Science of Jiu Jitsu Academy

1821 Commercial Dr, Harvey, LA 70058, USA

5.0 (80 reviews)

Pricing

From $30/wk

Classes

Adults Classes

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Science of JiuJitsu is New Orleans' Premier Brazilian JiuJitsu Academy. Try a 1 week trial for $30. Join in on the fun and exercise with a purpose all while developing a skill for life! Join Today!

Class Schedule

Monday 4 classes

06:00 Open Mat Open mat uniform changes seasonally.

11:00 Adult Jiu Jitsu 101

17:00 Teen Jiu Jitsu

18:00 Adult Jiu Jitsu 101

Tuesday 4 classes

11:00 Adult No-Gi

17:00 Kids Comp

17:30 Kids All Ages

18:30 Adult No-Gi

Wednesday 3 classes

11:00 Adult Jiu Jitsu 101

17:00 Open Mat Open mat uniform changes seasonally.

18:00 Adult Jiu Jitsu 101

Thursday 6 classes

10:30 Adult Jiu Jitsu 201

11:30 Adult No-Gi

17:00 Kids Comp

17:30 Kids All Ages

18:30 Adult Jiu Jitsu 201

19:30 Adult No-Gi

Friday 1 classes

06:00 Open Mat Open mat uniform changes seasonally.

Saturday 2 classes

09:00 Kids Open Mat Open mat uniform changes seasonally.

10:00 Open Mat Open mat uniform changes seasonally.

Coaches

Marcus Dempsey Head Coach Owner

Black Belt

Marcus is one of the owners and the head coach of the Science of Jiujitsu Academy. Coach Marcus is a US Army Veteran and has been practicing martial arts for over 20 years. The page lists accomplishments including 2017 No-Gi Pan American Gold Medalist, 2019 Master No-Gi World Silver Medalist, 2021 ADCC Atlantic Coast Trials Champion, 2021 No-Gi World Championships Bronze Medalist, 2023 No-Gi World Championships Bronze Medalist, and 2024 Master International Silver Medalist.

Zach Cothren Owner

Black Belt

Zach Cothren is Co-Owner and one of the Black Belts at the Science of Jiu Jitsu Academy. The page lists accomplishments including 2023 ADCC New Orleans Silver Medalist and High Rollerz Louisiana Interim Lightweight Champion.

Membership Prices

START YOUR TRIAL

$30.00 ONE WEEK

FULL ACCESS. NO PRESSURE, NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT

MEMBERSHIP

$150.00 /MONTH

FROM; UNLIMITED CLASSES. NO CAPS ON TRAINING DAYS. SAVE WITH: FAMILY & MULTI MEMBER PLANS MILITARY, VETERAN, & FIRST RESPONDER DISCOUNTS PRICING IS NOT BASED ON AGE GROUP ALL NEW MEMBERS SUBJECT TO ONE TIME REGISTRATION FEE

Reviews

Sort by

Eric Sandoval

I trained at Science of Jiujitsu for a few months while I was out of town for work, and I had a fantastic experience. The coaches are highly knowledgeable and create a supportive, welcoming environment for practitioners of all levels. The classes were well-structured, balancing technique, drilling, and live rolls, and I learned a lot during my time there. The gym has a great community, and everyone was respectful and encouraging. I definitely felt like I improved in the time I spent training here and would highly recommend it to anyone in the area!
Posted 1 year ago
James Cumpelik

We flew in from Germany for a seminar with our daughter. From the moment we walked in we were greeted with smiles and handshakes. Both owners showed us around and were open to any questions. The mat space is high quality and clean. The more people showed up and the mat slowly filled you could tell the gym had a great atmosphere. The training was great and the black belts actually teach the kids' class, which is not always common. Would definitely come again.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Aaron Beard

I had the good fortune of finding this school while I was traveling for work for several months. They let me join up no problem. Super helpful and a very hospitable environment. Couldn't have asked for a better place to train while I was away from home. Thanks guys.

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Posted 1 year ago
Cameron Florczak

Great facility and great training partners, I highly recommend if you’re in the area for high level grappling!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Moody Ayyad

Top Notch instructors you want to learn or teach your kids jiu jitsu look no where else this is the place. My son has lots of fun and learns alot I highly recommend

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Posted 2 years ago
ashlee stewart

Amazing coaches and kids. My son has level 1 autism and low muscle tone, the coaches here took their time and developed a passion I never thought we would see.

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Posted 2 years ago
David Gibson

Dropped in at Science of Jiu Jitsu and had a great time. Everyone was very welcoming. Got in some very high level rolls with the crew here. Sat around and talked about jiu jitsu for an hour after class. Such an amazing community here. The facility is top notch. Plenty of mat space, clean, great sound system, changing rooms and places to sit. Drop in and get you a killer shirt!

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Brandon O'Sullivan

I recently visited New Orleans to catch up with a friend I was stationed with in the Coast Guard and decided to bring my gi and get in some training. The Jiu-Jitsu academy we visited was incredibly welcoming and had a fantastic positive energy. The professors were not only skilled but also very friendly and supportive. Both my friend and I had an absolute blast training there. I will definitely be coming back the next time I’m in New Orleans. Highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Andrew Armstrong

Perfect environment for learning a tough sport! I trained here for 1.5yrs and loved it. Impressive facility and talented professors who go above and beyond to teach and welcome beginners and experts alike. Can't recommend this gym highly enough and I'm very thankful that I got my introduction to the sport here. Hope to find a similar gym after I move. Shout out to Marcus, Zach, and the Mon/Weds crowd for all the fun! Going to miss you all

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Solange Ledwith

I had the pleasure of meeting Marcus and some of his students at a benefit seminar, where they volunteered their time and knowledge to help support another Jiu-jitsu practitioner. I train at a different school wearing different patches and associate with a different affiliation. In fact, our schools even compete with each other at tournaments. And yet I will always consider this school my family. The owners are amazing people and incredible Jiu-jitsu practitioners. They are the kind of people who give of themselves and stand up for others. Anyone who decides to train with them will not be disappointed.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jonathan Lonker

Great gym to train at with high level instructors. Highly recommended.

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Posted 2 years ago
Paxton Titus

Visited from NJ on a Thursday. Everyone was super friendly and inviting. A beautiful facility with great mats, coaching, and people!

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Posted 2 years ago
daniel Desario

This exceptional academy demonstrated knowledgable & enthusiastic coaches, wonderfully organized classes, and very clean & welcoming facility! We were able to drop in for a kids' no-gi competition class & kids' regular no-gi class on our return trip from ADCC Austin to our home in St. Augustine, Fl. We were very impressed by the high level of enthusiasm & professionalism the coaches brought to the mats, & the friendly, family-oriented environment the academy offered. We travel all over the country for jiu-jitsu tournaments & frequently drop in at reputable academics to train during our travels; Science of Jiu-Jitsu proved to be one of our best experiences!

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Posted 2 years ago
Jeff Kirkland

If you're looking for a place to train, this is it. Best place around.

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Rodrigo Ribeiro

Great folks, great space, great jiujitsu. Why more could you want? Highly recommend!

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Posted 3 years ago
Myra Walker

Very welcoming and friendly gym. Instructors are very engaging with the students, everyday I am learning something new. A lot of support for students who want to compete, learn self defense, or stay in shape.

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Posted 3 years ago
Kris March

I was in town for the weekend and wanted to find a good place to get some learn’n. I drove an extra 20min to check these guys out and they welcomed me with open arms. Just so happens it’s their Grand Opening at bigger and better location and MAN what an amazing vibe Zach and Marcus brought. Took a class, got some rolls, and met some cool people. 🤙 What more could I ask for. 10/10 recommend

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Posted 3 years ago
Guy Njkjk

Everyone there is very friendly and helpful awesome teachers and environment

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Posted 3 years ago
Kyle M

Dropped in on a Friday morning class while on vacation and had a great experience. Instructor/owner Marcus and other students were all friendly and welcoming, everyone introduced themselves, felt very comfortable being there, also had some great technical rolls. Will definitely return if I come back to NOLA.

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Posted 3 years ago
Jason Garcia

First off I would like to say if I could give them more stars I would. Professor Marcus and Professor Zach are 100% dedicated to passing on all their knowledge to the students. The curriculum and structure they have developed far surpasses any other school I have trained at. Being a military man I have had the opportunity to travel all over the country and train at many different schools and I can say with confidence this is the best training center I have had the privilege of training at. I would highly encourage anyone living in or passing through the New Orleans area, do yourself a favor and drop in and hit the mat with Marcus, Zach and the crew. Thanks again professor’s for all the knowledge you shared with me. Respectfully Jason Garcia

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Posted 3 years ago
Richie Chin

Welcoming environment and great coaching.

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Posted 3 years ago
Jordan Carriere

Great gym and great training! Instructors are impressively knowledgeable and the atmosphere is welcoming. Will definitely be back!! Ooossss!

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Posted 3 years ago
lucas goodwin

I'm a first time visitor from Myrtle Beach and I was very impressed with this academy! The 2 professors/coaches were very welcoming and knowledgeable! The technique was understandable and effective! The academy was also quite clean! If I'm back in this area I wouldn't go anywhere else! 👍👍

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Posted 3 years ago
Frank Toro

I am proud to say that Science of Jiujistu Academy is my home gym. Zack and Marcus have done a great job of fostering an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and productive. I started training here about a year ago and I can confirm that the quality of instruction is second to none. Instead of teaching the latest YouTube move or BJJ fad of the week, they have a structured curriculum. They also make it a point to use consistent terminology when to teaching moves and positions. This process is the science aspect of Jiujitsu. As a student, I find this very helpful. I know a month in advance what moves we are focusing on and everyone is speaking the same language. This approach to instruction translates well to mats. While in competition and/or under duress everyone is on the same page. This is validated by the success the academy in competition.

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Posted 4 years ago
David Munoz

Amazing people and learning atmosphere! Don’t hesitate to stop in and speak with professors Marcus or Zach as they have a wealth of knowledge to pass on about jiu jitsu.

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Posted 4 years ago
Aaron Carter

SOJJA is the best Jiujitsu in town!! Great professors, great environment!! High recommend!

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Posted 4 years ago
Reece Naquin

Most welcoming and knowledgeable BJJ gym I’ve ever known, also super beginner friendly. Professor Marcus and Zach are the best teachers I’ve had and push me to be a better at all times, They invest time into ALL students and I wouldn’t recommend going anywhere else.It’s a family at the end of the day and I’m glad to be apart of it.

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Posted 4 years ago
Kyle Phipps

Intimidated? Don’t be, the atmosphere at this gym is unmatched. The combined knowledge that both Jiu-Jitsu professor’s possess, plus their expert teaching ability and positive atmosphere, forces you to soak up all the information your head can grasp. The best money I’ve ever spent, you see results weekly. If you don’t see results in the gym, you see results outside of the gym. “Jiu-Jitsu is a catalyst for everything in life.”

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Posted 4 years ago
Melissa Cherry

My husband has been taking classes for almost a year. The instruction, atmosphere and all involved from coaches to students have been amazing!

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Posted 4 years ago
chris rhodes

This is the premier BJJ gym on the south shore. Great owners who genuinely care and instruction that is precise and to the point. I especially encourage veterans, LEO, and first responders to check this group out. This is Therapy and much more. Great group of guys and girls who care and train hard.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
jose Moradel

I occasionally drop in and train with the science of Jiu Jitsu crew, let me tell you the instruction by professor Marcus and professor Zach is top level, not to mention the gym set up is perfect with enough space . If your in the area you should definitely drop in and check them out.

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Posted 4 years ago
Johnny Cherry

Great coaches,great team,great atmosphere! Two very enthusiastic thumbs up!🤙🤙

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Posted 4 years ago
Stephen Hebert

Excellent instruction. Even better people.

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Posted 4 years ago
Paul P

My son has been going here now for 2 months and really enjoys it. Mr Marcus and mr Zack are very knowledgeable and great at breaking down the steps to the children. Definitely recommend.

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Posted 4 years ago
Sergey Ivanov

Excellent place to learn jiu-jitsu, burn some calories, and have fun. Marcus and Zach are knowledgeable, approachable, willing to answer questions and break down moves and techniques in detail, and are always eager to help you learn. No strict dress code, you can wear your own gi if you have it, drop ins are welcome. Would absolutely recommend this gym if you're just in the area for a short time, or if you're looking for a long term jiu-jitsu gym.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Francisco Alba

Definitely a great experience. When I first joined everyone was very welcoming. The facility is very clean. Marcus is very detailed when teaching us different techniques and works with everyone. The people with more experience are very helpful and always willing to pass down their knowledge. I’ve been training for approximately two months and I’ve learned so much. Every training session exceeds my expectations and pushes my limits. You definitely get your money’s worth plus some. I definitely would recommend this place to anyone looking for a new hobby, for self defense, or anyone trying to get in shape. You won’t be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Littletiger T

Good people and good environment for everyone to hang out and learn some protections especially too many bad things happened and happening almost every day in community. My daughter was joining here over 5 months and she loves this place. She said that everyone was caring and taking care of her. Marcus and his people are really good teammates.

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Posted 4 years ago
Evan May

The name says it all - there is a clear instruction and application of the science and technique of Jiujitsu. The monthly rhythm for the curriculum really reinforces the fundamentals. The instructors are patient while always pushing you toward improvement. Great culture of comradery, humility, and healthy competition among the students. Highly recommended for both beginners and and advanced practitioners!

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Posted 4 years ago
James McKenzie

I’ve only been coming here a couple weeks but, I am so thankful for this amazing place! So far, everyone has been super friendly and coming to classes has been extremely rewarding and enjoyable. Marcus has been a great instructor and takes his time to look over and correct things if needed. He provides tips and training to better your jiujitsu. This place might just be my second home. I will come as often as I can to not only get better at jiu jitsu and develop this new hobby but, see these great people! I look forward to the next class every time! I highly Recommend if anyone is on the fence. I promise you won’t regret it.

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Posted 4 years ago
Aaron Smith

The gym is clean and the offer an array of classes and times. The instructors are top notch and you couldn't ask for a better community among the members.

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Posted 4 years ago
Ashton Paxton

Marcus and Zach are great teachers and even better people! You can tell they absolutely love what they do and pour that passion into their teaching and in your success. They not only teach you how to became great at jiu jitsu, but incorporate those teachings in to how you can apply them to other parts of your life. Best jiu jitsu gym in the New Orleans area!

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Posted 4 years ago
Michael Gerlach

Fantastic group of people! Great Jiu Jitsu and an awesome culture that is conducive to learning the art safely. Clean facility and a very welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend training under Professor Marcus if you are wanting to start Jiu Jitsu, or if you are in the area, drop in for good cross-training!

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Posted 4 years ago
Tony Covington

I have found the best academy to train at! This place feels like a second home. Professors Marcus and Zack give awesome instruction and work with every student until they understand the techniques. All of the students are very welcoming and will also go out of their way to help you out. Great team vibe!

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Posted 4 years ago
Joseph Mason

Everyone was super welcoming and made me feel at home. Learned some great techniques that I will be bringing back to New York with me I can't wait to roll when I'm in town again.

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Posted 4 years ago
Paulo Braga

Super friendly. great atmosphere and instruction.a must if you're in the area

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Posted 4 years ago
Zachary Shaffner

This gym is outstanding! I trained here while working in New Orleans temporarily and have nothing but good things to say about the the instructors, students, and the place itself. Everyone is friendly and welcoming from people training casually to competitively. They represent Checkmat well and 100% recommend giving this place a try if you're considering getting into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or already train.

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Posted 4 years ago
H. Omar

Was passing through town and these guys welcomed me with open arms! Marcus and Zach are incredible instructors who taught me a lot in just the few days I was there. Can't wait to head back to NOLA again !!

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Posted 5 years ago
The Butcher Bayou

Awesome gym, super clean and very friendly staff!!

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Posted 5 years ago
Lisa Shackelford

Amazing owners and coaches. Whether you want to compete or learn Jiu Jitsu to be active and healthy your goals will be supported. Zach and Marcus are incredibly positive and encouraging with amazing technique. If you are looking for a gym in the area this is the one!

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Posted 5 years ago
Eric Stahl

If you’re considering jiujitsu for yourself or your child, I would highly recommend the Science of Jiujitsu Academy. This is a modern gym that is both clean and professional. I was impressed by the instructors from their abilities as teachers, as well as the curriculum-based instruction. I have been a member since its opening, and they have yet to fail at what they promised to deliver. In these unpredictable times, give yourself or your child the life changing skill of confidence. You may never need this skill because as you walk with confidence, the predator will find weaker prey.

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Posted 5 years ago
David Magee

My kids attend and they love it. Great hands on instruction and leadership development. My kids have fun learning, get a great workout that’s applicable to the sport and everyday living. Highly recommended!

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Posted 5 years ago
Robert Preston

Great balance of fun and education for my son!

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Posted 5 years ago
Jatana Deason

My Daughter (age 10) has been going here for almost 2 months and she loves it so much. Coach Marcus is great with the kids. he’s friendly but stern, and instills great life skills, and lessons at the end of each class. Would definitely recommend anyone with kids who are interested in Jiu jitsu to come by the studio and check it out.

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Posted 5 years ago
Casey Lapin

Marcus and Zach are passionate and professional, excellent instructors, and genuinely fun to train with. You will not be let down!!

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Posted 5 years ago
Chris Kelly

I’m 59, I’ve been training Jiu Jitsu for almost 5 years now, if you want to learn about this fine art, you definitely need to check out Science of Jiu Jitsu. I’ve known Marcus and Zach (the owners) for several years, and train with them on a regular basis. I can tell you they will bring your game to the next level, and if you’re just starting out, they have a science of teaching, thus the name. Check them out, and tell him I sent you. It can be life changing.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Wendy Magee

We came across BJJ on Facebook and wanted our kids to give it a try. Both of my kids 9 and 6 love it. Mr. Dempsey is an amazing teacher. I was worried my son wouldn’t like all the contact, but he enjoys every class. This is definitely teaching them life skills, leadership and discipline.

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Posted 5 years ago
gabriela morales

Science of Jiu Jitsu Academy has a superlative balance between professionalism and camaraderie. There are innumerable great qualities about this gym. Professionally, the gym is clean. The instructors understand and make an effort to accommodate the students’ safety needs during this pandemic. They have a plan in place if a member tests positive and communicate effectively to other students. During class, they modify drills for those who are injured but still wish to train. They welcome new students to the art, who may not be in jiu jitsu shape; encourage them to do their best; and do not admonish those who cannot do certain drills or do them perfectly. If there is a problem a student has, the student can communicate that problem. Staff will look to rectify the problem or work with the student to get as close to a solution as possible. As far as the camaraderie, I mentioned before the instructors shape an encouraging environment. When it is time to work, there are no distractions. However, that does not mean there is no room for some sporadic fun during class time or some deep, philosophical, nerd, funny conversations after class. Personally, as a woman who trains in a male-dominated sport; I feel safe, empowered, respected, and seen as an equal to my male peers. In my personal experience, I truly believe the Science of Jiu Jitsu Academy is the only gym that engenders all four of these for their female students. Science of Jiu Jitsu Academy behooves anyone looking to better themselves in body, mind, and spirit. All instructors will believe in and fight for you to help you along your personally journey as long as your willing to learn to fight for yourself.

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Posted 5 years ago
Matt Firmin

Great atmosphere and great employees make this a wonderful place to train. Whether you are beginning your bjj journey, or are a long-time vet, this gym is an excellent spot to improve your game.

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Posted 5 years ago
Josh Mancuso

Parking is great and facility is CLEAN. Marcus and Zach have done an amazing job providing a truly world class brazilian jiu jitsu experience to the area!

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Posted 5 years ago
Brandon Howard

While the gym is small, it is new and clean. The classes are growing which give multiple people to work with. Professor dempsey and coach Zach offer great instruction and insight into the art.

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Posted 5 years ago
Jason Augusta

An extremely professional environment run by some of the best instructors you'll find. Professor Marcus and Coaches Zach and Jabari are dedicated to helping you grow. I cannot recommend this gym enough.

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Posted 5 years ago
glapin

Top quality Jiu-Jitsu with true passion for the art and the family that surrounds it. Professor Marcus and Coach Zach are great leaders and role model for both kids and adults in this art.

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Posted 5 years ago
Doze n Company

Very knowledgeable instruction and excellent training environment! Highly recommended!! 💯

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Posted 5 years ago
Johanna Mudge

We absolutely love Science of Jiujitsu Academy. The instructors are professional and take pride in their training. The kids classes are taught in such a way to create great young people and develop their skills, it takes a village at times and this is a village we call ours.

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Posted 5 years ago
Billy Paternoster

Science of Jiu Jitsu is an amazing facility, its sleek and modern with a very clean look. The instruction is some of the best around, Professor Marcus and Coach Zac have an amazing attention to detail when teaching. They make learning easy, and they are more vested in your success then you are. I've been doing Jiu Jitsu on and off for a few years, and have trained at some other academies in the area, but I've really found a home at Science of Jiu Jitsu. Professor Marcus and Coach Zac, as well as its members, are super welcoming and eager to train. If you're someone new to training, have a child that wants or you want to learn this gentle art, or are in town visiting, this is the academy for you.

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Posted 5 years ago
lilsoulja306

I have been to many different gyms, and at science of jiu jitsu academy you always get that welcomed vibe and a great atmosphere. I love this cause I can learn my skill somewhere I actually enjoy being, and there is no judgment everyone tries to help each other

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Posted 5 years ago
APE Fredo

Best Jiu jitsu academy in the city hands down with a great atmosphere to learn and grow your jiu jitsu game

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Posted 5 years ago
Stephon Rodgers

Had my first class the other day and felt like family from day one! Everyone was willing to help and no judgement with me not knowing ANYTHING! Great workout as well, about time to work off my quarantine cheat meals!

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Posted 5 years ago
Jvon Wallace

Its a great place to train

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
ted wheelock

Coach Marcus Dempsey is the real deal. Highly technical, very personable and genuine, and truly cares and wants to see you succeed in your journey. He's good people. I'll be here for quite some.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago