3061-B Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117, USA
Grappling Dynamics uses the principles of the grappling arts to include Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo, to produce well rounded martial artists for the purpose of competition, personal development, and real life self-defense.
I’m so thankful I found Grappling Dynamics. After a long time of considering training Jiu Jitsu, this gym made it easy to start. The environment that Coach Brandon has created at the gym is an excellent combination of quality instruction, challenge, and support. He’s built a culture where students push and take care of each other. And the teaching focuses on developing a wide foundation and understanding of grappling movement, rather than just the current flashy move. This is an outstanding gym that I encourage everyone to check out if they’re seeking top-tier training, community, cleanliness, and safety.
I started training with Grappling Dynamics in July 2024. Coach Brandon and his assistant coaches go above and beyond to teach students the art of Jiu Jitsu and wrestling. Even the upper level belts and newer students help each other like a real team should. The assistant Coach Mike conducts the intake and explains how their program works and is quick in helping you get your Gi and no-gi apparel. The way this team trains together makes it obvious that they all want you to excel, and it can be said from my personal experience that they even want you to get better than them. Watching them work with the kids & young teens is also something definitely worth recognizing and to be appreciated. They work with the youth as if they were their own. Respect for others, safety, and taking care of their health (especially with Coach Seymour) is always stressed during class. If you are an adult or have children that you want to learn a new skill and increase your athleticism, give Grappling Dynamics a chance to work with you and your family.
My son has trained at Grappling Dynamics for a little over year. I'm a Jiu Jitsu black belt myself, have been to a ton of gyms, and can confidently say that Grappling Dynamics has the best kids' program in town (their adults program is great too, I drop in occasionally). The coaches strike the perfect blend of discipline, technique, exercise, and fun. Kids just "get" the vibe and expectations, and are shockingly well behaved in class. We probably have 5 gyms closer to us, but I happily drive out to Grappling Dynamics a couple times a week for my kids' Jiu Jitsu classes. Can't recommend it enough!
Came in while visiting for the week for a family event. Owner, Brandon, was very friendly and responsive. This place has a very friendly staff and atmosphere. Excellent for ALL ages. Class content was engaging and dynamic. I look forward to visiting again when in the area.
Both of our kids (ages 11 & 9) have been with Grappling Dynamics for 2 years and we absolutely love the coaches. Whether it’s Coach Brandon, Mike, or Seymour, the kids respect and appreciate them. They are geniuses when it comes to creating a fun and respectful environment. Also, I really like that they put a lot of emphasis on being a good person; encouraging the kids to be respectful, help out around the house, read books, and be active. The location is great and the facility is too. There’s a great family feel. If you’re considering taking classes for yourself or your kids, or both, you have to give Grappling Dynamics a try.
Welcoming. Safe. Clean. Fun! What more can be said? This place is ideal. A+, strongly recommend
Great place to train whether you are brand new or have decades of experience. Classes and coaches are terrific.
only went to 5 or 6 lessons whilst on holiday, the instructors are very kind and helpful and definitely coming back next time
Great experience this morning! I dropped in as a visitor for their open mat. Rolled with their coach and a purple belt and had fun technical rolls with both. While I generally like the competition scene at my home gym, it’s not the right environment for everyone, and some days it can be exhausting having guys go 110% as if it’s the ADCC finals. Grappling Dynamics is an excellent choice for all level grapplers- especially if you prefer a relaxed, fun, and welcoming environment. Beginners, older grapplers, hobbyists, etc will feel very comfortable here, especially compared to certain other gyms in SD. 100% I will return, thanks for having me!
My daughter did a drop-in class while we were in town on vacation, and both the staff ans students at GD were extremely welcoming! My daughter got a chance to experience training with a new team in a new town, both of which she greatly enjoyed. From pairing her up with a battle buddy to understand their process, to ensuring she received the same instruction as the other students….this academy delivered on all fronts. THANK YOU to all the staff and students for sharing your culture with us, we will definitely be back next time we’re in town!
Our 5 year old son goes to class three days a week and loves it! The coaches are great with the kids. He’s learning about commitment, discipline and having fun too
Thank you to Grappling Dynamics for hosting the most AMAZING community service event for Soroptimist International Mission Valley! We had a blast and learned some much needed self defense skills. I hope we continue to partner with you again in the future. You are all so professional and wonderful teachers of Women's Self Defense. BRAVO~ Christine Troha, President of Soroptimist International Mission Valley
I really enjoyed my visit to Grappling Dynamics and their helpful instructors. The owner Brandon was very accommodating for hosting our private self defense class. I learned A LOT and I highly recommend going in!
I attended the self-defense class that was given at Grappling Dynamics thru the Soroptimist Club of Mission Valley. Brandon, the owner, did a wonderful job with educating the women in the class with basic techniques of self-defense. I truly feel more confident that I am now AWARE of my surroundings and action plan for follow thru if a threat comes my way. Brandon tapered the class appropriately to those that attended. He was willing to teach higher level courses if interested to more of the athletic ladies in the class. A+ to all the guys that helped make this class a huge success!!!
The information that we received was immediately helpful and was given in a fun and interactive way. We got to practice with each other which put the theories into practice. I would highly recommend this business and the people who run it!
The staff was very knowledgeable and really wanted their clients to understand all the principals of self defense, not just how to defend yourself. I would highly recommend this class!!
Brandon and team hosted a self defense class for soroptimist international mission valley and we could not be more pleased. The class was informative, interactive, and fun.
Came here twice while in SD for work. I’m early in Jiu Jitsu journey and working with the instructors was helpful, they have interesting white belt suggestions, open mat had a good vibe.
**5 Stars: An Amazing Experience for Our daughter!** We recently enrolled our 6 year old daughter into Grappling Dynamics lil Eagles program and couldn't be more happy with the experience! From the moment we stepped into GD we were impressed with the welcoming atmosphere. Coach Brandon was quick and receptive to our initial inquiries. Coach Mike went out of his way to make our daughter feel comfortable and took the time to answer any questions we had during our trial class. Coach Seymour is patient, kind, and has a way of making each child feel seen and valued. Coach Brandon, Coach Seymour and Coach Mike all have a teaching style that is engaging as they expertly break down complex moves into movements that even the youngest students can understand. The classes themselves are well-structured and fun. Each session begins with a warm-up, followed by a series of exercises and drills designed to build confidence, coordination, and strength. What really stands out about this program is the emphasis on character development and life skills. The Coaches encourage kids to respect each other, themselves, and their Coaches- and to develop important values like discipline, perseverance, and self-control. Grappling Dynamics itself is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with all the necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable learning experience. The parents' area is also comfortable and inviting if you have other kiddos that aren’t quite ready to practice. We've been blown away by the progress our daughter has made in a few short months. She has gained confidence, developed new skills, and made some good friends along the way. We highly recommend Grappling Dynamics.
I found this gym by word of mouth and I am glad that I made the choice to come. I started my 7 year old daughter off here to help her grow and and develop skills that will absolutely set her up for success. Since she started in late 2023 she has already made leap and bounds in her confidence and skill set. She enjoys the challenges that she is faced with in class from the students and coaches. Brandon, Seymour, and Mike all have the highest level of patience and standards that are not over the top. The kids know once they step on the mat, it's all business. Then after a hard class he rewards them with some sort of game such as dodge ball or whatever else they can come up with. Jiu-jitsu is a journey that I can't really explain except that it has taught my daughter and myself alot about life and strengthen our relationship.
Are you looking for a nurturing and structured environment for your children to learn and grow? Look no further than Grappling Dynamics. My four-year-old twin boys started attending this gym last November, and I have seen a remarkable improvement in their discipline, confidence, and overall growth. The trainers at Grappling Dynamics are skilled at maintaining a balance between fun and discipline. They gradually increase the expectations of the students to promote decision-making autonomy while rewarding them for their effort and positive attitude. I was overjoyed to see my sons proudly show off their first stripe after receiving recognition for their hard work. One unique aspect of Grappling Dynamics is the curriculum based on Coach Brandon's framework. The students are taught the fundamental theory and application of positions before exploring more complex concepts. This approach ensures each student builds a strong foundation and grows at their own pace. The patience and dedication of the instructors are impressive and make all the difference in creating a culture of learning that benefits the whole family. Joining Grappling Dynamics is one of the best decisions we've made, and we are grateful for this nurturing environment that is helping our family learn Jiu Jitsu.
I’m visiting the area for the week and stopped by for a visit. Brandon was super inviting and the class had a great vibe and awesome group of people. The class had a diverse group of belt levels and there was a lot of personalized tips Brandon was able to provide during the class. Definitely worth a visit.
I was visiting San Diego when I was on a cruise. I was looking for a school to drop into to train at. Professor Brandon and I were in contact via email, and he was more than welcoming to me. When I arrived, he was very friendly, knowledgable, and clearly knew what he was instructing. As a prior Marine, it was clear that Professor Brandon implemented his training from the USMC and the MCMAP training into traditional BJJ. That much was clear after 1 training session. The students, professors, and coaches at this gym are friendly, helpful and I had a great time. I hope anyone in the San Diego area would look this school up. When I am back in San Diego, I will come back and train again.
Great location, great people, and good vibes. Will stop in again when visiting San Diego area.
Grappling Dynamics has been so great for my kids! They have gained so much confidence, as well as knowledge on how to protect themselves, and have fun do it it!
Just got back into training after many years off. The Grappling Dynamics team is great. Brandon and Seymour provide excellent coaching in a way that promotes learning but lessens injury risk. The team has a great community vibe. No one is out to prove anything on the mat. Instead, everyone is really looking to help and get better. If you are looking to train you should definitely check it out.
This place is awesome! They have a unique and effective teaching style, and were very welcoming. Highly recommend.
I’ve been doing BJJ for over 28 years and the training environment at Grappling Dynamics is a welcome change. The atmosphere is relaxed and most of the guys are super chill, humble and cool. As I approach 50 years old next year, I’m no longer interested in winning every tournament and winning the UFC…..lol. I’m just trying to have fun, not get injured and I just want to PLAY Jiu Jitsu. Brandon and his top students create a welcoming environment where I can get in a solid workout, keep up my techniques and go home without a torn ligament. Great gym! 🙏
As an older guy (55+) with ZERO grappling background, I was hesitant to even consider training. Brandon and his coaches encouraged me to start at a comfortable pace and work my way into it. The coaching is clear and direct; training partners are fully helpful and supportive. Super strong team vibe - tons of additional instruction from coaches and teammates is always available. I didn't think it was possible for me to train Jiu Jitsu - but it's been a game changer positively impacting most areas in my life. I'm super grateful - Grappling Dynamics a great fit for me! Also...it turns out I have several friends whose kids train here too - they speak very highly about the extensive youth program as well.
Brandon and Seymour run their gym well. It's cleaned consistently, has a variety of class times for morning, lunch, and evening. All skill levels are lumped together, but given the high quantity of experienced participants, you will have a safe environment. For amenities there is a bathroom, shower, and cubbies for storing personal belongings.
Great place for kids/teens/adults. We have been there more than a year and have only awesome things to say. They make an effort at each class to instill some responsibility in the kids and it shows.
We love Grappling Dynamics! My 8 year old sons have been training here for just over a year. Mr. Brandon, Mr. Seymour, Mr. Michael and the other coaches are truly the best. They are supportive and constantly make sure everyone is up to speed, but continuously improving. 5 stars!
As a student here I enjoy it very much. The community is very family oriented and welcoming. I see this jiujitsu community like my other family. Not only that, but the training helped get mentally and physically stronger. This academy is amazing and I wouldn’t ever go to a different one. This dojo has nothing but improved my life. Definitely recommend going here for all ages.
My two daughters (11 and 13) love Grappling Dynamics. All the coaches provide a fun environment for the students to learn while also imparting respect, accountability and self confidence.
We love Grappling Dynamics for the youth classes our son attends, but when they offered a women’s self-defense class, I thought it would be a great opportunity. Having been to other self-defense classes before, I was impressed at the depth of how they taught increasing overall self awareness as a key first step. What really stood out was the hands on practice at actually defending ourselves against attackers. It was done in increasing stages of closeness to allow the attendees to really gain confidence in practicing a real situation for using bodies in different to positions to get clear of the situation. It was full on pushing, pulling, knocking to the ground, using legs in different ways from the ground, etc. All of us had adrenaline pumping since it was a real experience of body contact. That gives me more confidence to know how my body would react in a bad situation. I highly recommend this class to all women just to have the information in your head and muscle memory of the reactions.
Great academy to train at! I was here in the local area for two weeks for a work trip. Without wanting to spend 2 weeks off the mat at my home gym, I looked around the San Diego area and there were plenty of options. What stood out about Grappling Dynamics is their orientation to people and family. Their professors are very family and art oriented. I very much enjoy the structure of their classes and the methods in which they deliver the lessons. While only a blue belt in BJJ, I was introduced to both fundamentals and advanced techniques while training here. For anyone around the SD area, you should check this place out. You will be doing both yourself, and your family (if you all choose to train) a disservice by passing this place by. I travel to SD a couple times a year and will be back upon my return.
10 months ago we started our 2 boys at Grappling Dynamics. The positive environment builds discipline and confidence. Our boys are truly thriving. Brandon, Mike, Seymour and the rest of the staff have found the perfect blend of instruction and fun. I can’t recommend this program enough.
Outstanding jiu jitsu coaching from Professors Brandon and Seymour! There is a reason for every technique taught in class. Techniques taught in each class are not random and follow a logical order within an overall yearly curriculum. You get frequent feedback and direction from the coaches, and that helps significantly accelerate your improvement. The close interaction with the coaches in class is refreshing here and makes you feel welcome and, if you're a beginner, not so lost. The vibe at the academy is always very friendly and relaxed. I highly recommend you give Grappling Dynamics a chance if you're curious about Jiu Jitsu or if you're looking for a new academy to train!
Solid gym to train at. All the instructors are knowledgeable, the community is filled with former military, local fire department and experienced grapplers. Great location in Clairemont. One of the best in San Diego
My husband and I are sincerely grateful to Grappling Dynamics Jiu Jitsu for the positive impact they've had on my son's confidence. My son has been training with them for over a year now and his instructors have become his most influential role models. The instructors are all very professional and knowledgeable, they always command respect in a calm and controlled manner. My son loves going to classes because they are well-structured and challenging. He loves Grappling Dynamics so much that he wears his Jiu Jitsu hoodie everyday, even for school picture day!
After moving away from San Diego I began training in jiu jitsu as a 40-something single mom. I came back to visit friends and did a couple walk-in classes at Grappling Dynamics, where my friend’s kids train. I am so glad I did! Brandon had great communication about the schedule and made me feel welcome before I even walked in the door. It’s always a little intimidating to try someplace new. However, everyone was so friendly and welcoming, I was given a super partner, and had a great first class. Got some good rolls in afterward and was invited to come back later in the week, which I did. I was able to retain what I learned and use it on people at my gym when I got home, which felt awesome. The facility was very clean and well maintained, with a great energy and lots of laughs. I will most certainly go back when I am in San Diego again!
The way this team breaks down techniques and basic Jiu jitsu fundamentals is awesome. I’ve traveled all over dropping into different dojos around the country and Grappling Dynamics has shown me a better way to train. Even the warm ups are fun and fulfilling. We warm up with drills, not the (in my opinion) boring break falls and shrimping across the mats. From start to finish you are getting top level instruction and adjustments. 10/10 recommend!!!
Great instructors, great facility and great students! From the beginner to the experienced class act all around.
Very impressed with not only the patience of the GD instructors but also how other participants help one another learn the different techniques. They teach so many important life lessons as well as the most effective self defense. Can't say enough good things about this place. I highly recommend stopping by and talking to Brandon, Seymour or Mike.
Our son started taking classes here about a year ago and it has been a great experience. The instructors are very good with the kids, enforcing values such as discipline, good behavior and helping out around the house. It has also been great to see our son progress in his Jiu Jitsu skills. The kids are able to progress at their own pace and have fun in the process. Highly recommend!
My kids have been training at Grappling Dynamics since they opened. The team continues to grow and provide a high quality team atmosphere. Brandon, Seymour, and Mike put in a tremendous amount of time and effort training and mentoring the team in jiujitsu, physical fitness, and personal growth. I have had the pleasure recently of training with the adult program and everyone I talk to praises the academy for it’s focus on fundamentals of proper jiujitsu and evolving with those fundamentals.
If you’re a father and are wanting your kids to learn how to defend themselves, as well as, to learn and develop with them, Grappling Dynamics is the place you are looking for. For two reasons, community and leadership. The first thing that attracted me to the place was their youth development program. Although good emphasis is placed on learning the fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu, a priority is to enjoy the art and to improve their leadership skills as development progresses. There is a tiered system of older kids helping the younger ones learn. I felt that this was extremely important for my sons to experience. In addition, I’ve begun the learning process my self. The owner, Brandon, and his team (Seymour and Mike) are outstanding individuals with their own accolades and achievements. Their coaching styles emphasize learning the art of Jiu-Jitsu. Just as important, the people that I have trained with support and respect each person and the level you are at. It’s been a year now that both my sons and I have been training and we look forward to many years of growth and development at Grappling dynamics.
Walking into a Jiu Jitsu gym with zero experience can be intimidating, however, it's the best thing I've done in the past year. Training here has given me opportunity to grow mentally and physically and to create relationships with amazing people. The instructors are helpful, patient, and they set the tone for the community vibe from top belts down to first-timers. I look forward to every class; how much we learn, how hard we work, and how good it feels to improve. Thanks to Brandon, Seymour, and Mike for everything you do.
I cannot say enough good things about Grappling Dynamics. My 8 year old son is enrolled in the academy and looks forward to the classes each week. The coaches, Brandon, Seymour and Mike are very talented and combine a good mix of instruction and fun for the kids. The environment is very family oriented. A passion for teaching, having fun and being a healthy role model is evident at Grappling Dynamics.
My 8 year old son loves it here! All the kids are so helpful, and he made friends instantly. I also appreciate how attentive the coaches are! Just what we were looking for!
I've been to a lot of schools across the US and I have to say this was one of the best. The people are great, there's a lot of high ranking belts, and Brandon is very knowledgable and detail oriented. The Thursday class I dropped in on had this awesome format where we were introduced to a technique and drilled it with a gradually increasing light roll that allowed me to get hundreds of repetitions in that one hour. Hard to explain, but I had never learned that way before and it was great. It wasn't a 5 minutes back and forth drilling then getting smashed for another 20 minutes, I was able to focus on what we learned with movement the whole time. Brandon was also very helpful and interested in my background, what I was doing in San Diego, etc. Very cool guy. The school is super clean and the higher belts had a lot to teach. It was an awesome vibe! I went to two classes- A Thursday night class and a Saturday open mat. Both were really fun. Best way to start off a Saturday. IYKYK Definitely going back again next time I visit!
Our kids have been attending Grappling Dynamics for over a year and a half now and it has been one of the best things for us! It’s been amazing to see the growth in strength and confidence our kids have had. The community aspect is tremendous, like a big family. The coaching staff is incredible, focusing on not only JJ skills, but more importantly respect, integrity and hard work. I highly recommend Grappling Dynamics.
We are so happy to have found this amazing place for our son a few years ago! The coaches are wonderful and not only teach Jiu Jitsu techniques but also discipline, and respect. It’s the perfect place for your children to have fun, be challenged and grow mentally and physically! Our son has been inspired and strives to get better each day of practice. A huge thanks to all the coaches for being so positive and encouraging to all. We definitely consider this Jiu Juitsu community as our extended family and encourage kids of all ages to come check this place out! Coach Brandon, Coach Mike, and Coach Seamore continue to make this a great experience for us all and especially for our son.
I stumbled across Grappling Dynamics when my son, who was about to turn 5 at the time, expressed his desire to get into Jiujitsu/wrestling as he is coming from a family of wrestlers. I reached out and spoke to Mike who was absolutely welcoming and he suggested we come by and check out a class. We did that week and by weeks' end my son took part in his first class with Grappling Dynamics. You can expect a clean environment and a safe place to leave your kid(s) for the duration of the class...although I enjoy watching my son in action. There is a seating area for those who want to do the same. My son being 5, he falls into the younger age group. Typically there are 2-3 instructors who maintain discipline & respect amongst the class, but are also super cool with all the kids. And there will be 2-3 "older" kids who help with the class which I absolutely love! They are always willing to help and I feel it provides some aspiration to the younger ones; maybe one day my son will be in that position to help others. Brandon, the lead trainer is solid and a great guy. At first my son was a little shy. He has been going to Grappling Dynamics for about a year now and he has much more confidence overall. He comes home after each class and loves to show me what he has learned. There hasn't been a day where he did not want to go or just didn't feel like going...He looks forward to each class. Lastly, they do use a belt system similar to that of jiujitsu. Depending on the amount of time they put in or how quickly they advance, they are rewarded either by stripes or a different colored belt. Great to see the kids progress! I recommend Grappling Dynamics to anyone considering getting their kids into wrestling/jiujitsu.
Love training here while in SD. As a visitor, the staff and students made me feel like I was part of the team. There is a high level of respect amongst students and staff on and off the mats. The facility is immaculate and has a shower available. I highly recommend checking out this school if ever in the area!
I cannot recommend this place enough. In any sport, great coaching is a key element, and this place certainly has it. I am beyond happy that I enrolled my son here. He loves it!
I can't say enough positive things about this place. The kids are learning by being hands on when learning each skill and practicing the techniques on their coaches as well as on their peers. They also teach discipline, respect (in class and outside of class) and the coaches truly care about each of their students. The younger classes are 30 min which is great for my son's attention span. Then while his older brother trains he plays with other kids who are still there as well. The other families have become friends and it's truly a special community they've created. It's a gem of a place that I'm so fortunate to have become a part of. You are encouraged to watch a class or two before trying. And then once you've watched, participated and are still interested then you'll join. I liked not feeling pressure to join the first time I went. Overall I am beyond happy with our decision to train here.
We can’t get enough! I had to even buy some Mats for the garage. Brandon, Mike, and Seymour are top notch. I love everything about this place. From being treated like family, to the discipline, and of course the skills and training. I often ask my son what was his favorite part of the day. It’s usually jiu jitsu at grappling dynamics. I’m so glad I got my son involved in this at 5 years old. Wish I would have started training 20 years ago but better late than never. I highly recommend grappling dynamics to anyone and everyone. You won’t regret it
Visited the gym as a drop in from out of town and it was an amazing experience. Professors were super welcoming and have visitors good feedback just like their own students. Format of class and drills was super efficient and different from other schools, I definitely leveled up from a class here. Would recommend just as much as any of the big schools in the area.
Fantastic environment and great coaches. My son has been training here for over a year now and asks me every morning if today is jui jitsu day. Top notch kids program. Watching my son motivated me to start training again after a 20 year break. I've made more progress in under a year as a late 40's adult than I did in almost 2 years my first go around with BJJ. Can't say enough good things about this program and the coaches!
My three boys and I have been training here for four months and it is great! The coaches are amazing with the kids. Brandon is fantastic with the kids. He holds them accountable and everyone is patient. My boys love training and the community within the gym is excellent. The gym is very family friendly and the training program is effective. Coach Seymour and Mike are awesome!!! The adult program is great as well, and I feel like I have learned so much in the past few months and look forward to training everyday!
Seymour is amazing teaching technique. The academy is very clean and welcoming to anyone I would recommend it if you’re in the area.
Great instructors and great vibes. No egos or attitudes everyone is there to learn and help others learn. The best part is the class sizes are not unmanageable and you still get real hands on training instead of being another number. Thanks to everyone at Grappling Dynamics!
I had the privilege to train at Grappling Dynamics while I was visiting San Diego from Oregon. The gym has a really chill atmosphere and is clean. All of the other students were really friendly and welcoming. Professor Brandon is a super good teacher. He is technical and takes time to answer everyone's questions and help individual students who need extra help. This gym is all about team members working to build each other up and improving together instead of just trying to beat the person you're rolling with. I would definitely like to visit again next time I am in San Diego.
Good location, excellent staff, and they keep everything very clean and professional. A friendly and inviting vibe is important to me and Brandon and team maintain a culture that is exactly that. Highly recommend!
Our two girls have been at Grappling Dynamic Academy for about 2 months. The girls LOVE it and look forward to every session! They take pride in putting on their gis. They are disappointed when we have to occasionally miss a class! The owner (Brandon) and his instructors have struck the right balance of demanding respect, pride, humility, hard work, community mindedness, and character building with healthy amount of fun. We are very appreciative to be a part of the Grappling Dynamic Academy/Family, and we look forward to watching our girls and the other students progress on and off the mat.
I came into San Diego for vacation and visit family. I was able to drop in for a class at this academy. The instruction was excellent and the training was beneficial. The school was clean and well maintained. Brandon and his guys were welcoming and a pleasure to train with. I would definitely recommend to anyone and will return.
Have my 4 and 6 year olds in class at Grappling Dynamics. They both love it!! Brandon and his amazing staff make each session fun while teaching proper technique and instilling discipline! Couldn't recommend Grappling Dynamics enough, weather it's for the kiddos or adults, a great place to learn and compete!
Good school with good people. Brandon’s school is welcoming and not jam packed with testosterone and ego. Just a bunch of low key players working on their skills. Really great place for all skill levels.
Brandon's gym is excellent! Not only is the gym clean, all of the members are helpful and welcoming. Brandon's teaching was amazing! He walks around the class frequently and rolls with the students during class and open mats on Saturdays to see where his students are, so he can adjust his instruction to better suit his students. I am forever grateful for this Jiu Jitsu family and how welcoming they were to the gym. Having never done Jiu Jitsu before, it was intimidating at first to start but that feeling went away very quickly as I felt like I had joined a new family. I wish I was still here to learn and grow as a student under Brandon, but you go where the Navy takes you. Having started at a new gym near my new home, I was overly prepared for the expectations as a newer white belt and able to shift between traditionally more complex guards and positions that Brandon was able to teach with ease to all levels of students. Thank you Brandon and Seymour for your amazing teaching methodology, and spectacular gym!
So much respect for this gym! I've been training and teaching BJJ for 22 years and in my opinion, Brandon is hands down one of the most legit jiujitsu teachers in San Diego. I've trained with Brandon over the years as we originally came up thru the same jiujitsu lineage. His well rounded fighting pedigree is second to none (Marine Recon Veteran, Wrestling, MMA, JiuJitsu BlackBelt) and has proven it on the mat thru competition many times. I had the pleasure of training at Grappling Dynamics for the past 5 months and actually step back to be a student of the game again. The system and level of instruction with constant drills are always on point. Everyone that trains here is extremely friendly, welcoming and have solid jiujitsu fundamentals. This is definitely due to the way Brandon organizes his class structure and delivers it efficiently in an easy way for students to replicate. His assistant instructor, Seymour is also amazing at breaking down concepts and is a beast on the mat and in competition. It was an honor to be able to train with this gym and I consider them extended family. Overall, I HIGHLY recommend if you are looking for a place that will make you solid across the board for jiujitsu, wrestling, MMA then you should definitely try them out!
Great environment. Amazing coaches. It was an incredible experience. Cannot wait to visit again soon!
I would watch my brother train at Grappling Dynamics. It seemed like an interesting Martial Art and a good workout but I was concerned about getting injured. I’ve has both shoulders and my right knee operated on. I spoke to Brandon Magana, ( the owner and head instructor ) about taking classes and with his direction started training. It’s been six months as of this post and I have been able to train two to three times a week. The staff and students are conscientious about the training procedure. Make no mistake, it’s not easy and it’s physically demanding but I feel safe and it’s a hell of a lot of fun. By the way, I started training at 60 and just turned 61.
An amazing gym and family here. An amazing place to learn and understand more of the key concepts compared to other gyms that just focus on single moves or techniques. Would recommend to anyone of any skill level. Best gym I have ever been to.
My journey with Grappling Dynamics has been absolutely wonderful. As a lifelong competitive striking martial artist, I always wanted to experience, expand, and improve my knowledge of grappling arts. At Grappling Dynamics, Brandon implements a systematic approach based on John Wooden's Pyramid of Success Philosophy. Grappling Dynamics focuses on cementing the foundational pillars for grappling (managing distance, four points of contact, transitioning, maintaining dominant position, and submission) instead of focusing on one or two flashy submission moves, which might work on non-trained people. The training sessions throughout the week consist of the warm-up, introduction and demonstration of a technique and its variations, static application, dynamic application, repetition, and live roll while always thinking about the pillar of jiujitsu. They also have helpful and patient teammates who will take the quality of training to another level of success. On Saturdays, the open mat sessions provide opportunities for people to practice and perfect what they have learned over the week. While focusing on the basic grappling foundations, these intentional training sessions have improved my knowledge of the art of jiujitsu. I would definitely recommend checking out Grappling Dynamics to those trying to improve their physical health and their mental fortitude.
You won't find a better blend of wrestling, jiu-jitsu and judo anywhere else in San Diego. Coach Brandon Magana and his coaching stuff pay close attention to the little details that go a long way in making you a well rounded and developed grappler. Grappling Dynamics is a tight-knit, family friendly environment that is conducive to learning and will guarantee your longevity and continued improvement in martial arts.
Best physical training I have ever experienced. My first day at class the instructor, Brandon broke down the basics of Jiu Jitsu. Every class after I leave feeling stronger and more equipped to defend myself. I recommend Grappling Dynamics to anyone looking to learn from the best.
Grappling Dynamics is what I love about Jiu Jitsu, we’re like family! The kids program is second to none in my opinion I have watched my son elevate rapidly both on and off the mat. After watching the kids train for a few months and liking what I saw I joined the GD team. I have been training Jiu Jitsu on and off for 13 years and was stagnant in my same olde game. And now I feel Coach Brandon has helped me get to another level of Jiu Jitsu with his new training/sparring style that I simply thought wasn’t possible. Both my son and I have made life long friends here and am very grateful to Grappling Dynamics for that! Hopefully see you on the mat soon. COME TRAIN!
Grappling Dynamics does a fantastic job of incorporating all aspects of grappling in to the practice of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Brandon and his staff are incredibly passionate, knowledgeable, and humble about BJJ and challenge all levels of students looking to improve and progress in their training. The focus on BJJ fundamentals of self defense and Brandon's ability to break down each guard, position, and eventual submission made learning more "advanced" concepts a very fun, fluid process that made every class interesting. My only regret in moving away was having to say good bye to this incredible family that helped me grow so much.
Brandon and his team have created an environment that not only focuses on a high level of grappling skills; but life skills in addition and interwoven with the lessons. While we appreciate how much our 11 year old daughter and our 9 year old son have learned technically; we are grateful and thankful for the mentoring the coaches provide. The entire team focuses on respect, good citizenship and hard work. These type of lessons are invaluable, the entire staff here is vested in the children as a whole and that is a rare find. We are so happy we landed here.
"That was the best party. Ever." said my 11 year-old of very few words. The environment that Brandon and his team have fostered is even better than what I'd expect from a World-Champion BJJ Black Belt with decades of teaching experience and an instinctive charm with kids. My son received his second white stripe on his white belt last night at a Grappling Dynamics pizza party. The stripe is not the reason my son loved the party, it was just a small contributing factor of a great evening. Just like my son's new habits of showering, wearing deodorant, brushing his teeth, and trimming his nails all on his own accord, are not the reasons I recommend Grappling Dynamics, they are just some of many cool by-products of belonging to the Academy. Brandon's Jiu-Jitsu party starts with a couple dozen kids in uniform standing at attention on pristine mats. After some warm-ups and drills, the kids spar with more advanced students and then fight real matches with their peers. Brandon, Seymour, and Mike then line the kids back into attention with precision discipline and deliver stripes and new belts to reward some of the students. Celebratory, but still organized, dodgeball ensues on the mats. Frankly, that describes what happens in EVERY kid class at Grappling Dynamics. The only difference between the party and a routine class was pizza afterwards. And an additional hour and a half of sustained cardio in the form of tag, rope climbing, wrestling, peg-board climbing, and laughing. LOTS of laughing. To any parent still reading this long-winded review: If you're wondering if your child will benefit from martial arts, they will. If you're lucky enough to live within driving distance of Grappling Dynamics, then your decision just got that much easier.
Best place in the area. Brandon is a great instructor, & they have an amazing kid's program!
Brandon and the team at Grappling Dynamics are extremely knowledgeable about jiu jitsu, wrestling, and a variety of other martial arts and do an excellent job of conveying those skills to their students. I highly recommend you check out this gym for yourself and definitely for your children as Brandon maintains an excellent kids training program!
I’ve been here two times now and have absolutely nothing negative to say. The gym is CLEAN - cleaner than most other gyms you’ve been to. The owner, Brandon, and the whole team are extremely professional and knowledgeable in BJJ as well as other forms of martial arts. They made me feel welcome in the space and we’re able to teach the basics of this easily intimidating sport in a way that felt comfortable and achievable. Despite being such a male-dominated practice, this gym opens its doors to females and trains all members in a way that promotes equality and utmost respect between all members despite age, race, gender, size, and skill level. This is definitely a place that promotes and nurtures growth in all areas of life.
ve been training jiujitsu for over 20 years and Grappling Dynamics provides the cleanest environment by far. As far as instruction, all the teachers are high level competitors but you'd never know it. The kids classes are so unique because more than technique , the kids learn valuable lessons like respect, manners, teamwork, and communication skills that are hidden in the fun exercises. The culture of Grappling Dynamics is that of learning , improvement and friendship.
I have been trying bjj for a while and Brandon the hed coach really has something special going on here. Very clean, extremely professional. And a lot of knowledge. Highly recommend 👌
Professor Brandon's thought process is ground breaking in the way he approaches training. Everything in class is woven together into a cohesive unit. Nothing is left to chance. The students safety n priority of learning are paramount. This coming from someone who has been training for over 18 years and over 6 as a competitive black belt.
I am a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with over a decade of experience. Brandon has been both my instructor and training partner and I feel fortunate to be learning directly from someone of his caliber. His classes are structured, methodical, safe and efficient. The facilities are optimal and clean and your training partners will become your friends. If you are looking to improve your grappling, don't think twice about checking out Grappling Dynamics!
Great facility and the owner and head Instructor Brandon is a really experienced competitor and professor! Stop by for a free class and have fun!
Awesome place! Knowledgeable instructors that are great with kids of all ages and adults. Comfortable place for women to go and learn self defense as well. I highly recommend!
Great place!!!! Instruction is great for kids and lead by a knowledgeable and experienced instructor. There is not a better place in San Diego for you or you kids!!!
Brandon and his crew are top notch practitioners and instructors. Professional, passionate and know how to motivate and teach all ages. Watching how fast the kids in their classes learn and advance is almost mind boggling. If you have ever considered Brazilian jiu jitsu for you or your kids this is the place to train.
Brandon and his team are a class act 👍🏽. His attention to detail and delivery of content are easy to follow with a wide range of experience on the mats. The adult and kids classes are a structured curriculum with noticeable progression from the students. The facility is brand new with a great family friendly vibe!!! I am excited to train here with my family!!!🥋 🤙🏽
Grappling Dynamics is a great place to training. My son have trained with Brandon for several years and he is an excellent instructor. He has a logical way of applying techniques whether you are a BJJ competitor, Military, Law Enforcement or are just learning self defense. Whether you are a beginner or experienced grappler, you will learn excellent techniques and get a great workout out of it.
Finally! Mr. Brandon has his own place! Our oldest Son trained with Mr. Brandon, Mr. Seymour and Mr. Mike at “the other place”. Over the last year we have tried out a few places closer to home and nothing came close. Our oldest is thrilled to be back on the mats and training again. Our youngest son has also started training after learning that this is Mr. Brandon’s place. The youth program is amazing, the amount of attention the kids get on the mats is awesome (3 adults and a few of the older students helping as well). The length of the training session is perfectly matched with their age and keeps the boys engaged the whole time, no seemingly endless explanation of the techniques here. Grappling Dynamics has a clear understanding of the big picture. They are not only helping our boys learn a great martial art, but how to respect themselves and others all while having loads of fun!
Awesome Trainers, Brandon & Mike have worked with both my kids and are exceptionally gifted at knowing when to encourage the kids, hold them accountable and when they need some more explanation and personal attention. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a studio to get started or a new fresh start training. You won't be disappointed!
Brandon Magaña is without a doubt world class grappler. A well rounded martial artist. He is the reason my children and I started Jiu Jitsu. In past 4yrs he has been huge part of our growth in Jiu Jitsu. Although he is a top notch grappler, he also is a top notch instructor, leader, and trainer. Highly recommend Grappling Dynamics if you want to be serious about improving your self defense and grappling abilities for both children and adults.
I would choose a different place to bring your kids. Not a good experience
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