Ocala Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
7365 SW 38th St, Ocala, FL 34474, USA
7365 SW 38th St, Ocala, FL 34474, USA
Amazing gym, even better kids aftercare program! They make sure to take great care of my children and they have lots of fun there. All while learning self defense in jiu jitsu.
Posted 9 months agoThe Ocala Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is a certified polished gem. I think that as many people get older, friends move away, and schedules get complicated, we lose an important sense of community and belonging. Coach Matt provides an environment that fosters exactly that and more. While developing valuable skills, we challenge ourselves and each other in ways that seem to inspire growing together. While I’m still just a beginner, as fresh as they come in every way except my age, I never once felt even the slightest bit looked down on. Everyone I’ve met so far is super friendly and inviting in a way that signals that the most important thing they want from you is just that you show up. I’ve considered joining for many years, arguing with myself about money, my age, and any potential embarrassment, amongst other things. Now that I’ve finally walked through those doors I can say that none of those worries matter. My only regret, if I had one, would be that I didn’t sign up sooner. If you stop putting off to tomorrow what you know in your gut you want to do today, I can almost certainly assure you that, in this case, you won’t be sorry you did it.
Posted 11 months agoThis is a great gym! Professor Matt is incredibly knowledgeable and teaches new moves every week, which are usually tied to a greater theme. The group that trains here is full of great men and women who are here to learn and support each other to grow. There are no "mat bullies" here. Many people who train here place well in competitions, including several higher belt holders who are always willing to help out beginners. Overall, this gym has a great culture, and it is an excellent place to be if you want to work hard alongside others to improve your skills in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Posted 1 year agoI started coming here in my sophomore year of high school, and it is no doubt the best gym in Ocala. Out of the other gyms in the area, the mat community is by far the best! Sensei Matt is a fantastic coach and a good man to learn from!
Posted 1 year agoI came to visit this gym from Tennessee as a guest. My daughter also got to be a guest in the kids’ class. Everyone was so nice to us. My brother got to try his first ever jiu jitsu lesson, and he enjoyed it as well! Great school:)
Posted 1 year agoAs a parent, I’m really impressed with Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy’s summer camps. The staff is super friendly, and we felt great leaving our daughter there. They made sure the kids were safe and having fun. Plus, they often took them to local fun spots, which our daughter loved. It’s a positive and caring environment, and we’re really happy with the experience!
I've been training at Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy since 2019, and it's been a great experience. The atmosphere is super friendly, and from the very first day, I felt welcome. The instructor is very skilled and always take the time to help you out, no matter your skill level. The best part is the community—everyone is there to help each other improve, and it feels like a big family. It’s a great place to learn and have fun, and I wouldn’t want to train anywhere else!
This Gym is phenomenal. One of my boys started in the 5 year old group, he has been going for over a year now. He loves it and has learned a lot. I ask him to teach me something and the little boy will go step by step with explaining the moves. Professor Matt is awesome with the kids, my boy loves him. My other younger boy is eager to start class. I started the adult class and it has been awesome! Professor Matt is detailed with his instruction, the people here are all awesome! Everyone is focused on helping each other improve. I have no background in any of the disciplines but feel like I’ve learned so much in the few months I have been coming here. If you live in Ocala and want to start training or if you have kids that you want to start training I highly recommend you come and check this place out. You won’t regret it.
Having walked into this gym about 2 months ago with absolutely no combat sport experience and a lot of trepidation about starting BJJ I have been very happy with my experience at the gym and with Matt as a coach. The environment is very welcoming and receptive to me being a complete beginner. Both Matt and his students have been really encouraging and have genuine enthusiasm about helping you learn and creating a good atmosphere. Bathrooms and gym are always clean 👍
Love it here, great environment, good training partners that want to help you grow and a solid curriculum 🤙
THIS IS MY FIRST AND BEST SCHOOL IVE ATTENDED! I started to train with this school back in 2013 as a sophomore in high school. After school activities would include me walking to train here which is next door to the high school. The trainers here took me from not knowing anything to competing in tournaments in the matter of months & i took home 1st Place multiple times! OSS! Sensei Bill and his son Sensei Matt molded me into the fighter i am today. Jiu Jitsu gave me a back bone and once it’s taught it stays! 10/10! the discipline taught, the hard work ethic enforced, the GRIND molded me into the man i am Today. I’m glad to have been an apart of this family. I LOVE THEM ALL! Oss
I stopped in over Christmas vacation and was itching to get on the mat. It was a pleasant experience and an extremely welcoming group of people. It was my first time visiting another gym so I was a bit nervous, but everyone was nice and all the guys were very respectful. I would also like to say how accommodating they were considering I showed up on what was supposed to be a gi night and no one had an issue with rolling with me nogi. Again, it was over holidays and it ended up being an open mat, but I still appreciate it. Hope to visit again next time I make it back. Thank you!
Great place to train! Welcoming environment for beginners and a great group of people. Highly recommended!
Great place to train. Professor Matt has a lot of experience and is very helpful. The atmosphere is great! I was new to BJJ when I started here and the encouragement from Professor Matt and the other students is what has kept me going.
Great coaching, great atmosphere, great people. Coach Matt runs a very welcoming class and teaches with great detail. I trained one school for years since beginning my juijitsu journey and was hesitant about changing schools. I’m so glad I did, I felt at home almost immediately. I highly recommend training here to anyone whether you’re just starting out or years into your training!
Since January 2023 I’ve attended class at Ocala BJJ two to three times a week mostly attending the gi class Tuesday and Thursday with some no gi when my schedule allows. As a former collegiate athlete who’s always striving to be challenged physically and mentally, I couldn’t be more grateful for this academy and Professor Matthew Bartlett. Matt keeps the classes fun and his instruction is second to none allowing his students to ask as many questions as needed and critiquing when applicable. This academy has become like a second home to me. As iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another. The people you are surrounded by at Ocala BJJ is what keeps you coming back. Everyone is working towards their own goals but at the same time everyone is working together to become the best version of themselves. I hope to attend Ocala BJJ for many years to come. Thank you Professor Matt for providing our community with a place we can always feel welcomed. Much love and respect.
I moved to Ocala July 2024 and have been going here ever since. The instructor and team are fair, caring and encouraging. The tone of the gym is welcoming in terms of people from all walks of life. Very affordable too for those who care about that, I recommend this place for all who live in Ocala and want to get into and practice Jiu Jitsu
I have been going here for roughly 2 years. The people, environment, and teachers excel any other gym I’ve been too. I didn’t think I would stick with it that long. But I had so much fun that I continue to go. Not to glaze or anything, but I constantly recommend this place to anyone who wants to learn one of the lead dominating martial arts in this day and age.
Nothing but professionalism from them and the staff. They were super welcoming from the moment I walked in the door. Plus, their knowledge and teaching methods are some of the best. It made me want to keep coming back
I’m a snowbird and have crossed trained at multiple gyms across the east coast! Can say without a doubt Matt’s gym is my favorite! The people are great, the techniques are solid, and the atmosphere couldn’t be better!
I have been coming to this school for about 6 months out of my 2 years of BJJ training. I am very glad that I gave them a try and made the change. Coach Matt has a lot of coaching experience and I enjoy the way classes are structured on the daily level as well as on the overall development plan he has for us. Coach Matt, as well as every member that I’ve met, has been very welcoming from day 1 through to present. He leads by example with having no ego and encourages learning. He maintains himself as a resource that will give as much as you ask of him, but he does not force a ‘hardcore’ attitude from members. For those reasons I feel that anyone interested in learning BJJ should at least consider this facility.
When I had arrived in Florida I was already looking for a school with the same atmosphere as my previous school. After checking out a couple I came into Matt’s school. I’ll say Matt’s gym is great, mellow environment with like minded individuals who just want to learn roll and enjoy jujitsu. Matt and the students are friendly and inviting and nothing short of an awesome group. Matt himself is a great instructor whose lessons are clear and decisive while making sure his lessons are understood by everyone involved. If you’re looking for a school with an awesome group of people and instructor then come and check out Ocala Bjj.
I’ve trained at a lot of gyms over my 16 years of jiu jitsu and Ocala BJJ was one of the most knowledgeable, inviting gyms yet. Most gyms you know right when you walk in what you’ll be getting. I immediately felt welcome by Professor Matt and his students.
My husband and I have been training here for the past few winters. We love it! It is a great environment whether you just started or have been training your entire life. The students are welcoming, and the gym is super clean. The class format is perfect for retaining what you learn- and you’ll want to because the techniques are game changing. Can’t say enough good things about it!
I’ve stopped in a few times when I’m traveling to keep training and man there isn’t a better place in Ocala to be than at Ocala BJJ. Everything about this place from the knowledge and leadership of professor Matt to the cleanliness of the gym and the incredible camaraderie of the team sets them apart from everyone else. Huge kids program as well AND gi classes! 🙏🏻 You’re doing yourself a disservice not being here honestly, it’s clear to see why these guys are celebrating 20 years in business this year.
I have been taking my boys to BJJ for many years, and I’m so proud at the way they have shown my boys, a sense of discipline and mental growth over the years they have been going there. Sensei Matt and the staff are absolutely amazing people and I would absolutely recommend anyone take a class or bring their children here!!!!!
My family members go there and they couldn’t say enough! I have been a long time practitioner and will definitely be checking them out in the future!
My daughter has been a student since 2022, and the transformation we've witnessed is remarkable. The academy's expert instructors, welcoming atmosphere, and focus on technique have helped her grow not only in skills but also in confidence and discipline. The training environment is supportive, encouraging, and safe, allowing students to push themselves and reach new heights. The academy's dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive community is truly impressive. We're grateful for the impact Ocala BJJ has had on our daughter's life, and we highly recommend it to everyone.
I walked into Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with zero background in martial arts, feeling a bit intimidated and unsure if this was the right place for me. But from the moment I stepped in, I knew I had found something special. The atmosphere here is nothing short of amazing—every single person is respectful, professional, and incredibly welcoming. Professor Matt is truly exceptional. His teaching techniques are outstanding, making complex concepts accessible even for someone like me, who started with absolutely no experience. What stands out the most is how no one ever makes you feel small or inferior because of your knowledge (or lack thereof). Every person is treated equally, regardless of their skill level, and that sense of respect and camaraderie is what makes this place truly unique. When I found Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I was at an extremely low point in my life. But attending classes each week has been a lifeline for me. It’s not just about learning self-defense or improving physically; it’s been about saving myself mentally. This gym has given me a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and strength. I’m forever grateful to have found this incredible community, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone, whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or someone like me, starting from scratch. Thank you, professor Matt, and everyone at Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, for helping me find my way back.
Ocala Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy is an amazing place to train! Professor Matt is an outstanding instructor who cares about his students and has created such a great environment to train in. Everyone in the room is courteous and such a great group of people to train with! Whether you’re just starting your Jiu-Jitsu journey or have been training for many years, this is the perfect place for you!
Amazing great place my kid been going here for years
My daughters been going here for three years now and loves it! She learns so much from the staff and the summer camp is amazing. They do so much for the kids! Even bringing some games and events inside because of the heat! Their after school program is great and they get to take self defense classes. They run an awesome program. Here’s to four years strong!!!!
Giving them a 5 star because they took me out of a pickle, I didn’t have anywhere to have my baby after school because of some recent changes & they took him right in ! I walk in and the kids are already reading their books, and teachers interacting with them…. I felt completely comfortable leaving my son there . Thank you guys !
My family loves this place! Our 6 year old has been going here since November of 2023 and loves every single class each week. He even reminds us on the weekends of the days he gets to go. He has recently earned his second stripe and couldn't be more excited to tell all of his friends at school and daycare. Thanks to everyone here for the smiles and confidence you give that little human of mine.
"An excellent option for vacationers seeking high-quality BJJ training with experienced practitioners during their trip."
Coach Matt Bartlett has got to be one of the most influential and encouraging coaches I’ve ever had. I’ve been with the gym since October of last year and this team has made me feel at home. Not a day goes by where I regret signing up to get the best coaching and workout. I highly recommend this gym.
Great teaching, great program and great people! Was in Ocala for a week on vacation and wanted to get some training in. Ocala BJJ showed great hospitality. I attended 1 gi class, 1 no gi class and an open mat and enjoyed every minute of it.
Very welcoming environment, plenty of space, and lots of knowledgeable people. I spent a week here training and will go back if I am ever in town. If you are looking for a place to train, you can stop looking. Highly recommend.
I came in while on business for a week and these guys are the ultimate for jiu jitsu in Ocala . Excellent Skill and great display of hospitality!!
Coming from a different academy in Ocala, I was skeptical since I knew no better. After stepping into the first class everyone in the class made me feel like family despite not knowing anyone there. It’s a welcoming environment and it’s a great place to learn and excel. Coach Matt is understanding of everything and very well shows you that he cares for you and everyone in the gym. Number 1 Brazilian Jiu jitzu academy and the first original academy as well :)))))
Coming from a different academy in Ocala, I was skeptical since I knew no better. After stepping into the first class everyone in the class made me feel like family despite not knowing anyone there. It’s a welcoming environment and it’s a great place to learn and excel. Coach Matt is understanding of everything and very well shows you that he cares for you and everyone in the gym. Number 1 Brazilian Jiu jitzu academy and the first original academy as well :)))))
Matt is the kind of teacher you want to be learning under due to his knowledge and skills as a BJJ black belt combined with his character. This is exemplified in the students and other teachers at the academy. Useful techniques taught and good feedback when drilling techniques demonstrated so you have a good understanding of what you're suppose to be doing with detail adjustments if you're familiar with the techniques. There is a wide range of skill levels, ages and male/female training partners which makes it accommodating and welcoming for anyone from beginners up to higher belts. Outstanding teacher and fellow training partners!
Hands down, this is the best Jiujitsu academy in Ocala. No garage group comes near this academy. Great place for kids and adults.
Amazing and welcoming environment! I wouldn’t train with anyone else!
This academy under sensei Matt built my foundation of Jiu-Jitsu and skill set! I traveled the country and visited many gyms and can tell you what you learn will set you apart indefinitely! Great place to train and grow!! OSS!
Ive been training here for 5 years. Great instruction and an awesome environment!
Best place around. Top notch training
I’ve been training BJJ for 26 years and have trained literally all over the country. The vibe, Instruction and energy at Ocala BJJ are second to none. Professor Bartlett pours his heart into every student he meets. You couldn’t ask for a better place to train. You are never too young and never too old and broken to train. Get on the mats, it will change your life for the better!
The environment when walking in has always been warm, welcoming, and kind, no matter how often you are able to make it to class. The classes are set up for anyone to attend at any level in their Jiu Jitsu journey while still giving the more expert students a challenge or a chance to perfect a technique. Whether you are swinging in through town and need to find a spot for an evening, or if you are looking for a local academy...this is the place to be for good vibes, great teaching, and even better rolls!
Often imitated never duplicated. If you want a true training experience and to surround yourself with highly skilled people who will help you grow, this is the place for you. Nothing like it around and once you start you will see for yourself. Drop in and meet a bunch of great people who will treat you like family.
This is the place to be! Whether or not you’re just starting out as a beginner in jiu jitsu, or have been doing jiu jitsu for a long time, this is the place for you! Sensei Matt is a great coach and he really breaks down details in class that makes the learning process so much easier. I’ve been here for the past 2 years+ and I’ve never been in a more welcoming and comforting environment for me to grow as an athlete in the sport. Great training partners, a wonderful and flourishing environment to push me to be better, and a big space to do it! Try it! Even if you’re scared, you won’t be after your first class!
I have been training at this gym for roughly 4 years. I have been so fortunate to find a great gym. It has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. Not only is Matt a great instructor/owner, but everyone in the school is so welcoming and willing to teach as well. I have met so many great people here who have helped not only my BJJ game, but also other aspects of my life. I could not imagine my life without Jiu Jitsu. Thank you Matt and everyone at the gym. If your in town visiting swing by for some friendly rolls. If your considering training for the first time in your life, or just getting back into it, do it. Its well worth it. This place is the best
If you're looking for a safe, competitive and fun gym to train at this is the place. Whether you are more casual about the sport or looking to compete this gym has something for everyone. I was apprehensive about joining the sport due to being a very small woman but everyone has been incredibly kind and supportive and given me safe but challenging rolls. Mats are always clean and the gym allows drop ins as well.
I dropped in for a Saturday open mat session. Everyone was very nice and welcoming.
This is great place to to train and a wonderful group of people. We come down to Florida for the winter each year and take our son here to continue his jiu-jitsu instruction. He is always immediately at home and welcomed by the group. The instruction could not be better, low-key and relaxed but at the same time serious and focused on basics and progression. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a place to really learn from excellent instructors in a friendly environment.
Stopped by Ocala Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a visitor over Thanksgiving weekend to attend an open mat and get some training over the holiday. They were responsive to my text and welcomed me to train; the facility is clean, with a big open mat room, and most importantly, it was a friendly environment with welcoming rolls for a visitor. Thank you gentlemen for the rolls. I would absolutely train here if I lived in the area. I would highly recommend this gym for anyone looking for a place to train!
This place is amazing. I dropped in and everyone was kind and really good. Being a white belt, they were extremely respectful, willing to teach. I can’t recommend it highly enough. If you live in a Ocala or are traveling through and need a place
Stop by from out of town got great rolls in and the Professor was top notch. Thank you Ocala BJJ for the warm welcome and great training..
I traveled out to Ocala in November to visit some family members and wanted to train while I was in the area. Matt, the Ocala BJJ Academy owner, was the only gym owner in the area that was responsive and who was willing to let me train with his team without a large mat fee so I decided to attend an open mat session with him and his team. The session was fantastic and Matt's team was both very skilled and kind - the two things that every BJJ practictioner hopes to find when attending a new gym. If anyone is looking for a good gym to train at (by themselves or with thier family), I am certain that Ocala BJJ Academy would be a great gym to call home. Thank you Matt and Crew, I hope to visit again one day!
Amazing after school care! Our son is well taken care of with multiple field trips per year. They also offer full days for a little extra when school is out. Makes teacher work days ect. So much more manageable. Also includes BJJ classes that have done well with teaching him discipline. We've been so blessed to have found this amazing team!
I came in for an open mat and it was great. Everyone was super inviting and professional couldn’t be more happy.
I have practiced Jiu Jitsu for 13 years. I just recovered from cancer and was out of Jiu Jitsu for a year. I wanted to get started wrestling again after my recovery. The owner/instructor was beyond belief understanding, supportive, patient and allowed me to comfortably ease back into Jiu Jitsu. I was so nervous to start again I was actually shaking. The school was super supportive and added no pressure to my situation. They allowed me to start again at my own pace which is exactly what I needed right now. So thanks and I highly recommend the school if you are a beginner to an expert. Thanks Ocala Jiu Jitsu school.
Very professional, polite, and friendly! I usually work late so grandma picks him up..the first day i came to pick him up i was told (very nicely) that unfortunately i couldnt unless i had an ID.(i had left my whole purse at home and had to return for it..).now most ppl would be mad or even a little annoyed..but i actually was glad the way they handled it because it shows they really protect your kids. Also my son says during his classes he has already learned so much! (He just started this month due to being on a waitlist) i am beyond pleased with the staff as well as the extras they offer like valentines they offer a night to watch the kids..and their siblings..and they offer camps when the school is closed!!! 5⭐
Sensei Matt is awesome! He is great with kids. Miss Tammy is real easy to work when a problem arises. Thank you both for all you do!
Fantastic group of athletes. I was in Ocala visiting family from Canada, and Bill, and the entire team made me feel like I was one of there own. Don't miss the opportunity to train with this great group of people! Highly recommend it!
I don’t even know where to start but I’ll say this is one of the worst summer camps I’ve seen in Ocala the staff are undercover bullies so before you place your kid here just know they sit in a corner for hours like a jail cell and the teachers do nothing but eat and bully
Not recommended for there summer program for kids . I payed for the entire summer up front and was insured my child would be active to find out he was made to sit in small groups for hrs at a time with electronics not active . He went one week and I removed him and was told like the contract stated there is no refund !
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