Browse BJJ Gyms

Alliance San Diego

Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego is San Diego's leading training center for kids, teens, and adults, offering world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction in a safe, supportive, and competitive environment. Part of the legendary Alliance team — a proud 14x World Champion organization with over 300 affiliates worldwide — Alliance San Diego continues the tradition of excellence established by master instructors who have shaped the sport globally. Led by Professor João "Johnny" Faria, a black belt with over 30 years of experience and 23 years as a black belt, Alliance San Diego provides structured programs for all ages starting from 3.5 years old. Professor Faria is a multi-time IBJJF medalist and respected coach who oversees three successful academies in the San Diego area (Alliance San Diego, Alliance Carlsbad, and Alliance Chula Vista). His teaching style blends old-school fundamentals with modern techniques, always focused on growth, community, and respect. Alliance San Diego offers comprehensive programs including Toddlers (3.5-5), Youth BJJ (6-12), Youth Competition, Youth Muay Thai, Adult BJJ, No-Gi, Women's Only BJJ, and Competition Class. The academy features a large, clean facility with multiple training areas, an experienced coaching staff including black belts Jena Bishop (3rd degree), Marcos Lopes, Vando Silva (3rd degree), and Dustin Wooldridge, plus dedicated instructors at brown and purple belt levels. Whether training for fitness, self-defense, or competition, students join a welcoming family atmosphere where high-level athletes train alongside beginners.

Alliance Scottsdale

Alliance Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Scottsdale is home to the 14x World Championship Alliance Team, one of the most successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams in the world. Founded in 1993 by Romero "Jacare" Cavalcanti, Fabio Gurgel, and Alexandre Paiva, Alliance BJJ is recognized globally for technical excellence and professionalism. Alliance has produced hundreds of World Champions, over 25 of them at the black belt level. At Alliance Scottsdale, martial arts training is about more than self-defense. The academy focuses on building self-confidence, improved focus, physical strength, and positive social interaction for both children and adults. The training philosophy emphasizes setting goals, working hard, and following through, all while having fun and making friends in a safe, professional environment. The academy is led by Professor Thiago Ximenes, a 3rd-degree black belt under Professor Fabio Gurgel with over 35 years of martial arts experience. Professor Ximenes began training in Judo at age 4 and competed as a world-class elite athlete, medaling at multiple international events including world championships. He transitioned to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and trained at Alliance São Paulo under Professor Fabio Gurgel. His competitive BJJ record includes 3-time World Medalist, 8-time Pan-American Medalist, over 10-time National Medalist, and 4-time European Medalist. Professor Ximenes is dedicated to sharing his knowledge, focusing on details with students and mentoring both children and adults to develop confidence, fitness, focus, and producing the next generation of elite athletes.

Alliance Tatuapé

Alliance Tatuapé is a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the heart of São Paulo's Tatuapé neighborhood. As part of the Alliance team network, one of the most respected teams in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with 15 World Championship titles, the academy brings decades of proven methodology and excellence to its students. The gym is led by Mestre Ricardo Sardinha, a passionate professor, athlete, and educator dedicated to guiding students through a journey of self-confidence, discipline, and belonging. With a technical, human, and motivating approach, Professor Sardinha and his team of instructors are committed to the development of each student both on and off the mat. The academy follows Alliance's exclusive methodology, designed to be complete in teaching approach, welcoming atmosphere, quality instruction, and relationships built on mutual respect. Alliance Tatuapé features a complete training facility with two professional high-quality tatami mats, a fully equipped physical preparation gym, changing rooms with showers and hair dryers, a coworking space, on-site parking, facial recognition access control, and a pro shop with exclusive products. The academy offers comprehensive programs for all ages and skill levels, from Kids classes (starting at age 4) taught in a fun and engaging way, to Beginner (Iniciante), Intermediate (Intermediário), and Advanced (Avançado) programs for adults. Whether your goal is health, performance, self-defense, or building new friendships, Alliance Tatuapé provides a structured, safe, and welcoming environment for families looking to evolve every day through responsible Jiu-Jitsu training.

Alliance Teresina

Alliance Jiu Jitsu Teresina é uma afiliada da renomada equipe Alliance, uma das academias de Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mais bem-sucedidas do mundo. A Alliance conquistou 15 títulos mundiais masculinos, 10 títulos mundiais femininos e 4 títulos mundiais juvenis, além de ter mais de 30.000 alunos e 300 afiliados em 31 países ao redor do mundo. A academia opera duas unidades em Teresina, Piauí: a unidade Dirceu localizada na Qd. 163, 8, Itararé, e a unidade Jóquei na Av. Jóquei Clube, 625, Jóquei (Biotraining). Ambas as unidades oferecem aulas de Jiu-Jitsu com gi e no-gi, seguindo a filosofia e metodologia de ensino da Alliance. A Alliance Teresina oferece uma aula experimental gratuita e individual para novos alunos, onde você aprende noções básicas de Jiu-Jitsu e conhece algumas posturas fundamentais com uma equipe experiente de professores. A aula experimental foca em técnicas de defesa pessoal, incluindo como bloquear ações de agressores, escapar de agarrões no braço e anular gravatas - golpes comuns em situações reais.

Alliance Tijuca

Alliance Jiu Jitsu Tijuca is part of the prestigious Alliance team, one of the most successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu organizations in the world. Founded in 1993 by Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti, Fabio Gurgel, Alexandre Paiva, and Fernando Gurgel, Alliance has established itself as a dominant force in competitive BJJ, earning 15 world championship titles and building a network of over 300 affiliated schools worldwide. The Alliance lineage traces directly to the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Mitsuyo Maeda → Carlos Gracie → Hélio Gracie → Rolls Gracie → Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti → Alliance founders. This prestigious lineage represents decades of refined technique and championship-level instruction passed down through generations of masters. Alliance Tijuca offers comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs for both children and adults, from absolute beginners to advanced competitors. The academy is led by Professor Anderson de Carvalho (Instagram: @carvalhojiujitsucoach), who carries forward Alliance's tradition of technical excellence and competitive success. Located in the vibrant Tijuca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, the gym welcomes students of all levels and offers a free introductory class to prospective members. Training at Alliance Tijuca means joining a global team with a proven track record of developing world-class practitioners while maintaining the core values of respect, discipline, and continuous improvement that define the Alliance philosophy.

Alliance Tristeza

Bem-vindo à Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Tristeza, uma academia que une tradição, estrutura de primeira linha e o compromisso com o desenvolvimento técnico e pessoal de seus alunos. Localizada no bairro Tristeza na zona sul de Porto Alegre, nossa unidade é referência em qualidade, oferecendo mais de 140m² de tatame da melhor qualidade, proporcionando segurança e conforto durante os treinos. A Alliance Jiu Jitsu foi fundada em 1993 por Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti, Fábio Gurgel e Alexandre Paiva, tornando-se uma das equipes mais influentes do mundo. Presente em mais de 30 países com mais de 30 mil alunos, a Alliance é a única equipe a vencer 14 vezes o campeonato mundial. Nossa metodologia é pioneira e diferenciada em módulos para iniciantes, intermediários e avançados, além de aulas exclusivas para crianças. Além da estrutura pensada para otimizar sua experiência no jiu-jitsu, contamos com estacionamento próprio e gratuito para alunos, garantindo praticidade desde o momento em que você chega. Nossa loja oficial oferece produtos licenciados da Alliance, desde kimonos até acessórios exclusivos. Todos nossos professores são certificados e qualificados pela Alliance Jiu Jitsu, garantindo o padrão de excelência Alliance em cada treino.

Alliance Uberlândia

A Garden Fight Center foi fundada há 11 anos em Uberlândia e é referência mundial em estrutura, metodologia e uma das academias principais responsáveis pela promoção e divulgação do Jiu-Jitsu na região do Triângulo Mineiro. Como parte da Alliance Jiu Jitsu, uma das mais prestigiadas equipes do mundo com mais de 300 filiais globais e 15 títulos mundiais, a Garden Fight oferece treinamento de alto nível seguindo rigorosamente o método Alliance. O professor Tiago Rocha, fundador e responsável técnico da Garden Fight Center, é faixa preta de Jiu-Jitsu e Judô, graduado em História pela UFU e empresário há mais de 20 anos. Atleta com 2 títulos Pan-americanos e campeão mundial pela PBJJF em agosto de 2024 na competição realizada em Baltimore, EUA, Tiago utiliza a filosofia da arte marcial para formar campeões tanto nos tatames quanto nos desafios da vida. Ele também gerencia três academias afiliadas nos EUA e é professor titular de Jiu-Jitsu no Praia Clube. Tiago foi graduado faixa preta há 15 anos pelo Mestre Fábio Gurgel, fundador da Equipe Alliance e responsável pela metodologia de ensino diferenciada que faz da Alliance a melhor equipe de Jiu Jitsu do mundo. A academia oferece uma ampla grade de aulas destinadas para crianças (Kids - até 12 anos, Future - 12 a 17 anos), jovens e adultos em todos os níveis: iniciantes, intermediários e avançados. Além do Jiu-Jitsu tradicional com kimono, a Garden Fight também oferece aulas de No-Gi, Boxe e Muay Thai, bem como aulas particulares e treinamento específico para competição. Ana Luiza Rocha, esposa de Tiago, desempenha papel fundamental na administração e expansão da marca, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento profissional da academia.

Alliance Vila Mariana

Alliance Vila Mariana é parte da renomada equipe Alliance Jiu Jitsu, reconhecida mundialmente como uma das melhores escolas de Jiu Jitsu do mundo e pioneira na metodologia de aulas em grupo. A academia segue rigorosamente o método Alliance, garantindo que os alunos estejam motivados e responsáveis por seus próprios progressos através de um sistema estruturado de graduação. A unidade Vila Mariana oferece 200 m² divididos em 3 tatames modernos no coração do bairro, na Rua Domingos de Morais. A academia proporciona uma experiência de alto padrão com infraestrutura completa incluindo vestiários com chuveiros, WiFi, lounge, loja de produtos exclusivos e um ambiente pet-friendly. O espaço foi projetado para oferecer não apenas treinamento de excelência, mas uma experiência memorável que fortalece o verdadeiro lifestyle do Jiu Jitsu. Todos os professores são certificados e qualificados pela Alliance Jiu Jitsu, garantindo instrução de alta qualidade em todos os níveis. A academia oferece uma vasta grade de horários com aulas destinadas para crianças, jovens e adultos em níveis iniciante, intermediário e avançado, além de programas específicos como No-Gi, competição e aulas femininas. O método Alliance utiliza um sistema de graduação baseado em número de aulas, com faixas brancas progredindo através de 4 graus (30 aulas por grau) antes de avançar para faixa azul.

Alliance Washington

Alliance BJJ Washington is a veteran-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy with two locations in Lacey and Lakewood, Washington. Founded by Army veteran and 10-time All-American Greco Roman Wrestler James Johnson Jr., the gym opened its first location in Lakewood in May 2015, followed by the Lacey location in June 2020. As a member of Team Alliance, one of the most prestigious Jiu-Jitsu teams in the world with over 300 affiliate academies across 29 countries and 13 World Championship titles, Alliance BJJ Washington provides world-class instruction while maintaining a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. James Johnson Jr. began his martial arts journey as a child, earning his black belt in Tang Soo Do before wrestling in high school and serving in the US Army as a Greco Roman wrestler. He started training Jiu-Jitsu in 2008 and continues to compete at high levels while leading the academy. The gym emphasizes proper Alliance techniques, building strength, commitment, and unity that the organization is known for worldwide. Students benefit from a positive training experience whether they're focused on self-defense, competition, or personal development. The academy offers a comprehensive range of programs including Baby Eagles (ages 5-6), Eagles 1 and 2 for kids (ages 7-14), adult fundamentals and intermediate classes, advanced classes, no-gi training, competition classes, and a women's only program. Alliance BJJ Washington prides itself on helping students reach their individual goals while building self-confidence and practical self-defense skills. The instructors work with students to adapt techniques to their personal style, creating well-rounded practitioners. The gym also hosts special events and holiday gatherings, fostering a strong community beyond the mats.

Alliance Yellowknife

Alliance Yellowknife is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. The gym is part of the prestigious Alliance Jiu-Jitsu team, one of the most prominent BJJ associations in the world. Alliance was founded in 1993 by Romero "Jacare" Cavalcanti, Fabio Gurgel, Alexandre Paiva, and Fernando Gurgel. With 12 team World Championships and hundreds of World Champions throughout its history, Alliance has schools across the globe teaching thousands of students self-defense, self-confidence, and respect. At Alliance Yellowknife, the academy believes that martial arts training helps every child and adult develop the mental and physical skills they need to succeed in life. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn't just about self-defense—it's about building self-confidence, improving focus, developing physical strength, and fostering positive social interaction. The academy teaches members to set goals, work hard, and follow through, all while having fun and making friends. Alliance Yellowknife is led by an exceptional team of black belt instructors. Head Instructor Mitchel Wiles (black belt, first degree) began his martial arts journey as a wrestler, winning tournaments including a provincial title in Saskatchewan. He started training in BJJ in 2008 and won gold medals at local tournaments including the Absolute Division at the 2012 Mind Body Soul Alberta Open. He received his black belt in 2021 from Alliance Black Belt Faron Sinnicks and Alliance founder Master Romero Cavalcanti. Mitchel is co-owner of the academy and an Alliance Jiu-Jitsu certified instructor in the Fundamentals and Intermediate curriculums. Other instructors include Brad Tremblay (black belt, 2023), Joshua Campbell (black belt, 2024, co-owner), Norm Mair (black belt, 2024), and Jessica Pacunayen (brown belt). The instructors have trained with and received belts from world champions including Lucas Lepri, Michael Langhi, and Gabi Garcia.

Allied Academy Of Martial Arts

Allied Martial Arts is a comprehensive martial arts academy in Southfield, Michigan, representing the collaborative vision of BJJ Coach Hashem H. Magham and Sifu Nick Cavallino. The academy offers an exceptional breadth of martial arts training, combining traditional techniques with modern combat methods under one roof. The academy specializes in two distinct training methodologies: Azer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, founded by Coach Hashem, which focuses on ground fighting techniques and submission holds, and Adaptive Combat Method, developed by Sifu Nick Cavallino, which draws from Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do philosophy and incorporates multiple fighting styles from around the world. This unique combination provides students with comprehensive martial arts education spanning both ground fighting and stand-up combat. Coach Hashem H. Magham is a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt who began his martial arts journey in the 1970s with Tang-Hup Mu Doo Kwan in England. After discovering BJJ through a Jean Jacques Machado documentary in 1999, he trained under Marcelo Grosso (De La Riva black belt) and later with Chris Malgeri, eventually earning his black belt from Marcello Montiero in 2011. Sifu Nick Cavallino brings over 20 years of experience in multiple disciplines including Jeet Kune Do, Jun Fan Gung Fu, Filipino Martial Arts, Kali, Wing Chun, Savate, Muay Thai, and Silat, having trained under Chris Malgeri and continuing education under Sifu David Hatch and Simo Lynda Hatch. Together, they create a welcoming, family-oriented training environment with no egos, where students of all skill levels help each other grow in martial arts.

Alma Fight Gym Pugnus

ALMA FIGHT GYM PUGNUS (Pugnus) is a mixed martial arts gym located in Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, directly connected to Kanda Station. The gym specializes in MMA (mixed martial arts), kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, supporting members in achieving goals such as fitness improvement, weight loss, and competition preparation. Led by head coach Shintaro Ishiwatari, a former Pancrase Bantamweight Champion and RIZIN tournament runner-up, Pugnus offers world-class instruction from active and accomplished fighters. The coaching team includes Akira (former Pancrase Lightweight Champion), along with experienced instructors in striking, grappling, and MMA techniques. The gym welcomes everyone from complete beginners to experienced competitors, with 90% of members being first-time martial arts practitioners. Pugnus emphasizes personalized training approaches based on individual goals, whether for exercise, stress relief, self-defense, or competitive aspirations. The gym's philosophy centers on gradual progression, enjoyable training, and building both physical and mental strength. Members have access to all Pugnus locations (Kanda and Akihabara stores), allowing flexible class selection based on schedule and training preferences. The facility is new, clean, and maintains strict hygiene protocols including regular cleaning, disinfection, and ventilation.

Alma Samurai Centro De Treinamento

Alma Samurai CT is a martial arts training center dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle through Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Functional Training. The academy offers a comprehensive approach to developing motor skills, intellectual growth, and interpersonal abilities for students aged 5 and above. At the heart of Alma Samurai CT is a passionate commitment to sharing the dynamic and transformative art of martial arts. Led by experienced instructors Sensei Barreto (Jiu Jitsu) and Mestre Caique (Muay Thai), the academy provides engaging classes for all skill levels and ages. Whether you're an enthusiastic beginner or an experienced practitioner, Alma Samurai CT offers specialized programs including Kids BJJ (Baby Eagles for ages 3-5, Little Eagles for ages 6-13), fundamentals, intermediate, advanced, and No-Gi classes. The academy's philosophy emphasizes discipline, self-mastery, and continuous growth both on and off the mat. With group classes, intense sparring sessions, flexibility programs, and dedicated children's programs, Alma Samurai CT creates a vibrant community where students support each other's journey toward becoming stronger and more confident individuals.

Aloha Roll Academy is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in West Maui that was founded with a vision to bring the transformative benefits of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to the local community. The academy is part of the rich lineage that traces back to Mitsuyo Maeda, Carlos Gracie, and Helio Gracie, and was brought to Maui by Luis "Limão" Heredia. Aloha Roll Academy offers comprehensive programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), Muay Thai, and Boxing, serving students of all ages and skill levels. Professor Gilberto Castro, a black belt under Luis "Limão" Heredia, leads the academy with a deep commitment to empowering students through martial arts. The academy's training philosophy centers on the core principle of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: allowing a weaker, less athletic person to defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent. Beyond self-defense, students find BJJ as a pathway to building confidence, overcoming adversity, and discovering their inner potential. Professor Gilberto has a special passion for empowering women through Jiu-Jitsu and strives to create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and accepted like Ohana (family). The academy places strong emphasis on community building through mentorship and development of Keiki (children's) programs and competition teams. Aloha Roll Academy's core values are reflected in their motto "BE YOUR BEST" and their commitment to providing a safe place where students can challenge themselves, set goals, reach them, and learn to defend themselves with confidence. The academy welcomes anyone willing to put in the time and effort to grow as a person and discover something inside themselves they never imagined possible.

Alpine Jiu Jitsu

Alpine Jiu-Jitsu is a family-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the heart of Alpine, California, serving the East County community since 2016. With over 20 years of combined experience, the academy offers comprehensive BJJ training for all ages starting from 5 years old, creating a welcoming environment where entire families can train together. The academy is led by founder Professor Frank Califano, a black belt under Master Fabio Santos (7th degree coral belt), and features world-class instruction from Tarsis Humphreys, a 4th-degree black belt and multiple-time IBJJF World Champion. Tarsis trained under Fabio Gurgel at the legendary Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Academy in São Paulo, Brazil, and brings elite-level competition experience to students. The coaching team includes experienced instructors Deborah Clem, David Goan, Danielle Kaiser, Matt Heinemann, and purple belt assistant coach Hector Mena, all dedicated to providing quality instruction across all skill levels. Alpine Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes building confidence, coordination, and self-defense skills while fostering a strong sense of community and family atmosphere. The academy offers specialized programs including Mini's classes (ages 5-10), Juniors & Teens (ages 11-16), Adult Fundamentals for beginners, Advanced Gi and No-Gi classes, MMA training, and women's self-defense. All head instructors are CPR, AED, and First Aid certified, ensuring a safe training environment for students of all ages and experience levels.

Alpine Jiu-Jitsu

Alpine Jiu-Jitsu is a local, family-owned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Alpine, CA, serving the East County community since 2016. Located just 30 miles east of downtown San Diego and minutes off the 8 freeway, the academy offers comprehensive BJJ training for all ages 5 and up. With over 20 years of combined experience, the academy provides a welcoming, family-friendly environment where students can build coordination, confidence, and self-defense skills. The academy is led by founder Professor Frank Califano, a black belt under Master Fabio Santos (7th degree coral belt), who has dedicated nearly 20 years to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and opened the academy in 2016. The coaching team also includes Tarsis Humphreys, a 4th-degree black belt and multiple-time IBJJF World Champion who trained under Fabio Gurgel at Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Academy in São Paulo, Brazil. Tarsis brings world-class expertise in pressure passing, guard work, and strategic gameplay. Additional instructors include Deborah Clem, David Goan, Danielle Kaiser, Hector Mena (purple belt), Matt Heinemann, and gym manager Jennifer. Alpine Jiu-Jitsu offers programs for all experience levels including Mini's (ages 5-10), Juniors & Teens (11-16), Adult Beginner/Fundamentals, and Advanced classes in both gi and no-gi styles. The academy emphasizes fundamental techniques, self-defense, coordination development, and competition training. All head instructors are black belts, and coaches are CPR, AED, and First Aid certified. The academy partners with Adopt A Cop BJJ and We Defy Foundation, supporting law enforcement and combat veterans through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.

AMBJJ - Alex Martins Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Alex Martins Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (AMBJJ) in Dallas, Texas is led by Professor Alex Martins, a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Professor Martins began his martial arts journey in 1997 at age 17, training under Junior Cardoso in Manaus, Brazil, and has since become a global reference in the BJJ community. Professor Martins is an elite competitor with an impressive competitive resume, including IBJJF Master World Champion in 2016 and Ranked #1 in the World in the IBJJF Master 2 Division during the 2017/2018 season. He was personally awarded by Professor Carlos Gracie Jr. for his outstanding competitive achievements. His competition success spans across the United States, Japan, Spain, UAE, Brazil, and Europe, with multiple gold medals at prestigious events including American Nationals, Pan Ams, and numerous IBJJF Opens. The academy's teaching philosophy extends beyond techniques, focusing on shaping lives through discipline, confidence, respect, and personal development. Professor Martins brings enthusiasm, patience, and structure to every class, helping students reach their potential both on and off the mats. As he says, "If a person has the best possible attitude and respective behavior, he/she can better the world."

American Combat Gym

American Combat Gym is South Florida's premier MMA training facility located in Deerfield Beach. With over 26 years of combined experience, the gym offers world-class martial arts instruction for all skill levels, especially beginners. The gym specializes in making newcomers feel welcome, comfortable, and confident from day one in a supportive, ego-free environment. The gym offers comprehensive training programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (both Gi and No-Gi), Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, and Boxing. Their Combat Kids program provides BJJ, boxing, and MMA fundamentals in a fun, safe environment for children ages 5-14. All programs are designed to accommodate complete beginners while also providing elite-level training for competitive fighters. Head coach and owner Charles "Chainsaw" McCarthy is a UFC veteran and former cast member of The Ultimate Fighter Season 4, holding a 4th degree BJJ black belt. Charles brings over two decades of elite combat sports experience and has hand-selected and personally trains each coach on staff to ensure every student receives world-class instruction. The gym has trained hundreds of members and maintains a 5-star rating from its community.

American Elite Grappling (AEG)

American Elite Grappling (AEG) is the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program based at the legendary American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, California. Founded in 1985 by world champion kickboxer Javier Mendez, AKA has been the premier Mixed Martial Arts gym in the Bay Area for over three decades and is widely recognized as one of the best MMA gyms in the world, having trained numerous UFC champions. AEG was created by Ron Keslar, who serves as head instructor of American Elite Grappling and as an AKA coach. Ron is a 2nd degree black belt under Leandro Vieira and began his grappling career in grade school with wrestling. He previously competed as a professional MMA fighter in Bellator, Strikeforce, and King of the Cage before transitioning to coaching. American Elite Grappling offers one of the most well-rounded Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling programs in the United States, with over 20 gi and no-gi classes offered weekly for kids and adults, focusing on technique, fundamentals, and competition training. While AKA is known for champion-level fighters, at its core it is a family-friendly gym that caters to everyone from beginners age 4 to 65+, to those aspiring to train and compete at any level. The gym offers professional instruction in kickboxing, boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and MMA. AKA has been voted Best of Silicon Valley since 1985 and continues to focus on quality instruction and teaching solid technique across all martial arts disciplines.

American Grappling Academy - Elk Grove

American Grappling Academy in Elk Grove, California is a welcoming Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym dedicated to affordable health and wellness for the entire community. The academy prides itself on creating a family-friendly atmosphere that brings students of all ages and skill levels together to enjoy the gentle art of Jiu Jitsu. The gym's philosophy centers on building a strong team environment where students learn from one another and gain knowledge to advance their skills both on and off the mats. With over 30 years of combined grappling experience, the instructors (Coach Shawn and Shawn) teach both Gi and No-Gi techniques to men, women, and children. The academy welcomes all newcomers from beginners to advanced practitioners with open arms. American Grappling Academy stands out for its no-contract policy and transparent pricing structure—no hidden fees, no promotion fees, no initiation fees, and no mandatory school uniforms. They offer extensive family discounts and special pricing for college students, first responders, law enforcement, active military, and veterans. The gym is also an approved homeschool vendor working with Feather River, Horizon, Cotton Wood, Visions, and Pacific Charter programs. Classes include kids programs (ages 6-16), adult classes, open mat sessions, tournament training, and specialized first responder classes.