Finding extracurriculars that benefit kids and something they truly enjoy is difficult. This was our second martial arts studio and my son was beaming from cheek to cheek. Staff is friendly and everyone is so kind. Everyone feels like family here and the kids all seems to have such a wonderful time. They offer 1:1, youth, and adult classes. This is a smaller location but the vibe is the best I've ever seen or felt. They offer a trial class and youth group classes are on the smaller side which is beneficial! Classes can be $100 a month for once a week, $155 for twice a month, or $185 for unlimited. read more

I restarted my jiu-jitsu journey 17 months ago after a long break, and honestly, walking into Alliance Laguna Hills was one of the best decisions I've made. From the moment I stepped on the mat, I felt welcomed; not judged. The professors bring a balance of technical precision and genuine encouragement. Every class feels purposeful. Every roll teaches you something new. What really stands out is the community. We celebrate each other's progress, push through tough training days together, and show up for one another. The energy here is unmatched ; it's family, it's accountability, and it's growth all in one. Whether you're a beginner, a competitor, or just trying to get back into it -- you'll find your place here. Alliance Laguna Hills reminded me why I fell in love with jiu-jitsu in the first place. read more

See all

Professor Laercio and the entire team of coaches are amazing. My son attends the program and the culture is very welcoming and supportive and fosters inclusiveness and cooperation. The focus is about learning and developing and supporting each other. The outcomes are the students have a great experience while achieving positive results in competitions. If you are reading this and still undecided, I encourage you to visit the studio and meet the team. read more

One of the best decisions I ever made was to join Professor Laercio's team at Alliance Laguna Hills. He is a kind, empathetic leader, and also a badass world champ. He has the gift of connecting well with people and effectively passing on knowledge. Both my son and I train here multiple times a week. I'm grateful for how jiu jitsu has had a positive influence in both of our lives, helping us grow as people. What I love most is the awesome community and strong family vibes. Also, it's clear that Laercio chooses wisely when it comes to his team of coaches. Proud to be part of this team. Highly recommend. read more

The coaches and people are amazing. Very patient and make you feel like a close community. It's recently renovated so it's very clean and inviting. Our 6 year old enjoys it very much. Very much recommended. read more

Alliance Jiujitsu Laguna Hills. My son joined a year ago and it was the best decision we made. The impact it's made on my son has been really life changing... in a good way! Now I have the whole family joining the gym so need I say more? The professors and coaches are all amazing people and who doesn't want to be trained by world champs?! Everyone is welcoming and makes you feel like part of the family and the community. read more

I couldn't say enough good things about Grappler's Studio! My 11 year old and 8 year old daughters both train here and have for a little over a year and a half. They absolutely love it. It has a family friendly feel and all the instructors are excellent. One of the many things we like about this particular location is that they offer Jiu Jitsu Gi and no Gi, wrestling and Pankration. read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

See all

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Grappler's Studio to friends or family. My 11-year-old son had prior BJJ experience elsewhere at a fantastic gym, but we moved to the area and needed to find the right home to continue his training. We tried a couple gyms in the area, and found that the training by Coach Anthony for the kids program is above the rest. The kids get an all around mixed martial arts training, while still allowing a primary focus on BJJ. Coach Anthony really cares about each child and it shows on the mats. Coach Amanda teaches the younger kids as well, and the little ones seem to have a blast in her class! I was most impressed that the Professor and coaches are so kind and approachable. While watching my son's classes, Professor Laercio would always come greet the parents and spectators, and you could easily tell he truly cares about the family environment at the studio. I got so comfortable here, that I myself have recently joined the adult classes, and it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. If you're considering Grappler's Studio for yourself or a child, I highly recommend you take trial classes and see if it's the right fit for you. There's no pressure or sales tactics like I've experienced at other gyms in the area. Come give it a try! read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Grapplers studio is a safe space for all! Professor Laercio and Professor Anthony have been incredibly welcoming from day one. As a new mom who had no knowledge of jiujitsu or even thought of joining, I'm so glad I did and I wouldn't change it for the world. The community within Grappler's Studio is incredible and it's all because of our professors. They challenge you, but in the absolute best way. Thank you Professor Laercio and Anthony for your constant support! I can't wait to continue my jiujitsu journey at Grapplers! read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

See all

I can't say enough good things about Grapplers and why anyone should join. The unity, the friendships, the encouragement, the challenge, the environment, the coaches, the people.... QUALITY. It is more of place that has become family and therapy for me. Professor Laercio and his entire family has been so welcoming since Day One. I was in search of a new gym after mine closed during the pandemic. Shout out to Levi for the amazing, life changing recommendation!!! Professor Laercio has been my greatest mentor. He travels to support his team for competition. Personally coaches. His knowledge is top notch and goes hand in hand with the way he instructs. He was supportive when I wanted to train during pregnancy and knew how to adapt my training when I was returning post partum as well. I am so beyond grateful for Grapplers. I travel 30 minutes each way, even during pregnancy, and with a newborn! I'm telling you, its thee place to train :) read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Receiving my blue belt from Professor Laercio - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

This review is for professor Laercio. I am a first time mom and needed some confidence and a place where I felt comfortable learning something new. Professor has been by far the best mentor I've had. Being brand new to jiujitsu, it's important to have someone as talented as professor Laercio. He is the most patient, knowledgeable & best coach I have met. In the past 9 months, I have gained strength, confidence , learned so much about my muscles in my body and self defense and met some amazing people who I now call family. Thank you to professor and Grapplers for this amazing journey. Can't wait to see what another year brings here at Grapplers ! read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

This is the best family-oriented gym run by the most incredible and humble people. From the coaches to the people who attend, everyone you come in contact with is friendly, helpful, and encouraging. read more

My son did a trial class here and everyone was so welcoming along with the kids!! They helped him by demonstrating what he's supposed to do. The teacher was nice and helpful! read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Laercio Fernandes is one of the kindest and most welcoming people I've had the pleasure to train with! He genuinely cares about all of his students and will check in on you if you're missing class. All of his teachings are practical and every class is tons of fun. Can't say enough good things about this gym and the community surrounding it read more

Great experienced professors/instructors with even better gym culture. Recommend for anyone looking for a school to learn jiu-jitsu or self defense read more

Laercio has not only been a great instructor, but a great life coach. The whole entire studio is full of good people. Grapplers will always have a special place in my heart because it came to me during a very tough time in my life. Thank you Laercio, Dean, Voloya, and Jon for getting me here and working with me. read more

I've been coming to this gym for a little less than a year and I love it here! Professor Laerico really cares about the development of his students. He's patient, caring, and clear in his teachings. Professor Anthony is also really amazing. The people that come to the gym are dedicated to their craft so each class is professional and structured allowing everyone to be successful. There isn't a place I would recommend more! read more

Professor Laercio Fernandes, Anthony and Jon Frank welcomed me into a training atmosphere unlike anything I've ever experienced. I knew I found something truly unique and special when I met Professor Laercio. He genuinely wants the very best for his students and wears his heart on his sleeve making each student work to their deepest potential.This team truly exemplifies the perfect balance between flat out hard work and having fun. In moments you feel defeated in training mentally/ physically your teammates and coaches are always there to pick you up and push you through. The systematic way Professor Laercio teaches the complex art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is unlike any training technique I've encountered. My understanding of this sport and of myself and my own physical and mental limits has grown so quickly since training at GS. I truly feel like I finally belong to something. Every time I walk in the doors to train no matter how my day went I am always greeted with a smile and a hug and I always leave filled with new knowledge and ambition. Another reason I love training at GS is their wide array of classes and times. This really works to my benefit with my busy work schedule and always allows me to fit training into my day. I also really love that there is a strength and conditioning area here as well! GS really is an incredible family atmosphere that facilitates an environment that harnesses a healthy balanced lifestyle. If you truly want to step up your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu game, condition your body and your mind, feel part of a team that is filled with incredibly talented and passionate humans, makes friends, get in shape and join something that will indefinitely impact your life for the better I urge you, stop by today and come take a class! read more

Alliance Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Premier leadership, lots of mat space, clean environment, and great individuals to sweat and laugh with. There aren't enough positive statements I can make about the teaching credentials, reputation, and commitment, of Professor Laercio, Professor June, and Coach Anthony. However, the best review will be the one you formulate after you stop in to take a few classes. I've trained under a few different instructors as well as trained at various academies while vacationing abroad, and I can confidently say training at Grapplers Studio can allow ANYONE to achieve both their sport or self-defense jiu jitsu goals. The Instructors have the experience and wherewithal to promote and encourage their students towards their individual goals, and that is only one of the many small variables that make Grapplers Studio truly a special academy to be a part of. read more

See all

Grappler's Studio is absolutely the best jiu jitsu/wrestling/pankration gym in the area. I have been training and competing in jiu jitsu & wrestling for nearly 2 1/2 years, and I've placed in local & international level tournaments. Laercio Fernandes is one of the most technical and caring coaches I have ever met, and I'm grateful to be able to train with him! He emphasizes repetition in order to truly master techniques. Laercio also sets a tone of respect and camaraderie within the gym. If you come in trying to smash your way through the class, you will quickly learn to change your style or find another gym. Also, If you're interesting in incorporating wrestling/takedowns into your jiu jitsu game, Anthony teaches a simple, yet effective takedown system to complement your jiu jitsu at any level. In addition to wrestling, Anthony has been coaching youth jiu jitsu and pankration for many years. He has a special type of "magic" when it comes to teaching and communicating with kids. Whether your child wants to just have fun learning or desires to be a champion, Anthony will provide them with an experience and top-level skills needed to get them where they want to be. Anthony makes it very clear that this is more than just a gym, it is a family. During wrestling season, many of the families get to the tournaments early to set up tail gates with their grills and tons of food so that all of the kids can eat breakfast together and relax before heading in for competition. A note about belt rankings - expect to EARN your belt promotions here! Unlike some other martial arts gyms, you cannot pay your way to the next belt. There have been many occasions where students will come from another gym and see that they are 'out-skilled' by students of lower belts at our gym. If they choose to stay, sometimes they will (themselves) remove the stripes from their belt or demote themselves to a lower belt (as long as they haven't placed in any IBJJF championships). This is not required by the coaches, but certain individuals choose to do this themselves. read more

See all

The best Brazilian jujitsu in Orange County! Everybody is friendly and help each other out they are like family. Coaches are one of the best!!! read more

This gym is welcoming to all newcomers and experts alike. The people are friendly, the facility is clean, and the instruction is world class. I have had the honor of training under some of the best athletes in the world, and they have nothing on the instruction here. Overall, they have great family vibes read more

Too many good things to say about this academy, I honestly don't know where to start. I've tried numerous academies since I started my jiu jitsu journey, though all of them were great in their own respect, never have I truly felt at home as I do at Grappler's Studio. As said in other reviews, you absolutely get world class (Cobrinha/Alliance) instructions by Profressor Laercio, Coach Anthony, and the rest of the coaching staff. What stood out to me the most was when I first stepped on the mat, I was welcomed like family. It's awesome to see everyone from all walks of life get together and have fun learning jiu jitsu. No egos just drilling, rolling, and growing together. Whether you are competing to become a World Champ or intrerested in learning the art, you can't go wrong checking out Grappler's Studio. read more

If you want to get in shape, learn self defense or perfect the art of jujitsu, wrestling or pankration , you really should check this place out. Instructors are very knowledgeable, patient ,and are incredible at their martial art. The kids program is also top notch. My entire family trains here, and we all love it! The price is very reasonable as well read more

My kids and I started training here not too long ago and we absolutely love it. The environment is very laid back and family oriented. The instructors are world class and the people here are amazing. The kid classes are very well taught and the coaches pay attention to every detail. Highly recommended! read more

My sons and I have been training at this studio for about two years now. The amount of technical knowledge and skill this place contains are phenomenal. Not only are the folks talented but genuinely good people to train under. I have trained at other martial art gyms before and I hate dealing with people who have egos, or something to prove. Not this place. It's honestly a good group of people. The people who train at Grapplers all want to be there to train diligently and improve, but understand we all have varying goals from competition, to self-defense, or to just bettering their health/fitness levels. Whatever it is, you won't know unless you try it out. Also, this place is not an after school daycare center for your kids. Even though a lot of kids attend, they all know if they don't focus on their training, they can be submitted rather quickly in BJJ. If you have kids, this is an excellent way for kids to learn humility and hard work as a life lesson into later years. Not all martial arts, or even BJJ gyms for that matter, can be competent in skill and attention to people matters as Grapplers. However, don't take my word for it, I recommend trying some trial classes yourself to really understand. read more

I've been training here for a couple months after being at a couple of other gyms. Believe me when I'm telling you the instruction here is world class, and there's really no other place I've seen where you'll get the detailed personalized instruction you'll get here from world champions. Very friendly atmosphere of just cool people helping each other improve, no meat heads here. The wrestling instructor Anthony Frank is an absolute beast on the mat which you would never guess based on his friendly soft spoken demeanor. The BJJ teacher Laercio Fernandes is a world champion jiu jitsu fighter who also looks out for each of his students and is very technical in his teaching. They both always have a ready smile for you and that attitude translates throughout the gym. You don't need to feel intimidated at all, I've bought some complete newbie friends in and they're instantly welcomed. Highly recommended. read more

This is great a gym with wonderful coaches and professors!!! My husband and 3 boys train here. Friendly family environment.

We've been coming to this gym a little over a year now. My son has trained at other gyms, in which I was not completely happy with the training. Grapplers Studios by far has the BEST instruction & coaches. Laercio, Anthony and Jon are amazingly talented & my son really looks up to them. The coaches are very patient, teach discipline & most importantly provides a fun/safe environment for the kids. What drew me to this gym was the multiple classes offered. This gave my son an opportunity to try different training programs. The people at the gym are very friendly. I highly recommend!!! read more

This is by far the best jiu jitsu school in OC. From the instructors to the students, it's an all around amazing atmosphere. 5 minutes after the class began I knew I found my new jiu jitsu home and family. If you want to learn jiu jitsu or improve your jiu jitsu game this is the place to be. Clean facility. Great learning atmosphere. Amazing coaches!! read more

Anyone with any remote interest in the sport will know that BJJ studios are a dime a dozen in the OC. Working and living in Irvine, I make the decision each day to drive past a large sum of those gyms to be where I feel I will grow the most, not only in my BJJ, but also as an individual. Since I've started coming here, both the adults and kids programs have grown exponentially, no undoubtedly to the credit of the high caliber of training offered. If you have a child interested in self defense and/or martial arts, try your luck here. Anthony blends in with all the kids and makes them feel right at home no matter what the personality type. On top of physical fitness, patience and respect are a nice side effect you'll begin to see grow after a few weeks here. ;) As for the adults, it does not matter what your age or gender may be, everyone is welcomed here. Literally people from all walks of life can come to the mat and be stripped of whatever outside labels you might have, and have the equal opportunity to train on common ground. If you are intimidated and afraid mentally to give it a shot, all you have to do is take that first step, and let the rest follow. What do you have to lose? And, as the old adage goes, "I'd rather have a life of oh wells than a life of what ifs" ;) read more

Just moved to a new location. Our son has been training with Viper for a week now and it has been great. We spend about an hour-two hours a day training and our son loves it. It has made a big difference in his confidence and attitude. It's only been a week but I see the change. They have great classes for kids, reasonable monthly tuition, family discounts and it's fun. They are not pushy and will not push you into buying all the bells and whistles.. Just bring your kid or yourself and see what it's about! It is a smaller center.. Possibly family owned? I'm not really sure but it's easy going and all of the kids are great and parents are friendly. read more

Grapplers Studio is bar none the most unique and best of breed martial arts academy in Orange County. I brought my three boys here because of their renowned kids programs consisting of BJJ, wrestling and Pankration. Laericio Fernandes (a multiple world champion), Anthony Frank (world-class wrestler) and Jon Frank (overall bad ass) are some of the best coaches I've had the honor of my kids training under. Their daily programs are regimented, follow a curriculum and push our boys past their comfort zone which has helped them excel in every other facet of their lives including academics and social assertiveness. Their Competitive BJJ, wrestling and Pankration teams are constantly sweeping tournaments and taking medals. If you are serious about putting your kids in a top notch school this is the place. Laericio, Anthony and Jon are humble, kind and very knowledgable people inside and outside the mat and I am blessed to call them friends too. Oh, I forgot to mention their adult BJJ program is in a world of its own. Student come from all over just to train here because the studio embodies so much prestige and knowledge. We will be here for a long time and be part of our boys journeys in getting their black belts one day and turning into humble, confident and altruistic adults. Come check them out! read more

My daughter and husband have been training Jiu-Jitsu here for a little over 1 year now and they wouldn't want to train anywhere else. Professor laercio and coach Anthony have so much passion and dedication towards the sport and their students. Classes are everyday with a good schedule for kids as well as adults, my daughter has gain so much discipline and knowledge practicing Jiu-jitsu and the most important has been the respect towards others kids inside and outside of the mats. Big thank you the professor Laercio and coach Anthony. read more

I love these guys , My kids LOVE this place.. U need to come check it out Coach Anthony Frank BIG thanks for the love and support u give the kids read more

This place is above and beyond. My son used to go elsewhere for Jiu Jitsu, but what they offer here is definitely what we've been looking for. He's been coming here for 2 months now, they were very understanding about our transition to this place and helped us out, our son now does Jiu Jitsu, pankration and wrestling! He absolutely loves coming here. So far we're very pleased with what he's doing, hoping for him to do some tournaments soon! read more

I went there for a free class. Everyone was really nice. Strong and humble. The instructor is Elite. The brown belt there are on point and helpful. The mats were clean and the kids program looks really good. This is a great technical school. They also offer Muay Thai and No Gi. I Would like to train here. read more

LOVE THIS PLACE!!! It's very clean and spacious. There's a nice sitting area for parents and friends to watch the students in training. The coaches are great and very dedicated! My boys have been enjoying training at this gym. read more

There's absolutely no doubt this place is 5 Stars. Prior to coming to Grappler's Studio last year, I was completely new to BJJ. A friend of mine who was familiar with many of the local BJJ training facilities had three boys that trained there and said that I should give their adult program a try. Although excited to start BJJ, I was also extremely nervous as I had no idea what to expect. I was such a newbie that I didn't even know what the terms pass, sweep, or side control meant. I didn't even know how to tie a belt. That nervousness quickly dissipated as I soon realized how welcoming everyone was. The head coaches, Laercio (BJJ), Anthony (Wrestling), and Mike (Muay Thai) are top notch and a huge inspiration to so many kids and adults. They change lives for the better. I see it everyday that I train there. The club as a whole is a close knit group that trains hard, but at the same time remains considerate to training partners to avoid unnecessary injuries. The atmosphere and camaraderie is indescribable. It's a true reflection of Grappler's Studio teachings as well as the type of people that have stayed for the long haul. I've definitely gotten my fair share of bruises from getting smashed or choked, but I'm learning a lot and loving every minute of this BJJ journey. read more

New to Jiu jitsu, out of shape, needing motivation?....Don't worry Grapplers Studio will help you with all of the above. Professor Laercio Fernandes, coaches Anthony Frank and Jon Frank do a phenomenal job with articulating the Alliance/Cobrinha jiu jitsu system. I've never been pushed harder, been more excited and felt more accomplished then finishing a class with these great teachers, teammates and now friends. They have classes for all skill levels and ages (5-60 yrs old!!). Be ready to have your life changed for the better. read more