Lion Heart Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Birmingham Alabama

5192 Caldwell Mill Rd Suite 103, Hoover, AL 35244, USA

(52 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi MMA Self-Defense

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Adults Classes All Levels Black Belt Instruction Fundamentals

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Home | Lion Heart BJJ - Your premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy located in the vibrant community of Hoover/Inverness.

https://trainbjj.com/

(205) 572-5921

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Reviews

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Brian Haskell

I had the privilege of training at Lion Heart BJJ today. I am traveling from Corvallis, Oregon as I do frequently. Lion Heart is among the best and most welcoming I have had the privilege of visiting. Incredibly welcoming, superior talent, and obviously great training. The head professor, George A. Wehby II, was kind but demanding. He insisted on nothing but the best from his newest white belt to the highest ranking student in the class. Perhaps most impressive, Professor Wehby beautifully blends the art and physicality of BJJ with his deep faith, which he share freely with his students. I hope I am able to return and enjoy the great experience of training at Lion Heart again! If you are visiting, or if you are thinking about joining a BJJ gym, you could do no better than Lion Heart!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Patrick Hunt

Highly recommend this gym. George led an awesome deep-half class and I’ll definitely come back every time I’m in the area.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Tj Brown

I recently came here to train and learn. I had a great time learning and training with everyone! The atmosphere was very welcoming and everyone was friendly. Eric made it very easy for me to adapt and was great at giving instructions and showing techniques. I would highly recommend this place to anyone who is looking to train, learn self defense, or want a hobby!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jackson Todd

Anyone who travels and stops by a gym knows that it can be a bit uncomfortable, BUT NOT HERE! In all honestly, I have yet to go to a gym where the culture is as strong as it is here. As soon as I walked in I felt welcomed. Not to mention the technique was great, rolls were even better! Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Nelson Wray

It’s my home gym, when I’m away from home. Great place to learn and grow on your BJJ journey.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Peter Bonney

Friendly and welcoming school, great vibe, and impeccably clean. Training was excellent, very focused on mechanics, very focused on positional understanding - not just going through textbook moves. When it was time to roll every round was in that sweet spot of being intense but not dangerous. I dropped in while in town for work and felt immediately welcome. People went out of their way to introduce themselves. And they remembered my name after class. I have nothing but good things to say about Lion Heart, Prof. Wehby, and all his students. If this was my home area, this is where I would train. Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Jon Jasper

Great instruction and spotless training area. As a drop in student was made to feel very welcome. The atmosphere of the academy was fun with a focus on detail of technique. There were all ages, females and belt ranks. The rolling environment was safe, respectful, and enjoyable. Will be my go to location while visiting south Birmingham. Thank you for having me.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Houston Hatchett

I had a great time visiting during a work trip. Great instruction and quality guys to drill and roll with, highly recommended!

Instructors Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Kari Whitaker

As a woman in this typically male-dominated sport, I can say enthusiastically that Lion Heart Jiu-Jitsu Academy has made me feel safe, accepted, and valued, and I have seen my self-confidence soar since I began training here 5 years ago. Ladies, this place is family-friendly, CLEAN, challenging in a great way, and super FUN! If you are looking for an incredible mind/body workout, this is it! We have a small-but-growing, consistent group of women practitioners here. My teenage daughter, husband, and I all love this place so much. Highly recommend! Parking can be a little hectic during after-work class times, but there are still plenty of spots; just come a little early to give yourself time to park.

Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
T Berry

Professor George is a wealth of information and an excellent teacher who genuinely cares about each student's understanding and growth. He makes group classes safe and non-intimidating for women and older kids; all the guys are very respectful and careful. This place is filled with truly kind people who are humble, ambitious learners.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Brian Brophy

Lion Heart Jiu Jitsu and Professor George Wheby in Birmingham, AL, have been instrumental in transforming my martial arts journey. The training environment at Lion Heart Jiu Jitsu is exceptional, offering a perfect blend of discipline, camaraderie, and technical expertise. Professor George Wheby's dedication and passion for the art are evident in every class. His teaching style is engaging and methodical, ensuring that each student grasps the fundamental concepts while progressing at their own pace. His attention to detail and willingness to provide individualized feedback have tremendously improved my technique and confidence on the mats. Furthermore, Professor Wheby fosters a supportive community where everyone is encouraged to learn and grow together. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Lion Heart Jiu Jitsu under Professor George Wheby's guidance is an exceptional place to train, where you'll not only develop your jiu jitsu skills but also build lasting friendships. I highly recommend this academy to anyone seeking to embark on their martial arts journey or further their existing skills.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
David Howard

I have been part of the Lion Heart BJJ community for 6 years now. I started BJJ to get in shape and cut some weight. Now 40 pounds lighter and probably in the best shape of my life at 50 years of age, I see this as a permanent lifestyle. Along this 6 year journey, I have gained a very valuable skill set, but more important I have made some wonderful friends. Professor Wehby fosters a supportive and safe environment for all men and women at Lion Heart.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jason Houser

Been training at Lion Heart for about 2 years. It's good to have a place where people know and care about you as you learn the gentle art of BJJ.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Reed Dolihite

What is an ideal jiu jitsu gym? Flexible class schedule - check. Clean facility - check. Professor who thoroughly understands jiu jitsu and is great at teaching others - check. Welcoming and friendly culture with a community made up of great people - check. If these attributes interest you in a jiu jitsu gym, either just getting started or passing through to train, Lionheart is for you.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Braden Rayburn

From someone who has done Jiu Jitsu in years past, Lion Heart Jiu-Jitsu Academy is 5 ⭐️’s! Profesor George not only has been in the space for decades, he has a wealth of knowledge as a black belt practitioner. He is very hands on, showing the actual positions opposed to just shouting commands. He ends his class with prayer requests and giving biblical lessons which correlate to life as well as the positions practiced. If you’re looking to just start out, they have a beginners class as well. Even the other students are welcoming and not a shed of “egos” are allowed, which makes coming to class even more exciting.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Ryan Norton

I've trained at Lionheart for over three years. In my opinion, there is not a better Jiu Jitsu instructor than Professor George Wehby. He explains the concepts of Jiu Jitsu in a way that is easy to retain at any level. I have had the opportunity to visit other academies, and have found the instruction at Lionheart to be superior. Give Lionheart a try and you will not be disappointed!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Atti Sports

My work is material art jiu jitsu it's love

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
George Green

I came over from England, and asked to join a session and absolutely loved the place. It has a fantastic atmosphere, lovely people, and has a warm family environment. Professor George, is friendly, and articulates drills & movements very well. I felt extremely welcome! unfortunately I was only able to train a month, and was incredibly sad to stop! I plan to return as soon as possible, it is a fantastic place.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Matthew Denaburg

This school provides the perfect blend of a fun, welcoming environment and quality instruction. I have trained in eight different styles at various locations over the past 21 years, and Professor Wehby is by far the most accommodating instructor I have ever had the pleasure of training under. Whether you’re an experienced grappler, a striker who struggles with grappling (like me), or new to martial arts all together, this is the place to be. I truly can’t speak highly enough of Professor Wehby and his academy.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
John Willis

This place has literally helped me change my life for the good. Mind body and soul are all worked on here. The Professor, George Wehby, is very skilled and knowledgeable and has helped guide me on the way to becoming the best version of myself!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
MrRshirley4

Good instruction in jiu jitsu and in our spiritual life also.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
John McLemore

I've been a member of Lionheart for around 2 years now, and I can't say enough good about it. I've been around combat sports and martial arts for some time now, and Professor Wehby is by far the most superior instructor that I have had the pleasure of learning from. The atmosphere that's been created at this academy allows beginners to learn without feeling uncomfortable while also pushing the more advanced students to improve. Awesome place.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Aaron Travis

Great place with a great atmosphere. George is truly passionate about the art and takes a principle approach to teaching. Perfect environment for the beginner or advanced student. Become a part of the Lion Heart family!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
jeremy giadrosich

I am a new student and can't say enough good things about both the instructor(George Wehby) or the people/enviroment at this school. George and the class have welcomed me open arms and made my first uncomfortable classes of not knowing anyone both inviting and accepted. I look forward to every class I attend not for just the teaching but also the camaraderie.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Kirk Knudsen

Great family atmosphere, wonderful place to train. Instructors teach the Jujitsu concepts like no where else I’ve been. I’d give it ten stars if I could.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Randall Phillips

George Wehby is a true jiu jitsu gentleman. I have had him down to my school in Auburn to teach a seminar and every student loved having him. He teaches jiu jitsu concepts that have lasting impressions on students. His character and professionalism in the jiu jitsu community is unrivaled.

Instructors
Posted 6 years ago
John Coggin

Can’t recommend Lionheart and Professor Wheby enough. Moved here a month ago and everyone has been extremely welcoming. Professor Wheby is a gifted teacher and sets a tone that I really appreciate.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
chris elms

Every single person there was very friendly and welcoming. They all came up, introduced themselves, shook my hand unprompted. Great place to train. They even had a blue belt that looked exactly like Brad Pitt with a beard named david.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Nathan Fisher

My son and I have both been training under Professor Wehby for about 9 months. Not only have we improved our fitness, but BJJ challenges each of us every session. This allows us to grow together as we each walk our walk in the gym. The instruction is top notch and the culture of the gym is very welcoming and accepting. Please come out and join us!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Josh Taylor

George Wehby is one of the best in his craft of Jiu Jitsu! The lessons of character and discipline he has instilled in my son are priceless!!!

Instructors
Posted 7 years ago
Kuni Scissum

George Wehby is a great instructor with a wealth of knowledge in BJJ, and trains a great group of people that I've been fortunate enough to meet and roll with. Every day I walk in is a challenge to myself to learn, to train hard, and to look for ways to improve. Lion Heart Academy is the place to go to if you want to develop in Jiu-Jitsu and as person overall.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Austin Dobbs

Going to Lionheart Academy is one of the best decisions I've made. Really good atmosphere, and a great coach! Its definitely worth looking into.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Jody V

I walked into this gym to just check it out 1 day. I have no prior experience with any martial arts. I like the way George broke every move down step by step & explained why it was done this way. He makes sure all levels of experience are understanding each move. Great place. Very friendly environment from the time I walked through the door. Students & instructor are great. I've been to a few class now & can't wait to go to the next.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Keith Wilson

Awesome guy!!! Awesome place!!!!!

Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Maria Gilbert

Had a fantastic birthday party for Jack at Lionheart today. All the kids were engaged, busy, and loved the obstacle course. Thank you George, Dustin and J.D. for making this a fun event for everyone!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Eddy Parsons

My daughter and I trained with Coach George for about a year. We both really enjoyed it and I feel like he helped advance the skill level of both of us. I hope to be able to train with him more in the future.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
William Boutwell

Professor George Wehby is one of the most amazing instructors that I have met in my martial arts journey. His ability to understand and communicate the principles and concepts of Jiu Jitsu are unparalleled. If you are in the Birmingham area this is were you need to train. If you are not in the area make the drive. You will be glad you did.

Instructors Location
Posted 10 years ago
Jennifer Kersh

As a 40 year old woman who is not and has never been an athlete or sporty or even graceful, I am astonished at how much I enjoy learning a martial art, and specifically, training at the Lion Heart Academy. I have never done anything like this in my life, even as a child, so it took me years to get up the courage to give this a try and now I sincerely regret not having embarked on this journey much earlier in my life. Coach George has created an inviting atmosphere of learning, where being open, friendly and respectful is the norm. He is an extremely good teacher who knows his stuff which is important to me - if I am going to invest in myself and invest in a new skill, I want to learn it correctly and trust that my teacher knows what he is talking about. There are many schools of BJJ out there and they are not all created equal. BJJ is an excellent activity for women, I have learned tricks for defending myself against larger men, I am improving my coordination and core strength and I have met new friends.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Dustin Gilbert

George at the Lion Heart Academy has had a profound effect on the way that I view and practice BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu). He is a gifted instructor, breaking the subject matter down into ideas and principles, instead of trying to have his students memorize dozens of techniques like the steps to an overly elaborate dance. Great for over 40, out of shape guys like me to get back into shape and have fun doing it. You won't find better martial arts instruction in the Birmingham, Hoover, and Alabama area!

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Howard Kersh

The Lion Heart Academy has a very welcoming atmosphere and the majority of the students are working professionals. There is a good mix of male and female students as well as ages and experience levels. I am 42 years old and I am not the oldest or the youngest. The instructor (George) is one of the best BJJ teachers that I have ever trained with. I travel all over the country for work so I say this having had the opportunity to train at many well-known BJJ schools. The big difference with George is that he spends a lot of time covering the body mechanics of the technique. This teaching style makes it very easy to adapt the techniques discussed in class to different scenarios. The class sizes are small so there is a lot of individualized instruction. My game has completely evolved since training there.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Ben Jackson

George is hands down the best BJJ instructor around. His teaching style is straightforward and easily understood. All of the people at the gym are extremely welcoming and helpful.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Doug Smith

Professor George is an experienced Jiu Jitsu black belt with the heart of a teacher. Quite a bit of individualized instruction even in group class setting. Everyone is welcomed, and very diversified classes with different sexes, conditioning and experience allows everyone to learn at their own pace without intimidation. Professor George is the best I have trained with. The training facility is new and clean and the rates are very affordable.

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago