LJ Davis

I’ve been training for only about two weeks and I’ve already seen a significant improvement in my grappling and technique overall. The coaches explain things in a way for everybody to understand and they make it a very inclusive environment for beginners all the way up to advanced athletes.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Tim Croydon

Awesome gym, great atmosphere, friendly people, and solid training.

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Posted 1 year ago

Ryan Thiel

Popped in for two classes from out of state and was greeted with a warm welcome from not only the instructor Chas, but also all my training partners. Sometimes visiting a new gym you can be met with some ego and seen as a challenge to crush. Not here at Bodega. Everyone was great and helped me learn this new style of Jiu Jitsu I have never tried but fell in love with quickly. Thank you guys! Can’t wait to come back in the future.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Bryan T

I've been training at Bodega for a few months now, and I genuinely enjoy the experience. Their approach to jiu-jitsu is both innovative and practical. The games-based methodology has been instrumental in helping me learn to grapple safely and effectively. Kyvann, the instructor/owner, strikes a perfect balance between humor and professionalism. His passion for Jiu-Jitsu is evident, and his detail-oriented teaching style is impressive. Rather than prescribing rigid instructions, he employs a constraints-led approach, guiding students toward self-discovery and mastery. Chas, the other instructor/owner, is equally knowledgeable and approachable. His instruction is clear and insightful, and his music selection during classes is almost distractingly good—it feels like training in the middle of a high-energy club! Both Kyvann and Chas are deeply committed to helping students achieve their goals, whether those involve becoming a professional BJJ athlete or simply learning and enjoying the art. The gym has recently added Ian to the team, and he’s an excellent addition. His straightforward and accessible teaching style makes complex techniques easy to grasp. Ian is also the go-to person for wrestling advice, sharing tips that are practical and highly effective. One standout aspect of Bodega is the welcoming and inclusive community. The atmosphere is friendly, and the classes have a notably strong female presence. It's inspiring to see the women in the gym demonstrate such high-level skills and dedication to the art. For those interested in striking, Mike’s Saturday morning class is a must. His extensive knowledge of striking mechanics will sharpen your technique and enhance your understanding of punches and kicks. Similarly, Mark’s playful and fun teaching style makes learning striking techniques both enjoyable and effective. Another feature I deeply appreciate about Bodega is their no-frills approach to warm-ups. Instead of excessive push-ups, jumping jacks, or air squats, the focus is purely on jiu-jitsu. For someone like me, who incorporates strength training into my routine, this is a huge plus. The targeted, efficient training sessions allow me to focus on the art itself without unnecessary fatigue. Lastly, the gym’s consistent use of games is a game-changer (pun intended). They don’t just introduce a game once and move on; they repeat and reinforce it, ensuring students can solidify their understanding and control of key positions. This approach reflects a level of curriculum planning that’s often overlooked but greatly appreciated. If you’re looking for a gym that values technique, community, and an innovative approach to martial arts, Bodega is the place to be. I highly recommend it—you won’t be disappointed.

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Posted 1 year ago

Cameron Gidari

I cannot overstate how lucky I feel to have found this gym. I love the always-live approach to training, the class structure, and the technical knowledge of the instructors. This gym gets after it in the best way. But beyond the training, it is the positive environment and community that makes Bodega stand out. The fact that every class ends with everyone giving gratitude, the way that teammates build each other up, the overall emphasis on life and perspective. I walk out of every class physically exhausted but mentally and emotionally nourished. I've been lucky to train at a lot of gyms in my life, but Bodega is special.

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Posted 1 year ago

Michael Weiner

Well thought out curriculum with technical instruction. Very productive and safe place to train. Would definitely recommend to anyone at any skill level. Thank you for the hospitality.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Juan Paez

Exceptional space and vibe for safe and functional training. Grateful for the team at Bodega!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Nick Gomez

Some of the best rounds I’ve ever gotten, if you want to get better at bjj train here. People are super cool and kyvan is a savage

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

aaron kurzer

Smart approach, great environment to learn how to grapple efficiently. Highly recommend for all levels to come and get better!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

James Boujakli

kyvann is the man, place is clean and talent is fire

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Scott Cohen

Kyvann is an excellent instructor! Highly recommend Bodega!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Corey Salko

One of the best gyms I’ve trained in. The methodology is unique and great. Super respectful and trustworthy group of training partners with high skill levels. Kyvann and Chas are top notch coaches.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Sean C

Great training and super friendly crew.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Gianni Handoko

If you know Kyvann, you would know how valuable his instruction is. On top of that great vibes 👍

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Chris Langswager

I was in town for work and stopped in for a class. Coach Kyvann, Vanessa and the rest of the crew couldn't have been more welcoming. I got some great rolls in and loved the game-based approach to drilling. Will definitely stop in next time I'm in the area! 100% would recommend to grapplers of any experience level.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Santiago Amaral

Love this facility! Great instructors , fun environment and amazing location. Training with Kyvan and team is unique experience and everyone should try it. Stop by if you are looking for top of the line Jiu Jitsu

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Posted 2 years ago

Paola Del Solar

My husband and son train at Bodega once a week. From our very first time there Professor Kyvann and the rest of the students were very welcoming. Both my husband and son are experienced grapplers and decided to add Bodega to their weekly training schedule even though they travel about an hour to get there because the training there is great! They offer a unique approach to obtaining grappling skills. We recommend this school to anyone looking to improve their jiu jitsu.

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Posted 2 years ago

Luta Livre Live com Jarbem Pacheco (Luta Livre Live)

Amazing place and clean facility. Professor Kyvan have a very unique approach to teach, high level instructions and a world class Jiu Jitsu classes. One of the best vibes and great personality. If you’re in NJ you need to check his place. #imacapibara #ecologicaltraining #discoverychannel

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Posted 2 years ago

Dean Astarita

Bodega Jiu Jitsu is fun, professional, and incredibly skilled. Everyone I’ve met has been extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Their ecological approach makes jiu jitsu easier to learn quickly and effectively. Kyvann’s really world class. Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Nelson Puentes

I've known Kyvann for over ten years. He is a phenomenal instructor and competitor. This is the place to be if you want to be on the cutting edge of BJJ.

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Posted 2 years ago

Andy Lopez

Great room full of great people ready help eachother get better!!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

George W

Great school type

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Adam Rodriguez

I came in for a drop and was completely satisfied. Clean gym, friendly environment, amazing instructional and killers on the mat. All jiu-jitsu practitioners near by should check out

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Dhruvrajsinh Parmar

Amazing gym with great instructors. This is where you should be if you are trying to step out of your comfort zone and grow a little in life.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jason R

In short, after attending two sessions, and going to BJJ/MMA gyms all over the country, the reviews are pretty much spot on and not artificial like fake amazon reviews. I had a paradigm shift after attending this school. The ecological method or constraints led approach holds true and has a lot of value. It may be the superior form of training in a group or class setting as compared to what I normally have gotten from other classes. Traditional presentation of sequence. Drilling. Live spar at end. Bow out. I’m glad I put away my prejudgments and had the right attitude. Give it a try and put it to the test. It passed. Red pill. Destabilization of worldview and ideology. Paradigm shift. There is another way! And in a class setting, it seems superior. — My traditional thinking sprang from my understanding and playing of the violin. It involves a lot of chunking and drilling, and micro chunking and micro drilling. Eddie Bravo was a musician first before he became the BJJ Gracie destroyer legend that he is now. I told everyone that learning the ART of music translated into learning the martial ART of BJJ. Learning musical art was his secret weapon for learning martial arts. I would see how Eddie would move when demonstrating a sequence, and I would SEE the microchunking and microdrilling concepts from music into his body mechanics when demonstrating the moves. This slow and sped up type of movement. I would have to demonstrate it to be more clear. Anyway, Coach Kyvann mentioned the analogy of classical training versus jazz/free style. Jazz being this new school of thinking. And classical being the traditional way I’ve always been taught. At this point, I think both schools hold value. Some version of a tailored hybrid might perhaps be best for the individual. Maybe. Or maybe one should throw the baby out with the bath water in this case. And go 100% ecological new school. Not sure. But for a group setting, I feel like this constraints led approach that is taught at Bodega has more value for members. More value in terms of learning and retainment and fun. I will try to tell everyone of this new methodology to learning. I’m excited to delve deeper into it. And read the books about it. Lastly, different people respond to different stimuli. Food preferences for example. One guy loves cilantro. Another person has a gene that makes it taste disgusting like soap. The gene is called OR6A2. Different strokes for different folks. So ultimately, you HAVE got to just try this new food item and see if it resonates with you. I think it will for the majority of people. Easy.

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Posted 2 years ago

Danny

I’ve been attending the striking classes for a couple months now and couldn’t be happier with the crew at Bodega. Kyvann and Chas are great at explaining the concepts and giving individual direction. The skill level in the classes range from beginner to advanced and all feel welcome and challenged. Highly recommend it!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kerenn Gonzalez

I thought I would be intimidated as a woman and beginner coming in here. While it’s predominantly male, they are all so welcoming. Kyvann, Chas and everyone there are gracious and great teachers. Would highly recommend trying striking!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jason McClain

I've been going to Bodega Jiu Jitsu a few weeks now for striking classes. The classes have been intensive and interactive. Workouts are mostly "games" geared toward teaching you the basics of striking and also avoiding being hit in a safe way in a welcoming environment. Really happy to have found this place.

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Veronika Gribenko

Was visiting the gym while in NY for a week and felt like home! The instructors and all the training partners were extremely nice and welcoming and me and my boyfriend had a great time getting some training in while on vacation. We’ll definitely be back once we’re back in NY visiting family. If you live in the area and are looking to get into martial arts, Bodega should be your number one choice for top notch instruction and great community. I love jiu jitsu and train a lot. I drove more than an hour in NY traffic to visit this gym and I will do it again in a heartbeat! #ecolife

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Posted 2 years ago

Andrew Waldron

Bodega has been a game-changer in my life. The only thing better than the classes is the community. Kyvann and Chas have truly built something special here.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Caleb McAllister

Fantastic school filled with awesome people! High level instructors and a high level room but very welcoming as well!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jem Gar

Amazing place to train both striking and BJJ! So much thought and attention in their curriculum which utilizes the constraints led approach for skill development. This approach really makes Bodega stand out in comparison to the other various BJJ schools in the area. In addition, the vibes and community are great and there is so much support here in your journey from the coaches Kyvann and Chas as well as from all the other students!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Leo Angelo Morada

Great coaching, great students and good vibes.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Dan Jantzen

Hands down one of the best academies in New Jersey. Kyvann has a way of breaking things down so specifically that you really understand why what you’re doing works. This place is a hidden gem but won’t be for long! Once the word gets out there’s gonna be a waiting list to train here mark my words.

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Posted 2 years ago

Emerson Pavezzi

I visited Bodega about a year ago. At the time I spoke with Kyvann about how futsal allows one to fast track their experience in the game of soccer rather than playing on a big field. I told him that I was currently looking to find the equivalent for Jiu Jitsu. Fast forward a few months after that and he's teaching constraints led sparring and games that allow you to learn skills and gain a massive amount of experience in a short period of time. While many other schools spend 1/2 of their time teaching you steps that you will never remember and how to be a limp body for your partner to drill on, these guys are going straight to the top. Along with every other school that employs this approach.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Matthew Menendez

Bodega has not only improved my jiu jitsu game, but as well as my mental and physical being. The instructors really take time to introduce concepts that are applicable in and outside the gym. By far the best gym out here.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jake Antelis

Highly recommend this facility , trainers and people. Super welcoming and knowledgeable.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

e rock

Awesome instruction. Great vibe. Great space. Great people.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Danny Stolfi

Quality jiu jitsu in a friendly and welcoming environment. I would recommend this gym to anyone.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Albert Percy

This is a great spot of a different approach to jiujitsu they are very open to beginners and advanced students. The aesthetic is very clean with their all black look. Kyvann and Chas are doing an amazing job. Definitely if you're visiting check them out

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tom Astarita

Loved training here. Kyvann and Chas are incredible. One of the funnest and highest level gyms in New Jersey! Can’t wait to be back!🔥

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Posted 2 years ago

Jansen Tolentino-Nacion

awesome experience getting introduced to BJJ.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Gwyn Krueger

Word class BJJ studio with the finest teachers and students! don’t sleep on this incredible experience to learn and practice!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Annie Maura

Only go to Bodega if you’re ready to really work. Simply, the training at Bodega is way more than tough rounds and wildly knowledgeable, established jiu jitsu practitioners. Totally next level. An absolutely beautiful facility, made home by Kyvann, Ness, and Chas — all incredibly welcoming and fun. If distance doesn’t allow Bodega to be your home gym, don’t make the mistake of allowing yourself to miss any opportunity to drop in.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Christos Shizas

Great place, Good environment

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Joe McClain

Kyvann and Chas are super welcoming - it’s a fun, safe environment to train with world class instruction. The classes are designed for all levels and is the place to train if you want to get good at jiu jitsu.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Ross Magennis

Fantastic gym. Bodega Jujitsu sparks a unique approach to training, something that I wasn’t used to what so ever - but the situational games and approach they use are not only helpful to your game, they are equal parts intense and fun. No boring sessions here. Coaches and training partners are beyond welcoming and friendly. Grateful to have the opportunity to train here. 10/10.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Gavril Ilioi

Best gym i have ever been. I feel comfortable learning and not scared of getting beaten up by someone way more experienced, as in other gym happens. The way they teach is so clear. If you wanna build up confidence, get in shape or learn martial arts you should definitely try it.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Rob Bailey-Adamson

I started training with Bodega at the beginning of this year and cannot recommend it enough to anyone who will listen. I worried about starting a contact sport over the age of 40, but Kyvann, Chas and the whole community quickly allayed my concerns. Group classes are geared at all levels are ecological style, and based around a constraints led approach. Through gamification you learn techniques broken down, and how they all fit together. Nobody wears a belt (removing the ego and hierarchy), everyone is incredibly welcoming and its clear that all members want to rise by lifting the skill set of others. At the end of every session, we focus on breathing, and share intention and gratification (not the testosterone fueled environment i had worried would be rampant at a martial arts gym). I have lost 26LB in less than 4 months, i'm in better shape than i have ever been, i have found a practice that i truly love and gained a community with it. I'm proud to be a student of Bodega - give it a try - i bet you'll feel the same.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Juan estrada

Great place to train and learn, great atmosphere, great people, bilingual instructions, mucho bueno 👍🏽. In all seriousness awesome gym that will accelerate your progress by focusing on core concepts that you can use through out all your bjj game.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

James Nelson

awesome community and culture. super welcoming to newcomers of all levels of experience. kyvann and chas are passionate about teaching jiu jitsu and want to see you improve. hands down the best training you will ever do.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Colt Parsons

Awesome experience! Love the space and the training is top notch. Kyvann has tons of competition experience and leads a great class. Check out bodega!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Elijah James

This is the place you go to when you ready to learn real Jiu Jitsu. Coaches Kyvann and Chas are the real deal. Both are knowledgeable and great instructors. They take time to make sure you understand all the details (it’s all about the details!!). Search no further pull up and catch a vibe!! Bodega is legit!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Anthony Batson

Beyond grateful to be able to train with the “Bodega Boys”. Chas and Kyvann the head instructors and owners of bodega Jiu jitsu have truly created something special here. It doesn’t matter if you’re stopping in for your first class or you’re a seasoned vet Bodega has what you’re looking for. Please do yourself a favor and stop in ASAP so you can see for yourself.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Vinny OBrien

If you’re looking for BJJ in the Maplewood area, look no further. This is where you want to be. Curriculum based learning, excellent coaching, and supportive/encouraging training partners. Kyvann and Chas are the real deal. This place is really special.

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Posted 3 years ago

Adam Kuehn

I am absolutely addicted to Jiu Jitsu training and learning because of Bodega. Both Kyvann and Chas bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to teaching. I have had the pleasure of learning from great teachers in other disciples and I hold Bodega in that same regard. You work hard, learn from failure and try again. Check your ego at the door and join the brotherhood. Go Bodega!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Ian Peattie

What jiu jitsu should be. Enough said.

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Posted 3 years ago

Matthew Wilson

I came to bodega after a seven year hiatus from Jiu Jitsu and was super nervous about getting back into it. That nervousness almost immediately went away when I met Chas and Kyvann and saw the community they have built. The culture and community at this school are so welcoming and you feel at home immediately. The teaching style is very practical and approachable - you’ll leave each class more knowledgable and moe confident.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Max Masino

Amazing instruction

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

John Romero jr

Can’t say enough about Kyvan and the team ! Point blank period you want to level up your game and become one of the best ? This is the place to be nothing but great vibes osss

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Saul Rodriguez

10/10!! If you’re into no gi training… this is the spot to be. Great instruction

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Lloyd Ortuoste

Chas & Kyvann have created a community built around high level techniques, gratitude, and learning. Whether it’s your first day or you’ve been training for years, you’ll find bodega jiu jitsu’s techniques being the latest, most effective in the game. They have gotten class structure and experience down to a science and their curriculum is world class. Everyone is welcoming and friendly, and what else can I say. Do yourself a favor and visit Bodega BJJ! P.s. This video is from their grand opening.

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Posted 3 years ago

sam vorbe

Great spot with safe high level atheltes dropping in all the time. Very clean and well kept facility which is huge in the jiujitsu world

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Abdiel Ramos

Great place to learn, great culture and coaches

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Aaron Obrien

Awesome teaching. Super welcoming. Great vibes. You wont regret training here

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Fabian McNally

The best thing I can say about this place is that every thing is intentional/thoughtful. An easy example is that I usually hate the mindlessness of BJJ warm-ups, but here every stretch you go through before and after the bulk of class is directly relevant to what your body will be asked to do/just did. On top of that, the curriculum is intentional in a way that after you finish a "section" you truly feel like your game has improved because you've spent so much time starting from a building block in a particular position and really learning the ins and outs of increasingly advanced techniques. If you're interested in learning BJJ (without any of the stereotypical BJJ ego/politics, by the way) definitely check it out.

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Posted 3 years ago

Joseph Campisi

I have known Kyvann and Chas for years now and their Jiu jitsu ability is only equaled/surpassed by their ability as human beings. Highly recommend this awesome space to train at. High level BJJ, great people. Go! Now!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Randolph Estor

Whether you are new or experienced in Jiu Jitsu, Bodega is the right place to be! Chas and Kyvann are both so knowledgeable and welcoming to all the students. The curriculum that is run is truly thought out and applicable to all levels. High level/fundamental Jiu Jitsu is taught with such detail that it is easy to digest. The gym is very clean with an amazing aesthetic. The people that are there are all warm and welcoming and very patient with one another. Most of all we all have fun but with the idea of pushing each other to get better day by day! Come train with us!!!

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Posted 3 years ago

Nicole Mathew

I am lucky enough to come here pretty often. Kyvann and Chas have created something really special. I love the space, I love the vibe. Good jiu jitsu. If you are in the area you are in luck

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Posted 3 years ago

Timothy Neri

World class instruction and a great atmosphere for everyone to train! Check them out on Instagram or drop in for a class and see what the hype is all about!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Shawn McClure

Great environment for all levels! Chas and Kyvann provide an amazing space, and detailed classes. They focus on all the minor details for everyone in the room. Super friendly, professional, fun, knowledgeable.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Vanessa Comeau

This is the place to go if you’re looking for phenomenal instruction. Kyvann and Chas both focus on providing conceptual knowledge to their students, enabling them to really level up their jiu jitsu game. Great spot for all levels of experience.

Instructors

Posted 3 years ago

RoseMary McAleer

Love, love, love this school! Kyvann and Chas are detail-oriented and make sure you understand every move and they really, really know how to explain everything clearly and concisely. This is a talent that should never be under-appreciated. (And for my easily confused brain, this is key!) They only teach what they have used themselves so you know it will work. They don’t go crazy with over-complicated techniques and I love that multiple classes are dedicated to the same idea and they build on that. They are extremely patient and so much fun to learn with. I’m so happy I joined.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

khalil malamug

Bodega Ju Jitsu is a great place of practice for Ju Jitsu. The place has a unique feel, and it always revives my days as I leave. The curriculums offered are detailed, with high level knowledge that has been competition proven, as well as applicable to self defense. The owners are extremely welcoming, the place is clean, and there is truly nothing like it! Come join us at BODEGA!

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Posted 3 years ago

Adriana Reyes

One of the brown belts from Bodega at the ibjjf nj open, Dec 8, was extremely rude to one of the girls on my team cheering for our teammate competing. Bodega brown belt was making remarks about the cheering! My team said nothing back to him and he couldn’t stop staring. Pretty weird considering it’s a sport event and most people cheer at sports they like… I don’t like to see grown men being rude to little girls. Try biting your tongue at these tournaments when you’re wearing your teams rashguard …

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Bodega Jiu Jitsu

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