This academy stands out because of its culture…read more The instruction is excellent, and also what really makes this place special is the people. The coaches teach the details behind each technique instead of just showing moves, so you learn not only what to do, but why it works. That approach has made a huge difference in my own understanding of jiu-jitsu. The atmosphere is welcoming and respectful. Whether you're brand new or have years of experience, everyone is treated like they're part of the team. The advanced belts are approachable, the training is challenging without feeling intimidating, and there is a genuine culture of helping each other improve. One thing I really appreciate is that standards are high. Progress and promotions feel earned, which creates an environment where people are motivated to keep learning and getting better. At the end of the day, a great academy isn't just measured by how good the instructors are--it's measured by the kind of community they build. This is a place where people enjoy training, support one another, and continue growing both on and off the mats. If you're looking for a jiu-jitsu academy with outstanding instruction, a winning competition team, a positive culture, and teammates who genuinely want to see you succeed, I highly recommend giving this place a try.

I really wanted to love this place because, to be fair, the quality of the Brazilian jiu jitsu…read moretraining here is excellent. The instructors clearly know what they're doing, and the kids' program is well-structured and engaging. However, as a parent, the overall experience leaves a lot to be desired. The biggest issue? No WiFi for parents. If you're going to have parents sitting around for an hour or more during classes, it's pretty unreasonable not to provide even basic internet access. Not everyone can just disconnect from work or responsibilities during that time. The waiting area is minimal, and without WiFi, you're essentially stuck doing nothing or burning through your mobile data. In this day and age, that feels like a pretty basic amenity that should be standard--especially for a place that otherwise operates at a high level. So yes, great training--but not a very parent-friendly environment. Until they address this, it's hard to fully recommend.

Box a little, grapple a little--because the real enemy isn't fatigue, it's boredom…read more Ever catch yourself on the treadmill thinking, 'There has to be something better than this'? There is. You could be doing cardio while sparring and grappling with other thinking, reacting opponents.

At Pacific Combat Arts Academy, it reminds you that nothing worthwhile comes easy. Every round…read moretests your body, your ego, and your mindset. The discipline built on the mats carries into every part of life, teaching resilience, humility, and consistency. Training here isn't just about learning to fight--it's about becoming healthier, stronger, and a better person every time you step off the mats.

Our 9 yr old son and 11 yr old daughter signed up for summer camps with Stephan. They loved it!…read more Stephan challenges the kids constantly but is always there to support and encourage their development. Bottom line, they had so much fun and would sign up with Stephan again in a heartbeat.

From the owner: Our BJJ program is lead by Ralph Gracie Black Belt Brian Fernandez and his students Jake DeIaco…read more(black belt) and Gavin Chase (brown belt). Jake DeIaco has been training 10 plus years and will be heading our kids' program (6 to 12 year olds). Gavin Chase leads the beginner classes. Mr. Fernandez has been leading the adult program for 9 plus years and has over 20 years of experience.

I've had an amazing experience training here! The atmosphere is welcoming, the facility is clean,…read moreand everyone is incredibly supportive. A special thank you to Coach Taidi, who is an outstanding instructor. He is patient, knowledgeable, and does an excellent job of breaking down techniques in a way that makes them easy to understand and apply. Whether you're a complete beginner or have experience in Jiu-Jitsu, Coach Taidi makes sure every student feels comfortable and challenged at the right level. His passion for teaching and dedication to his students truly stand out. I highly recommend this academy to anyone looking to learn Jiu-Jitsu in a positive, professional, and motivating environment!

I attended a handful of the BJJ fundamentals/beginner classes here and had a great experience…read more Professor Taidi is an excellent instructor, he explains very clearly and has a considerate awareness of everyone's level. Everyone I met with was nice and friendly. The gym itself is clean and modern, seems like it might have been renovated recently. I've taken BJJ classes at a few different places and this has been the best so far. Would recommend.

Really love this boxing gym, can't say enough about the coaches, owners, and the community here…read more This was my first boxing gym and I came in with zero experience. Jake and the team were super welcoming, I was having fun in my first class and I've been going ever since. The energy in this place is great, plenty of begginers so you're never the only one, and plenty of folks with a lot of experience that you can learn from. Solid vibes, great coaching, good equipment - you'll have fun and learn a lot. Side note: All the coaches I've worked out with are great, but Michael, Alexey, and Troy particularly stand out.

I signed up for a membership with Coach Jake after taking the 7:45 Tuesday boxing class with Coach…read moreJacob. I had so much fun that I had to sign up. I live in San Jose though, so getting there consistently was tough, but the class was honestly that good that I was willing to make the drive. I mentioned this to Coach Jake and he was very understanding. He told me to sign up and that if it didn't work out, I could just let him know and cancel without any issues. That's ultimately what happened because the distance made it hard to keep up, but during the few months I was a member, I had an amazing time. The energy, the coaching, and the overall vibe made every class something I looked forward to. Really appreciate the experience. Thanks again, Bay Area Boxing!

We attended this studio for a year. We would have left sooner but they make you sign a one year…read morecontract and buy their expensive branded uniform. They give you a one week free trial and they put on a good show in front of the parents. Once they have you locked in for a year everything changes. The class sizes are huge. There are not enough coaches for one on one instruction. Your child becomes just a number and they are not personable with the parents unless your child is one of their favorites. They use sexist language like, "don't cry! What are you a girl?" They mock, yell at and tease the students. They take away stripes as punishment if your child speaks during class. If any of that is your style maybe you will like it. The instruction is sub par. My child is excelling at their new studio. People go to Gracie because of the name and you will see a lot of rich, affluent parents chatting with each other out front. On another note. Parking is terrible and there is nothing to do on that street, not even a coffee shop. Classes are at the height of traffic. I do not recommend this studio. *edit. We were told that we were REQUIRED to sign a one year contract. The response to me below means either they have changed that policy or the response is untruthful. I stand by every word of my review. I was made to sign a contract.

Both of my sons started training here when they were 6 years old, and they are now 11 and 13. The…read morecoaching has been EXCELLENT throughout their training. The coaches are firm and technical, but also fun, caring, thoughtful, and understanding; my kids love it here! My older, quieter son has developed strength and confidence, and my younger, energetic son has learned to manage his strong emotions; skills they didn't even realize they were developing through their training and amazing coaches! As a single mom, I really appreciate the support and teaching from each of the coaches, not only in jiujitsu, but also in strong positive values, compassion, mindfulness, and community. The coaches take the time to individualize their training to each student's personality and needs, and I have been awed at times by their patience. Students learn the importance of respect/kindness for others, regardless of differences; they learn to feel comfortable and confident with themselves and with peers. This inspired me to also start training 2 years ago, as I saw that the classes, coaches, and students are all so welcoming! And I have noticed positive changes both physically and mentally (much needed with 2 kids and work!). The school has always been understanding and flexible to our schedule and genuinely tries to work with families' various needs to the best of their ability. Coach Cris and Larissa are both wonderful to work with, and their kindness has fostered this community that many have commented "feels like family" (it really does!). My kids have developed long-lasting friendships where classmates stay to have dinner after class with us (next door at PJ's Pizza!), and I am finding the same sense of family in the adult classes. My sons and I are so fortunate to have found Charles Gracie San Mateo!!

The best place to learn martial arts in bay area. The focus is on learning the martial arts…read moretechniques well. We are so glad we found this place. Mr.Agoff and his family are such nice people. We absolutely love this place :) Both me and my 7 year daughter are his students. Highly recommend!! Definitely check this place. You will not be disappointed.

I couldn't be more pleased with my experience at Bay Area Martial Arts. The instructor (Mike Agoff)…read morefocuses on martial training that is practical for everyone to learn regardless of age. The physical aspects of the training is also challenging and rewarding. The sense of community has also been fantastic for myself and my 6 year old. I highly recommend anyone in the area come check it out if you are looking to develop practical fighting techniques, improve physical fitness or simply learn something new that engages both mind and body.

The culture Prof. Leandro has built stands out. Respect, discipline, excellence. It shows up in…read moreeverything. My 15 year old son is a different kid. The way he carries himself, his confidence, his attitude. All of it has changed for the better. And we see it beyond the mats. His teachers notice it at school too. So glad I made him take those first few classes.

All of the coaches and professors are amazing teachers. The facility is very clean. Great for kids…read moreof all ages and adults. Two of my sons attend Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, ages 13 and 9. The professors are extremely friendly, patient and attentive, they teach the kids self defense, respect, confidence and discipline. My boys absolutely love going. I highly recommend Charles Gracie.