My three boys (now 13, 11, and 8 yo) and I joined SBG Atlanta (Druid Hills) when it opened in March 2022, so this review was long overdue. To summarize, we love the place. The gym is run very professionally, the facilities are clean, and the overall environment is great. I’ll be commenting on the BJJ program, since that is the program my boys and I participate in (although for what I’ve seen similar positive comments apply to the Muay Thai program).
First, I really like the instruction. The classes are planned well in advance. There are main themes for the month, but also many instances of reviewing the techniques/positions covered in earlier months. Classes are mix of drilling with and without resistance, as well as live sparring. The head coach (Lawson) is very energetic and clear when explaining/demonstrating the techniques. The other coaches (Sean, Greg, and Randy) are all great too – they all have different styles that complement each other.
Second, the training environment is very positive. Coach Phil (the owner) is very vocal about how important it is for him that the gym has a dynamic (and at the same time safe) training environment that facilitates learning for everyone, and I think this has shaped the culture at the gym. The gym has practitioners of different skill levels, with people who compete and others who train mostly for hobby/fitness reasons. Despite these different levels and objectives, both classes and sparring sessions are characterized by a friendly atmosphere where everyone is constructive and aware of helping and protecting their training partners. Further contributing to the good environment, the gym frequently organizes social events, seminars, workshops, etc.
Third, coach Lawson runs an outstanding kids program. My boys love attending class, participating in the leadership team, and competing a few times per year. BJJ has reinforced in them the value of discipline and hard work and has made them more resilient (so the benefits have gone beyond the physical). Plus, it is not common that the kids’ instructors hold black belts.
To sum up, if you are looking for a place to learn BJJ, I can’t recommend SBG Atlanta enough.
Instructors
Facility
Classes
Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago