Browse BJJ Gyms

Caridian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Caridian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was established in 2020 by Professor Alan Ribeiro, a black belt under Fabio Novaes. Located in Tampa, Florida, Caridian BJJ offers a welcoming environment for practitioners of all skill levels to learn and grow in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Alan Ribeiro is a lifelong athlete who began his journey as a competitive swimmer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He moved to the United States at age 14 to pursue his swimming career, earning a scholarship at Florida State University where he helped coach both Men's and Women's teams to Atlantic Coast Conference Championship titles. Alan committed fully to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2010 when he met his professor, Fabio Novaes, in Lakeland, FL. He has been teaching under Fabio Novaes since 2016. Professor Alan's competition accomplishments include being an IBJJF Pan American champion, multiple-time IBJJF champion, Newbreed Advanced champion, multiple-time NAGA champion, and American Grappling Federation Advanced champion. His teaching philosophy focuses on making Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu accessible to everyone while maintaining high technical standards. The gym offers flexible membership options including 2x per week, 3x per week, and unlimited training plans, with special rates for kids, military members, and students of Fabio Novaes.

Carlos Farias Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Professor Carlos Eduardo Farias is a 3rd degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with over 30 years of experience in training and competing, and nearly 20 years of experience teaching adults and children. He received his black belt from MMA veteran Roberto "Spider" Traven, a 7th degree black belt, 1999 Abu Dhabi Absolute Champion and two-time World Champion. Carlos studied Jiu-Jitsu in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil under Professor Guilherme Santos before coming to the United States. After years of teaching at various Mixed Martial Arts academies in the Valley, Carlos proudly opened Farias Jiu Jitsu academy in Mesa, Arizona in 2013. Carlos is currently ranked #6 in the World for the Adult IBJJF Black Belt division and is an active and renowned competitor. His competitive achievements include multiple IBJJF Pan Championship titles, World Championship medals, American National titles, and numerous regional championships. As an Ultra Heavyweight competitor, he has consistently placed at the highest levels of competition including 1st place finishes at the Pan Championship (2014, 2015), multiple podium finishes at the World Championship, and victories at IBJJF Opens across the country. Carlos has earned his 3rd degree Black Belt and currently has 3 black belts training under him. Farias Jiu Jitsu offers authentic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training in a safe and familiar environment. Members of all ages and skill levels are warmly welcomed by the Farias Jiu Jitsu family. The academy emphasizes values of honor, discipline, humility, respect and equality through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In Kids' Classes, students learn discipline, good sportsmanship and leadership while discovering enhanced strength and self-confidence. Adults' classes deliver unparalleled training that builds mental and physical strength, endurance, and camaraderie among classmates. The academy also features a Women's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program led by Carlos's first female Black Belt, Meghan Gerson, with one of the largest women's BJJ classes in Arizona. All Kids and Adults who are prepared for competition have multiple opportunities throughout the year to compete at local, state and regional levels on the Farias Jiu Jitsu competition team.

Jiu Jitsu Modern (JJMDRN) is a specialized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in North Babylon, New York, focused on providing beginner-friendly and high-level instruction in a safe, inclusive environment. Led by Professor Carlos Rosado, a black belt under Professor Joe Scarola (first black belt under Scarola) and Gracie Barra lineage, the academy trains students for self-defense, sport competition, and overall health. The academy follows a structured weekly curriculum that focuses on one position at a time to build deep understanding and mastery. Professor Carlos is an accomplished black belt competitor with numerous IBJJF and ADCC titles, including 2024 ADCC Atlantic City Master 1 Gold, 2023 IBJJF NY Open No-Gi Gold, and 2018 IBJJF Pan American No-Gi Gold. He also won multiple Kasai Pro events and Rise Invitational competitions. The coaching team includes Professor Tara (IBJJF World and Pan Champion), Coach Gregor Gillespie (UFC lightweight fighter and NCAA Division I National Champion wrestler), Coach Dylan O'Regan (multiple IBJJF medalist), and Coach Dom (Nassau Law Enforcement Officer certified in Jiu Jitsu Survival Tactics). Jiu Jitsu Modern emphasizes a forward-thinking approach that blends traditional values with modern training methods. The academy offers programs for adults (Basics and Advanced), kids (age 4+), and first responders. They also run their own line of minimalist jiu jitsu apparel. The training philosophy centers on fundamentals, community building, and personal growth, making it welcoming for total beginners, competitors, and those seeking fitness and self-defense skills.

Carlson Gracie Batel

Carlson Gracie Batel, also known as GF VIP Training, is a premium Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the Batel neighborhood of Curitiba, Paraná. As part of the prestigious Carlson Gracie Team lineage, the gym represents one of the most respected traditions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with a legacy that traces back to the legendary Carlson Gracie Sr., known for producing some of the most successful competitors in BJJ history. Led by Gustavo Nery Feres, the academy offers a VIP personal training approach with specialized professionals who accompany students at their own pace to help them achieve their goals in an individualized manner. The training philosophy emphasizes personalized attention and customized programs tailored to each student's objectives, whether they're training for competition, fitness, or self-defense. The facility features modern equipment and boasts "the largest tatame in the city," providing ample training space for practitioners. Programs include adult BJJ, kids BJJ, women's self-defense, functional training, and weight training. The gym offers comprehensive amenities including changing rooms with showers, a dining/waiting area, and exclusive parking for members. The academy welcomes new students with a free trial class to experience their VIP training approach.

Carlson Gracie Ipanema

Mauro Ayres Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (MABJJ) is an official licensed school of the Carlson Gracie Team, representing the legendary lineage under the command of Mestre Carlson Gracie Jr. Located in the heart of Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, this academy embodies the philosophy of "Equilíbrio através do Esporte" (Balance Through Sport), focusing not only on technical excellence but also on developing well-rounded individuals through martial arts training. The academy is led by Mauro "Maurinho" Ayres, a highly accomplished 5th degree black belt with 29 years of jiu-jitsu experience and 20 years as a black belt. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Mauro began his jiu-jitsu journey in 1995 and became a black belt in 2004 (officially recognized by CBJJ/IBJJF in 2006). His competitive record is exceptional, with numerous IBJJF World Master Championships including gold medals in 2023, multiple Pan-American titles, and European championships. Most recently, he won the 2025 World Master silver medal and earned the #2 ranking worldwide in the Master 4 All Weights division. His teaching philosophy emphasizes simplifying the learning of the gentle art and making jiu-jitsu accessible to all ages, fitness levels, and experience. The instructing team includes Alex "Lekinho" Gonzaga (4th degree black belt, 25 years experience, 2014 CBJJO World Champion) and Antônio "Toninho" Martins (1st degree black belt, 2017 IBJJF International Masters bronze medalist, 2024 FJJRIO Ranking Champion). Together, they provide expert instruction for all programs from kids to masters, competition training to self-defense. The academy maintains high standards with a welcoming environment, pristine white mats, professional equipment from partner Atama Kimonos, shower facilities, and a strict white gi policy to maintain the team's identity while respecting visiting students' affiliations.

Carlson Gracie Lewisville

Carlson Gracie DFW is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Lewisville, Texas, offering comprehensive martial arts training for all ages and skill levels. As part of the legendary Carlson Gracie lineage, the academy provides authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction rooted in a rich tradition spanning over 30 years of teaching excellence. With 4,256 square feet of mat space, the facility provides an optimal training environment for students to develop their skills in BJJ, No-Gi grappling, and Muay Thai. The academy's training philosophy emphasizes consistent progression from white belt to black belt through a structured curriculum designed to keep students motivated and engaged. Programs include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals for beginners, Advanced Jiu-Jitsu, and Expert Jiu-Jitsu programs that expose students to various training dynamics including MMA, No-Gi, and high-level Gi training. Classes cater to children (ages 3-6 and 7-12), youth, adults, and women, ensuring specialized attention for each participant. Head Professor Andre Gomes, a third-degree black belt, leads the instruction at Carlson Gracie Lewisville. His lineage traces through Carlos Gracie Sr > Helio Gracie > Carlson Gracie > Otavio "Peixotinho" > Alvaro Gonçalves "Ganso" > Andre Gomes. Professor Gomes has achieved numerous competition accolades including 3rd place at the World Master IBJJF Championship 2021, 2nd place at the World IBJJF No-Gi Championship 2021, and multiple IBJJF tournament victories. The coaching team also includes Professor Lucas Garcia (black belt), Professor Gary Deutschendorf (black belt and co-owner), Camila Souza (blue belt, program director and co-owner), and Coach Wagner Prado "Caldeirao" (Muay Thai coach and former UFC fighter).

Carlson Gracie Napa Valley / Marinho Jiu-Jitsu

Carlson Gracie Napa Valley, led by Professor Marinho Vauvenargues Vicentini, is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Napa, California. Located at 901 Trancas Street, the academy offers top-notch training for children, youth, and adults of all ages and skill levels. Professor Marinho is a 6th-degree Jiu-Jitsu black belt who earned his rank directly from Master Carlson Gracie in April 1999, a rare honor reserved for only a select few athletes. From 1993 to 2000, he taught at the renowned Carlson Gracie Club in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, and served as Head of Defense Tactics and Jiu-Jitsu at the Federal Police Academy in Rio de Janeiro from 1999 to 2015. With over 30 years of expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, self-defense, Judo, and MMA, Professor Marinho has coached numerous MMA and BJJ champions around the globe. The academy provides a clean and welcoming environment with high-quality Fuji mats and ample parking space. Programs are available for children as young as 4 years old through adult classes, all emphasizing authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, self-defense techniques, and core values of discipline and respect. The academy is committed to fostering a positive learning environment that emphasizes self-empowerment, family values, and a genuine homage to authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Carlson Gracie New Zealand

Carlson Gracie New Zealand Queenstown is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy specializing in self-defense martial arts and combat sports based on grappling, ground fighting, and submission holds. Part of the renowned Carlson Gracie lineage, the academy offers top-notch BJJ classes for both beginners and experienced practitioners in a supportive environment. The academy provides comprehensive training programs including Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, women-only classes, fundamentals courses, and specialized kids programs for ages 5 and up. Their expert instructors focus on building strength, improving technique, and boosting confidence through high-quality training in world-class grappling. Led by head instructor Jose Gomes, the academy maintains the Carlson Gracie tradition of technical excellence and competitive spirit. The facility offers classes seven days a week, with programs tailored for different age groups and skill levels, from beginner fundamentals to advanced competition training.

Carlson Gracie North Shore

Staley Martial Arts is a proud member of the Carlson Gracie Team, one of the most respected names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As an official Carlson Gracie Team school, Staley is directly sponsored by Carlson Gracie Jr., grandson of the creator of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The academy benefits from periodic seminars taught by Carlson Gracie Jr. himself at no additional cost to students, providing direct access to world-class instruction and the prestigious Carlson Gracie lineage. Located in Wilmette on Chicago's North Shore, Staley Martial Arts offers comprehensive training programs for both youth and adults. The academy specializes in Carlson Gracie Team Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a curriculum rooted in the renowned Gracie family tradition, emphasizing effective techniques for real-world application. In addition to BJJ, the academy offers Muay Thai training, known as the "Art of Eight Limbs," which blends striking techniques with clinching and grappling. All BJJ instructors are high-level Carlson Gracie Team athletes with extensive teaching experience. The academy's training philosophy blends physical fitness with mental fortitude and practical self-defense skills, fostering confidence, discipline, and personal growth. Staley provides a supportive environment where practitioners of all levels can thrive, from beginners building their foundation to advanced students honing competition skills. Programs include youth leadership development (ages 4-13), adult fundamentals classes, unlimited martial arts access, women's self-defense seminars, and birthday party options.

Carlson Gracie Switzerland

Carlson Gracie Zürich is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Wallisellen, just 9 minutes from Zürich HB by train. The gym offers authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in the Carlson Gracie lineage, with a modern facility featuring large mat space, changing rooms, showers, and comprehensive fitness equipment. Free parking is available. The academy is led by Professor Felipe Pereira da Silva, a 4th degree black belt who was promoted by Professor Gutenberg Melo (direct student of Master Carlson Gracie Senior) in 2010. Felipe received his 1st Dan in 2013, 2nd Dan in 2016, 3rd Dan in 2019, and 4th Dan in 2024 directly from Carlson Gracie Junior. He has competed successfully throughout Europe and Asia, winning titles including NOGI European Champion 2016, German National Champion 2018, and 2nd place at Asia Open 2018 in Tokyo. The training philosophy emphasizes technical Jiu-Jitsu with rules and discipline, focusing on strengthening body and mind without injury. The gym maintains a respectful environment where experienced fighters help beginners develop. About 80% of students train as a hobby for stress relief, while 20% compete in tournaments. The team has achieved outstanding results at major competitions including 1st place at Zurich Open IBJJF (NO-GI), Switzerland National Pro AJP (GI), and numerous victories throughout 2024-2025. Students from Carlson Gracie Zürich compete successfully worldwide and can also train at the team's academy in Recife, Brazil.

Carlson Gracie Team At Triple Crown Athletic

Triple Crown Athletic (TCA) is Northern Kentucky's elite fitness ecosystem located in Walton, KY. Family-owned and operated by Damian Tanenbaum, Dustin Winterhalt, and Josh McMullen, TCA offers a complete training destination for athletes of all ages and skill levels. As an official Carlson Gracie Team affiliate, Triple Crown Athletic provides world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction under Coral Belt Master Carlson Gracie Jr. The academy is home to seven black belts from diverse lineages, offering unique perspectives and comprehensive instruction in both gi and no-gi grappling. TCA's comprehensive programs include CrossFit and Functional Fitness for strength and conditioning, Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both gi and no-gi), Cardio Striking/Kickboxing, and Stunt Fight classes. The facility has been featured on YouTube in productions including Daisy Fresh Style Camp, Tom Hardy Jiu-Jitsu, BiJitsu Podcast, The A Game Podcast, and the feature film Censor Addiction. The owners travel globally to teach seminars, attend camps, cross-train, and learn from top professors, bringing back knowledge to elevate their students and community. The family-friendly facility is fully equipped with a kids' area, four restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. TCA hosts events across affiliations and offers a unique academy affiliate program for those looking to join a world-class training environment.

Carlson Gracie Wine Country

Carlson Gracie Wine Country Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was founded in January 2017 and is now co-owned by Asa Russell and Salvatore Spinelli, who became sole proprietors in January 2023. The academy is part of the prestigious Carlson Gracie lineage, carrying on the legacy of one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's most influential families. Located in the Redhawk Business Park in Temecula, California, the gym serves the surrounding communities including Murrieta, Lake Village, Rainbow, and Fallbrook. The academy offers a welcoming environment that balances competitive training with a positive, ego-free atmosphere. Students train not just to become skilled martial artists, but to build lasting friendships and grow as individuals. The school's teaching philosophy focuses on personalized instruction with a favorable coach-to-student ratio, ensuring that every member receives individual attention and tailored guidance toward their goals—whether that's competition success, self-defense skills, personal fitness, or building confidence. The coaching staff is led by Professor Asa Russell and Professor Salvatore Spinelli, both 1st Degree Black Belts under Tom Cronin in the Carlson Gracie lineage. Professor Asa is a retired Marine with 25 years of service who trained under multiple distinguished instructors including Vitor Ribeiro, Nicholas Walters, Gustavo Machado, and Ricardo Guimaraes. Professor Sal is an active competitor with expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and additional black belt instruction in Wing Chun and Filipino Martial Arts (Kali/Arnis/Eskrima). Both instructors are dedicated to providing quality fundamental instruction in a safe, positive, and enriching atmosphere.

Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Manila brings world-class grappling instruction to the Philippines. Rooted in Japan, the Carpe Diem team has produced several champions and has spread throughout the world including Korea, London, Singapore, and now Manila. The gym is part of the renowned Carpe Diem family, known for developing elite competitors and fostering a strong training culture built on respect, humility, camaraderie, and honor. CDBJJ Manila offers comprehensive programs for both adults and children, focusing on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals as well as no-gi submission wrestling. The academy's training philosophy emphasizes leverage over strength, teaching students to control opponents without striking or causing harm. This defensive approach makes BJJ ideal for self-defense and practical application, suitable for practitioners of all ages and fitness levels. The gym is led by three accomplished black belt instructors: Professor Allan Co (20+ years experience, national team coach, world champion mentor), Professor Myron Mangubat (national team athlete, multiple-time local champion known for his dynamic grappling style), and Professor Jaguar Tang (program director, developer of the country's first homegrown world champion in the juniors division). All instructors are experienced competitors who continue to medal in international tournaments while dedicating themselves to developing the next generation of Filipino grapplers.

Carpe Diem Jiu-Jitsu Hong Kong

Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Hong Kong is part of a global powerhouse in the martial arts world, with an impressive network of 50+ locations spanning across Asia, Europe, and Australia. Beginning in Japan, Carpe Diem quickly gained recognition for its exceptional BJJ training programs and world-class instructors, expanding to the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Korea, China, Australia, and London. This makes Carpe Diem one of the strongest competitive teams in Asia. The Hong Kong academy operates two locations in Sai Ying Pun and Quarry Bay, offering over 1000 square feet of premium training space with high-quality thick tatami mats, full air conditioning, and professional facilities including changing rooms, individual showers with premium Guard Labs soaps, and a fully furnished lounge area. The academy is affiliated with the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and maintains the highest standards of coach qualification. Led by an elite coaching team including Professor Daniel Quintas (head instructor with 15+ years of competitive experience and multiple IBJJF championships), Professor Bismarck Ivan (No-Gi World Champion and Pan American Bronze Medalist with ONE Championship MMA experience), Professor Pedro Cadete (20+ years experience, multiple IBJJF and AJP Tour champion), Professor Andrey Esteves (2nd Degree Black Belt), and Professor Fai Bo (Judo 4th Dan from HK Judo Association), Carpe Diem Hong Kong offers comprehensive training for all ages and skill levels from complete beginners to advanced competitors. The academy provides both gi and no-gi programs for adults, kids programs for ages 3-12, private training, and even offers Hong Kong's first Jiu-Jitsu Sponsorship Program for committed practitioners.

Carpe Diem Kimitsu

Carpe Diem Kimitsu is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym affiliated with the Carpe Diem BJJ network. Located in the beautiful southern Boso area of Chiba Prefecture, the gym offers training in a serene environment overlooking the vast ocean with refreshing breezes that heal both mind and body. The gym welcomes practitioners of all ages, genders, and fitness levels. Whether your goal is self-defense, physical fitness, weight loss, or simply trying a new sport, Carpe Diem Kimitsu provides comprehensive support for your BJJ journey. The facility features a welcoming atmosphere where students can train together, compete in tournaments, and grow their skills over time. Led by head instructor Hiroki Oowa (Black Belt, born August 3, 1974 from Chiba, sponsored by VHTS JAPAN), the gym emphasizes safety and skill development. Assistant instructor Ken Kimura (Purple Belt, born January 24, 1984 from Iwate with a Judo background) supports the training program. The gym offers classes for adults and children, with flexible membership options including access to both the Kimitsu and Kisarazu locations.

Carpe Diem Kofu

Carpe Diem Kofu is Yamanashi Prefecture's first dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, founded by head instructor Kotetsu Ichihashi. The gym brings authentic BJJ training to the Kofu region, offering comprehensive programs for practitioners of all ages and skill levels. The training philosophy at Carpe Diem Kofu emphasizes discipline, respect, and technical excellence. The gym offers a structured curriculum that progresses from fundamental movement patterns through advanced competition techniques. Classes include mat-based conditioning exercises, technical instruction, positional drilling, and live sparring (free mat). The academy also provides MMA and kickboxing training through instructor Kojima, giving students a well-rounded martial arts education. Head instructor Kotetsu Ichihashi leads the academy with extensive experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The coaching staff also includes Tsuyoshi Suzuki, who teaches advanced classes. Both instructors focus on creating a welcoming environment for beginners while maintaining high standards for competitive students. The facility features full mat space, changing rooms, parking, and weight training equipment available during open hours.

Carpe Diem Mie

Carpe Diem Mie is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, Japan, dedicated to providing high-quality BJJ instruction for practitioners of all ages and skill levels. Founded as part of the Carpe Diem BJJ network, the gym operates two locations in the region - the main Tsu dojo and a second location in Yokkaichi. The academy emphasizes a safe, welcoming training environment where beginners and experienced practitioners alike can develop their skills in the technical art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The training philosophy at Carpe Diem Mie centers on technical refinement and injury prevention. Head instructor Seita Horiuchi, a black belt who began training in 2006 and earned his black belt in 2020, emphasizes technique over strength and teaches students to avoid relying on pure force during sparring. Despite competing in the lightest rooster weight class and regularly training with partners over 20kg heavier, Horiuchi has maintained a career free from major injuries by focusing on relaxation, movement, and proper technique. This approach is passed on to all members to ensure they can train safely and enjoy jiu-jitsu for the long term. Horiuchi brings an impressive competitive resume to his instruction, having won multiple national championships including the 2019 JBJJF Ranking #1 position in the Master 1-2 Brown Belt division, the 2019 4th All Japan Master Jiu-Jitsu Open Tournament (Master 2 Brown Belt Rooster division), the 2019 13th All Japan Master Jiu-Jitsu Championship (Master 2 Brown Belt Rooster), and the 2017 11th All Japan Master Jiu-Jitsu Championship (Master 2 Purple Belt Rooster). His competition experience and technical expertise inform the comprehensive curriculum offered at Carpe Diem Mie, which includes specialized programs for children (Kids 1 for ages 5-8, Kids 2 for ages 9-12), beginners (Lite Class), intermediate practitioners (Regular Class requiring white belt with 2 stripes), and competition-focused training (Competition Class for approved students).

Carpe Diem Niigata

Carpe Diem Niigata is part of the Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu network, one of the world's most recognized BJJ teams founded by Yuki Ishikawa. Located in Niigata City within the SACO WORKOUT WELL facility, the gym opened in 2024 as a modern training space focusing on both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wellness. The facility is positioned near the Shinano River and the Sea of Japan, approximately 10 minutes from Niigata Station. As part of the Carpe Diem family, which has expanded to over 35 locations worldwide including branches in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, London, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Manila, the Niigata location upholds the organization's philosophy of "More Than Jiu-Jitsu" - viewing BJJ as a lifelong practice that enriches overall lifestyle. The gym's training philosophy emphasizes understanding one's body through proper assessment before beginning training. Operated within SACO WORKOUT WELL, a comprehensive wellness facility established in July 2024, the approach combines "science × environment × choice" to deliver personalized wellness, recovery, conditioning, and lifestyle programs. The facility features a unique integration of fitness training and a wellness café (SA CAFE), creating a "third place" where members can focus on both physical training and overall health. Classes are structured to be accessible for beginners while providing depth for advanced practitioners, with programs designed around posture, breathing, and fundamental movement patterns. The instructional team is led by Keita Sako (brown belt, 2024 Japan #1 ranking, Asia Championship bronze medalist, World Championship bronze medalist), who founded SACO WORKOUT WELL and brought his unique methodology combining BJJ with fundamental movement science. The team includes Takafumi Kawamata (black belt, All-Japan Master Champion), Daiki Yamazaki (brown belt, All-Japan Master 3rd place, Yokohama International Champion), and Misato Yamazaki (purple belt, Asia Championship bronze medalist). The facility offers programs for all ages including beginners classes, fundamentals & drilling, no-gi grappling, and comprehensive kids programs (ages 3-14) that focus on developing coordination, discipline, and BJJ fundamentals alongside character building.

Carpe Diem Sendai is the first Tohoku region branch of Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of Japan's largest BJJ organizations with over 18 locations domestically and 7 internationally. The gym opened in autumn 2021 in the Itsutsubashi district of Aoba Ward, Sendai City. "Carpe Diem" is Latin for "Seize the Day," embodying the philosophy that everyone should live in the present moment through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Located just 6 minutes on foot from Itsutsubashi Station on the Sendai subway Nanboku Line in the heart of Sendai's city center, the gym offers convenient access for students, working professionals, and families. The facility features dedicated parking for 4 vehicles, making it accessible for members throughout the Miyagi prefecture. Head instructor and gym representative Kazuki Watanabe is a black belt with an impressive competition record including multiple JBJJF All-Japan Championships and IBJJF tournament victories. Originally from Fukushima, Watanabe discovered BJJ in 2010 and eventually joined the prestigious Carpe Diem headquarters in Tokyo, transitioning from professional photographer to full-time instructor and competitor before opening the Sendai branch in 2021. The coaching team includes brown belt instructors Rei Nagao, Yuto Sugawara, and Toi Sato, all accomplished competitors with national championship titles. Carpe Diem Sendai is affiliated with JBJJF (Japan Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) and IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation). The facility offers separate changing rooms and showers for men and women, along with keeping locker services where staff wash and store members' gis, enabling "hands-free" training for busy professionals.

Carpe Diem Setagaya

Carpe Diem Setagaya is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo, Japan. Opened in July 2022, this modern training facility is designed with a "community bathhouse" (sento) concept, emphasizing a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere where practitioners can come to train and refresh themselves. The gym features approximately 80 square meters of mat space in a spacious, well-lit facility. Both men's and women's locker rooms are equipped with showers, toilets, and powder spaces complete with hairdryers, making it convenient for members who train in the morning before work. The facility is universally designed to accommodate wheelchair users, reflecting the gym's commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Carpe Diem Setagaya offers a comprehensive class schedule throughout the week, including morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to accommodate various lifestyles. Classes are structured for all skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners, with dedicated Beginner, Regular, and Kids programs. The instruction emphasizes not only technical development but also the values of respect, discipline, and courtesy that are central to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Located near Chitosefunabashi Station and Kyodo Station (both 7-8 minutes walk on the Odakyu Line), the academy is easily accessible from central Tokyo.