South Mountain Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense
3636 W Southern Ave #150c, Phoenix, AZ 85041, USA
The best martial arts center in South Mountain, AZ. See why hundreds of South Mountain residents love our martial arts classes.
3636 W Southern Ave #150c, Phoenix, AZ 85041, USA
The best martial arts center in South Mountain, AZ. See why hundreds of South Mountain residents love our martial arts classes.
Wonderful place to learn jujitsu. My children are thriving. I see the adult classes and it looks like they have very skilled coaches. Students are of all levels.
Posted 1 year agoMy son has been doing the classes for about 3 months and he loves it. The teachers are super nice. I personally love there bathrooms
I love how Sarah teaches the kids more than Jiu Jitsu. She is so kind, takes the time to greet every kid and learn their name. I appreciate that she calls out unkind and rude behavior. She teaches the kids to take care of their collective space, how to show kindness and respect to others, and turns small moments into big lessons for the kids to learn.
Excellent program. Really helps my kids focus.
I've been training at South Mountain Jiu Jitsu for almost two years now. It has been an amazing place to learn and grow in jiu jitsu. Sarah, Nigel, and Danny have created an environment that encourages learning and self-improvement in a safe space. Additionally, I've signed up my three cousins to train. I've seen their confidence skyrocket as they've learned discipline and how to defend themselves. This is easily one of the best gyms in Arizona and I'd recommend it to anyone!
Coach Sarah will forever be one of the greatest tools under my parenting belt. The lessons she teaches go beyond bjj. She has a deep understanding of children; what is developmentally appropriate, realistic expectations, clear and concise communication and the patience of a saint. My kids have flourished under her guidance as well as coach Danny and coach Nigel.
I’ve been training here for almost two years, in that time I’ve trained at some other establishments and none compare to the safe, caring, and homey environment that the coaches here have created. I’ve won gold at two competitions under SMBJJ’s class 1 coaching style. If you’re looking for a place to train BJJ that cares about you and your progress, look no further!
The coaches are great, kind, patient and fair. The BJJ knowledge Sarah Black brings to her students is top notch. The new facilities are amazing and I love practicing on the new mats whenever I can. The gym has a middle of the day time slot, 3 times a week that fits great into my schedule. Highly recommend!
An amazing place to learn Jiu-Jitsu. Coach Sarah, Coach Nigel, and Coach Danny are amazing instructors and the people that are apart of this community make training here incredibly fun. I am grateful to be apart of this amazing facility.
1st time trying hot yoga. 🧘🏻♀️ it was absolutely amazing!
Phenomenal facility, outstanding coaches, looking to train for as long as i can here!
This jiu jitsu place is so special. You can feel a sense of community and the instructors are so kind and knowledgeable. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to start their child in a fun and constructive activity!
I have been with SMJJ since the first day they opened their doors. Coach Sarah and Nigel have grown to be more than just coaches. They have become mentors in my learning of BJJ, leaders in our community, and most importantly, family. The school embodies a safe space for folks of all skill level in Jiu Jitsu to come and train and hone in on your skills. Whether it’s you want to train Jiu Jitsu as a hobbyist or a competitor, SMJJ offers it all!
SMBJJ is a school that embodies a community and family in the South Phoenix/Laveen. My husband began his Jiu Jitsu journey over 2 years ago and it has been such an amazing time to watch him grow. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to make lifelong friends and be a part of a growing family while kicking butt!
My granddaughter and I love our Hot Yoga Flow at the South Mountain Center. I highly recommend this place!
As a proud dad watching my entire family train at South Mountain Movement & Wellness, I can't say enough good things about this place. The instructors are phenomenal with both kids and adults, striking that perfect balance between pushing everyone to improve and keeping it fun. My kids have absolutely blossomed here - their confidence has skyrocketed, and it's amazing to see them learning real self-defense skills while having a blast with their training partners. Even my daughter, who used to be so shy about wrestling, now eagerly demonstrates moves at home (usually attempting to armbar me throughout the day). What really sets this place apart is how they've created such a strong family atmosphere. My wife and I get to train in the adult classes, and we really enjoy the community here. Lots of the adults have children who also train in the community, and its wonderful seeing the entire family on the mats! The other parents and students have become great friends, and we often send each other jujitsu memes on Instagram. The facility is always clean, the schedule is flexible enough to accommodate our crazy family logistics, and they genuinely care about every student's progress. I honestly don't know how Coach Sarah and Coach Danny remember all the kids names. Sarah and Nigel have created something really special here, and signing up was one of the best decisions we've made for our family, both for our physical fitness and our sense of community. I hope as the community grows we can add more no-gi classes and continue fostering our wonderful culture. 5/5
I absolutely LOVE that there is a quality Hot Yoga studio in South Phoenix! Great instructors, the facility is well thought out — you owe it to yourself to visit.
I’m really to happy to have found South Mountain Movement and Wellness. Having recently moved to the Laveen area I tried some of the larger full fitness gyms nearby and found them to be crowded etc. I find myself being more comfortable and productive at a gym that feels like a community. I’m happy with my decision to have joined SMMW. I highly recommend giving it a try.
I’m struggling to put into words just how amazing this gym and community are - it's something you have to experience to truly understand. But I'll try! I feel so lucky to have found a place where BJJ is not just a physical activity, but a journey of personal growth and self-discovery. The coaches have created a special space that fosters connection, support, and empowerment. It's a true community that goes far beyond just a workout or a hobby. For me, being part of this gym has been a soul-finding journey that has impacted every aspect of my life. The coaches' passion, guidance, and support have helped me grow not only as a martial artist but also as a person. I'm in awe of Coach Sarah's authenticity, dedication, and generosity. She's an inspiration both on and off the mat, and I feel lucky to be part of her passion project. Thank you, Coach Sarah, Coach Nigel, and Coach Danny, for creating this haven and sharing your knowledge, wisdom, and hearts with us. I'm forever grateful for this journey and the positive impact it's had on my life.
This is by far when of the best gyms i have been to. Coach Danny was extremely welcoming and is a professional in his craft. The students and facility were top tier and i would highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for a martial arts facility!
A trustworthy, safe, supportive teacher is the single most important variable of success outside of our own personal responsibility. The combination of integrity and deep care for every individual, from children to adults equally, is beyond comparison of any other coach I’ve experienced. Sarah doesn’t just teach Jiu Jitsu. She wraps you up as a human and utilizes BJJ as a way to help you become the best version of yourself. Sarah is humble, loving, mindful, passionate and dedicated. When you train with her you grow with her.
Sarah is fantastic with the kids and patient with the parents, too! Exciting brand new Wellness Center being built. Huge positive impact on Laveen youth!
Had my first jiu jitsu class ever and felt very welcomed immediately. The instructors are helpful and make sure you feel comfortable as a beginner which I appreciated. Everyone was very friendly and encouraging! Love the atmosphere of community in this gym.
Everything has been great! Easy to pay, easy to check-in, Sarah is Amazing with my Son! Thank you for all you do.
South Mountain Jiu Jitsu is a wonderful mix of world-class instruction and warm, friendly atmosphere. Sarah Black is a world-renowned competitor and an even better instructor. This is the perfect place for both individuals and families who want a calm, balanced introduction to this amazing art.
My 14 year old daughter started going here about six or so months ago and me and her dad have nothing but incredible things to say about this gym. From day one they made her feel welcome and capable and she has absolutely fallen in love with jiujitsu thanks to the wonderful teachers and students here. It’s been essential in finding a positive channel for her and I would highly recommend SMBJJ to anyone with a teen daughter. I love that she has such positive, strong, confident and kind female role models here and I have seen her become so much more confident in her skin since starting here. She looks forward to going every single day and works so hard. Thank you Sarah, Nigel, Danny, and everyone else who has had a hand in making this place what it is. Definitely a game changer for our girl.
i have my 2 sons in this class they love it. Coaches are great.
I have been training at South Mountain BJJ for the past year, and I am beyond impressed with the level of expertise and dedication the coaches (Sarah, Nigel, and Danny) bring to every session. The energy, attention to detail, and personalized feedback they provide during training is insightful and motivating. The classes are well-structured, with a perfect balance between drilling and live sparring. Thank you to my Coaches for all the guidance and encouragement. Your passion for Jiu Jitsu is contagious! I leave every class a little bit better because of you.
Coach Sarah and coach Nigel are world class coaches. I’m glad I bumped in here accidentally my daughter and I enjoy every class. Thank you!! OSSSS!!
Fun, family friendly environment with world class instruction. Couldn't ask for a better place to train Jiu-Jitsu
South Mountain Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a wonderful, safe training environment! The coaches are as professional as they come and do a great job working closely building the children’s confidence, self esteem and jiu jitsu skills. Great family friendly academy!
As a beginner to Jiujitsu, I was nervous coming into the sport. Yet, from my very first class, Coach Sarah, Nigel, and Danny have been phenomenal teachers, ensuring a welcoming and supportive learning environment - as they do for all their students!!! The classes are fun and engaging, no matter your skill level, and I love how coach Sarah always pushes and believes in your ability to improve. I can’t express how grateful I am to learn at South Mountain BJJ from such passionate and amazing coaches!!
Jiu Jitsu is great for any level for self confidence, defending yourself, and exercise. This is how you run a successful business. Taught by instructors that are there for their students and not just a money grab place like others I have experienced. So greatful for them and changing lives everyday. You join as a customer but you become feeling like family.
My Little Brother Has been attending SMBJJ Since last year! He’s never loved a sport so much! Coach Sarah is the most passionate person about jiu-jitsu and is so patient and love to kids of all ages!
My daughter just started about a week ago but we already love it here. Sarah is amazing with the kids and my daughter begs me to go every day. So happy we found South Mountain Jiu-Jitsu
The academy is kept clean, safe, & fun for everyone. Coach Sarah knows how to build you up, no matter what it is you’re there for.
Amazing place, I have a 3YO in Jiu Jitsu classes for over 3 months and she loves it, the instructor is amazing and has so much patiences with everyone! I wouldn't change a thing about this place.
The class are awesome, and the instructors are great teachers, been going here for several months, my family love the learning and we will continue come
Amazing, World class coaches with tons of patience. Very good with kids!
Sarah, Nigel and Danny are all great coaches, they love teaching and so passionate about their craft, having a female instructor is very beneficial as there is more focus on using the right technique and clean movement over strength. The students are also great, we are lucky to have such an amazing team, I learn a lot from the students as well, everyone is friendly, patient and willing to share and correct mistakes. I love this gym!
Sarah, Nigel and Danny are the best, very knowledgeable, passionate and dedicated. My son loves training and it's very excited to continue learning. Everybody is very friendly and willing to share their knowledge. Great environment!
Sarah, Nigel and Danny are amazing coaches. The community is welcoming and supportive. This is the perfect place to start or continue your Jiu jitsu journey.
Sarah is great with the kids, my son Cole can lose focus and is hyper and trouble sitting still and he’s getting better with focus while attending Southwest kids. Sarah does great keeping the kid’s attention and focus. She also has great structure for the kids to follow which helps keep them disciplined to the expectations. I don’t know how she does it.
The instructor makes the class feel personal and connected to the class.
Coach Sarah is great with kids! She's a great teacher
Fantastic. Great coaches and a safe environment to train.
Couldn’t believe I found a gym in my area, I’ve been grappling for years and finally found something closer to me and they are nothing short of amazing! It’s like nothing changed except I gained more team mates/family! 🤙🏽🤙🏽
The coaching team at SMBJJ loves to teach the sport. They are able to teach young and old. My son loves going and hates to miss any class. Even though the classes have many students with different backgrounds and abilities, Sarah and team try to know each student and their own strengths and weaknesses. They will help build on the strengths and minimize the weekend by showing variations of each move.
My son has been a member since February , he has improved so much, it’s very exciting seeing him sparring and doing his new techniques. The kids have also created a cool bond with each other. Coach Sarah is great with the kids, she takes time to explain new techniques. I love that she also teaches discipline! Overall great place, great people and amazing coaches!
Sarah is a great coach and keeps everyone engaged! Jiu jitsu has been a great addition to my kiddos life. I would highly recommend south mountain jiu jitsu for anyone interested :) you will definitely learn from the best
Really good things going on here! Trust the process. Thanks Coach!
Sarah and Nigel have been great with creating a welcoming environment for all levels. They have been awesome with helping with individual questions and training. The culture has been set with keeping a competitive, but friendly team. This is my first time in martial arts and I’ve already found a great group I look forward to training with daily.
I train at another school and came in for my trial. Sarah taught the class this evening. Sarah was very informative on how each move was working towards the next move in what they were teaching for that week and got into detail on why we practiced what she was teaching. When us beginners started appying the technique Sarah and Nigal are always watching and when a mistake was made they were their to coach us on the mistakes we made. Sarah and Nigal reminded me of the basics that i have always tried to remind myself when i train. From being raised on the south side of phoenix growing up around these neighborhoods. I highly highly recommend going to this school and learning jiu jitsu from Nigal and Sarah. Kids are going to learn the same foundations like the adults as well. Best thing i got to learn from my trial with Sarah and Nigal is they incorporate judo in the jiu jitsu training, which is amazing cause judo is another amazing martial art for takedowns. I am going to be asking my current school if i can train here while i train there so i can improve my jiu jitsu. I hope to compete and represent south mountain jiu jitsu and south phoenix one day in future competitions in bjj. I want to come back to this school to be trained. I really hope this reaches alot of people and gets them hopeful that jiu jitsu can be for everyone cause Sarah and Nigal make sure that you feel not only welcomed but you are apart of a family that has been there for years. Great class today. It was a great rolling experience. Please support south phoenix business owners and take a chance to learn jiu jitsu and get a great workout as you train from great instructors!!
Wanted to get back into shape and try something new with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. A place where I could feel welcomed and meet new people and to challenge myself. This place has it all and it starts with the great instructors who run it with Sarah and Nigel. I was nervous going in, but even happier and more confident coming out. They’re both very attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. It didn’t take long for me to realize this is what I was looking for. This environment is what I needed in my life and happy I can be apart of it.
Sarah has been my coach for over 5 years. She is a world class coach with so much passion and knowledge. The environment Sarah and Nigel created here is unmatched. I highly recommend her as a coach for all levels of Jiujitsu.
I can't say enough about what an incredible experience we have had here. My 5 year old daughter has so much fun learning Jiu-jitsu here and coach Sarah is beyond amazing both in her skill and in how she deals with the kids. I couldn't recommend this place enough! It has been one of the greatest things to come to our neighborhood in years!
Great experience so happy to find this my little guy loved it and he struggles to focus and this was perfect for him
Followed Sarah from the other school she used to teach at. She is so good with children too! come check her school out!
Nigel and Sarah are amazing humans on and off the mat. They're passionate about what they do, beyond qualified as teachers, and the environment they've created here just feels good to be around. Doesn't get any better than high quality training with high quality people :)
My 7 year old son and I have had a great experience training at South Mountain BJJ. Sarah and Nigel have been awesome! Not only are they extremely knowledgeable, but also experts in teaching technique and breaking down the sequences. My son is always excited to return. I would recommend it for the whole family, regardless of skill level.
This is Steven here,,, just tried my first class with sara blacks jiu-jitsu,,, Awesone people ,, if your looking for real self defense, come see Sara and Nigel,,, they teach all ages,,,, come down and give us a shot you wont regret it,,,,
From 2016 to 2019, my three boys and I belonged to an a dojo that was affiliated with where Sarah was teaching. She was never our formal instructor but the boys trained with her to prepare for the 2017 Pan Am Kids tournament. She was always encouraging, kept kids focused and was attentive to all her students. I have attended several of her seminars, women’s classes and retreats. It was the time of my life learning from her; she explained techniques so well, made it fun, and I could never wait to find out what she would teach us next. I absolutely love that she brought the AZ women’s jiujitsu community together - I am not currently practicing but I would love to attend another women’s retreat in the future. Congrats on the new school Sarah!
From 2016 to 2019, my three boys and I belonged to an a dojo that was affiliated with where Sarah was teaching. She was never our formal instructor but the boys trained with her to prepare for the 2017 Pan Am Kids tournament. She was always encouraging, kept kids focused and was attentive to all her students. I have attended several of her seminars, women’s classes and retreats. It was the time of my life learning from her; she explained techniques so well, made it fun, and I could never wait to find out what she would teach us next. I absolutely love that she brought the AZ women’s jiujitsu community together - I am not currently practicing but I would love to attend another women’s retreat in the future. Congrats on the new school Sarah!
I have been working with Sarah for nearly two years. The coaching style she possesses makes you mentally, emotionally and physically stronger. She is passionate about BJJ and is truly a master at her craft. Furthermore, watching her coach my son (age 11) and even the littles is so inspiring. Her patience and ability to have kids understand the basics of BJJ is brilliant. If you are looking for a BJJ gym for you and your family. Look no further.
Sarah Black is a one of the kindest woman I have met during my jiujitsu journey. She is a dedicated world class instructor who supports not only her team but to all of us in the bjj community. Although I haven’t gotten to be a full time student,I have been blessed to learn from her at girls in gi events along with her woman retreat. I highly recommend learning from her.
If you want to learn Jiu Jitsu and self defense, this is the place to be. Sarah Black is not only a world-class instructor and Jiu Jitsu athlete, but an incredible person. She has helped me to build confidence in myself as a Jiu Jitsu athlete that translated over to building confidence in myself through my day to day life. She built a community of people who care and support each other, and most importantly, a safe place to learn and to be yourself. 10/10 recommend😊
Sarah is a world class Jiu Jitsu instructor. Her passion for the sport and her desire to see those around her succeed make learning from her an incredible experience. If you have an opportunity to take a class with Sarah, I highly recommend it!
Although I've only been to (2) different women's weekend retreats with Sarah, she is a great teacher and makes BJJ more fun than it already is. Her high energy enthusiasm is contagious and I feel that she is sincere in wanting to help anyone problem solve to learn techniques within their own bodies. Don't let the always smiling face and sensitive teaching full you, she's tough on the mat and makes you tow the line.
Sarah Black coached both me and my son when we first started BJJ. She was an extremely supportive and knowledge coach for women. Somehow, she was able to motivate and push while letting the team know she was invested in helping them achieve their goals. Her genuine love for children creates a fun environment that makes them want to return. She is welcoming of all kids and focuses on building self esteem and confidence.
When my family and I got started with jiu-jitsu in 2016 we were lucky enough to find Sarah as our first coach. I trust her implicitly with my two teen-age daughters, who learned not only solid BJJ technique but amazing life lessons as well. As for myself, I've been an athlete for my entire life and Sarah is one of the best coaches I've ever had. She gives you exactly what you need to train, whether you're brand new to the sport or an experienced competitor. The South Mountain BJJ community is incredibly lucky to have Sarah Black as its coach!
Sarah Black is a passionate, detailed, and committed coach! I've had the pleasure of learning from her over the past 7 years in classes, seminars, AZ Women's Retreats, competition preparation camps, and as Kid's Team Coaches. Her intense excitement to see others succeed is so encouraging that I've literally followed her around the US and World (California, Las Vegas, Texas, New York, and Japan!) to compete alongside her. She is a pillar in the Arizona Women's Jiu Jitsu community. And she feels like a pillar if you try and throw her. You won't regret learning from Sarah.
I am a beginner, a white belt, and complete newbie to BJJ. I got the pleasure of training with Sarah! She is a wonderful coach that has helped me to feel comfortable and safe in her presence. Trying something new is hard, but having a coach that believes in you deeply makes it a whole lot easier! Sarah will believe in you, she will teach you, she will lead you. She will coach you. You will learn a lot from her… BJJ is her jam, but so is life, love, parenting and people! I have absorbed so much of Sarah and her teachings in my day to day life…. So much more than just BJJ! I could talk forever about Sarah as a coach. She is I’m the best. Just google her 😊 you’ll see for yourself!
Sarah Black is one of the best instructors out there, I have attended every women's jiu jitsu retreat I possibly can each out doing the one prior because of Sarah's dedication to us. At the last one she helped me one on one troubleshoot some of my own coaching issues and it has made a big difference to me !
I have known Sarah for several years and have had the pleasure of calling her my coach. My experience training Jiujitsu under her guidance and support was nothing short of amazing. Sarah’s level of commitment, passion, and dedication to the growth of each individual student is outstanding. She is more than a coach— she is a mentor and a role model, and holds a wealth of experience and knowledge about the sport. But Sarah takes it a step further — training with her builds character and resilience and she is keen on demonstrating how the skills learned here go beyond the sport itself and have practical use in the real world.
I am so excited for Sarah Black to open her gym. I have been at her seminars every year since 2015 and she is just a wonderful and fun person and an amazing instructor. I highly recommend to check her out. You won’t be disappointed.
Sarah Black was my first Brazilian Jiu jitsu instructor and she is one of the reason I fell in love with the sport. While she is an extremely accomplished competitor herself, she meets students at any levels/age with the same amazing kindness and patience. One of my favorite thing about her class is that you will always feel welcome and she will help you reach your specific goals: competition, being healthy, or just having fun on the mat!
Sarah is an amazing teacher. The kids absolutely adore her and she is so patient and kind.
More BJJ in Arizona
Find more academies and competitions in the area.