Grant Myers

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu in Lawrence is an outstanding gym with fantastic instructors and a welcoming, supportive community. Matt and Heidi have built something truly special here. It is a place where people of all skill levels feel included, respected, and challenged in the best way, and my son asks me all the time when we are going to go back so that he can train and better himself and hang out with his friends.

Posted 1 year ago

Matthew Grassman

Really nice BJJ gym. New and very clean. Visiting Lawrence on business, I dropped in @ Ground Theory. They were very welcoming. The instruction was top-notch and the students were experienced and eager to teach. I'll definitely be going back whenever I'm in Lawrence.

Posted 1 year ago

Jay

If you are looking for a permanent, temporary, or even a drop in gym this is the place! Ground Theory jujitsu is an amazing place to train. And i say that because I have been with them for about 3 and a half years and I have learned so much! The owners are incredible, they are nice, willing to help, and patient with you if you even if you’re struggling on a move or need help! I guarantee you, you will not find anyone more helpful than the people at this gym! Thank you to the owners and to the people at this gym! Go try it!

Posted 1 year ago

Bradley Rhodd

Ground Theory is a great school with patient, knowledgable instructors and a stellar kids program. The environment is warm, welcoming and makes one feel that they are part of a family. For anyone that wants to learn Jiu-Jitsu, this is the place to go in Lawrence. I highly recommend this school for both the adult and kids programs!

Posted 1 year ago

Justin Clarke

I’ve been training at Ground Theory for the past 9 months, and I can honestly say that joining this gym has been the best decision I’ve made for my own health in years. The physical benefits of BJJ are real, drastic, and noticeable. But (at least for me!) the mental benefits were greater, and more unexpected. After an hour or so of BJJ at Ground Theory I’m a calmer parent, a more patient spouse, and just an all-around better, happier dude than I was when I walked in the door that morning. Matt and Heidi run a very comprehensive program here, and they are both unbelievably knowledgeable and willing to explain—in detail—the ins and outs of various positions and processes in BJJ. My 5 year old son attends the youth classes, which are excellent. What really makes Ground Theory special though, in my opinion, is the care and consideration that the many experienced upper belts show toward beginners. BJJ is a competitive combat sport, and so guess I wasn’t expecting other members to take such an active role in my improvement. Everyone here wants you to get better, and is willing to help you do so. It really is an amazing group of people. If you’re on the fence, I can’t recommend this place enough.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Christopher Greinke

My kids and I take classes here, and I highly recommend Ground Theory to anyone interested in learning jiu jitsu. It has great instructors and a friendly atmosphere.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Ernie Drake

I've trained under Matt and Heidi as often as possible for the last 9 years, they're great people, have solid jiujitsu, and have built a team of people who are just as great For jiujitsu it's my favorite place to train

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Nikki May (DC Mavericks)

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu in Lawrence, KS is an exceptional place for anyone interested in learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner. The instructors are amazing people that care about every member of the gym. The atmosphere at the gym is welcoming, no matter who you are regardless of age or gender. The facility itself is clean, well-maintained, and inviting for everyone. Overall, Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu is a fantastic place to grow both as a martial artist and as a person. Highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Don Castro

I know you see the 5 stars. Here is why they got em from me. Environment: Welcoming and family oriented. There were no mat bullies present, a lot of laughs and smiles even though most of the team was prepping for an upcoming tournament. A lot of higher level belts on the mats and no one was trying to take my head off. There was no ego on the mats. Facility: Spacious, clean, and great mat to feet etiquette, you weren’t bumping into people, they had sanitized shower shoes in every size so you didn’t have to put your own shoes on to go to the restroom (if you preferred). They also have showers so you can move on to your next errand or so, or even just to wash up before you get in your car. I watched the students clean the mats after the mats were done being used. Parking was great, had enough to share with the CrossFit team next door. Instruction: Everyone had their own style, each and every one of those persons were willing to show how they got there and what happened to create that chain. Really loved that.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Clifton Brown

Ground Theory was super welcoming with a great training atmosphere. Good people with great experience!!! Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Matt Christenot

Such a great community of people. Anyone will feel welcome here. If you're thinking of trying BJJ for the first time, you can go wrong with Ground Theory.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

J Dines

Great gym with several time options to accommodate a variety of schedules. You could attend 7 days a week if you would like. Very welcoming to beginners.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Andrew Cole

Im a beginner and from another gym out of town and dropped in for an open mat. Everyone there was very friendly and accepting of drop ins. The instructors seemed to have a good relationship with their students. They all had sturdy technique, and were very helpful with their advice post roll. This gym is full of good training partners, would highly recommend to anyone looking for a good bjj school.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Joe Byard

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu is my favorite thing about living in Lawrence. They’re a great community and boast highly skilled coaches and team members who are always looking to improve. They are 100% the best Brazilian jiu jitsu gym I’ve been in. Good family vibes, with lots of beginners and upper belts. I’ve been training with them for about 2 years now and I’d recommend them to those just starting as well as those with grappling experience. Learning BJJ here has definitely had a positive impact on my life and I plan on training here as long as I can.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Keegan Matheis

Regardless of your experience level, this is a great community to grow and learn! If you have any interest in BJJ, you will enjoy training here! Class is held at a variety of different times throughout the week in both the morning and the evening, so there are plenty of options if you have a busy schedule.

Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jaxon Avena

I’ve trained wrestling, BJJ, Muay Thai, and MMA throughout many different gyms and schools all over Kansas and Missouri. As of now I’ve been grappling for about 7 years. Ground Theory is by far THE BEST grappling gym/self defense environment I’ve ever been around. It boasts incredibly knowledgeable and kind coaches, a super healthy, familial atmosphere made up of good people, and is overall just a good time. I’ve been a part of this crew for a little over two years now, and it has been nothing but a positive impact on my life. It’s a great place to learn a valuable skill, be a team member, get some exercise, and make some great friends! I’m on the younger end of the adult class age spectrum and everyone is still super nice and inclusive to me. Would highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

jamie reed

Great community, learning environment, and teachers. I’ve been to a lot of gyms and this is the most welcoming of them all. Not only is it a great place to learn self defense but the curriculum is solid as well. 10/10 would recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Chief PC

I’ve been training at Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu since they launched in Lawrence, Kansas and couldn’t be happier with my experience. 1st Degree Black Belts Matt and Heidi Thompson are highly skilled and knowledgeable, providing top-notch instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment. Their facility is always clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space to train and practice techniques. The staff is amazing, with numerous black-belts and brown-belts providing a multitude of classes… including adult Gi and No-Gi, kids Gi and No-Gi classes, competition-focused classes, seminars, and even private lessons. I’ve been part of the team since 2017, and the staff and team members are family-friendly and always willing to help, creating a competitive, positive, and inviting atmosphere for all practitioners. Our team is composed of a very diverse group of people, including kids, teenagers, men, women, college students, disabled veterans, and people from all walks of life. Since joining this gym, I have seen significant improvement in my skills and confidence on the mats and I really enjoy the camaraderie and attending classes throughout the week. I highly recommend Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu in Lawrence to anyone seeking a challenge, pursuing a new hobby, wanting to compete in tournaments, or just looking to learn and grow the sport. Stop by and try an introductory class… you will love it !

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Colton Walter

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu is, in my opinion, the perfect school to learn and grow within the sport of submission grappling. It doesn't matter if you are looking to learn self defense, compete, or simply pick up a new hobby - Ground Theory is a place for all makes and models to learn the sport in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Matt and Heidi are longtime competitors and coaches with a plethora of knowledge and an immense understanding of the different teaching styles that cater to each and every type of person. Stepping onto the mats for the first time can be tremendously intimidating, but with the right people, you'll be glad you did it.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Nora T

5/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommend this gym for the whole family. Both my teen kids loved being here, my husband and I both felt welcomed and we all got great instruction. The group of women there are amazing, it feels like a supportive community and I Loved that not only for myself but for my teen daughter. Pictured was from a tournament where Heidi was in the corner coaching my kids through their matches.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Mark Mayworm

I was visiting family in the area and needed a place to workout as I was preparing for a tournament the following weekend. I emailed GTJJ to see if I could attend a training session. They replied back almost immediately inviting me to attend any session. Once there, Matt asked what I would like to work on since I was getting ready to compete. We worked on my request and other techniques and then rolled. All the students I rolled with were helpful and knowledgeable. I would recommend this gym to anybody!!! I will be back when I’m in the area…

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Cian Kasten

Best gym in town.

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

J I

I recommend Ground Theory to both anyone looking to start their jiujitsu journey or those who already have some experience. It is a great atmosphere with great people!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Chase Fraser

Great environment, great people. I feel comfortable suggesting Ground Theory to anyone from competitive athletes to beginners wanting to find a new circle of friends. No matter who you are, you will find good rolls here.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

John Paul Henry

Ground Theory is my embodied reminder of the mind-body connection. The time I put in on the mat is reflected in my functional coordination, my ability to effortlessly care for my children, and my confidence to defend myself or loved ones. Jiujitsu is so much more than a martial art. Matt and Heidi understand this. I am so grateful for their vision and to be a part of the community they have built.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jaren Dolsky

Matt and Heidi do a fantastic job catering to all skill levels of BJJ. Everyone who trains here is very welcoming and will help you to improve every time you come out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Bradley August

Matt and Hedi run the best BJJ academy in Lawrence KS. Great training environment with solid BJJ practitioners.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Matt Cruz

The best place to train in Lawrence! Although, I live in and train in FL now, I started my jiu-jitsu journey under Matt and Heidi and am grateful to still be a part of them. Highly recommended!!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

ben holiday

Awesome gym, awesome people

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Entheo Explorations

Great family friendly atmosphere with a great crew of people to train with.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Marc Kliem

You've already decided to do jiu jitsu so now you want a reason to train at Ground Theory? Need it to fit your schedule? That's covered with classes offered at 6AM or as late as 7PM. Come once a week or everyday. Friendly atmosphere with a great group of people that range from college kids, paramedics, mechanics, or business professionals. Most addictive thing I've ever done

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jill Reese

Ground Theory is THE best jiu jitsu gym in Lawrence! Matt & Heidi have created a welcoming and friendly environment. Their depth of knowledge and skill offers the ultimate in learning, technique, sportsmanship and competition. For kids - the only place to train! Heidi has built the biggest kids program in the area. There are multiple kids classes, and a variety of ages and skills. For women - Matt and Heidi work to ensure safety is a priority and, as a woman, I would not train elsewhere in Lawrence! In a highly male dominated sport not all jiu jitsu gyms offer a safe space for women, but Ground Theory has crafted an amazing environment for women to learn and train. Every member of my family is currently (or has) trained with Matt and Heidi for years, I recommend Ground Theory as the premier jiu jitsu gym.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Cataract Cowboy

Have been training with Matt and Heidi for almost 5 years now. Fantastic experience. Have gained skill and confidence in a friendly non threatening environment. Highly recommend

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Timothy Larson

GTJJ is an approachable gym with a great atmosphere full of helpful people trying to lift everyone up to make them better. Matt is a great instructor and has created a supportive culture. Highly recommend!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Ron May

Great place to learn and practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Matt and Heidi have fostered a wonderful family atmosphere. Large kids classes, and many adult classes available. There is an amazing large group of women that continue to grow. Whether you're looking for self defense, competition or just fitness and learning a new skill, you'll fit in here. There are currently 5 black belts (one female), 4 brown belts (2 female) and plenty of purple belts. You will be hard pressed to find this quantity and quality of skill in a community of this size.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Abbi Welch

I've been training at Ground Theory for a couple months and everyone has been so welcoming, I look forward to classes all week!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

aaron welch

The only place I want to learn BJJ. Matt and Heidi are amazing people!! ❤️

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Robyn Verner

Excellent gym. Great, not-pretentious people who make you feel welcome. Skilled black belt coaches that actually roll with their students. Always a clean space. Lots of class times available. I recommend this gym to anyone I meet who is interested in trying jiu jitsu.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Randy Ultreras

I’ve trained with both Matt and Heidi for a couple years now. They are very knowledgeable with the sport and also make sure every single individual is well taken care of. Everyone learns at their own pace and the instructors as well as the rest of the students here are very patient with helping each other out to learn and grow together. Everyone here is very caring and welcoming. I’m thankful to be apart of such an amazing team that I consider like family! Strongly recommend to anyone and everyone to come check out Ground Theory Jiujitsu in Lawrence ks!

Instructors Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Carl Springer

Absolutely the best place to train Jiu Jitsu. Family friendly with great kids classes and a good group of women to train with as well. We compete amd travel together often and are a big family. 8 years with this crew and a lifetime of memories.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kate W

Best place for BJJ hands down. Great vibe great people. Highly recommend for both kids and adults.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

brodie burciaga

Very inviting very fun and changed my life for the better and helped me get back into shape and find something to compete in

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Bethany Potter

I’ve been training with Matt and Heidi since I moved to Lawrence 5 years ago. They understand that their students all have diverse reasons for training jiu jitsu and they’re supportive of everyone’s goals- whether that’s to compete in the sport side, for self-defense, or just to build a new hobby. I especially appreciate the depth and diversity of experience among our women’s team. It’s always hard in a male-dominated sport, but Matt and Heidi go out of their way to support their female athletes through open mats, #girlgang trips, and partnerships with organizations like Girls in Gis. Ground Theory is an incredible and inclusive community that we’re lucky to have!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Deja Jackson

I’ve been training under Heidi and Matt for the last 7 years. They are truly a gem to the Lawrence community. They are attentive, caring, extremely knowledgeable, and amazing mentors to truly improve your jiu jitsu game. Being a female, I can’t express enough how incredible this place is when it comes to true inclusivity and acceptance. Not only can women engage in the jiu Jitsu culture, but can also learn a variety self-defense techniques that can be helpful. Ground theory is not only an incredible place to train, but an amazing place to connect with others and build a diverse social community.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Mary Sapenoff

I’ve been going to Ground Theory for about half a year. Joining this gym was probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I am connected to women who practice jiu jitsu all across the country and after hearing some of their experiences I am beyond grateful that I get to learn under Matt and Heidi. These two coaches have created an environment that values diversity, community, family and safety. I roll with a range of professionals from police officers, lawyers, paramedics, therapists to stay-at-home-mothers and everyone follows Matt and Heidi’s lead in respect and communication. If you are bored with your current exercise routine, want to learn some self-defense, or just need a new hobby then you should definitely come by and take a class. I cannot recommend this place enough!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Johnathon Hamilton Slate

Ground Theory has been wonderful and welcoming! It’s an environment in which I can decompress, interact with an awesome community of people, and build a stronger version of myself—mentally and physically.

Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Nicholas Gregoriades

I love this jiu-jitsu academy. As a 4th-degree black belt who has trained worldwide, I have had enough experience with jiu-jitsu gyms to tell which ones have a good vibe and which don't. On my first visit to Ground Theory, I immediately noticed the clean, bright venue when I walked through the door. But I also noticed how warm and friendly the owners, Heidi and Matt, are. After training with them, I quickly realized that they are excellent jiu-jitsu practitioners too. If you're looking for a fantastic place for you or your kids to learn jiu-jitsu in Lawrence, this is the place!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Julian Melo

I’ve been a student of Matt and Heidi’s for 7 years now! They’re both amazing and really guide and prepare their students. If you’re interested in finding out what your limits are and then exceeded them, this is the place!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Sam Kuenzi

I love ground theory. I wouldn’t train anywhere else. Great people with good vibes.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

brittany henshaw

This is the best gym in town, the environment is great, the people are even better, and the experience is something that shouldn't be missed. Come train at Ground Theory Jiu-Jitsu!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Michaela Theis

Best bjj gym in Lawrence. The instructors are amazing and the atmosphere is positive and welcoming.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Hugh O'Donnell

I trained under Matt and Heidi for the last few years during my time at University of Kansas. They are fantastic instructors and good genuine people. Everyone who trains here are good hearted and fun people who are always happy to help. The gym is really a good community with some very skilled grapplers. I can’t recommend it enough.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Levi Stevicks

Great instructors, great teammates, great place!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Rich Qualls

I’ve been training with Matt and Heidi for several years. They have created an awesome gym with an amazing culture. If you want to compete every weekend or if you just want to get in shape or something in between, you’ll find people there to help you improve. GTJJ has what you’re looking for!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Matt Thomas

Great instructors and great attitude from all the other students.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Andrew Chau

Great gym, great instructors, and great training partners!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Joshua Reese

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu is the best and most inclusive gym I have ever belonged to. Matt and Heidi are amazing instructors and coaches. All of my kids have and continue to do jitsu under Heidi's wonderful coaching. They have created a place where all levels of training are welcome. They have created and warm and safe environment where everyone can learn at their own pace with no judgement. Come have some fun and learn some jiu jitsu.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

KC A

Good training for kids and adults.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Fred Thomas

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu provides an excellent classroom culture, environment, and a great learning experience along with the opportunity to improve physical fitness. I highly recommend!

Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

kaden lee

Good people good jiu jitsu and good vibez! Highly recommend training at ground theory jiu jitsu. Oss 🤙 #jiujitsulifestyle

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Marcel Wyckoff

Great community and sense of family

Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Nicole Kanaman

If I could give 20 stars I would!! As a female with zero experience in jiu jitsu, I was nervous to start but the instructors, Matt and Heidi, and other members welcomed me with open arms and the gym has become my second home. If you’ve been considering giving BJJ a try, I’d highly recommend Ground Theory!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Fam Ginavan

I’ve trained here for 7 years. The atmosphere is excellent, and the training is outstanding. I lost a tremendous amount of weight at first and I continue to keep it off. Several of my kids train here too. The kid’s program creates great outcomes for fitness and confidence. There is a great group of people who make up the family of this gym. The best time to start is now.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Bobby Joe Grubb

Excellent instruction and a great community. The kids BJJ program is the best in town!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Eli Johannesen

Matt and Heidi are great instructors, and the people at this gym are fantastic. They want to help you learn and grow, while being safe. I’ve been training with them for almost 3 years and absolutely love it.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Ground Theory Jiu Jitsu

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