I would first like to address a review by Natalie B on 9/30/15. Both my children read your review and laughed. They both have been "monkey bit" and assured me that it neither hurt or left a bruise, so to say that Sensei Paul misused his position of power is quite laughable. My son added that he sometimes sits on Sensei Paul just so he gets a monkey bite! Ok, back to my real review of MWJJ, I signed my son up with hesitation about 4 years ago. He was pretty active, following directions and sitting still was not his strong suit. My daughter started a year later, a quiet girl that did not speak up for herself and lacked a strong sense of self confidence. Something amazing happened once they started working with Sensei Paul, his wonderful Leadership students and staff, my son sat quietly and paid attention to the lessons and my daughter became more confident in speaking up for herself and others. The Staff is some of the friendliest, they make a point to come around and talk to all of us during our child's lesson and they are more than happy to answer any and all questions. I feel that is really important, for the staff to want to talk to us and not just sit behind the counter waiting for us to come up to them. The training at MWJJ is focused with a method and order to the instruction. Skills are built up one after another and recalled in such a way that you'll remember them when you need them. There is a definite emphasis on good solid technique and execution with a lot of good old-fashioned drilling. This is not a belt factory, whether you're in an adult class or children's class you will need to know the techniques to EARN your next belt. This makes my children work hard and focus on all their needed techniques. They feel proud when Sensei Paul ties their EARNED belt on their waist. Sensei Paul cares about each and every student, adult or child he wants them to succeed. You will really feel like a part of the family at MWJJ, it is a great environment for everyone. It honestly doesn't matter who you are or what your goal is because there truly is a place for everyone here. Come check it out, you won't regret it! read more

My relationship with martial arts started over 30 years ago and has span four different disciplines. I am a father of two and an entrepreneur in my 40s. I learned of Metrowest Academy from my pediatrician after I informed her that I was seeking a dojo for my kids (ages 7 and 11 at the time). I had already visited a half-dozen schools without finding what I was seeking. On her recommendation I brought my kids in for the trial and was immediately struck by Sensei Paul's skillfull education of the class. He treated them as near to adults as they could be expected to handle, with a firm but empathetic tone. The school of training he provides is heavily focused on practical self defense. After two weeks of watching the kids take classes I couldn't hold out any longer and signed myself up for the adult class, and I'm glad I did. It is often said that the best measure of a person is the quality of their friends. If one extends this approach to a sensei and his students, then Sensei Paul is truly outstanding. There are times that I'm tempted to skip a class but the opportunity to go work out with the excellent community at the dojo will tip the scales and I'll go to class. No ego trip for the sensei, scare tactics about the dangerous world, or pressure to go compete for the school. Just an excellent education in self defense, self-control, and maturity, taught by and with great people. read more

When I first started at this academy, I honestly thought it couldn't get any better. Now, as years have gone by, it's completely motivated by favorites. You're only appreciated if you spend a lot of money at the Academy, or kiss ass. I have also witnessed an issue at the academy which forced a student to leave. It was handled very poorly, and is also an example of how spending a lot of money at the academy will give you higher status. There's also an issue with students whop have learning disabilities; I have witnessed mistreatment of these students. It's as if Paul doesn't care about the students because he feels they're a lost cause. It's also very cliquey. It's very weird that the 25 year old behind the desk is best friends with 17 year old girls, and also that there is alcohol in the establishment. I saw a post on Instagram last night by the head instructor of one of the underage employees posing next to it. I just hope they aren't all drunk when they're teaching classes. Also, I have seen posts of the Sensei being inappropriate towards the children. This is true, and I also suspect he's doing misconduct with the underage employees. I also feel bad for one of the employees, because I see her doing a lot of work, while the others sit behind the desk on their phones. I forget her name. I wish this academy stayed the way it was when it was first opened. read more

Our twin 11-year-old daughters have been attending classes at Metrowest Academy of Jiu Jitsu in Natick for 5 years, slowly but surely building up to the rank of brown belt. In those 5 years the Academy has become a home away from home for the girls as Sensei Paul has certainly increased their knowledge of the art of Jiu Jitsu but, more importantly, their confidence, leadership ability, self esteem, and overall ability to handle any situation. Both girls have been voted into the dojo's Black Belt Club because of their level of dedication and commitment and one has achieved Leadership Team status and, as such, can now teach the younger kids and mentor her peers. Neither of these ranks was "given", instead they have worked for them and, at times, failed and failed again. Sensei Paul is eminently fair but increasingly tough on them as they advance through the ranks - leading both of them to learn that a number of failures leading to eventual earned success is much more rewarding than success on its own. Perhaps one of life's most valuable lessons. My girls' goals are now to achieve black belt status and are planning to stay at the Academy for as long as they can. What was once just a way to get some exercise is now the girls' way of life. Soccer and trumpet are great but I hope they continue at Jiu Jitsu for many years to come. read more

My son joined MWAA 3 years ago. He was a very shy, anxious boy who struggled in so many ways - including his self esteem. He was not a team sport type of kid - so we went on the search for some type of activity to interest him and to help him find his "own pack". We were able to meet with Sensei Paul and talk about our son, and then have a one to one private intro session w/ him to see if our son would even be interested. Love at first site. We joined and we were coached along the way - as our son would even be too shy to test for a belt infront of others. Sensei and Allison walked us thru and held our hands and guided our son. No punches pulled-they said he would be able to do this on his own terms in his own time. Well, after many many months, our son finally found the strength and courage to stand up in front of a group and test for his first belt. Brought tears to our eyes when he finally found his way on his own terms, in his own way...just like Sensei said. This place does more than prepare children/kids to defend themselves. It helps prepare them for real life - with all the ups, downs, rejection, and acceptance. It teaches them confidence in themselves, in others, to do the right thing and to be a good person. We are very grateful for this safe place where kids learn life lessons. read more

My wife and I looked at a number of martial arts schools across the Metrowest area for our son (then 6 years old). Many of the facilities we visited were filled with drill sergeant styled instructors barking out orders from the front of the room to a sea of humanity. What made Metrowest Academy our choice was the way Sensei Paul was able to connect with our son and adapt his instructions to meet the understanding level of a 6 yr old in terms that apply to scenarios he may encounter in his life. Another key point that makes Metrowest Academy stand out is the atmosphere of coaching and mentoring that is encouraged amongst the more experienced students towards the more junior students. This coaching model aids the junior students by having someone who is just a bit older (maybe by a few years/grades) help them refine their basic skills. It also fosters a tighter community feeling amongst the entire student population. Is there structure? Very much so. Is there discipline? Of course. Is there any environment where children of all varieties have the opportunity to learn and grow in both Jujitsu and generally? Yes beyond any doubt. I highly recommend Metrowest Academy. It will be one of those decisions you make as a parent where you can honestly reflect back and say "I got that one right". read more

What an amazing dojo! My husband and I can't say enough positive things about Metrowest Academy. Our son has been taking jiu jitsu for over 3 years and our experience has been top notch. Sensei Paul is great with the kids. He teaches them discipline and respect and the very important skill of self defense. We are always amazed that he knows every child's name. Our son has grown so much in the past 3 years and we credit a great deal of it to his jiu jitsu classes. Allison (the dojo manager) always greets with a smile from behind the front desk and is eager to answer any questions. The dojo is kept meticulously clean and the programs they run for the kids (Parents Night Out, Haunted Dojo, Summer Camps) are fun and make them feel part of a team. We've even had a birthday party here and it was of our son's favorite parties to date! He couldn't wait to show off the dojo to his friends and play dodge ball, nerf wars and dragon tail. We highly recommend Metrowest Academy to families looking to teach their children about teamwork, discipline and respect. read more

You just cannot find a better martial arts school than this one. I've been there for 4 years and when I moved to Boston, continued to drive out here because it is that much better than even the Boston dojos... The only exception being the sister school to this one, the Theodorou Academy in Watertown (which I also frequent and recommend). You want a beautiful, big place to practice with plenty of mat space? That's here. You want an instructor who is knowledgeable? Sensei Paul can talk your ear off about the finer points of any specific technique or skill set you want and will show you ways to make yours more efficient/more painful/whatever. There's even a bunch of other assistant instructors floating around most classes that had to attend a long class and pass an exam in order to be qualified to teach - so you won't get any bologna even from the lower ranked instructors! The only thing you won't find here is a bad attitude - this place is everything you could want. read more

As you can imagine, as an international superstar I am often riddled with requests begging for endorsements, but I will not budge for anyone but the very best. Yet I find myself pulled - no, compelled - to write a review of Metrowest Academy, where I have made many colourful friends amongst the friendly cast of characters at that establishment. Some of my friends call me difficult, but I just need to feel that the moment is right. And those folks at Metrowest really make me flip head over heels. Whats more they make it so natural - not contrived or awkward. They even convinced my friend Tony! Every time I visit the academy I'm amazed at how well they prepare for whatever surprises life brings, and are ready to take advantage of the situation. I wholeheartedly endorse The Metrowest Academy in Natick. Sincerely, Major Hipthrow read more

Metrowest Academy is absolutely amazing! My son has been going since he was just under 4 years old (now 7.5 yrs.) The class was structured perfectly for that age group so that the kids were learning, getting exercise and having fun! Now in the kids class, things are more serious, but the kids are still having fun while learning! Sensei Paul is great at keeping things new and exciting and coming up with creative ways to teach! Aside from the classes, he puts together many activities for the kids and families - Parents Night Out, Family BBQ's, bring your parents on the mat, fundraising events and food drives. The staff is amazing as well, always friendly and smiling! Metrowest Academy is not just a great place to learn Jiu Jitsu, it's become a community! read more

My son has been with MWAJJ for over a year now. Started as a little ninja and now is in kids level. My son is not rough and tough like most kids his age. He is well behaved and soft spoken and is often bullied at school for it. He is also small for his age. In just a year he has gain real world confidence and self defense skills. They have fun and learn a lot. He is always excited to go. the staff members are wonderful and helpful, and it's a well run, safe and clean place. Sensei Paul, Sensei Allison and all the instructors are great. I recommend MWA to all our friends! Update: my son is now an orange belt now, loving JJ more than ever! He continues to grown in so many ways. I continue to support this academy and the wonderful staff. read more

Our son has been attending the academy for almost a year now. The academy teaches the kids so much more than Jiu Jitsu. My son is learning how to speak up for himself, how to be patient, and many other invaluable life lessons. Sensei Paul is fair, I have never seen him show favoritism in a class. Unlike another form of martial arts that I have seen else where, you don't advance in rank just for trying and doing ok. You need to practice, be prepared and know the material well to receive the strip or belt you are testing for. It is refreshing to see how at even a young age, while having fun, these children are being taught that true hard work does pay off. The staff is wonderful, very personable, especially Allison. read more

I couldn't be a bigger fan of the program at Metrowest Academy and the confidence and the discipline that Sensei Paul instills in kids. The changes over the past 4 years have been particularly remarkable in my daughter who, like many young girls, can be timid, shy and unsure of herself. The classes are fun but they also focus on building skills and character. Through Dan testing and Belt testing, kids see that their focus and hard work pays off and that they can accomplish goals -- all of this builds confidence and a sense of self worth. Older kids have the opportunity to coach younger kids and to lead warm up exercises in their own classes -- this continues to build confidence and establish leadership skills. read more

My kids, now 9 and 13, have been at the academy for the past 3 years. Over the years I have seen their confidence build and their strength (both physical and mental) improve significantly. They have not only become stronger in Jiu Jitsu but the skills and confidence they have gained has had benefits in the other sports they play (soccer, basketball and baseball). They learn not only how to defend themselves but also valuable lessons on serving their community and values such as honesty and trust that reinforces what we teach them at home. In addition to teaching Jiu Jitsu the academy is a strong community itself where my kids have made many friendships as have my husband and myself. read more

My son and daughter joined Metrowest Academy a little over a year ago.(Ages 7 and 9) They have learned more than I could have every imagined about American Juijitsu and LOVE it! They have grown both physically and emotionally. I appreciate that there is a real life connection to what they learn and also the core value "word of the month" discussions. My children have a greater sense of body awareness, agility, perseverance and respect due to the teaching at Metrowest Academy and the dedicated staff. I believe that being part of this strong community will help them become prepared and active members in our world. read more

Jiu Jitsu at the Metrowest academy is a place to learn new things and meet new people. Jiu Jitsu is a calm and safe place to learn self defense. When you are there you should always be showing Sensei Paul the bushido code which includes loyalty, courage, veracity, compassion, and honor. You should also be showing this to peers, family, and friends. It is a important part of Jiu Jitsu that symbolizes it.Jiu Jitsu is an amazing sport to learn and you will enjoy learning about it throughout your journey in jiu Jitsu. Go try it now for 1$ a trial. You should try it now. read more

Our son started at mwajj about a year ago, he is a great kid but was very shy, jiu jitsu helped him feel more confident, made him more responsible and prepared not only in class but out as well. It has being a great experience, the staff is amazing, the senseis (Paul and Allison) really care about their students and are always asking how everything is going. They are always trying to help the community and always have fun activities out of the class schedule. We recommend 100% metrowest Academy of Jiu jitsu. Thank you so much for all you do. read more

What Sensei Paul and all the staff here, especially Allison, have created is nothing short of amazing. I fully believe that my kindergartener is having a successful first year in school due to the eight themes he learns every week in Ninjas class: coordination, fitness, discipline, teamwork, focus, balance, memory, control... I am so grateful that someday he might have leadership opportunities like the fantastic role models in the older kids groups. I can recommend MWAJJ for anyone of any age! read more

Metrowest Academy has so much to offer for every member of the family. People of all ages will enjoy the top-notch Jiu Jitsu instructions provided by Sensei Paul and his talented staff. For the other members of the family, the HIIT Kickboxing classes are a must try! These full body workout circuits will have you feeling great and looking your best in no time at all! I can't recommend this place enough! Great atmosphere and friendly people, parents nights, summer camp; this place has it all! read more