Insight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu /Renzo Gracie

4360 S Hwy 27 Suite B, Somerset, KY 42501, USA

5.0 (84 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Judo MMA No-Gi Self-Defense Striking

Classes

Adults Classes Open Mat

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

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Bastrop Martial Arts Gym with the #1 BJJ & self-defense classes in Somerset KY - with gold medalist instructor, Sheldon Valka. Call 512-409-0479

https://www.insightbjj-ky.com/

(606) 222-0590

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Reviews

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Katie Mikel

Visiting from out of town, and this place exceeded expectations. Friendly atmosphere, top-notch instruction, and great training partners. The gym is spacious, clean, and well-maintained. Highly recommend!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Kevin Hess

Came into town for holidays and found Insight. I was welcomed right into the class and learned some awesome Ezekiel Choke combinations. Stayed for the open roll and Professor Valka took time to not only roll with me, but answer a lot of questions! If you are looking to start or just in town, this is the place to go!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Lilian Mahi

As a working and traveling parent with two kids actively involved in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we've visited and trained at a variety of gyms across the country. With this perspective, I want to share why Insight BJJ stands out and why I highly recommend it to other parents/individuals. We recently moved to Somerset, KY, and in August, I enrolled my two children, ages 5 and 8, at Insight BJJ. The transition has been seamless, and the welcoming atmosphere here made all the difference. The coaches are not only skilled but genuinely kind-hearted, taking the time to demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and work with each child on their individual strengths and areas to improve. The emphasis on building solid relationships with both the kids and the parents is evident, and for that, I am truly grateful. This gym has not only made our relocation easier, but it has also given my kids and myself a sense of home. They've already formed friendships with the coaches, other kids, and their families, and we couldn't ask for a better gym.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Elise DiNuzzo

Excellent jiu jitsu, people and atmosphere.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Charles Hill

Highly recommend, first bjj classes I've done. I’d have to say everyone always make you feel welcomed and learning from coach Sheldon is very easy and well explained!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Emma Tobe

Insight has an amazing training environment for both new and seasoned jiu jitsu athletes. Whether you are a hobbyist or a competitor, you will receive top-notch instruction that will cater to your personal goals as an athlete. In addition, the wide variety of class times that Insight offers makes it easy to fit training into a busy schedule. This is not a gym where you are simply a “member”… you become part of a family. And that alone is worth its weight in gold. If you are looking for a safe, fun, skilled environment to learn more about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I would highly recommend Insight.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
sean hackee

This gym’s atmosphere is unmatched! The professor is extremely welcoming to all students. Every student at insight is a team member, and a vital one at that. From day one your questions and input matter in the success of the gym as a whole. At insight, I have found jiu jitsu is looked at as a community and not a rivalry. Ego is left at the door and everyone is joined in making the community better. I had tried Jiu Jitsu at another gym (one in which I have nothing but respect and appreciation for), however insight offered me the environment of freedom, encouragement and embrace of difficultly I was looking for. I live an hour away from this gym, yet I drive there twice a week just to be around such great people. Hopefully, you are the next member to have a positive impact on the community. #onelove

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Olivia Ulrich

amazing place, amazing people! couldn’t ask for a better family❤️

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
The Keller's BJJ RV

My husband and I guest trained at Insight and joined their open mat when we happened to be in the area. The professor/ owner is was clearly dedicated to his craft, his gym, and his students . The gym is very clean, bright, and over all has a very welcoming feel. This is a great family gym. Big Bonus points for mens and womens changing rooms AND they have a shower. Overall, wonderful gym and if I’d live here, it would be the gym of my choice. Thanks for the 50/50 pointers, Professor Sheldon.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
seth todd

extremely welcoming environment with amazing people, endless great things i could say about insight. it’s a wonderful place to be apart of.

Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Gavin Poling

I stopped by for an evening class while on a road trip and everyone is very friendly and nice. The instructional section was good and the sparring section afterwards was really good as well. I would recommend training at this school for sure!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Aaron Goodpaster

I started at insight a few weeks ago and it’s been amazing, everyone involved are great people that are willing to teach and better your experience. Professors Sheldon Valka and Kirk Phillips are great teachers that have vast knowledge of the sport , you can’t ask for a better environment to learn!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Bobbi DuBoise

The instructors are great and family oriented. They are always willing to help everyone. Our family loves attending here and highly recommend.

Instructors
Posted 2 years ago
Dawson Kuhnapfel

As a beginner, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience, Sheldon and Kirk are very knowledgeable about training, and the environment is very welcoming and respectful

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Afton Norfleet

Both of my sons train here and have developed a passion for jiu jitsu. Insight has both a welcoming atmosphere and superb training. They offer classes for any schedule. One of my sons has trained at multiple jiu jitsu gyms (even out of state) and Insight continues to be his favorite of them all. Highly recommend!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
ryan wilson

I walked in the first day and could not have felt more welcomed. The facility is top-notch and extremely clean. Professor Sheldon is very knowledgeable and thorough, a top grade instructor. I will be moving to the area soon and was looking for a place to train. With no doubt in my mind, this will be the place.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Taylor Evans

I knew nothing about any martial arts before going to insight. However, the professors and members are super welcoming and helpful. I’ve felt at home since day 1!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ethan

Insight BJJ stands out as the premier Jiu Jitsu gym in Somerset, Kentucky! Having experienced numerous Jiu Jitsu gyms across different regions, I confidently affirm that Insight surpasses all expectations. Under the guidance of Professor Sheldon, the depth of knowledge in both the fundamental and intricate aspects of Jiu Jitsu are unmatched . Beyond the exceptional training, the atmosphere is inclusive, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support amongst members. I’d recommend Insight BJJ to anyone seeking unmatched instruction and a welcoming community!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Amber Dunagan

All I can simply say is WOW my girl Gabby has been here for about month and has learned so much! Definitely has improved her wrestling skills and has made her confidence burst!! This place is a true definition of family ♥ I wish I could put more then 5 stars Sheldon and his staff deserves over 50!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Brandon K

Great place to train, welcoming environment and they break the process down well to newcomers. 10/10 would recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Clinton Mikel

Dropped in from out of town. Very welcoming. High level instruction. Good people and training partners. Spacious, clean facilities. Definitely recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kendall Catron

I’m new to bjj from day one they welcomed me with open arms they work with me at my rate so I can learn I highly recommend insight you will learn a lot from them an have a great time doing it

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
caleb abrams

I stopped by for open mat today and had a great experience. I was in town on a work trip and it was my first time visiting a gym other than my local gym in TN. Sheldon was very helpful in improving my game and I’m excited to take what I learned back to TN.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
John Loudermilk

Great experience and really friendly and knowledgeable people!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
David L.

I was staying in the area for work. Reached out to see if I could train for a day and received a warm welcome. Great class. Awesome atmosphere. Everyone made me feel like I was a regular. If you live in the area, definitely check them out. You won't be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kathy A

Looking for a jiu-jitsu gym that encourages people over egos? One that has a competitive spirit with a family oriented atmosphere? You’ll find it at Insight Brazilian JiuJitsu of Somerset, Ky! The gym is welcoming to members of all ages and abilities. With instructors that are knowledgeable yet approachable, they encourage friendly competition in a safe and supportive environment. Offering multiple daily classes, Insight allows you to fit your training into any schedule. The classes are challenging yet fun, where you can learn new techniques allowing you to consistently improve your game. When you’re ready, the gym also encourages competition in tournaments. This gives you the opportunity with unmatched support to test your skills and compete against some of the best Jiujitsu practitioners in the surrounding areas. Overall, you’ll be glad you found this gym and I would highly recommend Insight Brazilian JiuJitsu to anyone looking for an exciting and fulfilling jiujitsu experience! -Always looking forward to next class-

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kelsey Baker

My son loves taking classes here. The environment here is welcoming, excellent coaches, willing to work with students to learn the days lesson and master learning. If you are looking for a gym.. you will not regret the decision to join us at Insight!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Cole Blevins

I cant recommend Insight BJJ Somerset enough if you are looking to train BJJ in the Somerset Ky area. Once I stepped through the door and experienced the atmosphere for myself I knew its where I wanted to train. It is a friendly and clean training environment and the owner Sheldon Valka is a top notch coach! Perfect place to train regardless of age or skill level!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Austin Hicks (Austin Hicks)

I haven’t been here long but from my experiences from coming in everyone has been positive and it’s just an all around great environment with some great coaches I’m glad to be apart of an amazing team!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Rick Goforth

I had the opportunity to train at Insight BJJ in Somerset today. Sheldon Valka is an awesome instructor! He and his students were very welcoming. This is a top notch school and I would 100% train here if I lived in the area! He truly cares about his students and seeing them progress.!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Cheryl Laudenslager

I highly recommend this gym over any other gym in Somerset. My grandson goes here and absolutely loves the coaches and environment. So happy we came here for self defense and interaction with other kids his age.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
David Dilts.

If you live in the area or are just dropping in, this is the gym you’ve been looking for. Three simple reasons: the gym itself, the people in it, and the instruction received. The gym. I dropped in for a noon Friday class and was blown away by the professionalism, character, and cleanliness of the gym. One of, if not the number one, most beautiful gyms I’ve ever been to. Super clean, with showers, changing rooms, viewing area, and a sharp front desk. THE MATS ARE SUPER CLEAN. No hair, dust, dirt, etc at all from what I saw. Add to that, the mat space could easily accommodate 80 people and it was awesome. The people The folks training were extremely kind and welcoming. No ego-centric BS happening in this gym. It was awesome to see every age and belt level getting better together. Humble, hardworking, passionate and kind, the people were super kind to me. These are the people you want to be around more and the kind of people you want your kids to grow up to be like. The instruction. Coach Sheldon Valka is legit. Detailed but not burdensome. Strong but not forceful. Efficient in his instruction but intensely and acutely in tune with each of his students’ strengths and weaknesses, adjusting their technique with precision and intent. Overall this is the best drop-in experience I’ve ever had in the game. Couldn’t recommend it more. OSS

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Belinda Powell

Very Clean, Family Oriented, Would Highly Recommend!!

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Steven

Very welcoming environment, Detailed and we'll instructed training. Without a doubt the best Martial Arts school around!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Austina Mellberg

I love the family atmosphere of this staff and gym! Sheldon is extremely knowledgeable and his coaching skills are incredible as well as easily understandable! Will be back im the near future!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Dustin Poynter

Awesome atmosphere, great energy and very welcoming. Coach Sheldon really invests in every individual student from a complete beginner to an experienced competitor.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Ryan Davidson

Clean family run business, highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Brenton Llane

If you're looking for a good Jiu Jitsu gym, you found it! Both members and staff are very kind and create an atmosphere of fun, learning and acceptance. The instruction is excellent and very detailed. It will elevate anyone's game no matter your level. I cannot say enough good things about this place! If you're willing to put the work in, you will go far!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Shad and Jessica Smith

If I could give more stars I would great facilities professer Sheldon is great explains things really well love going here.

Instructors Facility
Posted 3 years ago
Nikki Bowling

I love insight it’s the best thing I could have ever done my confidence has went up I’ve learned a lot and they are a hell of good teachers there and a awesome owner very friendly great people overall.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Elizabeth Upchurch

Great experience, great with kids, would recommend to anyone for adults and children !!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Amber Weeks

Jiu-jitsu is an incredible martial art that teaches you not only self-defense but also discipline, patience, and perseverance. It is a challenging sport that requires both physical and mental strength, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The training is intense, but it is also a lot of fun, and you get to meet amazing people who share your passion for the sport. The instructors are knowledgeable, experienced, and passionate about teaching, and they create a supportive and encouraging environment that helps you grow and improve. Overall, I highly recommend Insight Jiu-jitsu to anyone who is looking for a challenging but rewarding martial art that will help you develop both physically and mentally.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Bryan Denney

Great place to train. 10/10 would recommend very welcoming an always greeted with open arms.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
H B

Everyone is very sweet and will work with you on anything you need, very understanding people. I would definitely recommend visiting this place. Even if it's just cross-training.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
aubree stars

We love this this gym!!! The classes are organized, disciplined, engaging, challenging and also always fun! My kids love Sheldon and look forward to every class. If you are looking for a bjj gym with passionate coaches and a positive atmosphere, Insight bjj Somerset is the spot👍

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Hurstle Upchurch

Staff is great. The kids love them. Location is awesome and they take all safety precautions with sanitation. Keep up the great work!

Instructors Facility Location
Posted 3 years ago
Morrow Milestones

If you are looking for that something to help motivate you to get in shape, become healthier, and improve your everyday life, this is your one stop shop! Sheldon Valka, his wife Shana, and their children Darian and Silas are an asset to the community of Somerset. The environment they provide at Insight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu-Team Renzo Gracie-Somerset, KY is very clean, friendly and family-oriented. They offer 6:30 A.M. classes, noon classes, and 6:30 P.M. classes to accommodate any work schedule. They also offer kid’s classes so your child can learn to protect themselves from the threat of bullies. When you join Insight BJJ, you are not just joining a gym, you are joining a family. Call today and take advantage of the first free week of training. You will learn the Renzo Gracie style of Jiu Jitsu to help you have the confidence and ability to protect yourself in a world that keeps getting more and more unpredictable. Join today and start your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey at Insight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu -Team Renzo Gracie-Somerset, KY!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Z Crew

I love training here. Jujitsu is intimidating to get into but I have received tons of support and encouragement. They also have let us use their facilities for our youth wrestling team. It has been an excellent partnership we were very glad to get the team out of a garage gym and into such a nice one.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Bobby Pritchard

This place has the best atmosphere and the best people that I have been around in the martial arts community. This is the only place I feel 100% comfortable taking my kids to. We love it there! Also, the cleanest gym I’ve ever been to, hands down!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Charles Harmon

A serious place to learn with the biggest welcoming family atmosphere!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Brandan Bratcher

#1 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym in Pulaski County! Everyone is such a joy to be around and to train with. Couch Sheldon is truly an unique individual and an amazing teacher! Highly recommend this gym, you will not find such an awesome group of people!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Johnathan Shepherd

Great facility and even better people that operate it!! Great for both kids and adults.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
coalton kilburn

A real family with an amazing coach and great students/practice partners very willing to show u hands on and it’s a great environment 10000/10 would recommend for all ages!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Valerie StClair

My daughter has loved Insight since she has started. She is normally a little shy and has always had some anxiety issues going on and she became super comfortable with everyone very quickly. Her coaches and the staff treat her like family and not just like another student that’s going to come and go. She’s went to another Jiujitsu gym previously that she did like but she wasn’t near as comfortable and herself as she is at Insight. She’s always wanting to go early or stay over every chance she has. Coach Sheldon and Justin has been absolutely amazing with her 100%. She loves them like she’s known them half of her life. This is the honestly the best place in opinion. I’ve haven’t ever seen a child in this place not smiling and having fun with what they are learning.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Amy Yazza

Best family environment! Coach is very attentive! Love leaving feeling like I’ve learned something!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Rebecca mounce

To those that do take the TIME to actually READ the reviews..thank you . It helps a business to improve on things that are an issue for some . For Insight BJJ of Somerset,KY .... I have so much to say ! My girls 4,an 7 y-old, fell in love the minute they walked through the door. The owners are like family. It's a SAFE place ,clean ,well organized, the coaches are professionals on the mat and compassionate on and off the MAT.. Shana helped and continues to ! What ever questions I have, she answer's them in the most professional way. But still with that mother mindset..... that make senses! If your looking for something outta your comfort zone. Insight BJJ is for you. Introduce your family as a whole you'll definitely not going be ... Thank you.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jeramie Judd

Love the facility! So clean and well maintained. Owners are knowledgeable and the best at their craft. Kind, professional, and proficient.

Instructors Facility
Posted 3 years ago
Lacee Qualls

Awesome staff, clean gym, and even better instructor. 10 out of 10

Instructors Facility
Posted 3 years ago
Jared Defrancis

Clean, friendly, and family oriented gym. Sheldon is an excellent instructor and you couldn't be in better hands.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Blake Greer

Great facility, awesome staff, and awesome members. I felt like a long time member the first time I walked in. Definitely the best around

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Kiley Jones

In short, this is the best environment to learn! I feel myself, my husband, and my children are learning skills that can be applied in self defense and my kids are learning to respect others along side those skills. If you are looking for a safe, family friendly environment, and want to learn effective and proper techniques this is the place for you. Whether you want to become a successful competitor or just want to learn anti-bullying or self-defense skills give them a try. They have so much to offer anyone walking through the door. My story for those interested: My son and I had trained previously out of state. However, when we moved to Kentucky my son lost all passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and mine was quickly fading. In my opinion, Somerset didn’t have a place within reasonable distance that offered a safe, comfortable, and family friendly environment with coaches who were dedicated to the art of the sport. When my son returned to visit his previous coach and he expressed his concerns about how far my son had regressed I figured it was time to move on to a different sport. So we did and I assumed it just wasn’t for him. When my husband and I tried Insight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu we made no effort to get the kids involved and we made it clear that just because we train doesn’t mean they have to. Well it only took watching a couple classes before my son begged to try again. We couldn't be happier with our experience. Not only is my son back on the mat but he is excited and passionate about learning. He is employing intentional and proper techniques that I know could be used one day to protect himself or others. He was learning to respect others, that his “no” has value, and falling in love with the sport again. Sheldon Valka has a passion for this sport is infectious. Him and his wife Shana Valka have already developed such a strong and welcoming presence in the short time their gym has been open. I can’t wait to see how Insight will continue to impact this community

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Marcus barber

Shelton and his wife and family are awesome people he is very passionate about his jujitsu. He is one awesome teacher and I am thankful to have met them. My son loves going there. Amazing Organization I would recommend them to everyone

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Justin Yazza

Love it here!!!!!!! Awesome people! Coaches are the best!!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Matthew Combs

Great place for one’s journey into jujitsu! 10 outta 10 would recommend. Very nice people that own the school with a real passion for helping people learn and grow! Also very fair pricing.

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Posted 3 years ago
Chris Kidd

Insight Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a solid institution in which all families or individuals can learn and develop their passion for BJJ. Coach Sheldon demonstrates a deep understanding of the art that is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and conveys exceptional patience when instructing all students, new or experienced!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Cameron Nave

Awesome place! Good instruction and great atmosphere!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Allen Miller

Insight Brazilian jiu jitsu is a very friendly environment for all levels of bjj weather it’s self defense or competition they are the place to go. The coaching there is some of the best in the game if you wanna compete and win then insight bjj is the place for you

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Abigail B.

This jui-jitsu gym is the place to go! A comfortable place for all, women, children and men! The coach is amazing and has led me onto my journey! Filled with positive people ready to grow with you! Amazing teachers!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
River Otter Lures Eric Denson

Absolutely amazing place. The whole staff is super professional. The place is always spotless. Very very very good with kids. They make it fun. All the kids mine included love it.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Chris Decker

Amazing organization with incredible instructors. Highly recommend Insight BJJ of Somerset to anyone of any age.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Taylor Hargis

This gym has the Best Jiu jitsu coach in the Somerset area for adults and kids. It has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and a structured program with lots of details for beginners and seasoned bjj goers. Multiple classes throughout the day in order to fit all schedules, the mats are always clean, and safety is the number one priority. I highly recommend to beginners and practitioners who haven’t found a gym in the area that fits them yet. If you’re a competitor, a slow roller, a beginner, or you want a disciplined program that your kids are going to enjoy, this is the gym for you.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago