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Train like a champion at Capitao Jiu Jitsu Classes. Unleash your potential with our expert MMA classes in in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview FL, serving the surrounding areas of Destin, Okaloosa Island, Mary Esther and Shalimar FL.
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Capitao Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts, INC. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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I trained here for a little over a year doing MMA and Jiu jitsu. It is great school with great instructors with a large variety of classes that someone can take if they need more help in certain areas in fighting whether it be stand up in grappling, ground game, and etc. I unfortunately cannot train here anymore due to me separating from military and moving. I've looked at other schools in different areas, but they are not as good as this one. Highly recommend this school for anyone in the area to learn multiple martial arts.
What I love most about this school is that they do not give away belts. The standard is high and when you earn a rank here, you know it means something.
Professional and welcoming, Professor Dani along with the others have been great mentors and I’m grateful to have everyone there. I’d highly recommend anyone who’s interested in Jiu jitsu, Judo, Wrestling and MMA go there.
TL:DR - their kids jiu jitsu program is fantastic and your kid should do it!
My 7-year-old son had been begging us for months to let him do martial arts. Capitao was close by so we went in to try out their younger kids class. At first, he was disappointed there was no striking in jiu jitsu. However, after a few weeks he really got into the art.
Professor Daniel is incredible with the kids, not only teaching them jiu jitsu in a fun, safe environment but also enforcing self-discipline with all the kids. The fact that he coordinates with parents about their kid's behavior and academics outside of class for promotion shows he cares about their personal development as well.
The kid's classes are a great mix of skill levels, ranging from ones who enjoy the hobby after school to serious competitors. There's even a class on Fridays for kids interested in BJJ competitions. They cater to them all very well.
In the 5 months we've been here, I've watched my son grow from a kid who pouted about not learning to punch and kick, to a kid who cried he would get "humiliated" when moving up to the bigger kids class, to a young boy who can teach the littlest kids, lead the group in warmups, and (at Professor Daniel's encouragement) has won local jiu jitsu competitions. My son insists on attending every kids class they offer, which is nearly 2 hours a day, 3 days a week. I never in my wildest dreams imagined he'd be able to stay on task that long, yet here we are. He even picks his nose less!
Professors Daniel, Danny, and the rest of the staff are great! If your kid is interested in martial arts, I wholeheartedly encourage you to check them out.
Capitao has been great for both me and my two sons. With great leadership that facilitates learning in a motivating and inclusive environment, we all enjoy going to multiple classes every week! They have great programs for all levels, and we all have learned so much since we have started last year. We are also very thankful for all of their highly skilled instructors and their dedication and expertise! If you haven’t been there you’re missing out!!
Capitao MMA has exceptional instructors, a well-rounded curriculum, and a welcoming community that creates an unbeatable training environment. For a BJJ experience that exceeds expectations, Capitao is the place to be. What sets it apart is the strong sense of community—supportive, welcoming, and united in the pursuit of excellence. Highly recommended for both beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
My husband, and two boys have started here about 2 years ago and it’s amazing! All the professors are wonderful teachers and we always learn something new. We love this place!
This dojo captures the true essence of MMA. Great coaches, great students, and multiple styles to learn. With classes to fit anyone's schedule, you won't find a better more versatile gym in the area.
Have been training with Capitao for over a year now. The coaches are knowledgeable and professional. They offer a wide variety of classes to fit anyone’s training schedule and experience level.
Capitao Jiu Jitsu and MMA is absolutely amazing! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and experts in their field. The gym has such a positive and motivating environment, making it perfect for learning and pushing yourself to new limits. I highly recommend it!
Really great place to challenge yourself and learn. The professors are very approachable, good to roll with, and know their stuff. Alot of good people here willing to help others on their BJJ journey and make them the best they can be.
I have been attending the morning classes for several months, and I've learned a lot of very useful techniques, the morning classes are thorough and an awesome way to start the day. If your looking for a gym in the area this is a great one to try!
We travel from Miramar Beach to train here and it has been so worth it!! I am blown away by how much my kids have learned in such a short period of time. Their confidence and skill level has grown immensely. Now they ask me to go to training, which is a stark contrast from our first day when I had to force them out of the car. It makes me so happy to see them having a great time, learning essential skills and making new friends.
The coaches are extremely professional (we love Prof. Daniel) and true masters of their art. They have multiple classes during the day, so I can always find something that will fit my schedule. My highlight is definitely the welcoming community of incredible, accepting and talented people from all walks of life.
My family and I love training here. Highly recommended 😊
Started training with Danny in 2006. Been consistently training at the gym since 2020. Have visited a lot of gyms and wouldn’t want to train anywhere else. Great crew, great vibes, and great training.
This place pushes my boundaries and continues to help me grow. They are always willing to answer any questions that I may have. I took ten months off due to school and kids activities. They welcomed me back with open arms and it was like I never left. I appreciate the whole Capitao crew!
Checked out the gym while in the area and had a great time. Went for an open mat and everyone was super welcoming and got some great rolls in. Thanks to all the coaches and individuals for creating a great atmosphere to learn and practice. Thanks for a fun time!
Capitao Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA is an exceptional place for both seasoned athletes and beginners looking to embark on a new journey in martial arts. The professionalism of the staff is truly commendable, as they prioritize safety, skill development, and a positive learning environment.
One of the standout features of Capitao is the tight-knit community it fosters. From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed with open arms by both instructors and fellow practitioners. This sense of camaraderie creates a supportive atmosphere where everyone is eager to help each other grow.
Whether your goal is to compete at a high level or simply make martial arts your new hobby, Capitao is the place for you. They cater to individuals with various aspirations, providing expert guidance and training tailored to your specific needs and ambitions.
Capitao Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA offers professionalism, a tight-knit community, and a welcoming environment that accommodates both competitive athletes and enthusiasts alike. It's a place where you can not only hone your skills but also build lasting friendships and a love for martial arts.
This year I began training at Capitao Jiu Jitsu and MMA in Fort Walton Beach, and I must say it has an absolutely phenomenal experience! This martial arts academy truly deserves a five-star rating for its exceptional training, knowledgeable (and handsome) instructors, and welcoming atmosphere.
From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm and a healthy sense of competitivness by the staff and other members. The facility itself is clean, well-maintained, and well equipped to help you meet your goals as a martial artist. It's evident that the owner and staff take great pride in creating a positive and inspiring environment for their students.
The instructors at Capitao are true masters of their craft. Their expertise, passion, and dedication to teaching are truly commendable. They possess a deep understanding of various martial arts disciplines, including Jiu Jitsu, MMA, judo and several other disciplines. The coaches are incredibly patient when explaining techniques to beginners or discussing the mist minute details with a studied practitioners. The instructors take the time to ensure that each student receives attention and guidance, which greatly enhances the learning experience.
The training sessions are well-structured and cater to students of all skill levels. Whether you're a complete novice or an experienced martial artist, you'll find classes that suit your needs. The curriculum is comprehensive and covers a wide range of techniques, allowing students to develop a well-rounded skill set. The instructors focus not only on physical techniques but also on mental discipline, self-confidence, and respect for others.
One aspect that truly sets Capitao apart is the sense of camaraderie and support among the students. The academy fosters a friendly and inclusive community where everyone feels welcomed and encouraged. I've made some incredible friendships during my time there, and the positive energy radiating from the students and instructors is truly inspiring.
Overall, I cannot recommend Capitao enough. Whether you're looking to learn self-defense, improve your physical fitness, or simply engage in a fulfilling martial arts journey, this academy is the perfect place to do so. The exceptional training, friendly atmosphere, and supportive community make it a five-star establishment in my book. Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed!
Have been training with Capitao for over a year now, great way to get in better shape while learning a great skill. Thanks to professor Danny and all the coaches that help us learn. If you're on the fence about trying it, please come in and try. You won't regret it!
I can't say enough good things about this place! My son's confidence and discipline showed great improvement quickly. 👏 his eagerness to continue training was because of great instructors. Would definitely recommend
One of the best places I’ve ever trained at. Super awesome and highly knowledgeable instructors who love the art and coaching. Not many places have 5+ black belts on the mats sharing what they know. If you’re new or experienced, this is the place to train in you’re in the area.
We were on vacation and my daughter wanted to train one day and we chose here and they were awesome. She did the fundamentals and they let her stay for competitors class and she enjoyed both. Gym and instructors are top notch. We'll be back!
This is a great place to train for BJJ, MMA, and many other martial arts. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and the classes suit members from all skill levels who want to compete, learn how to defend themselves, or get in shape
I was in town for two weeks for work and was referred to Capitao. I was very impressed with the training I got while I was there. Everyone I interacted with was great. The Professors were very helpful and you could tell they really wanted to help you learn. I will definitely be back when I'm in town again.
I wanted to find a place to get my Jiu jitsu fix while down for a week on vacation. After a little bit of searching I found Capitao who looked like they had a solid line up of instructors. Went to thier early morning class and I was impressed. Awesome group of guys who were very welcoming to a passing drifter and the instruction was top notch. I would definitely train there anytime I am in the area.
I've been training at Capitao for almost six years now. Danny, Daniel, and the rest of the instructors are all full of knowledge and very invested in the growth of their students. I truly believe it is the best place in the area for me. I've spent countless hours in this gym and it's not always easy but I can think of little else I'd rather be doing than sweating with my teammates. The gym is always clean and the atmosphere is right for me. If your in the area and need a place to train or want to try out a martial arts swing on by!
I took lessons here when I was just a little younger with Coach Silva. Coach Silva was very knowledgeable and seemed to not only know, but to also care about how I was taking care of myself physically and mentally. He also knew how to get the very best out of me while I was totally exhausted.
Overall, the gym itself was always very clean and well kept. All the instructors seemed friendly and smart with their crafts. I couldn’t recommend the place more
Highly professional instructors/professors. They have a wealth of knowledge from BJJ, Judo, basic Self-defence skills, MMA, you name it! If you're looking for a place to train after PCSing or moving into the area, this is the place to be! Military and Family friend atmosphere.
This is a double review as it details my perspective as a parent of a child attending Capitao and as a member.
My daughter, Evelyn, started training here when she was five. She's seven now. In two years, I've seen an incredible transformation in her.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn't easy and is a lot of hard work.
Capitao has helped Evelyn with the following:
- Work Ethic/Setting Goals. (Hard work and vision pays off.)
- Staying Calm Under Pressure. (This is a skill that will help in all aspects of life, not just Jiu-Jitsu.)
- Handling Disappointment. (Developing a realistic plan to deal with obstacles and setbacks when they occur.)
- The ability to defend herself.
- Manners. (Being a good sport/teammate on and off the mats.)
After seeing the success that my daughter has achieved through BJJ, I decided to join Capitao as well.
I've been attending for three months (at the time of this writing).
I have a background in Japanese Jujitsu. The skills that I've learned here is far more efficient, effective and technical than what I was originally taught.
In the short time I've been taking classes, I've gotten stronger and am in better cardiovascular shape.
There's a wealth of good training partners. The gym is like my second home, and I do feel comfortable and welcome here.
My son, Nickolas, has been training at Capitao for 7 years. He has been part of the Capitao family for half his life. The professors care and are great at developing talent and character. The Capitao team fosters a family atmosphere while teaching a life changing skill. I believe Nickolas grows every time he steps foot on the mat.
There isn't a single gym around with the caliber of people that train here. There's also no gym that invests in its members the way Capitao does. You'd be throwing your money away and cheating yourself by not choosing to train here.
My daughter has been training Jiujitsu for over 4 years at Capitao and she loves it. Watching her grow in experience and confidence has been great to see and it’s because of the mentorship she receive from the professors there. I also train there and it’s been an outstanding. All the professors and coaches are awesome, they have a plethora of experience and are able to teach pretty much anyone who wants to learn. Both my daughter and I recommend going to Capitao Jiu Jitsu and MMA 🇺🇸
From the 1st day I walked in was treated like family. Was relocated from Ga and was very nervous about finding another gym to train. I was convinced I would never find another place like my first gym but I was completely wrong. Very blessed to have found Danny and Daniel.
I trained there for about 3 months before I moved. Professor Danny and all of the other instructors/coaches were very knowledgeable and welcoming for someone like me who had no BJJ or wrestling experience. I couldn’t recommend them more.
This gym is the most professional gym I have trained at in my travels. The instructions are extremely high quality. The talent at the gym is very challenging and a great experience.
Capitao is an amazing gym with amazing staff and members. All incredibly helpful and caring, its like a giant family. Thankful to have started my bjj experience with them.
I've attended this gym for three years and honestly can say that this gym and team saved my life. Being military and going through many challenges in my life, I have found a home here. The professors, coaches, and teammates from this gym are all awesome. If you haven't trained before and need a place to develop your skill-sets or if you have trained and need the competitive edge, this is the place.
I'm a UFC and Bellator Veteran, I've seen a lot of gyms, I must say this gym has a great lineage and is absolutely welcoming to beginners and new students. If you're looking for a positive environment, look no further.
Such a good gym, I Came such a girly girl, now I feel way confident and know what I want in life, the people and professors are amazing people,highly recommended 😍
An amazing Gym and Organization! The instructors are top of their game. Not just a gym but family! They care even outside of the mat. Thank you Daniel, Danny, Ton and Aaron for all you have done for Kennedy!
With all the craziness in the world today how can you not see the importance of equipping yourself both mentally and physically?
You owe it yourself and those you care about to learn Jiu-Jitsu. If you’re fortune to live on the Emerald Coast then you get to learn at Capitao. This is a place where everyone is respected. Everyone’s needs are met and goals encouraged. It’s a gym owned by two black belts who’ve committed their lives to it. To the vision that each person have the capability, confidence and inherent right to defend themselves. They will make themselves available to you and are open to hearing your thoughts and perspective. If you have any misconceptions they will be erased after your first class. Before you know it you’ll be advocating everyone in your life to train. Jiu-Jitsu has that effect. No matter your age now is the tie to take that first step. Once you do you won’t look back. We’re looking forward to welcoming you at class and learning more about you. See ya soon!
Our son has been training for going on 5 years and we couldn't have asked for better instructors. Not only do they mentor inside the gym but they hold them accountable for their actions outside the gym as well. If you're looking for a gym family, great classes, convenient class times, and strong relationships look no further. We consider them and so many of the families that train here our own family.
Amazing gym! A variety of classes offered with detailed instruction. Great instructors and students. Nothing is given here, only earned. Highly recommend to all regardless of age, gender, and skill level.
This gym is awesome! Great people, great instructors, and great Jiu Jitsu. Definitely a good way to get in shape, learn valuable skills, and have fun doing it. Highly recommended
My son has been training under this gym for about a year and a half. The coaches and professors are beyond great. They teach my son more that just bjj. Things like teamwork, professionalism, and life skills. I would highly recommend this place to kids and adults.
Great facility and amazing Instructors. My kids have been training jiujitsu for 3 years now. It has been very cool to see the progression in their confidence and discipline. My wife and I also train jiujitsu together at Capitao. It is an awesome hobby for us all! We recommend it to everyone.
Having run an academy myself and trained in multiple gyms I can say this is a Great academy with great instructors. Amazing kids classes focused on building self confidence, self-discipline, and bully proofing. Also provides amazing female and adult self defense courses geared towards real situations. Over all a perfect choice for getting or staying in shape.
I was in town for a week and I had planned to check out different gyms but instead I just ended up going back here. The people are very welcoming and they have a very diverse group both in experience and size. Would definitly come back. Thanks guys.
Best Gym, Coaches and training partners in the entire panhandle!! If you want to learn Jiu Jitsu train with Lions and improve your knowledge / execution then I encourage you to join.
I have been training at Capitao for two and a half years. It has changed my life in so many ways. When you attend you become a part of a family. Best Coaches and training partners ever!
Just moved to the area and was looking for a gym to train at, and I am extremely glad a co-worker brought me here. Very welcoming environment and awesome instructors!
Only place in the entire county that is not a McDojo. You will not see any 12 year old "black belts." The BJJ especially is very good, no matter the age group.
When I first received orders for Eglin AFB multiple folks I trained with in Guam told me to go to this gym, so I knew it had to be legit. When I first showed up sign up was easy, I even signed my six year old daughter up the same day. The first couple of classes were pretty rough, but good because it was great to be on the mats again. Two years later I'm still there, my daughter is still there, and my 5 year old boy is there now. My kids love it and its a great way for them to burn off some extra energy and learn some discipline. More importantly they are learning solid self defense skills should they ever be bullied. I think all kids should learn a grappling art and here is one of the top places to learn.
The facilities are very nice, seperate male and female bathrooms, shower, locker room, waiting area for parents while the kiddos are training or a place for bae to sit while her man turns into a savage, newly installed security system and quality tatami mats.
The gym is nice and clean, never had any issues with anything nasty.
If you are a veteran this is a great place to train, a very vet friendly environment. They even had a veteran TV show film on location because of the gym's deep ties to the veteran community.
Would I recommend it, YES. Quality training partners challenge you everyday. Great facilities, high quality instruction from Black Belts in their respective martial art.
If you're in the area visiting swing by for a drop in or if you've been thinking of signing up give the free week a try and keep coming!
I've had the opportunity to train at a lot of academies all over the world and I can genuinely say that Capitao is top notch, world class level. I trained here for about a year while living in the area, but I currently reside in San Diego. I've learned from a lot of very high level black belt competitors all over the Southern California area, and the caliber of instruction at Capitao is as high as anywhere that I've trained. This place is a gem to have in the panhandle area. Check it out, and I guarantee you will learn a lot, meet some awesome people, and receive world class training by phenomenal coaches. Can't say enough good things about this gym, the training partners there, and the instructors.
My job takes me many places in the world, and I had looked many years for a gym to bring my family to for training. After looking for several years I found Capitao. The quality of the instructors are equal or better to the top gyms in the world. There is an incredible environment for kids and adults. Everyone is treated with the respect that is given. This gym does require you to work hard, and earn everything you get which is one of the best things about the gym. I highly recommend to anyone that believes in working hard to earn what you get and desires world class instructions.
Amazing gym. Constantly puts out great fighters and competitors. Their kids program teaches a never give up attitude combined with caring instructors. Best thing you can do for your children is enroll then I martial arts and Captitao Bjj is one of the best martial art schools around.
I have trained at numerous academies/gyms around the US and this was one of my favorite spots hands-down. I am a black belt from San Diego that has trained & competed against some of the best guys in the world (Rafa & Giu Mendes, Caio Terra, Joao Miyao, Gianni Grippo & Samir Chantre just to name a few). I have also been invited to the Eddie Bravo Invitational five times where you can find on UFC fight pass. This gym in Fort Walton Beach will always remain a special place for me with fond memories. The instructors are quite knowledgeable on all facets of Jiu-Jitsu whether it be self-defense, sport, and MMA. As a sport competitor I was challenged daily and progressed during my tenure there. They provide great seminars from high level instructors that are involved with UFC fighters such as Uriah Faber & Anthony Pettis. Anyone from beginner to advanced will appreciate this facility and anyone who tells you different is severely confused or inexperienced.
I've been to many mixed martial arts gyms and Capitao was by far one of the best! Great interaction between instructors and students, and contrary to many MMA gyms, a one size fits all teaching method was not followed. Students were trained to their own strengths and abilities! Overall great experience!!!
The best BJJ and MMA gym in the area. But what sets this place apart is the environment. The other people who train at this place make it almost like a family. I've been training for over six years and even if some of the people have moved or stop training the bonds we made on the mat will last a lifetime.
This is among the best places to train hands down. I have been fortunate enough to train with Danny several times and he is top notch! The facility is welcoming to all...great family atmosphere and everyone is so helpful. Great place to be. Thank you for the hsopitality!
If you are thinking about a great place to start your martial arts training...this is the place!
Thank you Danny and the rest of Capitao Jiu Jitsu for the awesome training!
My son Kyle started training at Capitao when he was in high school. Danny and the guys at the gym became his second family. They are very knowledgeable and work with each student to perfect their skills. Joining this gym was one of the best investments I could have made for my son's future.
been training here off and on for about 9 years, i am not very dedicated to training like most but i love this place and always feel myself wanting to come back. if not for the outstanding training from high level intelligent instructors but also just the friends i have made here, i consider everyone i have got the pleasure of knowing here to be like family. There is something here for all levels of training plenty of guys and gals at all levels so its never overwhelming even after taking long breaks from being physical. I will train here as long as i am still in the area.
I practiced with Capitao Jui Jitsu and MMA for a couple years before moving and after training with various instructors across the world I can strongly say that the skills I learned under Capitao has paved way for a strong embedded fundamental of the art that I have been able to hold my own while training and continuing the endless journey Jui Jitsu and MMA. The lead instructor Danny is by far one of the most knowledgable, hardworking and positive instructors that I have ever trained with over the past 12 years of my training. I highly recommend anyone thinking of starting or changing gyms to consider Capitao as its a gift to have such an amazing facility and trainers that Capitao offers, some parts of the country aren't as fortunate to have such legit and proper instruction directed not only from knowledge and professionalism, but from actual in the ring fighting experience. 10 stars for Capitao!!
Absolutely fantastic instruction/instructors! Curriculum is based on real life as opposed to internet flair or television highlights. Very family oriented gym with tons of talent.
Great attitude and atmosphere in this gym. Instructors recognize that everyone has different training goals and encourage students along their journey. Lots of experience in this gym so check it out.
Went as a 'guest' looking to train while away from home for a week. They were gracious enough to let me sweat with them and I learned by observing their talented coaches and students. If I lived here, I'd train here.
Capitao has a great training atmosphere. The skill set of the trainers and their instruction is comparable to any high level school in the world. You will find life long martial artist in their student pool that will work with you or give you good work everyday of the week. If you want to study Judo, Wrestling, BJJ, JJJ, Kuk Su Wan,or Combative training you have found your place on the beautiful Emerald Coast.
I travel the world training in all types of gyms, This one here is a keeper if you live in the area and you want quality instructions this is the place for you. The instructors are great friends of mine and offer a lot of exercise.
I have been taking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class at this place for three years now. The instructors (Daniel and Danny) are very knowledgeable and very friendly. The advance students are helpful and are willing to help teach you along also. The instructors have set up a lot of seminars through out the year. I have learned personally from Master Dela Riva, Master Carlson Gracie jr, Thiago Batata Domingues and Urijah Faber just to name a few. If you are looking for the legit MMA or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu place to study from in the Gulf Coast of Florida, this is it. This place will teach you to be humble as I am a black belt in Tae Kwon Do already and getting tapped every day. There are a lot of bad mofo here if you need the challenge. It's also a great place for older adults, kids, military, females to learn BJJ!
Sincerely,
Visanu "Bruce Vee" Mongsaithong!
I have been training at Capitao for about a year now and I love it (I only do jiu jitsu so far). The coaches and everyone that trains there are great people. It's like a family<3 awwe :) Seriously though, the people who attend Capitao are not just members of a gym, they are part of a team where everyone helps eachother out and everyone is treated equally. Trust me, I receive no pity for being a female (nor do I expect it lol). You will only walk out of this gym a stronger person if you decide to attend. But remember, you only get out of something what you put into it!
If you are in the area and searching for quality versus quantity you have found it!!! 2 black belts under one roof is unheard of in most states let alone cities in America. Danny Ruiz, Daniel Silva, and whole host of amateur and professional fighters are some of the most welcoming people I've met, let alone trained with. There is something for everyone in this gym; young, old, male, female, beginner, champion - experience world class coaching at its finest!!!