Megan Perry

Zmata has been an amazing experience for our kids! Our kids have learned so much in class and also life skills that apply outside of the academy. Coach Steve and Coach Aaron have and continue to instill respect, self motivation, hard work, integrity and coachable students that want to do well both in life and the academy. My husband and I have seen our kids gain confidence and grow in maturity throughout the years since they have been part of Zmata academy. I would highly recommend Zmata!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Santiago tan

Yooooooo! Can I tell you about this place for real? I do not train here full time, but I drop in and train with this team as frequently as I can! I live thirty minutes away, and drive out here to learn. I come from a military background, and I thrive when met with structure, vision, and a mission. Coach Aaron isn’t just a knuckle dragging bozo, he is a college athlete that excelled and became educated in Sports and management! He has structured classes and training that is rooted in results and positive outcomes for the members that train with him. If you in the East Bay pull up and train with this strong group of individuals that won’t just push you to excel, but keep you laughing the whole time! Side bar: This team is also part of the Guardian Project that sponsors youth athletes who are at risk, and provides them with a healthy outlet to inspire them to be positive contributors to our society.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

amit mutsuddy

This is an amazing place to train and has the best instructors to learn, I am so glad I joined

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Pradeep Arumugam

I have been training jiu jitsu for 4 years now and for exactly 1 year at Zmata. I can say with great assurance that training with Coach Aaron and Stevie along with all of my wonderful training partners that my jiu jitsu game has drastically improved since joining last year. As an avid competitor, I feel well prepared for my tournaments with more confidence in my technique than I ever have training with other gyms. The facility is also extremely sanitary and safe and located next door to Safeway if you want to grab a quick snack or drink right after training. If you are in the east bay and need a place to train then look no further!!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Daniela Villanueva

I love this dojo. They offer a flexible schedule and my kid gets to learn both wresteling and jujitsu. I am impressed that 30+ kids full of energy are able to sit still and follow instructions. That just shows that the instructors know how to handle the class. Also, despite having a large class, my kid does get one on one instrucion because they have students in higher up belts assinting with coaching the little ones. I also like that they have an open mat session so the kids can simply practice their skills. The dojo is clean and the teachers also instill good work ethic, discipline, courage and kindness. My kid loves going to the classes. I feel that I get a good value of quality lessons for the price. I'm very happy with ZMATA.

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Posted 1 year ago

Jennifer Garcia

ZMATA has become a really special place to me. Over the years the people who I’ve trained with have become my family. Coach Aaron and Stevie have created a supportive environment where everyone feels safe, cared for and gets the push they need to become successful as martial artists and people in general. This is a great place to destress, meet new people and to become a better person. I am truly thankful for the tools that these coaches have given me and the life long friendships I have created at ZMATA.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Tj Hussein

Our kids have been going to Zmata for about 2 years and we’ve seen a tremendous improvement in them. They have confidence in themselves and they’ve improved physically. Zmata is a true gem and we are extremely thankful for coach Stevie and coach Aaron for creating a space for our kids to learn and grow.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Joshua Edwards

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Z Mata Grappling Gym is an extraordinary place for both kids and adults! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like family. The coaches are not only skilled grapplers but also incredible mentors who instill the values of hard work and discipline in every student. For the kids, the training is structured in a way that promotes growth, teaching them not just the techniques of grappling but also the importance of perseverance and teamwork. I've seen my children develop not only as a grappler but also as a disciplined individual, thanks to the supportive coaching staff who genuinely care about each student's progress. The adult classes are equally impressive. Everyone trains hard, pushing each other to improve, but there's always a sense of fun and camaraderie. It's a perfect balance that keeps the training engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, Z Mata Grappling Gym is the ideal place to hone your skills while being part of an amazing community. Highly recommend!

Posted 1 year ago

Josh

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Z Mata Grappling Gym is an extraordinary place for both kids and adults! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like family. The coaches are not only skilled grapplers but also incredible mentors who instill the values of hard work and discipline in every student. For the kids, the training is structured in a way that promotes growth, teaching them not just the techniques of grappling but also the importance of perseverance and teamwork. I've seen my children develop not only as a grappler but also as a disciplined individual, thanks to the supportive coaching staff who genuinely care about each student's progress. The adult classes are equally impressive. Everyone trains hard, pushing each other to improve, but there's always a sense of fun and camaraderie. It's a perfect balance that keeps the training engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, Z Mata Grappling Gym is the ideal place to hone your skills while being part of an amazing community. Highly recommend!

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Posted 1 year ago

Gabriel Cera

This academy can’t stop producing high character Champions on and off the mats.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Gary Henderson

ZMata is our second attempt at Jujitsu. The first was pretty disappointing. Coach Stevie and Professor Aaron at ZMata are the real deal! My 11 year old is thriving in a supportive, challenging environment. In a world that seems to have forgotten the benefits of discipline and rigorous physical and mental training, ZMata is a testament to those values. Keep up the good work, and the kids will too.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Montazh

Zmata has kept my family and I healthy for close to a decade. I enjoy all the different types of grappling we learn and apply to our game.

Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Elaine Dessus

ZMATA has been a source of inspiration, confidence, camaraderie through hard work, and discipline for both of my children. My daughter, 14, has grown to be a young teen who carries herself with respect for others and confidence. My son, 8, pushes his boundaries and works through hard moments. I cannot thank ZMATA enough for their guidance and care for their students. They deserve more recognition than this testimony can give because as parents, we have reassurance that our children are learning critical life skills beyond the mat. We are beyond grateful for being a part of this community.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Gabriela Cimpoaie

My daughter Vanessa loves ZMATA !! She is enjoying every class and she made a lot of friends! The discipline and life lessons they are learning are life changing! Thank you ZMATA for the safe awesome and wonderful environment!

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Steve Poon

ZMATA is something truly special. The academy offers world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling, with from Owners and Head instructors (Aaron and Stevie) who are not only highly skilled but also passionate about teaching the art. I can’t say enough good things about how much this place has had a positive impact on my life. What sets ZMATA apart is their commitment to building a strong community. They make an incredible impact on the youth of Castro Valley, helping them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals. The academy has fostered an environment where everyone, from kids to adults, can feel welcome and supported. ZMATA also has a wonderful family-oriented atmosphere. They meet you where you are, regardless of your goals. Whether you’re a casual hobbyist looking for a great way to stay in shape or someone training for competition, they’ve created a space where everyone can thrive. Beyond the training, ZMATA is simply a great place to meet good people. The academy brings together a diverse group of individuals, all with great energy and positivity. It’s a place where you can grow as an athlete and as a person and form lasting friendships, and feel part of a truly special community. I can’t recommend ZMATA Grappling Academy enough!

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Posted 1 year ago

Julio Ramage

Awesome environment and coaching love coming here for open mat

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Don Staben

Aaron runs an amazing jiu-jitsu academy. His kids program is full of disciplined and talented young martial artists. The adults show the leadership and guidance of his teaching. You can't go wrong here. Oh and by far he has the cleanest academy I have ever been to by far!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

nick kempen

ZMATA has permanently changed my life for the better, and I think it would do the same for anyone!

Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

P to the OG

Stevie and Aaron are extremely talented at their craft. My two boys are in their Jiu-jitsu class. My boys love attending the class because of the skills learned, and fun had with their friends. I've seen my kids confidence grow, not only in the class, but in their lives. I'm very thankful for Z-Mata

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Andrew Perlik

I've been taking my son to ZMATA for over a year now and our experience has been great. The team is experienced and well organized. My son has learned so much and loves the wrestling and jiu jitsu classes. Highly recommended!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Daniel Morales

Recently switched over from another dojo. I am very pleased with ZMATA. Very positive environment. I love how it's not just jiu jitsu, but also has wrestling and judo. They always keep all the kids involved and nobody gets left behind. Very organized and a very clean dojo.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Andrew Vincent

Incredible academy - top notch instruction, great training partners, welcoming environment & very clean. The owners and coaches have tons of passion for the sport and a genuine interest in helping everyone who comes in the door. 5 stars isn’t enough for this amazing place!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Cristian Hernandez

zmata it’s such an amazing academy I’ve been training for almost 5 years now and the only thing I can say is that it literally saved my life. Before I joined zmata I was struggling with anxiety, depression & obesity, the coaching staff and all my teammates helped me in such an amazing way that Im not longer suffering from anxiety & depression. Their intense training it’s also a great way to get in shape fast. They created such an amazing culture that makes everyone feel welcomed and part of something truly amazing. I definitely recommend Zmata for all ages !!!

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Posted 1 year ago

nathaniel laursen

Best place to train martial arts in the Bay Area. Coaches are high level, professional and caring. They teach principles that not only are great for the mat but life. I recommend Zmata to anyone looking to try martial arts.

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Ted Condez

I have been training at ZMata for several years now, and I truly consider it my second home. ZMata embodies everything one could want in a martial arts school, from its top-notch instructors and well-structured curriculum to its immaculate facility and strong sense of community. Beyond all of that, the most invaluable aspect is the personal growth and self-development you can achieve. The training here has played a significant role in my physical and mental health. I am grateful to be a part of the ZMata family. Come join us!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Zach Taira

I started coming to ZMATA around 2-3 years ago, and it's been great. They've got a great kids wrestling and judo program, which is always lively and well-attended, with multiple coaches and upper belts on the mats. They're great at keeping classes active and engaging for the kids, and have a really nice viewing area for parents to watch. The adult program is definitely a more physical/competition style of jiu jitsu, and most people have good standup and wrestling fundamentals relative to other gyms I've been to; my guess is that it's because of the aforementioned kids wrestling/judo program. A decent percentage of the adult class competes or has competed at some point, which means that a lot of the rolls in the advanced classes are real-speed and good for testing your technique under realistic competition pressure. As always, this depends on the person: there are guard specialists, hobbyists, parents with kids, etc. It's overall a pretty diverse gym, with nice people and a good environment. Oh, also, best mats in the bay area, hands down. The floor is springy, which means wrestling/doing judo is a lot safer for both kids and adults. I would highly recommend dropping in and checking it out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Steven Land

I've been training with Aaron Zaballos and Stevie Martin for nearly 10 years, and I can confidently say their level of technique is top-notch. They create a welcoming environment, and the amazing people who train there make the gym a safe haven where you can focus on training and enjoy it. If you're looking for a family-oriented atmosphere that also excels in competition preparation and competing, I highly recommend coming here.thanks for everything you guys do!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Greg Harman

I started training here a year ago thinking it'd be a more interesting way to get a little cardio than a treadmill and to scope the place out for my daughters for someday. Fast forward to today and we're all hooked! I have never once had to "make" my daughters go - I use it as a reward, and they ask every morning if they get to go to ZMATA today. As for me, I'm now obsessed with a sport that I barely knew existed. It's not easy (for the kids or me), but it's satisfying. The positive community at ZMATA is also worth shouting out in this review. It's a wonderful family environment when the kids are in, but also a great place to socialize and meet some new friends as an adult. Aaron and Stevie lead by example, and set the tone to make this a special place.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Cynthia Z.

I absolutely love this place! This academy is owned and operated by two dedicated fathers who have raised their daughters on the mats. Meeting their kids is truly inspiring, especially when you see them compete.I couldn’t recommend this academy more; it has had a tremendous impact on our family. It truly feels like a family affair.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

David Nayfeld

This is the best BJJ academy in the Bay Area. I drive 25 mins each way to train there. They are clean, respectful, super knowledgeable, and the mat is amazing for older people who train and want to keep their bodies from falling apart. The kids program is second to none. Can’t recommend enough.

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Posted 1 year ago

greg choy

I found Zmata becuase I moved and wanted to find a place for my son to keep training. My friend Gabe sent me there and said it was the best kids program and after watching a few classes, I had to agree. My son started and after I attended a few open mats I decided to make a change too since it was closer to my house and the trainig and people were great. Once my son got into high school he wanted to get into wrestling and one of the black belts took his own personal time to train with him over a year and helped my son become the Jr varsity MVP and eventually team captain of the varisty team when he had no prior wrestling experience at all. I have been at Zmata for over 4 years and continue to learn and enjoy training. If you are in the east bay area, this is the place to train for yourself or kids.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Hien P

I met my good friend Paul back in 2018, and over the years, he encouraged me to start training. After a lot of convincing, I finally gave in and began training Jiu Jitsu in 2020. Growing up in Vietnam, I always wanted to learn martial arts but couldn’t afford it, so this was a dream come true for me. Before starting, I weighed around 240 pounds, and after my mother passed away, my weight had even reached 300 pounds. Joining this gym was life-changing for me. The experience has been incredible—I’ve met so many amazing people, and the coaches, especially Coach Arron and Stevie, are fantastic. They are not just great trainers but genuinely good people who create a positive and encouraging environment. If you’re new or have never had the opportunity to learn self-defense, I highly recommend this place. It’s not just about training; it’s about being part of a supportive community.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Javier Ochoa

Bar far the best jiujitsu academy in the bay for kids and adults! It’s a competitive academy that will push you !

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Posted 1 year ago

Quinton SIlket

Best Jiu-jitsu gym in the bay area providing high quality world class instruction. Whether you are trying to compete, looking for fun or just stay in shape come by and give it a try.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Yuyi Li

This is the best academy for BJJ, Judo and wrestling. My daughter has been training with both Coach Stevie and Coach Aaron for 7 years. They really care about the kids, not only the skills of marital art, but also the quality as human being (such as never give up, always try one’s best, etc). For this reason, the spirit of the academy is high, and everyone is trying their best on the mat. And they devote a lot of their time at the academy, overseeing all classes and connecting with parents, therefore the Z-Mata community is really strong and supportive. When we moved out of Castro Valley, we had tried multiple local academies, none of their kids / youth program is even close to Z-Mata’s. Even we have to drive an extra 40 minutes for each class, we still coming to Z-Mata, because it is THE BEST.

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Posted 2 years ago

Damon Nguyen

The depth of knowledge that the instructors here provide is top notch. They have decades of years of experience in the art of grappling - Jiu jitsu, wrestling and Judo. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned student you'll fit right in. This facility is probably the best in the Bay Area with elevated mats with springs which in the long run will increase the longevity of your martial arts journey. The people here are amazing so you'll definitely make friends and they also have an amazing kids program. If you're looking for a place to train definitely consider training here as it is one of the best dojos in the bay.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Carlo Teodoro

I love this awesome family place. They offer classes in BJJ/Judo/Wrestling. Great training academy, my kids and I started our journey back in 2019 and we join the different classes offered in the morning and night time. Everyone from the coaches to the other family practitioners are super friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend this place to anyone who is thinking on starting their martial arts journey or looking for a great place to train and call home.

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Posted 3 years ago

Adam Warren

One the best experiences for young people in the Bay Area. The Zmata family instills our young people with tons of pride, compassion, respect, and responsibility. Zmata students have so much fun while giving great effort and learning world-champion techniques. Simply the best!

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Posted 3 years ago

Gabriel Sioson

Training at ZMATA has been one of the best ventures I have taken in my life so far. Beginning as a 17 year old kid that lost interest in most sports I participated in growing up, starting my Jiu-Jitsu training here really changed my life. I grew a deep passion for Jiu-Jitsu here and that's all because of the community, a great balance of intensity in training, and the coaches here that really make this gym special. They produce both killer adult and youth fighters here and plus the gym is very spacious. You're able to develop wrestling, judo, jiu-jitsu all in one. Out of the many gyms I've tried this is for sure the best.

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Posted 3 years ago

Brandon Yuen

Zmata is a great learning academy. Clean environment and good instructors. Everyone trains there like a family, young and old.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Héctor Pérez

Great jiujitsu and amazingly respectful instructor!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Aaryan Kumar

One of the best places to learn, train and build a new community love

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Eliza Cruz

ZMATA is the best martial arts training academy! They have the best coaching team! They make champions on and off the mats! My two boys (now 8 and 10) have been taking judo, wrestling, and jiujitsu classes at ZMATA since 2018. Coach Stevie and Coach Aaron have treated us like family since the day my boys did the free trial. We knew immediately that this was the place for us. ZMATA has a very positive and uplifting atmosphere. They are very welcoming, kind, patient, and generous. They teach the kids respect, self-discipline, and integrity through leading by example. There is also a strong emphasis on being a team and having good sportsmanship. They build personal relationships with their students (and parents of their kid students). They encourage and motivate their students to push themselves beyond their limits physically and mentally and to do their best in everything they do, not just on the mats. I have witnessed my kids use the skills they've learned from their coaches at ZMATA in other sports that they do, at school, and with their friends and family. I highly recommend ZMATA to anyone, kids and adults, who want to learn judo, wrestling, and jiujitsu and other life skills from the best! P.S. Their academy is also very clean and the mats have springs so it's not hard on the body!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

T Foley

A great location to learn self defense and to enhance wrestling, judo, and BJJ skills! A great family environment run by the best coaches in the business. My 2 kids have trained with both Coach Steve and Coach Aaron’s daughters. The coaches teach their students discipline and respect. Castro Valley is lucky to have such dedicated coaches and business owners who truly care about their community! They have a huge impact on athletes from all over. I highly recommend ZMata to anyone who wants to learn self defense or who wants to level up in their competition space. They make us feel like we are one big family!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Harrison Smith

Best Jiu Jitsu gym in the Bay! Big training space, convenient location, clean facilities, great coaches and great teammates.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Andy T

We love coach Steve's enthusiasm. Given the circumstances, coach Steve continues to passionately care for his students, which shows through his efforts.

Instructors

Posted 6 years ago

Angel D Ortiz

I can honestly say that this place and the people in it are like my second family. I love spending time and training with everyone at the academy. There is so much talent and great coaching that comes from this place.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

juan ran

ZMATA is one of the best Brazilian Jiujitsu schools in the bay area, maybe even the best. The kids competition team is very elite, dedicated and they love the challenges from each tournament. My son Adrian trains not only BJJ with coach Aaron, but also judo and wrestling with coach Steve. They are both very good and motivational to make kids do their best in class as well as the tournaments.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

daniel nguyen

Come train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a fun, friendly environment where instructors care about your life on and off the mats. You are not just a part of a team here at ZMATA, you are a part of a family!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

David Nayfeld

Z Mata is more than a gym it’s a family. The people there are very welcoming to all levels. Best kids program that I’ve seen.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Kaley Teodoro

Thank you so much for training me coach.

Instructors Facility Location Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Aaron Kidd

I joined up with this academy a couple months ago and couldn't have been luckier. Having driven past the location on Redwood Road for years, I finally took the plunge. Squad, Family, and community are the biggest reasons I continue to attend. The ZMata Family is extremely encouraging and helpful and the new facility is amazing. One of the best decisions I've ever made.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Wilson Wu

Best gym in the bay hands down

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

John Porter

I've trained at ZMATA since January 2017, nearly 3 years. When join, you'll get whatever it is you're looking for because the gym has a lot to offer....camaraderie, high level BJJ and Judo instruction, amazing youth program(no reason for you to not show up) the gym is all about family, and championship medals if you're willing to put the time and effort inside and outside the gym. There is a 7 day trial offered, so you have nothing to lose by giving it try. Sign-up and roll with us today.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Aric Biltz

So a lot of people think that all this place is a jiu Jitsu, wrestling and judo place. What if I was to tell you that My wife and I got married here? Needless to say my wife and I love this place so much we got married here by our coaches. So yeah we do it all here teach, train, coach, compete, chill and just have a great time. Come on by.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

James Molgaard

I have been training gi and no-gi Brazilian jiu jitsu at ZMATA for 6 months. I trained at another gym before joining the team, and everything about the move has been an improvement. There is a fantastic family mentality to the gym that comes from all the people who train here as well as the coaches/owners. All the instructors are truly passionate in what they teach and care deeply about the people they coach and their improvements on and off the mats. We love having new people join the gym, please come by.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Donnette Mendelsohn

5 stars all the way. I wish we would have enrolled our son sooner. It is so very heartwarming to see my son in class. The coaches here at Z Mata are amazing they really make training fun for my 6 year old. And it's really helping him with his confidence. Super cool.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Matthew Frederick

Great group of people. I dropped in for their advanced class at 8pm and it was awesome. High level guys and everyone was super friendly Would definitely recommend.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

swissarmychainsaw

Warm and welcoming, we are grateful to Coach Steve and the crew for being so encouraging to our son (9). I no longer take people that can teach kids for granted. It takes a special blend of insight, patience, accountability (some of you are not LISTENING!!). I can't recommend these guys enough. If you're thinking about it, DO IT. You won't regret it!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

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