It's been such a great experience training here at DMBJJ. I've been training here for about a year and half...it's been awesome to see the progress my wife and I have both made. My wife and I train here as well as help with the kids classes. The kids classes: Professor Dimitrios keeps the kids attention by keeping it fun but engaging. Our kids have progressed so much in the time they have trained here I recommend this academy to all my friends and coworkers with children. Self defense as well as antibullying is taught here. Kids confidence grows and we are so happy with the kids progress. THE ADULT CLASS Has been a life changing experience for my wife and I. There's so much to learn it's like chess for the body. All the movements and how they connect into a very practical art that can be utilized for self defense and sport. Health and self defense benefits aside the academy has been a place where we have gained many friendships with those who train here. Professor Dimitrios and the other coaches are very knowledgeable in the art. I have done open mat sparring at other gyms since starting here at DMBJJ and always get complimented on techniques i use or how I hold up to higher belts from other gyms... that is a testament to the knowledge Professor disperses to us and the kids.. This is a great academy! Come on in a try a class! read more

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What can I say about this place, my daughter wanted to train in jiujitsu for a while, we checked out a few places and she did not liked them, we came to DM and she was hooked the owner Professor Dimitrios is amazing he teaching style is is so easy to understand, we started with kid wanted to join and now we have 3 of my 4 kids training here, including my self, I highly recommend this place to anyone that wants to learn self defense and get a good workout in. read more

After searching and trialing every single BJJ gym in the Lakewood/Cerritos/Signal Hill/Long Beach area (this process took over a month) - I decided that DM BJJ was the right fit for me. There is a distinctive difference between being excellent at a skill, and being able to teach that skill to others. While many of the other BJJ gyms in the area have very talented competitors with impressive resumes, none of them have the personal, focused, individualized instruction that I received at DMBJJ. Professor Dimitri has a style of teaching that brings the technical, nuanced details crucial to BJJ to each class and lesson. He doesn't just show a few techniques and say "go at it" - instead, he breaks down the important highlights, and he actually rotates among the groups during drills to help troubleshoot, answer questions, and help guide each training session. While there are many black/brown/purple belts at this gym, everyone is treated not only with respect, but with a sense of inclusiveness that I did not feel at many of the other gyms. Other gyms will have polite/friendly interactions, but the higher level belts and cliques will often break off (sometimes speaking Portuguese...), leaving you on your own to figure out your own techniques or find your own sparring partners. That does not happen at DMBJJ - the black belts are happy to roll technical with lower belts, and the mid level belts are happy to train up and push themselves, or train down and teach. There are no big egos here - even the most skilled practitioners here are friendly and offer education, training, and the perfect environment for learning. Really happy here, love the people, love the training, and hope to grow in my BJJ ground game with these guys and gals. read more

This is long over due. Two of my kids go here. They have been doing this for two years and what I love most, in addition to the skills of BJJ, is that the professor has a heart of gold and he knows how to interact with kids. This is a skill that you either have it or you, kind of, don't. He is firm but loving. He encourages and still challenges them. I didn't think my kids skill will translate to sparing but my daughter won a competition with an arm bar which I didn't think she had it in her to execute. She is super shy and it came out of no where. I think the professor and his staff was a big reason for this. My son loves loves to come and train. We live across town and drive pass a few BjJ places just to come here. On another note, I am. Sports medicine provider and understands the importance of ground game and the athletic skill that BJJ provides. It's invaluable. I am certified in Long term Athletic development, and the age of 4-12 years of age, ground game helps us to manage our body awareness for all sports where you are on two feet. I highly recommend this place!!!! read more

A great school for beginners and advanced students. Prof Dimitrios is a patient and intuitive teacher who cares about his students success. Hands down, I would recommend you try it out! read more

My child has been going to DM bjj for a few months now, we signed him up so that he would learn some self defense and hoped he'd grow a little self confidence. In such a short amount of time he has not only learned self defense but we have seen him change in so many positive ways. He walks tall, and has self confidence that radiates. Confidence, discipline, respect, manners, and details are just a few things that these professors teach. The character that is built into these kids in this academy is by far worth more than 5 stars. Every single coach has their own part in teaching and building these kids from the inside out. THANK YOU professor DM & coaches. read more

I have been training at DM BJJ 2 months and I will say I absolutely love it!! Super great environment; everyone is very helpful and welcoming. Professor Dimitrious is very helpful in guiding you and teaching you to execute perfect technique. I highly recommend this gym to anyone starting out their martial arts journey and/or want to get in shape! I can not wait to continue to grow and thrive with thus team! read more

Very professional atmosphere. My kid loves this class! She was shy at first, but she was so welcomed and she's so happy to be here. :) read more

DM Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Inside the gym. :) - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Lakewood, California

I have been training here for over a year. BJJ was/is completely new to me. The academy has a good mix of newer and more experienced people, as well as varying degrees of competitiveness. Professor Dimitri does a fantastic job of simplifying the drills and movements for a person of my skill level that is new (and older in age) to the sport. The more experienced people have been very patient and supportive. I highly recommend giving DMBJJ a look. read more

Super great environment. Great team at DMBJJ. In just a year I feel like I obtained a new family.

Dmbjj is a great place for both starting your jiu jitsu journey and for those who have experience looking for a new academy. This academy has a very welcoming environment and friendly people that are always willing to help those looking to build their jiu jitsu game. I highly recommend this academy to everyone! read more

I signed my son up a couple months ago and it was the best thing for him. He has learned so much from his professors and coaches. Professor Dimitri teaches the kids discipline and encourages them to be their best . I never have to worry about safety protocol, all the kids are taken care of with sanitizer before and after classes and can choose to use masks while practicing. I have referred DM jiujitsu to my friends for their kids. read more

Best jiu jitsu around town! After searching and trying out a few different academies, DM was the best by far. Professor Dimitrios' attention to detail for the technique is unmatched. If you're looking for a welcoming environment and great training, this is the spot! read more

Adult classes: Absence of structure makes it difficult to attend week in and week out. In 11 months I had no access to the curriculum. I was confused about what exactly I was working towards and the non existent communication made me not want to come at all. The little Spartans classes seemed to teach technique at random. Favoritism towards the more athletic kids was overt and quite frankly blatant. As an educator myself I could not understand why this continued knowing that most of the kids who attend were there to learn defense against bullying, not to be snapped at for being typical 6yr olds. The anxiety it caused my son was unacceptable so I pulled him out. I gave 3 stars because I did learn a few things there and the people were very friendly... But it seems almost forced and to be perfectly honest, very "cult like". We weren't happy here and felt like we weren't welcome some days so we left a month before the contract ran out. read more

DMBJJ is an amazing place. I started training in June/2013. Before this academy I went to a few other ones to check them out. All the other places around my area were not as professional or well organized like DMBJJ. What I like the most is that you don't have big headed guys in there. The academy has "leave your ego at the door" in the front window, and I can say that truly applies to this academy. The first time I went to check this place out everyone came to shake my hand an introduce themselves, that's when I noticed how professional this place was and knew that this was the place for me. EVERYONE helps each other out. Being taught by a black belt is amazing, Professor Dimitrios is very detailed in his instructions on technique. I was nervous going in there the first time just getting to meet knew people and didn't know what to expect, but everyone is super humble. Come check this place out, and expect me to shake your hand and introduce myself when you show up! If your looking for an amazing, respectable place to train this is the Academy you want to be at! DMBJJ! Come get your roll on! Oss! read more

DM Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Part of the DMBJJ family. - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Lakewood, California

I have trained martial arts my whole life. This is by far the finest instructions and the best group of people to train with. Professor dimitrius is a world class instructor and Bjj athlete. Highly recommended for weight loss, self defense and fun. read more

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DM jiu jitsu Academy is probably the best out there! Well explained and a great attitude. 10/10 recommend this place!! All of the students there have made me feel welcomed and I never felt awkward or embarrassed in class. -Felisa Rodriguez (student) read more

My two kids and I both train at this academy, and absolutely love it. The boys have been in the kid's classes for almost a year now, and have learned valuable tools that they will carry with them outside of the academy. There is a strong emphasis on healthy living, anti bullying, self defense, in addition to learning the sport of JuiJitsu. Professor Dimetrious teaches some of the kids classes himself, and is really great at promoting a welcoming and family style atmoshpere. I started training about 6 months ago, and take the Women's Self Defense Class, as well as several Essential classes for beginniners. Everyone at this acedemy helps one another, and the mutual respect for the teamates and the sport is evident from the moment you step in the door. If you are thinking of learning the sport, or just wanting to gain some self defense knowledge, this is the place to be. All are welcomed with open arms, regardless of size, shape, or skill level. You get into great shape and meet some pretty amazing people along the way! read more

This review is long overdue. I can't believe it's been a year already since my son started at DMBJJ Academy. My son started out in another BJJ Gym and I was not very impressed. He was new and didn't really know much about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The instructor there was not very attentive or patient. My son was getting frustrated and so I was frustrated as well. That's when my wife and I decided to look for another place that teaches BJJ since my son liked it. I am so Thankful that I found Professor Dimitrios Mavraganis and Coach Eric. They understood my concerns and assured me that DMBJJ Academy was different and that they would take care of my son. So we enrolled him in the Spartan Kids program. From day one I could tell the difference. The professor and coaches would take their time and explain to the kids what they were teaching. They were very helpful and patient. They made the learning fun for the kids. Don't get me wrong, it's not all fun and games. They have the right combination of discipline and teaching for the kids. I can't believe the physical and mental change my son has undergone. He's much more confident and definitely more fit and healthy. My son loves this sport and this academy. Thank you very much Professor Dimitrios and all the Coaches. So, if anyone is looking for a great Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school. Look no further a try a free class at DMBJJ Academy. You won't regret it. Plus, when you sign up. I believe you get a Free Gi with registration. The other BJJ schools I went to didn't offer a Free Gi, we had to purchase our own. So, that's another Plus!!! read more

We scheduled a free trial class, which our child really enjoyed. The instructors and the older kids were very helpful and the class ran at a good pace. Because the class seemed like a great fit at the time, the rating given is from a lack of communication afterwards. The next day, after the class, we decided to enroll our child. From that point we left voice messages and e-mails asking to how to enroll, none of which were returned. From there, we looked around and found a dojo that our child absolutely loves being a part of. It's a dojo that we've referred and brought in other family friends and their kids to join. Not sure why the lack of communication or not wanting our family to join DM Jiu- Jitsu Academy. Guess it was meant to be this way. But we're thankful for it. read more

My son has been attending for the past 3 months and has benefited from learning about discipline, self defense and now has a healthy outlet to manage stress and academic pressure. The instructors are caring and patient and prioritize safety for the students and promote care and respect amongst the participants. read more

I practiced BJJ 12 years ago and unfortunately had to stop because of work and life commitments.   Now with a son, I wanted to have an activity that we  could both share and enjoy together.  I researched a couple of BJJ schools in the area, and after watching a couple of classes, I was very impressed with Professor Dimitrios and the coaches who help teach both the kids and adult classes.  DMBJJ has a great atmosphere and all the students have been very cordial and very willing to help out with your training in every way. The curriculum is great and challenging.   We were very blessed to find this school.  Come in and train!  Oss! read more

I joined the academy June 2013. One of the best decisions that I have made in my life was joining DMBJJ. The academy is filled with great and helpful people. Everyone at this academy is respectful of one another. Professor Dimitrios is highly knowledgeable and always eager to help his students. Aside from the regular BJJ class, I also recently joined the women's self defense class. I highly recommended this class to all women, as it teaches not only skills that can possibly save your life, but also provides great fitness. Before joining this academy, I tried out a few others, but they didn't compare to the instruction and environment at DMBJJ. I recommend DM academy to everyone. Come try it out and I guarantee you will not regret the decision. Professor Dimitrios offers a free trial, but it only took one class for me to realize that this was the academy where I wanted to train. read more

I have been a member of this school for about 6 months now. When I first stepped in the academy, I wasn't sure what to expect. I walked in and sat in the guest area to watch while Professor Dimitrios was teaching that day's lesson. The professor is very professional and super knowledgeable in the art of Brazilian jiu jitsu. He's very approachable, which makes it easy to ask questions you may have about joining. This place has a great environment for learning and fine tuning your own jiu jitsu game. Although higher belts will always give you pointers during rolls or drills, majority of the time it's Prof. Dimitrios who corrects you. Prior to finding this place, I was determined on finding a Muay Thai school because I used to train Muay Thai and loved it. I would train some no-gi with some friends but it wasn't a structured academy taught by a black belt. This is the first time I've ever trained in gi jiu jitsu, and I gotta tell you, I don't regret it. Don't get me wrong, I still would like to find a close Muay Thai place to do some stand up, but I would not give up DMBJJ for it. If you're even reading these reviews, come into the academy to see how a class is ran. If you like it and are interested, the prof will have you sign a waiver and you can try it out! Everyone is very friendly and will make you feel welcome to join the class. Oh and if you have trained bjj somewhere else and are looking for a new place, I bet you'll learn a lot from joining here. Great place to grow as any level bjj practitioner. read more

My daughter has been in the kids class for over 3 years and we have never had any problems with the class due to insufficient room for everyone to train. The coaches make sure that the kids have plenty of room to move in and around. They have masks available and sanitizer in the front and back of the gym and the staff cleans the mats each and every day. Before class all the kids line up for temperature check and hand sanitize also if the kids want to wear a mask that is up to them. Our Professor has followed all COVID protocol to make sure that our Academy is clean and sanitized for everyone. The one main thing I do like is that The Academy offers long term programs and also short term programs. I have never had any problems with billing and have always received a call back if I had any problems with my account. They are always will and able to help out. read more

DM Jiu-Jitsu is exactly what I was looking for. Excellent instruction, great classes, and a friendly atmosphere. A fantastic academy whether you are new or have experience. Check it out! read more

I've been training here for 4 1/2 years now. In that time, I've always felt that this is the place for me. When I started my training, I was pretty nervous for the first week or so, but that was only because I knew my skills weren't there yet, and I felt the need to keep up. Everyone was always so approachable and willing to help, and it definitely gave me a boost of confidence. DMBJJ quickly became a second home for me. Professor Dimitrios has a way of teaching that I've never experienced before. He's detailed, patient, and passionate about the techniques we learn. It's evident that he truly cares about the growth of each of his students. Everything from the high level instruction, great teammates, and positive atmosphere sets DMBJJ above the rest. Whether you're looking for a hobby, to compete, self defense, or just to get in great shape, look no further than DMBJJ. read more

4/5 of my family takes classes at DMBJJ. I would highly recommend it to anyone thinking about trying BJJ. The kids program is a perfect mix of structure and fun. It's really helped my oldest to be more confident and strong. I participate in the women's self defense. The curriculum is straight to the point on how to successfully defend yourself in any situation. The Professors and coaches are very helpful and make learning new techniques easy to understand and do. Everyone is very friendly and respectful. They aren't just trying partners but friends. read more

My son has been coming to the Academy for 4 years. During this time, not only has he improved athleticly but he has gained a lot of confidence in himself. Professor Dimitrios spends a lot of time with the kids going over many real life bullying and self defense situations. His lessons are well explained with 100% focus on safety. He will explain why the move will work and then the precise details followed by partner practice. I can't recommend the Acadamy enough as it has helped my son immensely in every walk of his life. read more

My two daughters attended a couple of introductory classes at DMBJJ. Coach Suzy is be patient and encouraging, yet firm with the kids which I liked. One thing that stood out for me was how respectful and well-mannered the other students (kids) were during the class, both helping my daughters with specific maneuvers and practicing drills. It felt like there was real comradery amongst the students and I believe this truly is a reflection of the school and the way in which it is being run. Kudos to Professor Dimitrios, who by the way is Awesome! Approachable and very Professional. I would definitely recommend this place for anyone that is interested in learning to be proficient in Brazilian Jujutsu or have children that want to develop a skill they can use for life. read more

First of all, at least when I went to this gym, there was a ten day free-trial offer. So you get a risk-free, good opportunity to see if this is the gym for you or not. So even if you choose no, I respect that they let you get a good look at the gym. Which is part of why I rated this five stars. The instructor is a nice guy. He's friendly, and helpful with technique. Most of the students are in the white/blue belt mix. Because of this the gym will naturally be more white-belt friendly, and would likely be a good place to get started. The pricing is around average. Maybe a hair high on a relative basis, but still more-or-less in line with most gyms. read more

I have always enjoyed martial arts, but after blowing my knees out in high school wrestling, I had a very hard time finding a martial art I could practice without re-injuring myself. I was referred to DM BJJ by a good friend who knew I was looking for a place to train. I have now been training there for several months and I can't say enough great things about the place or the team. DM BJJ has high level instructors who make it easy to ask questions and always display a strong sense of respect for everyone who comes through the door. This high regard for respect is equally practiced by the students, which made it very easy for a first timer, like myself, to get the most out of my time on the mat. It doesn't matter if you are looking for a good workout, self defense training, or hardcore BJJ training- DM BJJ covers it all. It also doesn't matter what type of shape you're in. DM BJJ's training regiment can be adjusted to meet the needs of all body types. Take it from someone with a torn meniscus in both knees, DM BJJ offers an excellent training regiment that won't push your body too hard... Unless you're too prideful to tap. read more

I've been training BJJ for over 20 years now. I've had many coaches in that time. Professor Dimitri is one of the best. He's got something for everyone in this sport at every level, white belt through black belt. I live in Redondo beach, pretty much a mecca of BJJ training, multiple academies nearby, but I choose to make the drive to Lakewood to train with professor Dimitri. The overall attitude of a school comes from the top and filters down. When you go to the school, you'll see a sign on the wall that says "leave your ego at the door". Everyone does, and it facilitates learning. Wherever you are in your BJJ journey, give this place a try, I'm confident you'll like it! read more

I took the Women's Self Defense Seminar and this was the best $20 I spent all month! If I lived closer I would defiantly sign up for the women's class. The professor was extremely helpful and I loved that he played real life scenarios. Everyone was super friendly and now I can say I have the tools to use my body to get out of a scary situation. Thank you again Professor Dimetrious! read more

My sons have been attending DMBJJ for a year and a half and they love it here. The coaches are extremely patient with the younger kids and motivating yet appropriately stern with the older kids. The kids learn respect for their elders, each other, and most importantly, themselves. The jiu jitsu techniques are taught with "bully" scenarios in mind...the kids learn them as a defense and as a last resort (Talk, Tell, then Tackle). Self-confidence is learned and friendships are born here! The coaches incorporate jiu jitsu into the warm-up and concluding games the kids play. This motivates the kids to work hard and as a team. I have tried "free trials" at other martial arts locations and have found that DMBJJ's coaches and teaching strategies are the best. read more

This place hits home! My boyfriend and I were looking for a new school because we weren't feeling challenged with the program they had at our old school...and we found Dmbjj. We love it!! The ambiance is like that old school feel of training with your buddies in the garage with dope music; there's ample people in each belt rank and man are there woman at this school. Everyone rolls uniquely in there own way...and I love it! read more

DM Jiu-Jitsu Academy - No-GI tuesdays - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Lakewood, California

Updating review after 1.5 yrs. We are very happy with the kids program. My son has grown tremendously in athletic skills, learning to speak up, raising hands to ask questions, and other skills he didn't have before we started BJJ here. He is motivated by the stripes and belt he has earned so far and has worked up in rank. Professor is great and I appreciate how he recognize the growth and improvements of his students. Lots of encouragements are given by Professor and volunteer parent coaches. Most of all my son enjoyed classes and BJJ has raised up his confidence all around. read more

I was looking for place for my son and me to train together. We tried other places before we went DMBJJ Academy. The first thing I noticed was that everyone greeted us with a hand shake and made us feel at ease. We came in without a clue of what Jiu-Jitsu really was; we did our free trail in February and have been hooked ever since. If you are looking for a place with NO meat-heads, students that are always willing to help you, Patient and Excellent instructors, DMBJJ is the place for you. read more

I have been wanting to write this review for some time. Our daughter has been in the Monday & Wednesday little Spartans class for almost two years now, which is geared towards the fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu and implementing techniques against bullies. When we first started,the class was taught by Professor Dimitri and I believe that the class was no more than 8 kids. If you ever have the opportunity to be taught or have your child be taught by Professor, you will see that he has a true passion for Jiu-Jitsu and his approach to teaching is excellent. Every once in awhile we have him as a sub when Coach Suzy is out and my daughter gets so excited.(it's really cute) Which brings me to another star in my daughters training. Coach Suzy.. There truly isn't enough good things to say about her. She was truly meant to teach little ones. She is patient, motivational, provides discipline and expectations. She explains techniques at a level for the children to really remember.She always gives 100% when she is with the kids. My daughter has learned so much from her and my husband and I feel so fortunate to have found this place for our daughter. The little Spartans class has really grown since we started and because of the people that teach it is only going to continue to grow. read more

Took me a few months to decide to give Jiu Jitsu a chance. Then it took me a few more months to find the right school. I looked into a few big and small named schools in the area. I took some advice from some good friends that have been training for many years brown and purple belts. They said find a personal school some where your professor actually teaches class!!!! Cut to the chase and forward 1 year later heres what Ive learned and why I feel I made the right choice in DM BJJ. I figured going into it an art like Jiu Jitsu all schools would be the same. Definitely not the case! After my 3rd month I finally understood why my friends pushed me to find a personalized school like DM BJJ. Couple of things that stand out to me and keep me coming back . Professor Dimitrios focuses on both the sport side and self defense side of Jiu Jitsu. Professor really is hands on with each and every one of his students which makes me respect him even more. I appreciate the one on ones after class and the bond he creates in the acadamy between all the students higher and lower belts. Professor is patient but at the same time lets you know when something needs attention and correction. I really enjoy also seeing a different perspective of the art from the higher belts and coaches. The coaches do a good job on focusing on technic and drilling until things are right and always keeping a positive environment. From day 1 I felt more than welcomed when I walked through the doors and its part of the reason I've become hooked to the art. I knew nothing about martial arts before DM BJJ but happy to say at 38 years old I'm in the best shape of my life. Jiujitsu has forever changed my outlook on life. Happy that I've found an art that truly inspires me to learn something thats always evolving. Its changed my thought process taught me to eat clean, think smart, be patient and how to put someone on his back if he pisses me off. Even more so, very happy that I've found a new family and a place I can call home. Osssssss! read more