I'm a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and I've been training for about 10 years. I've trained all over the world, from China to Colorado. I'm so grateful to have found this community of practitioners for the next chapter of my life here in the Phoenix-Tempe area. I started training here regularly in October 2021 and have since competed four times in the Arizona area under the Like-Minded affiliation. What I like about this place in particular is that it has a variety of different coaching styles. Every night of the week, a different coach teaches class: the evening classes are taught by two black belt professors and two purple belts. I also train in the mornings under a brown belt. Each coach has their own style of teaching and training. So you really get a variety of different techniques and instruction as well. There is also a lot of variety in the skills and body types of the members here. The other thing that is great about this place is that, because it is a relatively smaller and tight-knit community, the coaches really get to know you and know your game, so they will help you with your strengths and weaknesses, as well as know your injuries and know when you're competing. At other gyms I've trained at, I was sometimes just another face in the crowd, but here they really try to get to know you as a person. It does take some time to get to know people, so be patient. But once you make an effort to show up, show respect, and get to know people, the community will pay you back tenfold.
As far as training BJJ in general, the sport definitely saved my life. I started training in 2011 and it has completely opened up my world in terms of building confidence, discipline, fitness, and community. Everywhere I go, training BJJ is the first thing I do. BJJ is one of the most important parts of my life. It has helped me tremendously with mental and physical health. So if you are thinking about starting this as a regular practice, I highly recommend it!
In terms of this gym in particular, be prepared to show respect to the instructors and their rules for the gym (which are posted on the wall to the left when you walk in). If you're not sure about something, ask and don't assume. And most importantly, be prepared to show up consistently and on time, ready to focus and work. It's well worth it. Make sure you stay on top of daily communication about the schedule with your coaches. Ask them to add you to the group chat so you don't miss important announcements.
Also, the monthly rate is very affordable and much more affordable than other gyms in the area.
NOTE: I no longer train at this academy.
Review written in April 2022 and edited in September 2022.
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Posted 3 years ago