Essence BJJ Walnut Creek

1500 S Main St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, USA

4.9 (48 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Judo Muay Thai Self-Defense

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Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

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Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Self Defense And Muay Thai Classes For Adults, Kids, Teen And Women. Family Environment, Safe And Clean. Essence BJJ Walnut Creek.

https://www.essencebjjwalnutcreek.com/

(925) 404-9876

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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Essence BJJ Walnut Creek. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Reviews

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Omar Qaddoumi

I have been attending classes at Ralph Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy for the past 6 months and I have been thoroughly impressed with my experience. The staff was welcoming and friendly, and I took a few private classes with Vini. I was impressed with the level of instruction and guidance I received and overall feel I made good progress in my training.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Kyle Stephens

My 5 year old daughter has been at Essence for a few months and she loves practicing BJJ a few times a week. The coaches at BJJ are fantastic with children and I would highly recommend them!

Instructors Classes
Posted 1 year ago
Marlene Elaine

We love the experience we’ve been having at Essence BJJ. The professors are so kind and so patient while at the same time very observant and helpful. I really enjoy how family oriented the environment is and the outside events they hold really is a great way to get to know parents who already are welcoming. Kaylee and Gabriela do such a wonderful job at communicating and assuring any questions or concerns are answered. I appreciate the newsletters sent to keep us updated on that’s going on and tournaments we can attend. We look forward to being part of such a wonderful team and family.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
FanW

My son started jujitsu classes at here when he was four and a half, and now, at nearly six, he's excited to move up to the next age group. We like everything here so far! The coaches and staffs are awesome—skilled, patient, and dedicated. My son has shown remarkable improvement in both his physical abilities and confidence. The class atmosphere is welcoming and supportive, also teaching children discipline and respect. He's not only learning defense skills and becoming stronger but also developing a calm mind and good manners. Highly Recommend!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Tom Chau

This review is based on training for 6 months for myself and my kids on BJJ. Essence BJJ is a great place to train and learn BJJ. The instructors are very nice and approachable. The gym is kids friendly and their classes for kids are designed for the kids to have fun while learning. Everyone at the gym has a great attitude and there is not the "mucho" attitude. I highly recommend Essence BJJ to learn and train BJJ.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Antonio Giordano

If you're looking for high-quality BJJ in the East Bay, this is the spot. The atmosphere at Essence is nothing but welcoming. I showed up with zero experience and was treated like part of the family immediately. As for the instruction, you can expect devoted teaching from brown belts Eduardo and Bryan, Professor Vinny, and 5th degree black belt Felipe Oliveira. Finally, Essence BJJ runs a right ship. The place is spotless and the administration are available to answer any questions you can think of. Seriously, what are you waiting for?

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
samia guerdj

My kids love this place unfortunately, we only go once a week because of their school programme.But the kids can't wait for Saturday,They love practicing this sport and they are proud of their behavior. Thank you so much for all your hard work .

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Anthony J

Started jiu Jitsu this year and this place has been nothing but welcoming, this place is a second family!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Karina Paixão

I love the jiu-jitsu classes you learn so much and have fun at the same time it's just really fun the way they teach us and it's awesome I highly recommend Ralph Gracie Jiu-jitsu.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jen T

Very friendly bunch of people. They have classes at different times to accommodate different schedules and lots of kids classes too!

Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Filipe Jerry

The best academy on East Bay!!! 🔥👏🏼🔥👏🏼

Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Barış Metin

Amazing instructors, clean gym, great location... I've been training at Ralph Gracie Walnut Creek for a couple months already. The culture in this gym is very welcoming, both the staff and the members are knowledgeable, accommodating, and very respectful. I would strongly recommend Ralph Gracie Walnut Creek whether you're new to martial arts or a veteran who's been training for years.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jeff Costas

I was skeptical to put my boys in jiu jitsu because they didn’t take to karate very well and I’ll admit I also didn’t know much about jiu jitsu itself. WHAT A GREAT DECISION WE MADE!!! First of all, jiu jitsu is perfect for my rough and tumble boys. They’re learning self defense techniques for sure, but I wasn’t aware they’re also being taught anti-bullying and personal improvement/responsibility lessons as well! Every class is 50-50 boys and girls too. The family that runs it (the Nuneses) and Coach Eduardo are exceptional people and teachers! Coach Kaylee is a wealth of knowledge and is always helpful. The environment on the mat is extremely positive and encouraging. Aside from jiu jitsu, they also off Muay Thai kickboxing classes, day care/camps around the holidays and summers, parents night out events on Friday nights, and private lessons if you desire. I couldn’t be happier with our choice not only of jiu jitsu, but specifically the Walnut Creek Ralph Gracie gym. I encourage you to run, not walk, to join!! You won’t regret it!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Will Vatcher

I have been training at this academy for a little over a month. I absolutely love it. The facility is always very clean and everyone welcomes you in as family from the start. The instruction is top notch and there is really no better way to mix working out and learning. My 6 year old son has started his journey as well and now it is all he talks about. From the moment warm-up starts, it takes all his willpower to restrain a giant smile from taking over his face. I would 100% recommend anyone of any age to come in and take a class.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Connor Lyons

Absolutely amazing place. Caring and knowledgeable coaches. A great place for families or individuals. I cannot recommend them enough.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Pilar Souder

This gym is amazing!! I started kickboxing 2 years ago at another great gym, but it was more geared towards exercise and fitness. Ralph Gracie is a perfect next step for me because it goes further in depth in skill, technique and proper form of the martial art. The self defense element is also huge for me as a woman. The coaches and owner are absolutely amazing and make everybody feel comfortable and empowered. They’re true experts and have incredible knowledge on what they’re teaching. Not only that, but the community of people who attend classes are wonderful and people who I look forward to seeing each week. I get excited each day I go to Muay Thai class and leave having learned something new every single time. I highly recommend trying Ralph Gracie out!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Valentine Vozniuk

It’s been a month since I started practicing Brazilian Jiujutsu at Ralph Gracie and I need to warn you… It’s addicting!! Everyday you are going to wake up and count minutes before your next class!

Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
mdmsfan “mdmsfan”

Trained there first time today, and the experience was great. There were two instructors who were ready to help. When I was "rolling"with one of the instructors he provided me with useful tips for defense. I am a beginner and this place made me feel welcome and not intimidated. I am planning to attend more classes and incorporate practicing Jiu Jitsu at this place into my schedule.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
adrian perez

The environment in this gym is awesome! Very positive energy. Love training here :)

Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Moacy Barros

The best environment possible. For you and your kids.

Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Corri Frazier

Great place to train Jiu Jitsu and get a good workout, I enjoy every class!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Brian Lucas

My son and I both love this place. I train with Vini twice a week and enjoy every minute of it. It's a mental, physical and rewarding challenge every time I step on the mat. Vini's skill set as a coach is top-notch. He has made this process of learning a new skill fun. My 13 year old son takes Eduardo's class once a week. The best part of his training for me is when he's done he can't wait to show us the move that he learned. I even see him doing some of the movements that Eduardo shows the class, on his own!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Kaylee Duncan

This is the absolute best martial arts gym I have ever been too. Vini and Camila are like family and I am so grateful to learn from professor Vini and his jiu jitsu knowledge! The facility is clean, well organized, and comfortable to be in. The team is warm and welcoming! So glad to call this place my home away from home!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
eduardo curado

The best spot in the bay to train jiu jitsu. Perfect environment to chill with your kids and better place to learn how to defend yourself. The muay thai is a really good option to loose weight and gain self confidence. I love this place

Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Ivan Petrovic

This is excellent gym! Most of the time there are multiple instructors on class. It is easy to learn new technique and practise because instructors will help you if you are stuck. Community is also very friendly. I am enjoying every class and cannot wait for next one! Good job!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Christopher Sparacino

Fantastic, Supportive Community. I trained at Ralph Gracie under Vinny for about 2 months in a 7 month period and it was fantastic. Due to a number of personal and familial reasons, I was not able to train as much as I had liked and the only reason I discontinued my membership is because I moved. Hopefully, some day, when and if I move back, I'll resume training with Vinny.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Nolan Smith

Instructors are very knowledgeable and you will feel very welcomed! My wife has trained with Vini for years and I just started the Muay Thai classes and we both love it! Highly recommend this gym!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Christopher Moreno

Best place to visit before and after work….! Amazing instructors it’s a real family 🤙🏽🤙🏽

Instructors Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Ruben Fernandez

Family oriented facility that offers the opportunity to challenge yourself both mentally and physically. Kids feel welcomed and gain confidence while having fun with the team (family)

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Jenna Davi

I am so grateful to Vini, Eduardo and the rest of the RGWC Team! I was looking for my MMA home and I found it. The classes are awesome, they really care about their work and they put their heart and soul into their training with you. I have spent a year in Thailand training MT and even though my time there was great, I am learning so much more at RGWC. Eduardo is incredible, he will make you sweat, push you but also be there to meet you where you are at. I have learned so much from his classes and seen my body and mind transform with his guidance. This is my first time training BJJ and I am now obsessed because of my training with Vini. It's an incredible Martial Art, his classes are professional, detail-oriented, empowering and inspiring! I learn so much after every class and I can't wait to attend the next one. Other than the instructors they keep the studio super clean, professional and staff are friendly, helpful and they all care about what they are doing. Lots of thanks and hugs to Camila, Kaye, Jolie and Baby Buddha. I highly recommend RGWC. You'll find a family here, you will feel welcomed and you will not regret your time spent here. I cannot express how much training at RGWC has helped me strengthen not only my physical body, but my mind and my spirit. My heart is happy here and it has been my space to decompress, destress and has sparked a new zest for life for me! Training here has become my meditation and if you give it a try, I have no doubts it will become yours too. THANK YOU RGWC!!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Winfield Tuayon

We have our son Theo enrolled here. Professor Vini and Bryan are good trainers. They make sure everyone has the chance to be trained. They encourages every kid on physical exercise in and out the training mats. Kudos!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Milsner Fitness

First time training Jiu Jitsu and teaching strength and conditioning classes at a Jiu Jitsu academy. The team, staff and culture at this gym is truly unmatched and I have heard this from many of the more experienced Jiu Jitsu connoisseurs who have frequented several gym in a variety of cities. Vini and the entire RGWC staff and instructors are incredibly genuine and break things down for those who are just starting their Jiu Jitsu journey. They are fun, lighthearted and make you feel valued for training with them. This is a family run business from the inside out and even the students, young and adults, are great supporters no matter what belt level you are. Thank you RGWC for my first and likely best Jiu Jitsu experience!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Ber Clausen

I've been training at Ralph Gracie for a little over 4 years, and met Vinnie in an open mat back when I was still in SF. He is such a nice person and fun to roll with. The minute I moved to Walnut Creek I contacted him to start rolling at the Academy and never looked back.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
brian schinski

Vini Nunes is an amazing coach and a high level black belt. He coaches people of all ages and skill levels, very talented in all aspects. The academy is clean and very professional; if you're in the Bay Area then this is the best place to train BJJ.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Matt Miller

I have been training with Vini and the team for almost three years now and it has been transformative to my life in a lot of ways. Ever since I started, I've been trying to get everyone to try jiu jitsu! I've also trained at various BJJ gyms around the country and, in my experience, I've found Vini and the RGWC crew to be the most welcoming to beginners and visitors!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Brian E

I have been training for 11 years, which includes being a member of five different academies. Three of which were in Brazil. Yeah… I have moved a lot. If you are just starting and want a safe and friendly environment to learn Jiu Jitsu, look no further because this is it.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Michael Berteloot

Starting anything new can be a challenging adventure while being nervous and intimidated by the unknown. When I first met Vini he instantly made me feel comfortable with his outgoing personality and his overwhelming kindness. He is a very caring, professional, and patient person and treats everyone that comes into his gym like family. After training with Vini for about 2 years now, he still has an above average amount of patience which has helped keep me comfortable even when I am struggling through learning new techniques. I highly recommend training at Ralph Gracie Walnut Creek regardless of your current skill level, Vini will make everyone feel right at home!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Amanda Moraniec

The instructors and students are amazing. This is a great place to learn jiu jitsu, self defense, for fitness, and to make great friends.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Jason Bruderer

I have been training at Essence for about 9 months. I met a lot of really cool people and learned a lot of really cool stuff, but a series of bad experiences with a particular instructor has pushed me to terminate my membership. Some pros about the gym: - Fairly clean - Mostly good instructors - 6:15 AM classes - A lot of awesome people training there But there are also some cons: - You can only wear expensive gear you buy from them, including rash guards and shorts. - Private lessons with Eduardo are a total waste of time and money (more on this below). - Belt promotions are attendance based. - It's not a very beginner-friendly gym. - Almost no new white belts stick around. There are also major problems with the instructor Eduardo. His method of teaching largely revolves around not teaching, but rather shaming your for not doing it properly. He has encouraged me to never go easy on new white belts, which I think is the main reason contributing to a harsh culture where new people don't stay for very long. His private lessons were an absolute waste of money and consisted of him showing up late, talking about BJJ for 50 minutes, then maybe rolling a few rounds without really teaching you anything, but rather just showing you how much better than you he is at BJJ. When I asked him if we could do some specific drilling around topics I want to focus on he literally told me that I'm paying him for his BJJ knowledge and he will decide what he will teach me. In a recent incident I playfully grabbed (not cranked) a heel hook on him while rolling with the gi, which I didn't know was against the rules, and instead of him stopping and informing me that it was against the rules, he angrily swore at me and then proceeded to talk badly about me to everyone else at the open mat, right in front of me. This was the last straw for me and caused me to get angry and get into a shouting match with him. The owner Vini spoke to me about this earlier on Monday and basically made it clear that I was the one who was disrespectful and it's me who was totally in the wrong, not him. So, I'm done with this gym. I would encourage any new people who are interested in trying out BJJ to try out other gyms before this one. Edit: In reference to your response (which may have been removed): 1. I will retract the statement that "he kicked me in the chest." 2. The other incident was when I was less than a week in and didn't know about your no-heel-hook policy, and I have screenshots of a text message saying that he wasn't injured or hurt. It was then that I was told by Eduardo during a private session that heel hooks are okay with brown belt or higher. He never specified gi or no gi. 3. "Didn't feel safe" around me is a bit of a stretch. Eduardo initiated the swearing match, which you also conveniently left out. 4. I signed up for 10 lessons up front with him when I first started because different instructors had different rates. And to be honest, that problem by itself wasn't bad enough for me to complain or try to change it, I was okay with just eating that cost. The biggest problem I have was with the heel hook incident, the private lesson topic is one I put on this review so hopefully others don't make the same mistake I did. 5. The most recent altercation with Eduardo was the only unforgivable thing about this gym, and it by itself was bad enough to warrant the 1 star. 6. The incident where I "didn't let go of the submission" wasn't a submission, but where I was in the middle of performing a sweep and didn't see that I was pushing him into another group and I also didn't feel his tap. I didn't angrily hold onto a submission like your original response would portray.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago