Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy

3225 N Pleasantburg Dr Suite D, Greenville, SC 29609, USA

5.0 (100 reviews)

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Gi Self-Defense

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At Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Greenville, we’ve created a positive, family-friendly environment where everyone feels welcome—sign up for a free BJJ class today!

https://senzobjj.com/

(864) 908-6974

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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Sewar Sawalha

My son was in Jiu Jitsu for almost a year and a half before we moved to Greenville. We went shopping for an academy and tried a handful before a lady suggested Senzo. The moment my child finished his tryout class, we both instantaneously agreed that this is the one. The class is well split into warmup, technique, practice, rolls and finish it off with a joyful game. The moves taught are perfect for their age group and the ratio of instructors to students is also very suitable. They, sometimes, include older children from the older class as “instructors” which empowers them, and allows them to observe from a different point and mentally train and guide the younger ones. The 5-10 age group class quickly grew since we joined in October. The owner did not hesitate to open up another class for the younger ones 4-7 yes (if I am not mistaken) and kept the other class for the 7-10 yrs. Professional, polite, technically proficient and encouraging. Highly recommended.
Posted 8 months ago
Irene Pericot Valverde

Wonderful environment! I enrolled my 5-year-old, and every day I am more impressed with the work of Professor Nate, Julie, and the rest of the team. They are great at connecting with the kids in a respectful and caring way while also maintaining clear rules and structure. It’s a perfect balance of warmth and discipline. We are very happy with the experience!
Posted 8 months ago
Nicole Hamm

My 5-year-old has been thriving here—he’s learning discipline, confidence, and focus while still having so much fun. Nate and the other instructors are patient, encouraging, and great at working with young kids at all skill levels. We’ve seen huge growth not just in his technique, but in his attitude and self-confidence. He’s excelling, excited to go to class, and always leaves proud of himself. Couldn’t recommend this program more for young kids!
Posted 8 months ago
Randal Chamberlin

Our family absolutely loves training here. Professor Nate is a true professional and sets the tone for an outstanding academy. My kids genuinely look forward to every class and have built great friendships with the other students. The entire team of instructors is knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly supportive. The facility is always spotless and well maintained, which says a lot about the pride they take in their gym. If you have kids, I honestly can’t think of a more beneficial extracurricular activity. The confidence, discipline, and respect you’ll see develop in them is remarkable. And as an adult, the personal growth and fitness benefits are just as impactful. We’re grateful to be part of this community and highly recommend this academy to anyone considering jiu jitsu for themselves or their children.
Posted 8 months ago
William Bohm

The kids program at Senzo is fantastic! We currently attend the 5-9 class Coach Nate has a wonderful way of connecting with the students, making each student feel important and supported. Coach Nate and all the support coaches really go above and beyond, giving extra help when needed and really push the kids to be their best! If you want your child to actually LEARN Jiu-Jitsu, this is the school for them. Each class takes a skill, breaks it down into small steps, and they build the correct muscle memory for each skill. Senzo is building the next gen of BJJ rockstars!
Posted 11 months ago
Fatima Corpion

Incredible Kids Program and Amazing Instructor! Our experience at Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy has been nothing short of outstanding. The kids’ program is truly exceptional! Professor Nate is an incredible instructor who creates a fun, supportive, and engaging environment for children to learn and grow. His ability to connect with the kids and keep them excited about training is unmatched. As a family, we feel so safe and comfortable training here. The focus on technique, respect, and safety ensures that everyone—from beginners to advanced students—can train with confidence. The academy fosters a positive, family-friendly atmosphere that makes us feel like part of something special. We couldn’t be happier with the experience and look forward to continuing this journey as a family! Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fantastic Jiu-Jitsu program for their kids.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Davis Thompson

Senzo jiu jitsu academy is great. The academy offers an incredibly clean facility,and incredible instruction. I would recommend it to anyone interested in learning the most effective martial art. Also as a bonus there are a lot of heavyweights to train with.

Instructors Facility
Posted 1 year ago
Mallory Morris

Awesome place to train, great environment and varying levels of expertise, Coach Nate is super knowledgeable and does a great job breaking down and simplifying tricky techniques, in the short time I’ve been with him I can clearly see why he has such a strong following!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jessica Walstrom

Professor Nate has a deep understanding of Jiu Jitsu techniques and is able to break them down into easily digestible steps for all levels.He has a fantastic way of explaining the mechanics behind each move, which really helps with learning and retention.He takes the time to address individual needs and provides personalized instruction to each student. We enjoyed having him as our professor at Synergy Jiu Jitsu Academy in California. We wish him all the best in his new gym in South Carolina, and he is truly missed.. Thank you for all the fun training Coach.. From Josh, Jessica and Josie Walstrom

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Mark Kuzmich

Professor Burnette has created an exceptional school for the upstate of South Carolina. The facilities are clean, the instructions are clear and concise, and the environment is positive. You will not receive better training anywhere in the state.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Anthony Kuehn

I trained jiujitsu under Professor Nate for a decade and eventually received my black belt from him in 2022. In my 12 years of martial arts training I have yet to encounter someone who has the same level of knowledge, skill, and intensity as Nate. You will be hard pressed to find anywhere near the same quality of training as you would at Senzo. I can confidently say Nate is the best at what he does and whether you’re a seasoned veteran of bjj or just looking to try it for the first time, Senzo BJJ is the right choice.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
George Arbis

Nate is a top tier instructor. Very knowledgeable and is a true master of the art of jujitsu.

Instructors
Posted 1 year ago
Cabby

I’ve known Nate now for bit over 20 years. He has been one of my longest training partners and a great friend. I was sad to see him leave us here in CA but I am happy to see that he has opened his academy in South Carolina. Nate is and has always been an excellent instructor. I feel like his time in law enforcement has given him a unique perspective for self defense as he can attest through real world experiences what works and what doesn’t. He has an innate ability to understand and teach everything from advanced techniques to the basic fundamentals. Whether it’s your first time in the gym or you’re trying to break down that cool move on instagram…he’s got you taken care of. His Jiu Jitsu is high level so if you are in Greenville and you’re interested in learning BJJ, take my recommendation and go check him out!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Donny Vettel

Professor Nate is like the Chuck Norris of jiu-jitsu—except cooler and way better looking. He has the ability to make even the most complex moves seem simple (until you try them)…Seriously though he breaks down techniques into easy-to-understand steps. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been training for years, he will help you improve. His classes are fun, challenging and engaging. If you’re looking for world-class instruction, a few laughs, and a professor who will choke you out with a smile, look no further. Five stars

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Joy Gewerth

Professor Nate was my one of my main Instructors since I started my journey as a white belt in 2016. His curriculum is top notch and I have learned so much! Thankful to have received my Brown Belt from him in 2024. Looking forward to visiting Senzo in 2025!

Instructors
Posted 1 year ago
Jared Mosier

I have had the honor to train with Nate throughout my jiu jitsu journey from white belt to black belt and it has been an amazing experience. He is definitely world-class in all aspects of technical abilities, self-defense and everything you look for in a mentor and bjj instructor. OSS!!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Anthony Kim

Over the 15 or so years that I've known Nate, he's always been an incredible practitioner, competitor, and professor of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. From self defense to the most current techniques being used in competition, he knows and understands it all. He's a solid guy and I highly recommend his academy!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
vquest009

I highly recommend training at Senzo Academy. I’ve been fortunate to have met Nate, since I was a blue belt and have continued my training as a black belt. Nate has a strong understanding of Brazilian jiu jitsu as well as how to teach the various concepts at a practical level. Nate’s passion for the art is evident from his willingness to answer questions to being on the mat and making all those interested in learning jiu jitsu feel welcome.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Omar C

I’ve known Sensei Nate for over 8 years and have trained with him. He’s one of the best out there and knows/understands how to break down a technique and explain it in simple terms. South Carolina is lucky to have him there. Looking forward to visiting the gym in 2025.

Instructors Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Nicholas Readmond

Super clean gym with an incredibly welcoming environment. It's obvious how skilled and knowledgeable Coach Nate is, and he explains moves and concepts in a way that is easy to understand. This is the place to be for Jiu Jitsu and self-defense in Greenville.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Alison A

I trained under Professor Nate for about 8 years. He is skilled and knowledgeable and knows how to explain positions so it’s easier to understand. Also while rolling, he is patient and lets you process how to get out of a tough spot and does not just destroy you. I highly recommend him!

Instructors
Posted 1 year ago
Jake Gewerth

I’ve been learning from Professor Nate for the past ten years and every training session has world class technique. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grappler I can guarantee you’ll walk out of there better.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Tyler Hill

I have been very happy with Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Instructor Nate is extremely knowledgeable and his teaching style is perfect for anyone. The facilities are very nice and well maintained. If you have been thinking of trying jiu-jitsu, this is the place. You will not be disappointed!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Aang Zhou

One day I walked into Nate's, Rocklin, CA school. I had been training nearly a decade. I was a brown belt who had trained under some of the best jiu-jitsu fighters in the world. I had no idea who Nate was. He is humble in the extreme. His jiu-jitsu however, is undeniably world class. We slapped hands and Nate proceeded to give me a free seminar… Shortly after this experience, I switched to Nate’s school. Now I am a Nate Burnette black belt. I will have this distinction for the rest of my life. It is a badge I wear proudly. If you want to take your jits to the next level… do like I did… walk into his school. Oss.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Natallia

I had the pleasure of training with Professor Nate as my jiu-jitsu instructor, and I couldn’t have asked for a better coach. Not only did he help me improve my jiu-jitsu skills, but he also provided invaluable self-defense training. Professor Nate’s ability to break down techniques and tailor his instruction is impressive, whether you’re a beginner or more advanced. As a female student, I found his coaching style particularly encouraging and supportive, creating a comfortable environment for women to train and grow in confidence. If you’re looking to build your skills in both jiu-jitsu and self-defense, I highly recommend training with Professor Nate!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Fierce Jiu Jitsu

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Training with Nate Burnette for the past 10 years has been an incredible journey! His expertise in sport Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense, alongside his law-enforcement background, truly stands out. Nate's mental strength is inspiring, pushing everyone to their limits. His ability to break down complex techniques into easy-to-understand lessons makes each class engaging and enlightening. South Carolina is incredibly lucky to have an instructor like Nate. I'd jump at any opportunity to train with him! Nate’s passion for the art and his dedication to his students have been clear throughout my entire experience. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking to elevate their martial arts skills!

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Clay Davis

I was lucky enough to have Nate as my instructor at Synergy for five years. He is a top-notch teacher of Jiu Jitsu and self defense. Always made himself available after classes for questions or issues. Most importantly, he fostered a safe, positive, and family oriented culture for our gym, and I have to say that is the MOST important part of selecting a place to train. He also taught me the importance of trust, patience, mental toughness, and consistency, which have been key to my personal journey. Not just jiu jitsu, but in the rest of my life as well. Do not pass up an opportunity to train with this rare individual!!!! There are a bunch of people here on the west coast, that miss him greatly.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jenny Blanco

As a student of Professor Nate and black belt from his school in Rocklin, I can tell you that you’ll be training with one of the best professors! Professor Nate knows jiu jitsu inside and out. He stays informed on the latest techniques and can break them down for every student at every level. Not only that, rolling with Professor Nate will illuminate holes in your game and he’s always ready to answer your questions on how to close those gaps so you can try again next time. Wish he was still here to train more together but you’re so lucky to have him! Give Senzo jiu jitsu a try!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Kevin Lee

Nate has been a close friend for 20+ years and one of the best BJJ instructors I know. His dedication to teaching while continuing to learn and evolve his Jiu Jitsu is exceptional. Over the years we have trained with some of the best in BJJ and Nate ranks right up there with them while keeping Jiu Jitsu fun and safe for all levels. South Carolina is lucky to have Nate and if you are into BJJ or want to start, you have one of the best in your area!!!

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jack Noble

Nate is the definition of a professional. He’s a fantastic coach and is extremely knowledgeable about self defense and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. If you’re looking for a grappling school in South Carolina, there’s no better place. Senzo Jiu-Jitsu Academy is the premier martial arts school.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jeff Bell

Senzo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an exceptional place for both beginners and experienced practitioners alike. One of its standout features is the deep knowledge and expertise of the instructor, Nate Burnette. His passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu shines through in every class, making complex techniques accessible and engaging. I have trained with Nate for over a decade and you will not find a better Professor in the area. What truly sets Senzo apart is its family-oriented environment. The camaraderie among students fosters a sense of belonging and support, creating a space where everyone can thrive. Whether you’re rolling on the mats or sharing tips and encouragement, the positive atmosphere makes training enjoyable and motivating. Overall, Senzo is not just a gym; it’s a community where you can grow both in skill and friendships.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Anthony Paonessa

Nate is a phenomenal instructor. His knowledge and experience, passion for teaching, communication skills and ability to provide a safe and challenging environment for students of all levels set him apart. I have had the opportunity to learn from several excellent instructors over many years, and Nate is among the best. I strongly encourage anyone, at any level, looking for a BJJ school to give Senzo a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Instructors
Posted 1 year ago
John Dierk

Professor Nathan's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is truly at a professional level. His teaching is exceptional, and his experience in practicing, competing, coaching, and instructing ranks among the very best. No coach has improved my BJJ and competition readiness as much as he has. I've trained in New York, Austria, and Poland, but none of those experiences compare to what I've gained from Professor Nathan. The progress I've made in my Jiu-Jitsu is thanks to his unmatched expertise. His school, Senzo Jiu-Jitsu, is world-class because Professor Nathan himself is a world-class coach.

Instructors Facility
Posted 2 years ago
Alyssa Humes

The atmosphere, energy, and teaching is wonderful. Professor Nate is very attentive and patient during class, even the smallest questions he answers in depth and really helps grasp not only the “how” of the move, but also the “why.” Things that weren’t clicking before, are now lightbulb moments! As a fitness instructor and lifelong athlete outside of training, the emphasis he places on mind-body connection is also something I really enjoy as well, because so many people do lack body awareness (including me, sometimes). The attention to detail and each of us as students, you can tell he wants you to be a boss not only on, but off the mats as well. Can’t recommend this place enough! 🕺🏼

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ralph Holding

I’ve trained with probably 50 black belts over my Jiu Jitsu journey and professor Nate is top 3 easily. His fundamentals are so sound and he is also a great teacher. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced I highly recommend training here!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Evan Corpion

Beautiful new facilty, insane level of detailed instruction, if you want to learn BJJ from a top level competitor who understands how to develop athletes this is where you want to be.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Chet Palumbo

Very nice facility. Instructor is very high caliber and very well-versed in various disciplines.

Instructors Facility
Posted 2 years ago
Brandon Bowen

Senzo is a welcoming environment for all skill levels. Nate is extremely knowledgeable and will absolutely help you achieve your jiu jitsu goals.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Karl Woodham

Professor Nate’s knowledge and experience in Jiu Jitsu is unmatched. If you want to embark on a journey that will change your life, come train!!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
justin villines

Amazing atmosphere to learn the art of Jui Jitsu! Nate is a stand up professor with knowledge and great communication. Very clean and functional establishment. I can’t wait to train there again! Oss

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Blake Wolfe

I’ve been practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu for 12 years, and Professor Nate is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had the pleasure of training. I highly recommend Professor Nate and his school to anyone!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kristen St. Gelais

Love this Jiu Jitsu gym! Professor Nate is a fantastic instructor.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Warren Musselman

Top level jiu jitsu instruction in a clean and welcoming environment. Nate has world class jiu jitsu and the ability to present it in an effective and relatable fashion. The best time to start is now!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Tony Chavez

Great place for beginners and experienced alike! Nate is a very experienced instructor and I recommend his space for anyone.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ethan Zimmer

Great place, organized and friendly.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Abby Anderson

Clean place, super nice people and professor nate was super helpful coming and everyone was really welcoming!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Lauren Woodham

Absolutely beautiful gym. Clean, modern and airy. Family friendly. I had the privilege of training with Nate at a previous gym. YOU WILL BE IN GREAT HANDS!!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Jeff C.

I can personally say the Nathan is one of the best Jiu Jitsu instructors I've ever met. His knowledge is deep, he spends extra time with students after class.... He cares! Anyone would be blessed to have him as a coach!

Instructors
Posted 2 years ago
Benjamin Atkins

Nate is one of the best BJJ practitioners I have ever been instructed by… his method of instruction and flawless technique are extremely helpful… every time I have ever seen him teach, I have walked away with something new to use practically and proficiently…

Instructors
Posted 2 years ago
Jonny B

Nate is one of the best instructors you could ever ask for. We are very lucky to have him open a Bjj gym in Greenville! Take advantage of learning from one of the best!

Instructors Location
Posted 2 years ago