Carroll Fox

I’ve done business with Jeremy and seen him interact with the students. He is great and his students are very respectful! Highly recommend.

Posted 1 year ago

I had no prior experience in grappling and no expectations, so I decided to give the week-long trial period a try. The upper belts, who I mean anyone who wasn’t a beginner, were incredibly helpful. I attend classes during the day, and it’s just as great. I want to express my gratitude to Evan and Bob for being patient with me. If you’ve ever thought about trying out BJJ this gym is great place to start.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Albert Peralta

Best decision I’ve ever made was to walk through the doors of Great Grappling Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy. Professor Jeremy AreI is a an incredibly humble and knowledgeable instructor. I came to this school with no prior martial arts experience and have become very passionate about BJJ. The school feels like a family: everyone’s willing to coach you and make you feel welcomed regardless of your experience level. I have been training here for 8 months now and started searching for fully remote jobs to allow for more time at the gym. Thank you, Professor Jeremy for the great treatment from day one.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Agricio Silva

Great place to train and have fun

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tyler Dyer

Can't believe I have not given Great Grappling a review! Around 6 years ago I entered here after finishing college and haven't left since. The team instruction here is amazing and the community is top notch. I'm a little biased though since I'm an instructor here as well 😉. This gym has made me a better public speaker, a better listener, and an all around better grappler. If you're ever in the area come to the fundamentals class or Saturday open mat and say hi.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Michael Baker

I've been training at Great Grappling for 6 years, and I cannot give it higher praise. Professor Jeremy has created a community of people that care about training and growing as martial artists--but also care about each other as people. If you are a parent looking for a way to teach your children self-confidence or self-defense, this place is must. If you are hoping to find an academy where you can learn this amazing art called Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, this is the place. Come train with us! Update: I’ve been a blackbelt at GGBJJ for 2 years now, and I still love it here!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Alexandra Grossu

Love this place, my son enjoys it so much, very good and experienced instructors.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

New Vision MMA

Me and my Wife came for a seminar here and it was incredibly welcoming. The seminar was great, but I want to focus on how friendly everyone was. If anyone is looking for a great school to train in, this is the place to do it. Very knowledgeable in their craft.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

M H

Really happy to have come in Even Joe Sarah were super chill. Got some good drilling and rolls. Extremely efficient class. Will certainly be back.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jesse Norton

I was visiting for out of town, hoping to break a sweat and get some rolls. I had a great time. Welcoming environment, tough rolls, quality instruction. I'll be back whenever I'm in town.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

nelson jones

The atmosphere and the people at Great Grappling were fantastic. I felt really happy and accepted because everyone was so helpful and welcoming.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Clay Paratore

They welcomed me like I was a longtime student. It was refreshing to get some great rolls in the Gi with a diverse range of skill-set body types. Professor Jeremy was very detailed and helpful. I will definitely stop back in next time in am in SC. FYI, mostly a Gi school.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Carolyn PropManag

My daughter started at his location in January 2023. After 6 weeks of classes for my teenager, I am impressed with her evening instructor. Since this is her first time with a martial art sport, we don't have much to compare it to. I will say that the place is kept clean to the best of it's ability.

Instructors Facility Classes

Posted 3 years ago

Daxa Jivani

# fortmill parade

Instructors Facility Location Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Ezekiel Longwell

Awesome place. Super friendly to beginners. Really detailed instructions. Great place to get started or jump back into BJJ.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Trevin Raak

I was in town for work a couple weeks ago and was able to train with the crew at Great Grappling a couple times. Great school, great atmosphere, great place to train! If I lived in the area, this is where I'd go. A lot of schools never get to the type of culture that they have developed. Hopefully I get to visit them again in the future :)

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Rippercubed (David Todd)

Best place to learn Brazilian Jiu-jitsu! Safe, clean, and friendly school. You will learn valuable lessons on self defense and have lots of fun doing it! I can't recommend it enough! I've been going for three years now, and it's still the best school I've been to!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Jon Cleveland

Great gym, very friendly and well run. Staff and students were engaging and welcoming. Strong talent gave me an exhausting workout. Mats, lockers rooms, and bathrooms all very clean. Can't wait to go back when I travel to the area again.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

rico mancino

Great awesome place to train.

Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Brad Blades

Great instruction, clean environment, welcoming community for all. Everything you could ask for in a jiu jitsu gym.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Michael Allen

One of the must knowledgeable professors in the area. The staff, vibe and culture are amazing!!!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Des F

I had the opportunity to attend a workshop with Professor Jeremy and even though the jiu jitsu world is completely new to me, I felt that his teaching style was perfect for someone who needed things in more detail and not once did I ever feel out of place.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

David Vallas

I have had the chance to train with Jeremy a couple times and I cannot speak more highly of him as an instructor. He is a natural teacher focusing on the principals and philosophy.

Instructors

Posted 6 years ago

Mike V

I visited the Charlotte area for a Good Fight tournament and was looking for a place to roll a few days before the event. I called around and found that Great Grappling was the most welcoming. The woman I spoke with was incredibly nice and gave me the sense that Great Grappling would be the right spot for me to visit. I’m an over 40 white belt with a lot of miles on his body, so I don’t like to roll hard the week before an event. Consequently I was a little nervous about going to a gym I had never trained at before. The specter of having my head torn off by some 25 year old blue belt two days before the event gave me pause. I needn’t have worried. Professor Arel really went out of his way to take care of me as if I was one of his own guys. He paired me with people who understood how to flow and not roll like we’re in the ADCCs. I was really blown away by just how kind and open he was. And not just him, all his students were top notch. But don’t let that kind demeanor fool you into thinking these guys are soft; they know how to slay opponents. Professor Arel is the real deal and his students are too. I rolled with several higher belts who impressed me with their technical skill and athleticism. And they did it without blasting me into oblivion. I even got to roll with the professor, which was a great experience. As it worked out, I went to the tournament sharp and healthy and placed second even after being moved into the 16-29 year old division and facing some very tough opponents. Had I gone in broken down and injured I doubt I would have placed. I travel a lot for work and have had the privilege of visiting nine different gyms in my short jiujitsu journey over the last year; and Great Grappling may be the finest one yet. Thanks again guys. I hope to visit you again soon.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Jorge Fernandez

Best BJJ gym we have ever been a part of. Great atmosphere. Great instructor(s).

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

JJ Pace

I've been training in BJJ for many years. I met Jeremy when a previous instructor passed away and have been training with him as life priorities allow since. Jeremy has a very structured and systematic approach to his teaching and classes. He has created a friendly, inclusive environment for beginners and advanced students. Any interested in BJJ in the Fort Mill area would be remiss to visit his school.

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Marty Williams

Great Grappling BJJ is the place to be for quality instruction in a great atmosphere. Professor Arel is an amazing instructor who works hard to foster a positive environment for his students, and you won't find a better group of people to train with.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Laura Williams

My daughters do BJJ and this place is amazing. My oldest daughter has truly fallen in love with it and wants to do this more than anything else. I could not imagine a better group of people for her to want to be around and learn from. I am so excited that she is able to be a part of this.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Stephen Boehmann

GGBJJ is the best! Professor the Gerbil Jeremy Arel is a masterful teacher! There are always tons of people who train at this school on any given day. Tons a vistors stopping by to train as well. Multiple black belts on the mats almost every class! CHECK IT OUT!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Lee Wright

Incredible instructor and the school has a amazing vibe. It is clear the school is run in very professional way. Jeremy lived in Brazil the same time as me back in 2010. It was clear he was very focused on training & opening a school. It was great to see him receive his black belt from Gordo.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Ben dawkins

World class instruction with a home town vibe. You are made to feel like family the instant you walk in. Everyone is amazingly supportive of the beginners and it shows in the culture they have built. Love this place !

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

elijah lowe

This place is honestly like no joke a place where once you enter your family right off the bat. Since I've been Here this place keeps growing and getting better. I have been taught a lot here but still got a long way to go and I intend to stay for the long run; and I hope you will too.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Shannon Smart

Great Grappling is a true Jiu Jitsu academy. The school has a great kids program for all ages. The adult class ranges from competition to just staying in shape. Plus you can get a cool nick name.

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Mark Tygh

My son has been attending Great Grappling for over 5 years. Under Professor Arel's expert instruction he has gained confidence and superb physical conditioning. Great Grappling is an excellent martial arts school that I highly recommend to everyone.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Donald D

Jeremy Arel is an amazing owner and instructor. He created an amazing atmosphere and community which makes it easy to want to come and train. His ability to teach are second to none and I feel lucky that I chose to train at his school.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Cameron Shook

I've traveled the country training at a lot of different schools, and Great Grappling has always stood out as one of the best. Very high level grapplers offering every level of competition available but with a training philosophy of not murdering beginners and nurturing the sport to all ages. When people who have never trained before and want to start while out of shape or older than 30, I always recommend that they start at Great Grappling because I know of too many other gyms that are filled with sharks wanting to eat fresh meat.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

BVoFortnite

Great Instructors and great community. Everyone is a family.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

brock richard

I am a purple belt and I travel 7 hours round trip once a month to train at this gym. There are a few key components that go into making a great gym: facilities, instruction, competition, and community. The facilities here are top notch. Huge rolling space, 2 separate mat areas, and locker rooms for men and women with showers. This is one of the cleanest facilities I've trained in. The competion and diversity here is great. On any given night, you will find a wide variety of skill and belt rank. It is not uncommon for a class to have 40-50 members, including upwards of 3-6 black belts. The instruction here is world class (they literally take people to IBJJF pans). If you'd like a taste, you can always check out the Great Grappling YouTube channel. Jeremy is a highly skilled and well known black belt. I have never trained under an instructor that taught technique in such a clear and understandable manner. Sadly, it is rare to find a gym where the black belt in charge is willing to roll with whomever walks in the door. That is not the case here! It is almost a guarantee that Jeremy will roll with you on your first week (if not your first night) at the gym. They have created a really special community of people here and it's why I keep coming back. Classes are fun, and the attitude is infectious. From the kids class all the way through to the top, people have a great time. If you are just starting your BJJ journey, this is the place to be; if you are a serious competitor looking to take your game to the next level, there is no better gym in the Carolinas to spend your time at.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Martin Flores

Excellent academy, instruction and comradery! I’ve been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on and off for over 6 years, 5 years at GREAT GRAPPLING with the incoprabale Jeremy Arel. In addition to the world class BJJ, they welcome you with open arms, and the atmosphere is always extremely encouraging. Not to mention the fact that their anniversary parties are always AMAZING!!! SEE YOU ON THE MATS!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Aj W.

So thankful for having walked in the doors of Great Grappling. I had never studied martial arts previously, but after meeting Professor Arel and the students at Great Grappling I knew this was the place to train. It doesn't matter whether you are an experienced grappler or a novice like me. Everyone there welcomes all and is willing to help you become a better grappler. The facilities are great with them being maintained and cleaned everyday. If you are a parent thinking of enrolling your child in a martial arts program, you should visit GG during the children's classes. The children's programs are directly taught by Professor Arel but also supported by multiple highly experienced students who ensure that every child receives proper attention and instruction. Multiple techniques classes, sparring, and open mats times are available during the day, night and weekend that allow anyone a chance to train.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Bryan Pierce

I've known Jeremy Arel for the better part of a decade & occasionally he & his wife Megan would invite me come try BJJ. Always welcoming, never pushy about it. I avoided it for quite a while because I honestly didn't want to feel like a lamb to the slaughter. Finally two months ago, I decided to jump in. What I have found is community of people that come together with the common goal of honing their skillset. With passionate & patient instruction from Prof. Arel, who is not above pausing a drilling session to ensure that you are using proper technique, or to remind you to breathe & skilled upper level belts that will make sure that you are executing the techniques properly while rolling. Jeremy, thank for being as patient on the mats as you have been off of them.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Kim Reese

If you want top notch instruction with the best training partners, Great Grappling is the place to be. The facility is clean and bright and everyone always makes you feel welcome when you walk in. I am so grateful to be part of this amazing group of people. Thank You!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Troy Townsend

I moved to the area from Phoenix and ended up living just 10 min away and couldn’t be happier. In Phoenix I drove 45 min past 10 different schools to get the best training in town. Now I’m lucky enough to have even better instruction right around the corner. Jeremy is a fantastic instructor and is constantly rated as one of the top BJJ instructors on YouTube. Every single class has the same level of top notch detail as his videos. The kids and women’s classes also offer another layer to this school which has made all of us one big family. 6 stars still wouldn’t be enough.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jared Wilson

This place has been a blessing both physically and mentally. I have trained at many places over the years and I can confidently say Great Grappling has the best instruction and training environment hands down. Whatever your goals are in training Jiu-Jitsu, Jeremy can get you there.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

christina exizian

My son has been training at Great Grappling for seven years now. He is 15 and has come so far from the day he started, I can’t express enough what Professor Jeremy has done for his confidence and self esteem. Brazilian jiu jitsu is the way to go and Great Grappling is the place to be!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

David Foster

I started training jits at age 31 in Raleigh, NC. My first task after moving to Fort Mill in 2014 was to find a new place to train. Great Grappling was the first and last stop on my search. Jeremy has built something truly special here. The level of instruction is top-notch. The atmosphere is welcoming to all age groups and skill levels. No gladiator pits here, just the family that you choose for yourself.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Frank McDaniel

Love this place. Great instructor, great team. I always feel like I'm at home when I visit this school. Make sure to drop in and join the family!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jason Dayton

I love training at Great Grappling! I've been there for 6 years now and couldn't be happier with the instruction that my kids and I receive. The community aspect and family atmosphere makes it feel welcoming to anyone and everyone, and the variety and different levels of training partners keeps everyone challenged as well. Jeremy is a fantastic teacher with a degree in education that helps keep the instruction at this school far above what you'll find just about anywhere else.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Sara Whitten

I have trained at Great Grappling for 7 years! I love it! The class schedules and instructions are very organized and clear. Very friendly environment!

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

BJJ Girl

I have been training at Great Grappling for a couple of years now. It is an amazing experience with a great sense of community. I have met many new friends here and learned a valuable skill to help protect myself. As a woman I found the ladies classes to be wonderful and are part of what got me hooked on the school. Jeremy is a great teacher and coach; his leadership and care that he puts into the students are the key reasons that my husband and I continue to train at GGBJJ. Jiu Jitsu has surprised me in so many ways and its a sport that I have come to love and can't wait for my next opportunity to train!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Scott Hercules

I have traveled all over the country and visited many BJJ academies. All black belts have good jiu jitsu, Fewer are good at teaching jiu jitsu. Professor Jeremy Arel is both an extraordinary practitioner and exceptional teacher. He has built an incredible community at Great Grappling! #greattraininggreatcommunitygreatgrappling

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Vanessa Nodes

I sat and watched my husband and daughter train at Great Grappling from the sidelines for 6 months before I started. It was something I didn’t try due to feeling like I wouldn’t enjoy it and feeling like I just couldn’t.I have always been a runner and recently began lifting. I told myself I would give it “ just a week”. That was a year and a half ago and I’ve fallen in love with the sport with the rest of my family. Great Grappling has some of the most helpful and humble people. It has helped to make the family bond I share with my children and Husband better. Jeremy Arel is a large part of our love for the sport and Great Grappling. He has an ability to explain concepts and technique in a way that is clear, patient and thorough. He instantly made our family feel welcome and has been so kind to our children that they both find that Great Grappling has become a second home. As a mom it is important my children have a place they feel safe and adults they feel safe with.As a nurse dealing with patients from all walks of life, Training has become an asset to my career recently. I highly recommend it for anyone sitting on the fence and thinking about just trying the sport out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Patrick Baker

Great Grappling. The name says it all, I’m from the UK and have visited this fantastic academy a couple of times when in the USA. Jeremy Arel is a awesome teacher and I learnt a lot really cool stuff when there, his teaching methods are very good as he breaks down every move to make sure you understand every detail. He is always there to give advice and help you to improve, his passion is second to none. The academy is clean and a safe environment for all students from beginner to more experienced athletes. They have a wide range of students at all lessons and they are all friendly and welcoming whatever your grade. I highly recommend that if you are thinking of starting Jiu Jitsu or just visiting the area this should be on your to do list.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Johnny Lea (Johnny Jiu Jitsu)

It's impossible to put into words just how much my life has changed since walking through the doors of Great Grappling for the first time, but I'll give it the ol' College Try. Chances are if you are reading this review, you are actively looking for the best Jiu Jitsu experience possible in the Charlotte area. Whether you are curious in finding out if Jiu Jitsu is for you, or if you have been training for awhile and are just looking for a new place, I would encourage you to visit and meet what has become my second family. From day 1 you'll soon realize that this isn't just the best Jiu Jitsu experience you could ask for, it is that plus so much more! Great Grappling has become family, and training here is my home away from home. The learning experience here is top notch. On top of being an extremely skilled grappler, Jeremy is also an extremely skilled teacher (that's what he went to school for). His approach to teaching and learning provides an opportunity to the students that you simply can't find anywhere else. It's amazing to see how quickly he can develop competent grapplers when handed a clean-slate student with willingness to learn, a passion for the art, and good coach-ability. Pros to training here: The best Jiu Jitsu experience Boosted confidence/Self Esteem Friends/Family Best shape of my life (without even dieting) Training is so fun, you forget that you're exercising Cool Gerbil merch Outlet to relieve stress Cons: none. Come train. :)

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Brian Crandell

Jeremy has not built an academy, he has built a community. He truly wants every person that trains at Great Grappling to be a success, on and off the mats I look forward to training at Great Grappling Brazilian Jiu Jitsu every chance I get in the Charlotte area I would recommend anyone looking to better themselves in a like minded community to train there as well

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Weston Calbreath

I started at Great Grappling when I was 43, had NO grappling experience and was severely overweight; high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high cholesterol. One year later I was down 35 pounds and all my blood work was in the normal range. I was even able to compete. Amazing instruction for people starting at ground zero, as well as every other level. It has changed my life. Even though I moved out of town, I still am welcomed there every time I come back. When I travel and train at places out of town, those academies even know the name Great Grappling and its amazing reputation.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Dave

Great Grappling is a fantastic academy for learning Jiu Jitsu. Not only is the instruction and training top-notch, but the community is amazing. If you train here you’ll be welcomed, and you’ll feel like a part of the team right away. The experienced teammates love to help and share, and the depth of levels of experience is amazing. Professor Jeremy Arel is a skilled technical grappler, and also a trained teacher. His instruction style is well structured and really helps build conceptual and practical knowledge. The kids classes are disciplined and well run. I can’t say enough about the “mat family” I’ve come to know at GG. Pay us a visit!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

christy iyoob

Great grappling is an amazing place to train in jiu jitsu! It’s a fun and friendly atmosphere. They truly make you feel like you are part of a family. The schedule has a wide range of availability and is built for multiple age groups. I started training at GG, ended up moving 40 minutes away and still love GG enough to drive that far to train there! Such an amazing group of people!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Bret Blair

Love love love Great Grappling. Safe place to roll. No bullies. No egos. Very friendly and welcoming. Plenty of training partners. Come and roll with us!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

andy king

Great Instructors and a great way to get into shape while learning self defense. Everyone’s very kind and willing to help each other.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Elisabeth Youhanic

Update: He's still training and STILL loves it. He now splits the year between BJJ and football, BUT he gets private lessons during fb season so he doesn't fall behind in his belt progression (this was his request). His self discipline is wonderful and even though we approach the terrible tween years, his attitude is amazing. I STILL HIGHLY RECOMMEND GREAT GRAPPLING! Our 8 year old son goes here and absolutely loves it! He was experiencing issues with bullies at school and we were trying to decide between this and tae kwon do, but after meeting Professor Arel and watching a class I knew we had found the place for him. This has done wonders for his confidence, his athleticism, and his overall attitude and I love the change in him. Even after a rough day at school he looks forward to going to ju jitsu and training and learning. I have never regretted our decision.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Mike Lea

Excellent place to be whether you are brand new to bjj or a black belt new to the area, or anything in between. Professor Jeremy Arel runs the best school around. His depth of knowledge and ability to transfer that knowledge is second to none around here.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Carlos Otero

As someone with a bit of a learning disability , is hard for me to find a place where any type of education "makes sense" . This is the case with Great Grappling ! Jeremy has a attention to detail ,level of patience , and environment that combined with his degree in education provide the best scenario for all his students to thrive and succeed . Its by far the best school i had ever had the privilege of being part of , make no mistake this is also the best school to learn such a difficult craft at the highest level . Do yourself a favor and take the 1 week free trial , it will be one of the best decisions you make.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Sevi Alvarez

World class instruction, friendly faces, a fun and energized atmosphere, and a convenient location. I'd never tried Brazilian Jiu Jitsu prior to my first class at Great Grappling. As a white belt (the introductory level), I was treated with nothing but respect, and received hands-on, expert training, both by the instructors and by fellow students. Professor Jeremy Arel is the owner and primary instructor at Great Grappling, and from the minute your first class starts, you'll be able to tell that this man knows exactly what he is doing. He is a wealth of knowledge, and he knows exactly how to relay that knowledge to his students in an effective, engaging manner. I'm told that Professor Jeremy has a college degree in education, and it shows. But the Professor isn't the only asset the school has. The school is full of friendly, competent, and knowledgeable students who will never look down on you, and will give you constructive feedback that will help you up your game and get better, without making you feel bad or self-conscious. The rest of the staff is friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable as well - say hi to Carol at the front desk! She is fantastic. I have attended various martial arts schools over the years, and Great Grappling is far and away the best martial arts learning experience I have ever had. It's not even close. If you are interested in learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - or any martial art at all, really - then you owe it to yourself to attend Professor Jeremy's classes.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Nicolas Penaloza

We started here to enroll the kids in something for self defense and that would work as PE credit for homeschooling. Not only have our kids learned jiu jitsu, but they've also learned about how to deal with failure or not being successful at something and needing to practice CORRECTLY in order to get better. Professor Arel's approach is that of an educator, so the kids easily relate to his teaching and methodology. After a year, I couldn't just watch my kids do it anymore and I got my butt on the mats. Again, lots to be said about Prof Arel's coaching and curriculum, and I managed to shave off 40 lbs. We're thankful for a family friendly environment, a new family through this sport/art, and the ability to learn without the fear of everyone being uber competitive that we could get hurt.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Daniel Jones

Great Grappling is a phenomenal Jiu Jitsu facility. Not only does it have amenities such as a shower and multiple matted training rooms, but the community formed beteeen the students at this academy is next to none. Whether you’re looking to give BJJ a try for the first time, or are looking for somewhere to train while in town for work, the instructors and students at Great Grappling will provide you with a quality training experience. Unlike many other Jiu Jitsu academies, Jeremy Arel at Great Grappling creates a very structured and positive environment for learning and growing not only as an athlete, but as a family.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Daniel Grano

This is a welcoming, safe, and fun place to train! The instruction is top notch and there is a real sense of community. The students who train here work hard and motivate one another.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

elbaker5

I’ve been training a lifetime and have not found an academy that is so welcoming and makes you feel like family as Great Grappling does. The quality and knowledge of instructor Jeremy is of very high quality high recommend his instruction. The academy is clean and safe place for people of all ages.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Robert Gathings

I’ve been training at Great Grappling for about a year and a half now, and it has truly had a positive impact on my life. I’ve lost a noticeable amount of weight, gained previously undiscovered confidence in myself, and made connections that will last a lifetime. While training, I’ve met people from all walks of life who have been brought together through the common interest of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the community that has developed through it is incredible. Professor and owner Jeremy Arel also offers a one week free trial to new students who want to try BJJ before committing to a membership, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Bob Miller

I found Great Grappling by chance through YouTube instructional videos and had to make the trip to train there. I was greeted by nothing but friendly faces at an amazing facility. Very clean and open mat space with one of the best instructors I've had the pleasure to learn from in my 6 years of jiu-jitsu. A must stop if you're in the area, and well worth the trip if you're not local!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Charlie Garcia

I’ve been at Great Grappling for about 6 years now. I can’t say enough about this place. Great training partners, facility, staff, and Professor Arel is a knowledgeable, helpful, and diligent instructor. I’m glad to be a part of this Academy.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Adrian Gagnon

Great Grappling is first class across the board. The facilities are top notch. Professor Jeremy Arel is the best. All of the other instructor are awesome as well. Great Grappling has a wonderful community of people that train there. Everyone is friendly and helpful in learning. I am very happy that Great Grappling has been part of my life for the past two and half years. Look forward to continue training there. Highly recommended.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jeremy Schwisow

Amazing instructors and the students are a blast to roll with.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Adam Turley

I visited Great Grappling while traveling and this school is awesome in every way. The instructors are phenomenal and it shows. The students are beast. Everyone made me feel like I was at home. If you're in the area check them out you will not be dissatisfied.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Torrey Trimble

I visited the school while traveling and immediately felt welcomed. The instructor is awesome and so are the students. Definitely worth a visit!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 10 years ago

Jody Lowe

My son and I both attend this school since beginning of the year. I first became aware of this school while looking for a jiu jitsu school and stumbled on Prof Arel's excellent youtube instructional videos. I have trained short periods at other schools and the instruction here is far superior to what I have experienced in the past. The Prof has an education background and as a result, his teaching style and delivery is very clear and technical, which is nice as some techniques can involve many steps. His lineage is very impressive being a student of the great Roberto "Gordo" Correa, one of the most important Brazilian jiu jitsu instructors. All that said, if you want a safe (no knuckleheads), fun, friendly and family oriented place to train BJJ, this is the place to be.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Thomas Dixon

A friend and I decided to swing by Great Grappling from Florida for a train-cation, and the experience was downright fantastic! I can’t wait to come back! Professor Jeremy is one of the most skilled instructors I have ever had the pleasure of training with--he has a passion for both jiu-jitsu and teaching that are almost unparalleled, along with a great sense of humor. His background in education shines in how he organizes his curriculum, presents his techniques, and corrects mistakes. Moreover, Professor Jeremy has clearly put a large amount of effort into fostering a wonderful community around his school. Everyone was a pleasure to talk to, drill with, and roll with. The mats are high-end, clean, and spacious. I can’t recommend training here enough. You won’t be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Dwayne Oedewaldt

Facilities are top notch, there is a full pro shop with branded apparel, GI's, post workout drinks and snacks. The facilities include a large mat space with padded walls. The school has both men and women's changing rooms, 2 rest rooms and a shower. The lobby has comfortable seating and a large screen TV. Instruction at Great Grappling is the best I have experienced with clear and detailed instruction, structured repetition, and one-on-one assistance from Professor Arel. During the sparring time Professor Arel matches everyone up each round so there is none of the awkward who am I going to be sparring with. I am a purple belt with over 8 years experience having trained at 3 different schools, attended many seminars in various locations, and trained in various cities when I travel for work. By far Great Grappling is the best school I have trained at. If your thinking of a place to come learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu then check here first. If your travel takes you to the Charlotte, NC area and you have the need to train then come here.

Instructors Facility Classes Location

Posted 11 years ago

Adam Sepanski

The quality of the instruction here is top notch. You can tell the caliber of a teacher by its students, and the students here are all top notch. There are no hot heads and no egos, all of the higher belts are dedicated to training and teaching the newer students. They aren't there to show you how awesome they are. They teach, and they let you work on your techniques.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 13 years ago

Ian Young

Great Grappling will always be my jiu jitsu home for a number of reasons. First, the instruction. Prof. Arel provides top notch instruction and takes the time to help each student regardless of age, body type, etc. achieve the highest level of jiu jitsu possible. As a high school educator myself, the manner in which he organizes class, techniques, drills, and sparring sessions makes sense. The manner in which we review and organize techniques follow the best teaching practice guidelines that I have been exposed to. Secondly, the group of ladies and gentlemen training there make it an atmosphere that is both serious, challenging, and relaxed. Finally, the facilities are clean and are top of the line. I have trained in several different excellent gyms and academies and I feel confident that I will achieve my highest level of jiu jitsu at Great Grappling.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 14 years ago

Aaron King

Just moved to charlotte from Atlanta and was worried about finding a new place to train. Luckly i stumbled across Great Grappling school!!! Clean mats, great high level of instruction, fun enviroment, and great people! After hunting around looking at other schools Great Grappling was the easy choice for me. Sometimes its hard to find the right school but sometimes your looking in the wrong places, and I consider myself very lucking for finding this school and being apart of the team :)

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 14 years ago

Chris Sigmon

Very happy! I absolutely love Great Grappling Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! I highly recommend them for their children programs.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 15 years ago

Great Grappling Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

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