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John Machado Academy is the Jiu Jitsu place to be for world class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. Led by Coral Belt Head Instructor Master John Machado.
Reviews
Let ME Explore That For YOU
The gym is great, and the people there are really friendly. Great teachers, highly experienced.
If you balance a stressful course load or a demanding job, then this is the perfect relief. When you enter this gym, you forget about all your problems. when you leave the gym you are better equipped to deal with your problems because your mind has been cleared.
what also makes this gym unique in particular is that there is so much kindness from the instructors and other students. There is definitely a "homely" feel to this place that truly helps you advance and succeed.
I’ve been training at the John Machado Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy since Spring 2021 with no previous training in any other martial art. Master Machado and his family never cease to make me feel like family. I am continually learning/growing from the excellent instruction of Master Machado and also from several black and brown belt instructors.
The various levels and ages of training partners also keep me learning and constantly challenged. All who train are always willing to help others grow and improve with high level competition and respect.
The only thing I wish is that I started training at an earlier age, but I look forward to sharpening my skills with each class/training session. Many thanks to The Machado Family for their ongoing contributions to the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the positive impact they have had on me.
Master John is incredibly knowledgeable and just a stand-up human being. He and his brothers are so humble and generous that it truly will blow you away. As both a jujiteiro and a spinal specialist I am incredibly picky about what JiuJitsu schools I endorse. I am proud to say that I recommend that anyone looking for an amazing school to start or continue their jiujitsu journey should look no further than John Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
This place is amazing. The Machado family has built a legacy, and the opportunity to come learn here is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Everyone here treats you like family, no better place to train!
I’ve been training here for 4 months and am 50 years old. I’ve trained at multiple schools in my 20s to 40’s but sessions would be so rough that learning was limited. Not so with Professor Machado. His level of understanding and teaching in Jiu Jitsu, other martial arts, and self defense is simply put...elite. He has created an incredible class culture. He enables me to bring out my best and is always patient. As I continue my bjj journey, I have so much confidence in my abilities because of my great professor John Machado. I simply can’t imagine training anywhere else. If you live in or near Allen and are interested in jiu jitsu, you must check out this school.
I am an 40+ student of Jiu-Jitsu whose main goal is to keep learning and training with as few injuries as possible. For me this excludes some of the more aggressive gym cultures. Not that you can't train for competition here, you can and some do. It's just not about face-smashing all the time. People are encouraged to leave their ego at the door. I like that John Machado's academy has created a the culture of safe, sustainable martial arts training. My son also trains at this academy and he absolutely loves it. I highly recommend this academy.
I've been training at John Machado's gym for a little under two years now. Professor Machado's gym is clean and well maintained. I could easily write a novel in this review, but suffice it to say I'm a fan - I've seen personally this gym change the lives for the better for numerous people, from people walking in made out of cookie dough, and walking out a few weeks later hammered into iron (okay, okay, it takes a little longer than a few weeks), to other folks that have come in and made lifelong friendships. And here's the thing - Professor Machado teaches most of the classes. How many white belts get to learn from a coral belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Professor Machado, along with his brothers, came along in the initial Gracie invasion in the late 80s that brought BJJ to the USA. It doesn't get any more legit.
This is a world class academy to train BJJ at. Professor Machado, his sons, and the other instructors are extremely knowledgeable, patient, and caring about the students and the academy. I cannot recommend it enough!
This is an excellent school to train in not only because of the legendary Machado name, but because of the safe and high growth potential environment it provides. Training partners are not overly aggressive and are willing to teach you how to improve. Several different black belts ensure everyone rolls safe and are constantly working with everyone to improve their technique and execution. I am happy to have found this school and highly recommend it.
John Machado BJJ is an incredible place. Not only is Professor Machado among the most experienced teachers in the world, this school is among the most inviting. From my very first day, professor Machado and the other teachers made me feel welcome. The safety of students is their primary concern and you will not find any over aggressive students trying to hurt you. All of the students help each other to the best of their ability. I have lost 40lbs and been inspired to eat better and exercise regularly since I began training here.
Our oldest son has been going for 2 1/2 years now. The Machado teaching has absolutely changed his life. We started as a way to protect against a bully, it was the best gift we could’ve given him. You can’t put a price on self confidence.
My 8 year old son has been training with The Machado family since he was 4. He never wanted to do any kind of sport until we introduced him to BJJ. His confidence and self awareness have grown at unbelievable rates. He Love Jiu Jitsu, Professor John, Mr. Jean and all of his instructors. We highly recommend John Machado Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy!
I've been attending this academy since 2014 and so many positive things have come from my martial arts training here. John Machado has been around and seen it all and his wisdom shows. The culture created here is very unique and welcoming to individuals of all ages and skill levels. This has become a second home to me and I've made so many great relationships through this school. One of the best decisions I've made. A+
I knew I found the right place for my BJJ journey when i first walked in there 4 years ago. Prof John Machado, a close relative of the BJJ founder, has taught me not only BJJ and self defense, but also how to apply what we've learned in BJJ to real life, such as how to deal with stress, overcome adversity, confidence etc. My life has been changed for the better ever since I started here. this is more than just an ordinary BJJ school, strongly recommend, 5 star!
I've trained all over DFW and this place has the most "family" type of feel. Professor Machado and his instructors are fantastic and the academy is a clean, friendly, and safe environment. Nowhere else in North DFW can you attend multiple classes a week with a Coral Belt! If you're in the Allen area, then you should be training here. Period!
I have been a fan of mma for a while and have wanted to learn Bjj pretty much since I first saw it in action but I kept putting it off trying to get into better shape (which never happened). I’m telling you if you are wanting to get into better shape and learn how to defend yourself at the same time, I would recommend trying a class you’ll notice immediately what a gem you have stumbled upon. My only regret after starting was not doing it sooner!
Getting to learn Jiu Jitsu directly from Professor John Machado and his two sons has truly been an honor. I feel fortunate to have access to such world class instruction in a family friendly and supportive environment. The past three years of training have truly changed my life for the better and I look forward to the years ahead.
Totally recommend RCJ Machado in Allen! Our kids are going on 2 years training here and as a parent I am impressed with the holistic training approach. Kids must be good students both in the gym and in the classroom before earning the next belt. Instructors instill good values in the gym and in life in general. Learning environment is positive and instructors meet kids wherever they are in their jujitsu journey. Staff is approachable and knowledgeable. Can't say enough good things about this place and the people in it!
I absolutely love this place. They make you feel right at home. The owners and staff are simply amazing. My son loves coming here to learn how to defend himself. I have seen his self confidence grow since he started this class. All the instructors are very well trained. This is hands down the best place to learn Jui Jitsu. I love coming here to watch my son learn from all the first class instructors. The owners sons have even inspired me to get in shape. I am very happy I chose this awesome place for my son and you will be too.
I feel incredibly fortunate for my son and I to train with Prof. John Machado and his sons. World class training with great people. I really can't imagine more humble, and knowledgeable instructors. Phenomenal self defense training and great for fitness.
I highly recommend this school. Great instructors and all around a great vibe. Safe for all ages. I love the approach of learning a self defense while getting a workout. The schools philosophy of leaving your ego at the door is adopted by all the students which creates a safe environment to train and test yourself. The school is very welcoming if you find yourself in the area stop by and see for yourself.
I have been to many Jiujitsu schools in my 12 years of training, and John Machado's academy is by far the highest quality.
John Machado and his family, all extremely knowledgeable and skilled marital artists, are on the mats everyday to provide the same instruction that they learned from the founders.
The academy has a very welcoming and friendly environment, but still carries the discipline that is needed to help individuals be the best version of themselves.
I could say much more, but I highly recommend you try the place out for yourself, you won't regret it
Great place to train regardless of what you're goals are, you can find both an experienced competition team and self defense courses. Would reccomend training here to anyone wanting better bjj
This is the best BJJ gym in Allen, TX. The instruction is great and the Professors are some of the most experienced anywhere. Everyone is welcoming and has a great time in class!
I have been a student at this academy for 2 years, and from the moment I walked in for the first class everyone has been very warm and motivated to help me grow. The professor (John Machado) has the deepest pool of knowledge out of anyone else in my immediate area. The academy is always clean and everyone you roll with is better than you, which has tremendously helped improve my jiu jitsu game.
11/10 would recommend
Excellent instruction and atmosphere with Professor John Machado and his sons Jean and John. Professor John Machado personally teaches numerous classes each week which is amazing. The mastery of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and the larger martial art arena is unmatched. I highly recommend training with John Machado in Allen, TX.
I’ve been to many gyms and this is by far the best experience I’ve ever had. Immediately you feel like you’ve joined a family and feel completely welcomed. I highly recommend this gym if you’re looking for top quality training.
This place is Awesome! Teaching the fundamentals of bjj and respectful teachers. I have been training here for a few months now and love it! Two of my kids also go here. Would definitely recommend!
I trained Jiu Jitsu in the past and had some unrelated injuries that required a long break. When I learned Professor Machado had opened an academy near me in Allen I was excited to get back into Jiu-Jitsu! I am 51 and love the welcoming and respectful atmosphere and the wide variety of students of all ages and backgrounds. The black belts and upper belts treat everyone with respect and are all willing to help you learn in a positive manner. If you or a family member are considering training in Jiu-Jitsu, this is the perfect gym to give it a try and you’ll be learning directly from the source!
Love this place. Great instructors and friendly environment. My kids and I go there and I would encourage anyone looking for a jujitsu home to consider it.
Getting to study with John Machado is an honor and the other instructors are all great practitioners and great instructors.
John’s gym is absolutely fantastic! Everyone’s very friendly; no egos. The techniques he teaches are efficient, effective and “economic.” Your jiujitsu will definitely improve. I highly recommend it! My nephews are in the kids class and they love it too. Great place all around!
This Academy is fantastic. From the initial meeting with John Jr., Professor Machado, Steve and all the black belts, the atmosphere and martial artists here are all inviting and knowledgeable. Make no mistake about it, you will learn how to be a BJJ martial artist, but more importantly you will learn why you are learning each particular movement and how they tie together. We’re not just learning martial skills, rather this is truly a place where you’ll learn to be an artist. I’m happy I found John Machado Jiu Jitsu and feel blessed to call this academy home.
The John Machado Academy is THE academy you want to go and train no matter your skill level. I’ve trained in various martial arts gyms in the course of 5 years all over the US and the John Machado Academy has been absolutely the best! You have one of the top instructors in the world, CORAL BELT John Machado, who not just teaches self defense, and Brazilian jiu jitsu, but also life experiences and shares a well being lifestyle that is scarce in the world of martial arts today. As you walk in the first thing you see is their motto “LEAVE YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR”... their sincere care of the Brazilian jiu jitsu Art form is resembled in their high technique level, their will to share their positive instructions and their care for you to take in every single day as a new tool. If you earn a stripe or a belt here, you better believe it’s the real deal.
John Machado BJJ is a superb academy to train in the DFW area. There are very few places in the country where you can train directly with one of the legends of the sport. A coral belt and black belts there almost every day to help anyone on their journey. Since moving here to the DFW area, I've greatly enhanced my game. My two daughters also now train here, and are learning self defense and sport BJJ skills.
Having trained for over a decade and visiting many schools during my travels, this is a great easy going place to learn the art. I recommend John Machado BJJ for anyone wanting to learn or improve.
Fun, safe, fantastic place for the whole family to train. Instructors are watchful and help each individual to master techniques and adapt moves based on body types and strengths. All students are respected, encouraged, and taught to help each other. Love this place!
Professor Machado is amazing, as well as the other instructors. In as little as 7-8 months I’ve learned enough to feel very comfortable defending myself against an untrained thug, while at the same time having barely scratched the surface of jiu jitsu. The gym is very clean, and the prices are very competitive to other places, especially considering you are training under an actual Machado! You cannot find a better or more experienced BJJ instructor in the area. I also feel safe here, this is not a gym where there’s a bunch of young yahoos causing injuries to others. My 11 year old daughter also trains here and has benefited both socially, and physically. In fact after a year she is able to dominate her 20 year old sister! I plan to train here for years to come.
My daughter goes here and loves it! The instructors are all great with kids and have shown her many different moves. John Machado Jiu Jitsu Acadamy is really dedicated to training my child correctly. They are friendly and knowledgeable. Great place to learn Jiu Jitsu!
I've trained at nine academies that I can think of, and this one stands out. The atmosphere is very conducive to developing your skill as a martial artist, and is a family friendly environment. I plan to spend several years here and enroll my children when they're old enough.
This Academy is wonderful. It has inspired me to achieve life alignment, personal accountability, and further reinforce my life legacy. The training is exceptional and the instructors are fantastic. Professor Machado is a role model for us all.
I’m a student here. They have a world class head instructor who is a 7th degree BJJ black belt. Have several black belts which is rare. The school has a very diverse variety of ages, body types, and experience levels. Great camaraderie and positive atmosphere to learn in. What more could you possibly ask for?
Great academy, from the first day I came to get information it felt like home. Safe environment, friendly students and you get to take lessons from a BJJ legend, his sons and awesome assistant instructors.
Great place for kids to learn BJJ under a recognized leader and expert. The kids classes are will paced and you can tell that the instructors care about the art.
Classes available starting at young as 5 years old. Don't worry, they only teach defensive maneuvering to the little ones
The cost is right in line with any of the local martial arts schools. Our child's monthly fee is $120. The first month was $140, but that also included the gi (uniform).
If you're hesitant or intimidated by the thought of starting Jiu-Jitsu this is the perfect Martial Arts Academy to start and stay at.
Professor John Machado is one of the top instructors in the nation and is the primary instructor at the academy. Although he has a coral belt in Jiu-Jitsu he's one of the most approachable and down to earth instructors I've ever had.
In addition to professor John his two sons (John and Jean) as well as professor Steve are all black belts in Jiu Jitsu who help and build meaningful relationships with each individual student.
The academy is also fairly priced in comparison to other martial art academies, and the motto "leave your ego at the door" is apparent in the family atmosphere.
They offer children, beginner, master, and advanced ji-jitsu classes. In addition to jiu-jitsu they offer boxing and wrestling classes.
I would highly recommend John Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy for anyone at any stage!
Amazing atmosphere and culture of collaboration. It’s my honor to be a student of this Academy. The instructors are world class and the Professor is a fantastic role model. We support each other and learn from each other. I would recommend to anyone - any age, any shape, any confidence. You will be transformed on many levels and won’t regret it.
I love training at this Gym. I would highly recommend to anyone considering. The professor, his sons and steve are incredible instructors with passion and a big heart. You get Ivy League quality education and training here. Very easy inviting atmosphere. They have earned my business and my respect for a very long time. My wife is starting to train here as well as my chidren!
Semper Fi!
- Shane
Incredible experience training under the legendary Machado family. I've made many great friends here the past few years and learned how to defend myself shall I ever need it!
when the students is ready. Teacher always here . John machado Brazilian jiujutsu class is the best place to go . Wonderful people around and the best teacher you can find in the whole world. I am the one who was never knowing jiujutsu can change my life if I didn’t try . Give yourself a chance. Come right now . You will get your confidence and happiness when you close each other In jiujutsu class . You will find out how nice to be start knowing human . When you look at them eyes . Doesn’t matter age . Size . Language. Only because jiujutsu is the thing you gonna really enjoy.
I have known John Machado for many years and he is good man with a big heart. He enjoys what he does and is always patient, helpful, and willing to teach others to achieve their goals.
What an amazing gym. Everyone is so kind and extremely welcoming! They are also very knowledgeable and truly want you to become a better grappler. If you are currently looking for a place to train DO NOT pass up this place!
I stumbled across RCJ Machado Allen in September of 2015 hoping to find something challenging and different. When I started, I knew nothing of the Machado family and their lineage in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It didn’t take long to figure out Professor John Machado and the Machado family are experts in the art and are world class teachers. I’ve never taken any martial arts before, but Professor has made it fun, challenging, and leaves me wanting more. I was extremely overweight when I started and have dropped over 55 pounds in 2 ½ years. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has helped me change my lifestyle and turn my health around.
My 8 year old daughter has been attending classes for around a year and a half. She was so excited to take classes and her enthusiasm has only grown. The instructors are all helpful and caring, they make an effort to make your child feel confident. Their technique is spot on. The environment is open and friendly. I cannot speak much about the adult classes, but the little I have seen has shown camaraderie amongst the students. I would definitely recommend this school.
I really feel like it’s a great family here. The expertise and wisdom of professor Machado combined with the safe and constructive atmosphere really make this place 1 in a billion
It is an honor to be able to attend RCJ Machado in Allen. Professor John Machado has developed a world class Jiu-jitsu school right here in Allen, TX. The school has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and I always look forward to coming to class. I’ve trained in a few different types of martial arts before and RCJ Machado is by far the best school I’ve ever been a part of. Jiu-jitsu has not just developed my martial arts abilities, it has also improved my conditioning, flexibility, and mindset. The style in which Professor John Machado teaches is thorough, intelligent, and his enthusiasm is contagious. I recommend anyone interested in learning jiu jitsu to come by and check it out.
Our 11yo son has been attending since February 2016. After 5 years in Tae Kwon Do, it was simply a way for him to change things up. Naturally, after being comfortable at his ATA school for years, we were cautious about another school and new training in martial arts. He decided to give Jiu Jitsu a try and hasn't ever looked back! From the beginning, we have had a very positive experience. Communication has always been professional, timely and friendly! The Machado Family is VERY welcoming and is always willing to answer any questions we or other families might have. It has been a wonderful confidence and skill builder for our son. The instructors are knowledgeable and eager to help ALL of their students grow (kids, teens, adults). It's a super encouraging sport and the Machado's school in Allen is a FANTASTIC place to be. We are fortunate that their location is close to us so that our son can train with the best!
RCJ Machado in Allen, Tx is AWSOME ! Family environment, safe training-sparring, learn from THE SOURCE Professor John Machado and his sons John Jr and Coach Jean. They will help you with hydration, nutrition, physical condition, and self-defense. The body awareness BJJ teaches you is priceless. I am proud to say I live the Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle...
Purple Belt
RCJ Machado In Allen, TX has been a true blessing for myself and family. From day one as you enter the door you're greeted and treated as family and welcomed. My child has flourished mentally and physically with their kids program, promoting and teaching self discipline, respect, and emotional growth. They encourage hard work and good ethics, and demonstrate the same paying attention to the details of each student. My wife and I enjoy the classes and family atmosphere, the training is technical and the details make all the difference in the world. Truly making this the place for you and your family to learn world class Jiu Jitsu in a friendly and very safe manor.
J. Taylor
This may be one of the next Jiu-jitsu schools in Dallas that offer excellent training and a fun, comfortable family environment. Professor John Machado is in the school every single week teaching, and the people that train there are also high quality people. Highly recommend training here.
Fantastic family oriented environment. My 4 year old daughter loves going and is already telling me she wants to start doing BJJ. As for me I have done several martial arts and I have to say that I have not experienced such a fun, encouraging, helpful, and exciting environment anywhere else across any other disciplines. Everyone is friendly, helpful, and available.
I've had an interest in Jiu Jitsu for a while but was unsure of how and where I should start my training. One of my friends who has trained for nearly 10 years told me about RJC and that the legendary John Machado and his family were running and instructing the school. I went to my first class and haven't looked back since. Under John's instruction, I've begun learning the basics to build a solid foundation in Jiu Jitsu. I have a long way to go, but everyone at this school is supportive and is willing to help teach other members. The environment is very welcoming for students of all levels and I look forward to continuing my training for years to come. Once my son is of age, he will be joining the children's class. Men, Women, and children-Whether you're just beginning your path in Jiu Jitsu or looking to expand your existing skills, don't pass up an opportunity to train with a legend. Join the RJC Allen family!
Great atmosphere, training with proffesor John Machado and his sons John and Jean has been a life changing experience. I had never trained any martial arts before joining this school and from day one was welcomed and felt comfortable. You can not find a better place to train and learn. World class!
I've been training over 2 years now and it has changed my life. I'm extremely grateful the Professor came to Allen. I recommend the school to anybody. If you want to learn from the best, come train with Professor Machado at RCJ Machado 👍
I've trained Jiu Jitsu for 9 years now and have had the fortunate opportunity to train at some of the best schools in the country. After relocating to McKinney and finding John Machado's school only 2 months ago I can't be happier to learn from a legend who really takes the time to look at and study each students Jiu Jitsu. I recommend anyone looking to start or who have trained for years like I have to come try a few classes.
This school changed my life. To study directly under Professor John Machado is an incredible privilege and opportunity. I'm 43 years old and in the best shape of my life, and have more self confidence and self control than ever before. Whether you are looking for improved fitness, self-defense, or to be a world-class jiu jitsu competitor, Professor John Machado has you covered. The school is run in a family friendly atmosphere with a focus on teamwork, respect, and helping each other improve. This school is the best martial arts training money can buy.
RCJ Machado Jiu Jitsu Allen is a beautiful new school with world class training. Mr. John Machado and his sons John and Jean are the best of the best in teaching and training all levels from children to adults. Excellent - Highly Recommend!!
Cannot say enough good things about this place! You will be hard pressed to find better people to train with. We are very particular about who we allow to lead and coach our sons. With that said, we are thrilled to witness the leadership, example, and caring nature shown by John Machado and his sons John and Jean. Our boys love and look forward to every minute spent on the mat with this incredible family.
