellow members are awesome. Im 46 and do it for the body and mind workout I get which is really unmatched. A lot of families join here which I like. In fact, my wife, son and daughter all go to Checkmat. My son and daughter love the learnings they get and helps build their strength and confidence. Professor Leka and Professor Art have created a great place to learn and we are so glad to be part of the Checkmat family.
I clicked 5 stars because there was no option for 10. Checkmat Valencia was referred to me by a friend of mines. I came by and took a class just to see how it was overall. I made up my mind on the first visit that this was the school I wanted to be in. Immediately you can feel that you are welcomed. The facitliy is consistently very clean. You can tell the instructors are great and easy to talk to. Art and Leka are just the absolute best! The culture is very family oriented and friendly. If what I mentioned above are important to you then don't hesitate to come and check out it.
Checkmat Valencia has without a doubt given me the best experience I’ve had doing a professional sport. The instructors and professors are wonderful, the facility is always kept in pristine condition, and the Checkmat community in and out of the gym is one of the most welcoming, kind, respectful, helpful, and overall outstanding communities I have been a part of. I highly recommend coming to Checkmat Valencia whether u aim to improve your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or just to stay in shape. 5/5 stars, I plan to stay training here for as long as I can.
When I first started training at checkmat valencia I was welcomed into an amazing family with endless possibilities to come in the future. It helped me to look at things in a different perspective and to understand the meaning of self control. I meet many new people and made some of the best of friends training at checkmat valencia. At my first competition I was supported by everyone at the gym. This is a family that will love anyone no matter what. They’ll show endless gratitude and support to everyone.
Checkmat Valencia is a great place run by great people. For those who are new to BJJ, you will find a supportive, fun environment in which to exercise, learn a very enjoyable martial art and meet great people. Those who already practice BJJ will find world class professors and plenty of schedule options.
My son has played multiple sports and this is his first time trying Jiu Jitsu. He is always excited to go to class. He wakes up early on Saturdays and gets dressed before we ask him. To make any sport enjoyable and help kids fall in love with that sport is hard to do. Professor Art and Professor Leka obviously figured this out. We will be a Jiu Jitsu family for life.
Our son has tried several sports but wasn’t finding something he loved. We can truly say after starting at Checkmat that all changed!! He is EXCITED to go to class! He is excited to talk about it and tell others. He has made friends and Professor Leka and Professor Art are phenomenal!! We love the Checkmat family and are proud to be a part of it! Highly recommend.
I've been training BJJ for a while and have been at several academies throughout this journey. When moving to the area, I looked at several academies and did a trial class at another academy. My goal was to try all the academies in the area and decide, but when I went to my first class at Checkmat Valencia, my search was over! The facility is hands down the best in the area and probably one of the nicest you'll ever train at. Huge warehouse with huge, meticulous mat space. With such a huge academy you have the benefit of different types of training partners. The level of BJJ here is incredible, since there is a big emphasis on competition. But if you are the casual hobbyist, that's ok too as you will get an amazing workout from just attending class. Professor Leka and Professor Art really care about their students. Professor Leka is the highest ranked female BJJ practitioner in the US. Given her size, she has to rely on technique, so learning technique over power and strength is really the foundation of BJJ, which she excels at... and teaches. Checkmat Valencia has a friendly and family atmosphere as you will see many of the adults have their children train there... which is the case for me!
Checkmat Valencia is one of the most welcoming gyms I’ve ever stepped foot in! I came in for a trial class without any previous BJJ experience whatsoever. Professor Art and Professor Leka were so welcoming, understanding and broke everything down step by step to ensure I felt comfortable. The team and the professors are so incredibly sweet and they have built up such a positive family environment. I’m so happy I gave this place a shot and can’t wait to grow with them!
I couldn't say enough kind things about Checkmat Valencia! Professor Art and Professor Leka are each one of a kind and masters of their craft! From the beginning, communication with Professor Art was easy and welcoming. He took the time to walk me through expectations and show me around the gym. Professor Leka is an exceptional instructor and from day one, I was absorbing knowledge from her and Professor Art. Professor Art and Professor Leka do an excellent job of welcoming you to BJJ and the community of students that they have cultivated into a family. Whether you are an outgoing or timid person, you will immediately feel welcome. They have some of the best students I have ever met in any martial arts and I believe that is a reflection of Professor Art and Professor Leka's values! I'd recommend BJJ to anyone! And I especially recommend Checkmat Valencia!
I have nothing but positive things to say about Checkmat Valencia. Prof. Leka and Prof. Art are amazing instructors and are very approachable when you have questions. They also started having fundamentals class for the white belts and it has helped me a lot. I started in October 2021 and have always loved it so I invited my boyfriend to join, too. Now all we talk about is BJJ on and off the mats. We were so happy when we both got our first stripe last month. Thank you Prof. Leka and Prof. Art for your passion in teaching BJJ and for creating a great environment for learning.
Our 8-year-old son has been a part of the Checkmat Valencia family for almost a year now. He is a very sweet and caring boy that is generally considered to be a bit timid in nature. We wanted to enroll him in martial arts so he can defend himself if need be. Checkmat Valencia was highly recommended by our friends, and we’re so happy they told us. It’s amazing to see his confidence grow just by being in their program. Professor Leka, Professor Art, and all of the other instructors are really great with the kids and you get a sense that they truly care about each of the kids individually. We like the structure in which they teach and the kids seem to really respond well to all of them. Our son is thrilled to be in their program and we look forward to watching him learn and develop his technique more.
We are very happy to be a part of the Checkmat Valencia family. Professor Leka, and Professor Art are phenomenal as well as all the other instructors. My boys have developed confidence and discipline and are always excited to go to the gym. The environment is super safe and clean. Thank you all very much!!
I have been going to Checkmat Valencia for about over a month and it has been an amazing experience. I initially came for the trial class and was immediately welcomed by everyone there. I am still relatively new to BJJ so the Professors and students here have helped so much in easing me into the sport. I really like how each week we focus on one concept and build on it throughout the week which allows me to actually remember/reinforce each concept we learn. Also, the new fundamental classes has been super helpful to learn key concepts and work on moves on people that are similar to my skill level. 10/10 would recommend to anyone at any skill level!
My son and daughter joined Checkmat Valencia about a month ago. They LOVE it so much! Professor Art, Professor Leka and all other instructors are amazing. They create safe, fun, supportive environment and make everybody feel like they are family. They'd go extra mile to make sure that kids are learning and having a great time during the practice. They are not only great instructors, but they are great people: kind, caring, supportive, inspirational and patient. My kids felt very welcomed from the first moment in class. When they first started, my daughter didn't know how to do forward rolls and was a bit anxious about it. I briefly mentioned it to Professor Leka and they went extra mile to help her, explained how to do it properly and supported her. WOW! After that one class, my daughter was practicing forward rolls at home with excitement. I am so grateful to Professor Leka and Professor Art for being so attentive and caring! And a funny story :) I had tickets to Disneyland reserved on the day when my kids had jiu jitsu practice. They have asked me for a Disneyland trip for a long time and it was a surprise for them. When I told them about it, they were extremely excited but they asked me to reschedule the trip because they didn't want to miss their jiu jitsu practice! WOW! This tells me a lot about how much my son and daughter enjoy coming to their practice and how much it means to them. Thank you one more time Checkmat family for being fantastic!
The girl at the door was nice. Wish it would have said no drop ins on their website. I was just hoping to train while I travel for work. Also the schedule online wasn’t updated. I came prepared for no gi and would have went back to my hotel to get my gi. But they said no to my drop in anyways. Super unfortunate. :/
0 stars. Gym wouldn’t allow a drop in.. only if you trained at another CheckMat. First gym I ever heard to turn down someone. Not like the big name AOJ, Atos or B-team… pathetic
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