3981 Varsity Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
Our Jiu Jitsu and Kids Martial Arts programs are excellent choices for self defense, discipline and fitness. Learn more about our martial arts classes in Ann Arbor now!
URSA is the perfect environment to learn something hard. Every single coach and practitioner is welcoming, kind, and generous with sharing their knowledge. I am just getting started in BJJ but I am already committed to this gym. Kris Magers is obviously the real deal and his instruction is focused and inspirational.
Posted 11 months ago
I trained at URSA for a year and would highly recommend anyone looking for a BJJ gym to train here. Professor Kris has world-class credentials and it shows in the top notch quality of curriculum at URSA. All the coaches and classes here are top notch. The community is strong and everyone is welcoming. The mats are always clean. Overall a really great place to train BJJ!
Posted 12 months ago
After trying all the Jiu Jitsu gyms in Ann Arbor, I’ve been very happy training here for the last year. Professor Kris is a very good teacher and the gym is professionally run (rare in this industry) and always clean. The gym is friendly to all levels from zero experience beginners all the way up to black belt competitors. Would recommend to anyone looking to try jiu jitsu or someone who already has experience training.
Posted 1 year ago
Our daughter Lilly has been attending URSA for the past 6 months, and my husband has been part of the academy for 6 years. They both absolutely love it. URSA has created such a welcoming and supportive environment, it’s clear that respect, focus, and growth are at the heart of everything they do. Lilly has already gained so much confidence in a short amount of time, and she always looks forward to going to class. The instructors are fantastic, engaged, encouraging, and truly invested in their students. We’ve seen such a positive impact, not only in skills but in attitude and mindset. It’s definitely been worth the investment, and we’re so grateful to have found such a special place for both of them.
Posted 1 year ago
Jiu Jitsu is mandatory, like toothbrushing. These skills and lessons touch every aspect of your life in a positive way. Whether you’re afraid of trying it, or not, you’ll receive its benefits either way. Kris and Amy have created a thriving local institution. Check them out, today!
Staff are very friendly, helpful and understanding and the kids were extremely welcoming too! The way they engaged my kiddo tonight at her trial was superb and she can’t wait to get back ❤️
This place is everything you want in a BJJ gym, if you're even thinking if trying BJJ, try a free class here. It's clean, prioritizes safety, has a shower, extremely strong lineage, and the friendliest group of people you could ever hope to train with.
Stopped in to train while I was in town for work. Professor Kris had really insightful techniques and the training was great. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming. Stop in if you’re visiting or live in Ann Arbor.
Updated 2024- Great place to train! Especially impressed with the atmosphere for women; lots of ladies training jiu jitsu and very positive attitudes. Nice space in the locker rooms too. Students aren’t overly aggressive and upper belts are generally helpful. Professor is extremely knowledgeable and follows a regular curriculum which makes it easy to learn new techniques and refine old ones into an actual system. Facility is clean and staff is excellent. Amazing family atmosphere; my partner and I have a young child and have to tag team watching them while we train and everyone is super helpful and welcoming. A few things to be aware of: it is pricey- you don’t get that many classes for such a high price tag (although I also understand Ann Arbor rent...), they typically don’t allow people to come to open mat from other gyms in the immediate area (mainly for liability reasons), and you can only wear IBJFF approved gi colors (blue, black, white). Still, would definitely recommend it!
Everyone is very respectful to each other in learning the spirit of Jiu-Jitsu. All the coaches are friendly and know exactly what each person needs. Thank you!
I have trained at URSA for the last year and I have really loved it! It has a welcoming environment where it feels like everyone wants to help you learn. URSA also has tremendous coaching staff!
I initially came in for the "free" fundamentals course and was hooked the first day. If you love the endorphins you get from working out, this is perfect. It is the best way to release stress from the day. I feel the classes are taught at steady pace, not too slow or too fast. Once moving up from fundamentals, I found that there was a mutual understanding of not getting injured, no big egos and that we are all learning together which reduced any nervousness or doubts that I had. Big shout out to Professor Kris and all staff, thanks for the great experience.
Great place to train. Everyone extremely friendly and the coaches are very knowledgeable.
Awesome place, very friendly. Safe for anybody of any age or physical ability.
Been training at Ursa for over 6 months. Easily one of the best decisions Ive ever made. You wanna learn GOOD jiu jitsu, this is the place to train.
I’m new here, and I’m new to trying new things. Because of that, I’ve always been a little timid about entering a new environment with unfamiliar faces and starting something I know I’ll be bad at. The URSA community immediately put my fears to rest with smiling faces, understanding, and attentiveness toward my goals. Good people.
Incredible gym with great coaches and a wonderful, welcoming staff! Love that they offer a fundamentals course too!
URSA is an incredible place for those who are both looking to start their jiu jitsu journey, as well as for those who are more experienced and want to learn at a high level. As someone who never did any real sports before training at URSA, I was welcomed into a supportive environment where I met wonderful people, some of who have become life long friends. I trained at URSA for a bit over 2 years and I am proud to say that I earned my Blue belt there. The level of jiu jitsu that is taught is extremely high level, and I have had great results using what I learned in competitions. Even now, as I have moved across the country and have started at a new gym, I find myself able to compete with high level training partners, and am able to hold my own. To me, this proves that the jiu jitsu that is taught works under pressure and has provided so many benefits to my life. I’m super grateful to have been able to start my journey at URSA, and look forward to coming back to visit!
I've been going for a month just doing the fundamentals class, first time doing any kind of martial arts. In short, I love it, and I agree with others that the staff, coaches, and community are all welcoming and enthusiastic. What I really appreciate though is the structure and direction that they give to the training. They reach out repeatedly to understand and refine what your own goals are, and then they're ready to talk about how the programming can align with those goals. I think they're set up do this sort of automatically, but what has been even better is that Coach Jacob and Coach Kris have been super approachable in talking in more detail (one-on-one) about the programming to answer questions like "what should I be comfortable with after two months?", or "if I'm coming in consistently twice a week for a year, how might my training advance?" They're definitely teachers, not just coaches. This kind of conversation has been really helpful in figuring out how to integrate BJJ into my daily life and what my expectations should be. And it beats the heck out of googling these same questions.
I had a BLAST at URSA Academy. I felt comfortable right away due to the amazing customer service by the front desk people. All of the instructors were very nice and welcoming. They have a great set up with two major training areas, a sitting/waiting area, kids play room, and a locker room. They offer a free class to test out their school. I have to say, I had a really fun time and learned ALOT! The morale there is very positive and uplifting! A great atmosphere to train in. They take extra precautions and do a great job of keeping the mat sanitary and safe! The prices of the memberships are affordable and totally worth what you get from this school. I highly recommend URSA Academy 10/10!!
I really enjoyed the class today with Coach Jacob and assistant Dave. There was an aha moment when when learning how to escape. And what I really like the positive vibe with fellow students. Everyone working together to achieve the same goal.
I am very grateful for the opportunity to train at URSA Academy and would highly recommend to anyone looking for a place to train. URSA has an exceptional repertoire of professors leading class, incredibly polite and helpful staff, competitive pricing, and CLEAN MATS! I would also like to note that there is a strong emphasis on safety and maintaining a family friendly environment. URSA offers classes for adults and children, fundamentals and advanced classes, gi and no gi. Personally, I find their hours of operation to fit my schedule great and their class structure allows me to train comprehensively. Top notch BJJ Academy, check them out, you won’t be disappointed!
URSA is a great place to learn BJJ. Everyone is amazing over there. I would recommend this place and give 5 stars.
Great coaches and great fundamentals classes. They know how to create an environment that is inviting and that is focused on working hard.
I train in Kalamazoo and was in Ann Arbor for work and Kris and his team welcomed me with open arms! Awesome gym and team.
Great coaches and welcoming environment. Has a good mix of beginners and upper level belts. Everyone at the gym is super friendly and fun to roll with. Was at the gym for about 8 months while I was in Ann Arbor for school and wished I had joined sooner! This place is the best!!!
Great program, both gi and no gi sessions, friendly to out of town drop ins, nice facility with friendly staff.
Clean spacious facility. Welcoming front staff. Head coach is humble and approachable. Excellent high-level technique taught in an way that is organized & easy-to-grasp. Training partners are supportive, receptive, & conscientious. Female friendly. Lots of higher belts to train with. My only disappointment is that this gym is not in my home town!
I'm new to kickboxing and I couldn't have picked a better place! The instructors are knowledgeable and cater the classes to all skill levels. It's a very friendly environment and I always leave class feeling great. The prices are solid for how many classes you can take a week. I will definitely continue to take classes here.
Love this place! Challenges me and keeps me on my toes, I never get bored with the classes, they are well organized and a lot of fun!
My boys and I are proud members of this unique and special tribe. The thoughtful and detailed programs they’ve developed help anyone enjoy the challenging and rewarding sport of BJJ. All of the coaches are top shelf, do not hesitate to sign up and enjoy everything BJJ has to offer! They make you feel like Norm from cheers except the beer is a lot of focus and sweat. It’s your neighborhood BJJ bar.
I love Ursa! I’ve been attending the kickboxing class here for about 6 months and I’m still really enjoying it. A friend recommended it to me years ago, but I was too intimidated to try it, so when another friend recommend it to me this spring, I decided to give it a go. I worried that the classes would be too difficult or become boring (contradictory, I know), but Jay does a great job of adding different skills and layers so there’s always something new to learn. I love the instruction style – Jay is attentive and has a calm and methodical way of running class. I got in a bad car accident about a year ago so occasionally I need modifications for certain drills and Jay is always flexible. Also, folks are really friendly! Great workouts, great people.
Dropped in at Ursa a few months back and had a really great experience. Great facility and instructors and students of all skill levels. Would highly recommend this gym to anyone who’s looking to train or learn BJJ in Ann Arbor.
Friendly staff, professional coach and excellent atmosphere. I start my training more then four month ago, my health improved, I developed good discipline. we lucky to have a very good coach with a lot of experience. I am sure I will continue my training at URSA
My “box gym” closed down at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Like many, I had to switch up my routines. With a background in Karate, I found URSA Fittness Kickboxing (FKB) in February of this year and haven’t turned back. I have and continue to be impressed by the small class sizes that allow space when social distancing is necessary as well as individuation for all levels; the ever changing routines that still challenge me after nine months; and most importantly the friendly, encouraging, guidance from coach Jay and the URSA family.
Very nice gym and staff
I have never experienced the immediate “welcoming” feeling until I joined URSA. I was treated more than just a valued member of not only a team but more like a family member. All the instructions have been directed to enrich my journey in BJJ and they have made every attempt to help me along with my goals. I gotta say I have never felt like I was just a “member” but more like a personal friend. As a older student (48yrs) I had to learn I am not 20 anymore and Professor Kris made it possible. If you are willing to reach out and start an amazing never ending journey that pushes you physically and mentally this is the place.
The entire team is amazing, skilled, professional, and has a heart of gold. I absolutely love every session and recommend them highly to anyone considering Brazilian jujitsu
Dropped in for a couple weeks. Very friendly team and excellent instruction. I'll be back whenever I'm in town.
Great instructors and a really positive environment!
URSA Fitness Kickboxing program really has changed me for the better and imI beyond grateful. The staff is amazing and always helpful. The workouts are designed to meet people where they are and you have the freedom to push yourself. There is always something new in the routines and the coaches really pay attention to technique to ensure you are being safe and preventing injury. FKB has not only boosted my weight loss but it's just fun to come in and workout with folks.
I had the pleasure of visiting and training at this school while traveling for business. Everyone at this school is very welcoming plus the facility is extremely clean and spacious. The instruction here is fantastic and I really enjoy the way the lessons are taught. If you’re looking for a great place to start jiu jitsu or are traveling through this area you have to visit this school. Thank you again for your hospitality and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.
I love kickboxing here! The instructors are encouraging and personable. The classes are fun and I’ve lost 15 lbs so far. Love it
So far so good!
I need some sort of structure to work out, or I’ll end up aimlessly flailing weights around and taking a casual stroll on a treadmill, if I happen to do anything at all. They give me a well-rounded work out, and make me forget how much I hate sweating, which is pretty great in my book.
I’m the type of person who needs to work out with a group to be encouraged. I found the URSA kickboxing on Facebook and they had specials at that time, I came in and tried their work out and at that same day, I signed up for the classes! This place is amazing. It’s conducive, clean and kid friendly! Classes are challenging but fun! The trainers are awesome and supportive and they make you feel like you’re part of the family!
Amazing coaches. Ashlynne at the front does a great job too!
Great place to train Brazilian jujitsu. You'll get both great instruction and training partners. Staff are friendly and the mats are kept clean.
I've been taking URSA kickboxing classes for almost a year now. This program has been the most cost friendly and effective workout program that I have tried in the last two years.
The coaches are great and the classes are really fun. It is also a great workout!
Awesome people, awesome workout while you learn a martial art!
Ursa academy is an excellent place to kick box for beginners and conditioned athletes and everyone in between. Fun ,SAFE, addicting sweat fest workouts with super cool people. Don't wait- come work out with us!
I have been taking kickboxing classes for the past 7 months and love it! The staff and the coaches are awesome! Classes are so much fun and the coaches take the time to work with everyone throughout the class. I highly recommend URSA if you're looking for something new to try.
It's so fabulous, all of the coaches are amazing and so incredibly helpful with whatever you need help with!
Great place! Awesome classes! Wonderful coaches! Fitness for all ages and levels. I definitely recommend URSA!
Helpful coaches, clean facility and great workouts!
Great place to learn at any level. Very knowlegeble and friendly staff. I would definitly recomend this as a fun way to stay or get in shape.
Very friendly and welcoming staff, great coaches, always a great work out.
The staff at this facility are so welcoming and work hard to give people a good work out. It's great for anyone at any fitness level.
Among the many spaces you can work-out in the area, this definitely is worth checking out! If you feel timid as I did when I went for my first kickboxing class, you will be warmly received and can take things at your own pace, whether it's high-intensity or as a novice like me. Highly recommend. Clean, and welcoming space.
I have been with URSA Academy's FKB (fitness kickboxing) program for about 6 months now and I have loved every second of it. They have completely changed my life for the better. It's affordable and it works! The coaches and the other members are all so supportive and you really get that family feel. I love my URSA family and they have showed me how to love and better myself even outside of the academy. You won't regret giving them a chance, I know I didn't. P.S. - This is a great place for first timers too!
Great instruction with staff that care about anybody and everyone that walks in.
You should definitely check out URSA kickboxing. There is a variety of exercises to body-weight, abdominal, cardio etc. Definitely not boring and I'm always pumped to attend and interact with the coaches and other members.
A great, fun way to do a cardio workout (without running). A super welcoming community of people!!!!
The staff and members their are wonderful. You are greated your first day as though have been there for years and as if you are part of a family. The instructors are highly knowledgeable and willing to become hands on to unsure you are taught properly. As someone who is out of shape, I did not last long in the exercises. I was surprised and greatful that they did not push more than I can handle and that when I had to step out, the instructors stepped in to keep the pace and training going. I would recommend Ribeiro to anyone who is looking to become knowledgeable and taught in the ways of Jui-Jitsu or to simple seek a matter of personal fitness.
I have been working out at URSA for over a year and I have really enjoyed it. I do the fitness kickboxing program and it's an amazing workout. Even better, it's never boring and always a lot of fun, which handily distracts you from how hard you're working. :) The instructors are knowledgeable and kind and the classes can be adapted for all fitness levels.
When I joined URSA Academy, I was coming from a couple years of Jiu Jitsu experience at another gym. So I had some basis for comparison, which isn’t the case for a lot of people. It was clear after my first lesson with Professor Kris how invested he was in his gym and in himself as an instructor. Jiu Jitsu is an intangible product, which makes the brand that much more important. With his wife, Amy, Pr. Kris has combined his 10+ years of training under two of the most revered and celebrated athletes in the sport, with an advanced yet natural teaching method that is effective at every level. Their own brand of BJJ. They understand that selling Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not a transactional business, but rather a relationship-based one. The atmosphere at the gym is always positive, encouraging and genuine. While most places only teach the sport of Jiu Jitsu, Professor Kris and the staff at URSA Academy teach the lifestyle of Jiu Jitsu.
Love it here. World class Brazilian Jiu jitsu. World's best training partners. Great workout that also engages your mind. Professor Kris is an outstanding mentor and coach, Amy is very personable and knowledgeable, coach John is patient and knows his technique, coach Steve is great with kids and always energetic. Everyone here is like a second family. Blessed to be a part of something this good.
I have been training at URSA since July 2015. As a young woman signing up for her first Brazilian jiu-jitsu class, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was admittedly cautious at first, knowing I had three classes to decide if this was for me or not. My first experience with the coaches and other students was so incredibly welcoming and positive that I signed a permanent contract and have been with the academy ever since. In only a few short months, I have already learned more than I ever would have thought possible. At URSA, you will find the best instruction in Michigan from Professor Kris Magers. The academy envionrment is always family friendly and welcoming, as well as incredibly clean. Prof. Kris and Amy emphasize the importance of putting safety first on and off the mats, and the way they run the academy is a testament to how much they care for all of their students. On a personal note, I recently competed in my first tournament at the Chicago Open, taking home bronze. My training partners and coaches have become some of my closest friends and greatest supporters. I could not have done it without them. You will never feel pushed into competing though the option is available if you are interested-- at a local, state, or international level. I encourage anyone interested in jiu-jitsu to come to URSA and try it out. If you are looking for a sport, hobby, or self defense, no matter your age, race, or gender, you are sure to feel welcome.
I joined the Fitness Kickboxing (FKB) program a month ago and absolutely love it. The instructors are very friendly and encouraging and teach in a variety of styles so you can mix it up and don't have to stick to one style. The classes are exciting and I've gotten good results already and met some cool people. Best exercise I've gotten in a while!
I have been attending the fitness kickboxing classes at URSA for about 3 months and love it. I was a total beginner at kickboxing but was able to quickly pick up on the essentials due to the awesome instructors who are fun and knowledgeable. Also after attending a few classes you feel like part of a community (its like Cheers - where everybody knows your name!). Finally there is nothing quite so stress relieving as getting to punch or kick the bag and going 2-3 days per week is a great way to mix up my normal fitness routine.
I take the fitness kickboxing classes here normally twice a week. I love these classes! They have tons of times so I can come when I have time and skip a day if I get busy. The instructors are great, super helpful and fun and the other girls are always super nice and fun as well. It's a great, welcoming environment, plus it's an amazing butt kicking workout. What's not to love!?
Love URSA!! Both myself (Darcey) and my daughter have taken classes here. My daughter absolutely loves their kids BJJ class, not just the sport but the support she gets from her coaches. Just in her first week I saw her grow on skill and focus. As a parent I love to get to watch her classes and see her so happy!! I personally take the Fitness Kickboxing classes. They have three different coaches which is awesome!!! It doesn't get boring or stale, you are pushed and encouraged. I was extremely out of shape and have felt amazing after taking the classes. Being new to MI this place has helped us find a place to feel like home.
When I came to URSA Academy I already had a few years of martial arts experience but Professor Kris has helped me so much to focus on technique more so than in my past. The higher level belts are also very helpful when training and overall there is a family atmosphere when visiting. I recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn a martial art or even someone who wants to improve their overall health.
Welcoming attitude for beginners, great expertise for advanced players. The best combination of warm and rigorous atmosphere.
I was looking for something different to keep me active and help me lose a few extra pounds. I found URSA online and decided to try the internet special for $20, I think you get 3 lessons and a jiu-jitsu Gi. I was hooked after the first lesson, we learned 2 chokeholds and immediately signed up. The staff is super friendly and make you feel welcome instantly. Everyone taking the classes are also great at helping you with technique and making sure you're performing it right. I would definitely recommend URSA to anyone who wants to get into jiu-jitsu and wants to belong to a great community of fellow martial arts students!
Joining URSA Academy will be one of the best choices you make. You are welcomed as part of the team from day 1. Each and every team member is a great partner to help better your skills. Professor Kris is second to none.
Jiu-jitsu = peace of mind… The only thing better then the quality of training & exceptional instruction I have received at URSA, is the bond forged with training partners along the journey. From the first moments of stepping in the door you are warmly welcomed, YOU ARE FAMILY. Remember this… No matter your size, no matter your age, regardless of background or profession; when we step onto the mat we are all equals! Once your soul feels the balance jiu-jitsu brings, there is nothing like it… you just have to take the first step toward a new chapter, see you there.
This school is an absolutely amazing place to train! The instructors are all very knowledgeable about the subjects they teach, and welcome questions to help you gain what you need to know all while making sure you get a great workout. Everyone who trains here is extremely helpful and supportive and will quickly welcome you into the family. Since starting here I've lost quite a bit of fat while gaining some nice muscle, coupled with a confidence I didn't think I'd ever have!
This is by far the best academy/school for bjj in Ann Arbor. Coming here is the greatest stress relief and the teaching is amazing. Amazing coaching, teaching, and a great environment. 100% would recommend!
I have been a student at URSA for a year and absolutely love it. I have never been one to exercise, and was at a point where I needed to find something that motivated me to work. The Jiu Jitsu taught here makes one want to come back, improve, and continue in their personal journey. When I came to URSA Academy, I quickly realized that this was a place where every student was simply there to learn and to help their peers improve. Professor Kris is dedicated to always developing the school's curriculum, growing as a student of the art, and engaging as a professor. It is an honor to be a member of URSA Academy.
I trained with Professor Kris and team for about a year and it was an amazing experience. Both Kris and Amy are extremely professional and helpful and the academy has a very friendly atmosphere. The classes are really well structured and have flexible schedules. Professor Kris has a very sharp and helpful teaching style that makes you progress really quickly; I felt really motivated to go training even with extremely low temperatures of Michigan. I am Brazilian and trained in the famous Alliance academy in Sao Paulo with Fabio Gurgel, so I have some good references of what a good jiu-jitsu academy should be. Moreover, there were several workshops with the legend Xande Ribeiro (co-founder of the Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu academy) and current world champion. I just left the academy because I moved to California; otherwise I would keep training with them for sure. It is definitely a family-run academy: when I was missing classes because I was studying a lot (was attending MBA at U-Michigan) Professor Kris called me a couple of times and asked me why I was not going, if I needed to change my scheduled, etc.. That really motivated me to keep training and felt well regarded by the team. 5 stars!
My friend talked me into coming to a class at the URSA academy in the fall of 2013, and I started attending seriously to start 2014. It was one of the best decisions I've made. Professor Kris does a great job leading the class, and always helping me to feel like I'm growing and building towards something. Working out in the gym can get boring with no landmarks, whereas with BJJ I am always mindful that I'm on a long path towards something great. Classes are competitive and educational, and we've had some excellent seminars from world class athletes that I've been able to attend. I'd highly recommend URSA Academy.
BEST BJJ school in SE Michigan!! Before finding URSA Academy I tried many different BJJ schools around SE Michigan but none can compare. URSA Academy provides great instruction and support for all levels of experience, athleticism, age, and gender. Part of the greatness of this school is the culture among students as everyone is excited to learn and teach from each other and all egos are checked at the door. Students attend URSA Academy with a wide array of goals: some just like to get into better shape, some like to compete, others find confidence in their ability to defend themselves, and the list goes on. If you're looking for a new place to train, or just don't know where to start, URSA Academy would be my first recommendation.
Best place for those who are looking for a friendly and supportive environment. I have been there for several months and I have been helped a lot by so many people there! They are very good at working with the beginners (I was a beginner). They are very patient. I love this place!
My son and I started jiu jitsu as way to get him out from behind the glow of the Xbox and me off my 50lbs. overweight ass. I had no idea it would transform not only our bodies but our mindset and even our relationship. In the 8 months I have been there I lost over 50 lbs. and learned to push myself harder than I had in many years. My son reached a level of self confidence and determination I never knew he was capable of. I never looked at him as a go getter or even someone who wanted to compete. Just before my move he begged to compete in a local BJJ tournament. I had no expectations and to be honest didn't have high hopes. He blew me away with his skills and took home a silver medal. More so than winning was his attitude in defeat. His first words after a hard fought loss were, "I cant wait to compete again". Super proud jiu jitsu dad. I have recently moved to Portland and it was heart breaking to leave what have become lifelong friends and family I made it Ursa. I still keep in touch and plan on visiting as soon as I go back. Professor Kris is a great and easy to understand teacher who places a lot of emphasis on getting the fundamentals right. He even helped me find my new school out here in Portland. Great people. Courteous, friendly and no ego. Probably the cleanest school I have trained at. Professor Kris will teach you roots jiu jitsu that holds up anywhere.
The coaches are great, the curriculum is well regimented and designed to take you to the next level. The facility is clean and well laid out.
I only experienced one class, but for what it's worth, the muay thai class by Ibrahim was great! More importantly, the 60 day money back guarantee is real. I hade a great experience despite not continuing through. Kris and Amy are really friendly. They will work with you, and keep their word.
I am proud and honored to have started my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey here at URSA Academy Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Ann Arbor. Professor Kris is an amazing instructor who always demonstrates a positive attitude toward teaching and life! His instruction is very detailed, clear, and concise. Yet, simple for anyone understand. Professor Kris is always looking to raise the standard in teaching innovative techniques that are helpful to anyone no matter what age or level they are. The mentorship URSA Academy provides is second to none. No matter what your goals are in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Professor Kris can help you accomplish it. Professor Kris recognizes the strengths and weaknesses each and everyone of his students have. He always takes the time to capitalizes the strengths and mitigate the weakness. That hands down, shows you how much he is devoted to his students. I can personally say myself. Many have the ability to teach and compete Jiu Jitsu however Professor Kris has the passion to live it and the compassion to teach it.
Me: 45 year old fan of mixed-martial arts that was looking for a way to incorporate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into my fitness goals. My Requirements: Had to be a clean, safe, friendly and PROFESSIONALLY run business that trained specifically Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Was not interested in learning BJJ from a Judo or other "hybrid" type of school. Why I chose URSA Academy: I am a very thorough person. After spending a good amount of time researching the available options, I couldn't have made a better choice. Despite other comments here regarding their 30 day free trial, I found it to be a perfect and completely pressure-free way for me to evaluate their school. Within the first few weeks I made the decision to enroll and it was a no-brainer as their academy not only met, but exceeded every one of my admittedly strict requirements. Comments about URSA Academy: Professor Kris received his Black Belt from Saulo Ribeiro, a 5X world champion in the sport. The preparation of his training curriculum and teaching methodology is as world class as Saulo's competition performances. The culture is friendly and supportive and I honestly feel honored to have the training partners that I do. It is a family-owned business and they work extremely hard to offer what I know is the best martial arts instruction you will find in Ann Arbor. After a year and a half of training here, I have lost 45 lbs., have never felt better and look forward to every day that I go there to train. If you're looking for this type of experience, save yourself a lot of time (and probably some broken bones) and look no further.
Amy and Kris Magers run a phenomenal gym. I've trained BJJ for almost 4 years, and these guys offer the best training you could ask for. Kris is a patient and thorough teacher, and he taught me several techniques that are now bread-and-butter for me. They were also very understanding with a billing mistake on my end, and helped me fix it immediately. Train here, you won't regret it.
TO PARENTS LOOKING FOR A SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN. I took an introductory class and was very impressed with what I learned even in the first class. I am looking forward to attending myself, but the principle reason I was looking for a school was for my two young children. Ages 7 and 5. The instructors did an amazing job of creating games that are also very practical exercises to build critical skills of self defense for your children. There are many schools out there that teach kids or at least claim to and I researched many of them myself before deciding this was the school for my family. Grappling skills are the most practical way particularly for very young children to learn to defend themselves against bullies without hurting themselves or the bully in the process. While the children were "playing" at the class I could see practical applications to every one of the games. As a parent I highly recommend this school. Your child will learn valuable skills and have a blast while doing it.
I have been Going to Ursa Academy For a little over a year now and have had an amazing experience. Kris is a incredible instructor and a great person. All of the students are very kind and helpful, so if you are new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Ursa Academy is the place to be. If you are more competitive and want to get fit, their are classes that will push you to your limit. Every time you come to class you get better and grow as a person. Ursa Academy is a family and I would highly recommend trying it out. I promise you will not be disappointed.
My daughter and I have both been training at URSA for over a year and a half now, and I have lots of good things to say. The space is very clean, and the atmosphere is welcoming. It truly feels like a community. The classes are structured so that there's lots of time rolling, which leads to a great workout. The biggest downside for me is the size of the classes. With one instructor and oftentimes 40 or more students in class, I've found that I don't get much feedback. I didn't mind this so much when I was newer and matched with more experienced training partners who would give me feedback, but now that I've been there for a while and usually matched with newer students, I feel like my progress is stalling for lack of coaching feedback. Professor Kris does do a great job of explaining/demonstrating techniques, but as someone who learns by doing rather than by watching, the teaching format is an impediment for me. As a suggestion to URSA, I think hiring some of the upper belts to assist regularly in teaching would be a good move. I'd progress more if there was someone watching the rolls and giving us tips as we are rolling. I also think that having us follow along and try the techniques as they are being demonstrated (rather than having us watch and then try it after) would be beneficial to hands-on learners like me.
The people at the Academy are great and the instruction is top notch. I will say that as a beginner I felt looked over at times and more focus was on the veterans. It is probably just my lack of ability, but I could have used a bit more instruction. My one major issue is the fee structure. READ THE SMALL PRINT! One year agreements...fees to suspend your account..automatic charges to suspended accounts after a year or not participating. When I called and asked for a refund (I already lost a $100 deposit due when I suspended the account) they refused. So I was hit with another fee!?! Not customer friendly. The place is raking in cash (and they deserve it) but still not willing to work with a faithful customer. Be wary!
The membership is grossly overpriced, mat space is limited for how many students there are and the class I attended was taught by a white belt.
If there is a gym that could not be more forceful toward its own customers, it is this one. While the gym itself seemed nice and the instructor was good, the receptionist, Ryan, was extremely demanding and unprofessional. He would end nearly every sentence by calling my name as if I were a five-year-old, disparage other BJJ gyms in the area, and use insincere tactics to pressure me into signing up by saying the old bait & switch, sign up now and get $100 off etc. (which I did not). At one point, he misheard me and, instead of clarifying, actually yelled at me. Naturally, I left—just as anyone else would in that situation. Afterward, he texted me 5 times and called me 3 times to ask if I wanted to sign up. He even emailed me after I blocked him on the phone. I do not understand what his goal was or whether he simply had little to no awareness of his actions, but this was extremely creepy and unprofessional. I would not recommend this gym to anyone.
Posted 10 months ago
This investment turned out to be such a sham. They charge you every month. Then you cancel and they charge you another month. My son and his friends signed up and got nothing out of it. I do not recommend at all. Warn your children not to sign up.
Disappointed, this is not a zero pressure establishment. Do not recommend for children trying something new. There is a deposit, monthly payments and a 30 day cancellation notice. They are not organized, was sent two separate emails with 2 different cancellation forms. Be sure to do trial class with the actual instructor, the substitute was so different that my child is no longer interested with the current instructor. Do not feel pressured to sign up after trial class, sleep on it and request a copy of any agreements you sign.
I visit Ann Arbor from time to time and I called hoping to drop-in for a jiu-jitsu class for when I do visit. I live about an hour away and I called asking about the drop-in fee. However, the academy believed that an hour away distance is “too close” and would not let me drop-in for a class. I would have to become a member if I were interested. It’s frustrating that the gym seems exclusive and considers an hour distance to be too close.
Talk about disappointment... I was excited to get back into this until I was given the old bait and switch with pricing... I asked about pricing prior to going to the first appointment and was told it was $140/month. I arrived and did the tour and then was given pricing options of $2,000 upfront for the year or $145/month PLUS $495 down payment that is on top of the $145/month. But $100 off the downpayment if you sign up TODAY only. So my $140 that I was told turned into $177 avg real quick... I don't care or know if the gym is good or not, but lying to me about pricing to get me in and then trying force selling $100 off today only... These are not the qualities I'm looking for in a gym.
My friend found an offer to try three classes for fitness kickboxing at a great deal. Her and I couldn't line up our schedules to try at the same time so I went alone. At the first class, it wasn't a bad experience but it definitely wasn't something that had me convinced. Then come on the high pressure sales tactics where their minimum packages were maybe 20 classes and if you "buy tonight" you can save $100. I'm against those sales tactics so I didn't buy. Later I discussed with another friend and she goes to a place that has prices similar to the price with the $100 discount and lets you pay per class instead of agreeing to some $200+ package the first night. You don't even know yet how you'll feel the next day! Needless to say - neither my friend or I ever came back for a second class, and what's probably the worst part is that they still send text messages over a year later asking if I'm still interested. Nope.
They claim to have a "30 day no obligation" trial. You come in and they are extremely nice at first, but then start pressuring you into a contract. The pressure never ends, and continues to compound until you are overwhelmed. Once you are overwhelmed and mentally exhausted they get you into a contract and then their entire demeanor changes. No more mister nice guy, no more politeness. and no more enjoyable experiences. Overall terrible time. I wouldn't recommend trying them out.
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