The hands-down best decision we've made was to sign up our boys (7&8) to join the Phenom family. And by family, I mean a team of warm, friendly, supportive, encouraging, and respectful people (professors, kids, AND parents alike). We had been thinking about involving the boys in BJJ for a while, so when we saw a Groupon in Dec 2017 for Phenom not too far away (we live in Irvine), we jumped on the chance to try it out. The boys were understandably nervous on the first day, but they were welcomed with big smiles and open arms. My oldest son, 7 at the time, was terrified, and Professor Martin was incredibly patient with him. He let him sit on the edge of the mat to watch the other kids train--no pressure, only encouragement. He explained to us that many kids are scared on the first day, but eventually feel comfortable and jump in. Sure enough, our son felt more at ease and joined the class on the second session (and he hasn't looked back!). Since we started, we've been going 2-3 times every week. My boys have progressed impressively, and I can see a tangible difference in their self confidence and discipline. In fact, while playing at the park recently, another child got angry when he was chosen to be "it" and charged my youngest son, knocking him down and landing on top of him. My son instinctively flipped him over so he was on the top and put him into a hold until the child's mom came over to take the child away. We were so impressed that he was able to hold his own without hurting the other child. I am so impressed with Phenom and the professors, and we've had nothing but lovely experiences there. I recommend it to anyone that will listen to me gush :D Pros: --Safety is always a priority, this is emphasized by all professors --Many classes are available for all ages and skill level --Lots of professors on hand to supervise and teach --More advanced classmates are instructed to help less experienced kids, and are routinely paired together to help both learn --The mats are very clean and I believe they clean them before each class --The professors expect respect and good sportsmanship at all times and do not hesitate to assign pushups --Professor Martin and Professor Sergio are both charismatic, fun-loving, and supportive--you can easily see that they love kids and are passionate about teaching Jiu jitsu --Maybe the most important pro is that ALL the kids always have a smile plastered on their sweaty little faces. Everyone has fun, even if they lose a sparring session. I have so many pictures of my boys laughing and giggling as they train and, even better, the professors are laughing and smiling along with them The only con that I can think of is that space is a little limited for parents to watch. If it's a crowded day, you may not get a seat (seriously though, this is rare). Bottom line: go see for yourself how amazing Phenom is and how well they run the place :D I think we'll be with them until the kids have their black belts! read more

Phenom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Promotion day! - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Irvine, California

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Can't say enough good things about Phenom. It's an amazing place with amazing people and leadership. Professor Martin has such great charisma and personality, and you can tell that he truly cares about every single student, kids and adults both. My kids love it, and always can't wait for the next class. They are also very patient with new adults like me. Highly recommended. read more

It's kind of like the sitcom Cheers in that it's a quaint, small close nit family of parents and students and an atmosphere of warmth and guidance thanks to the wonderful caring instructors and assistants. Students are always under the eye of the instructors and assistants when working and trying out just learned technique. This maximizes student learning, outcomes, and efficiency -- and to boot -- student safety and injury prevention. Parents feel very safe and at ease at entrusting their kiddos to the instructors and assistants. It's a nurturing environment. Upon entering for parents and students, hugs and big smiles, and greetings await. Students are very respectful and helpful to one another. We really lucked out in finding this place via word of mouth. Thanks Steve! read more

Bought Groupon from Phenom for 10 classes to try the classes. Owner did not want to honor the Groupon unless we pay $50 registration fees and $150 for uniform. The fine prints should have been in the Groupon, but there were no such fine prints on the Groupon. Told us to cancel the Groupon if we didn't want to pay. I would've appreciated if the owner is more upfront with disclosures in the Groupon. read more

Professor Martin is the of Orange County. I've trained at a number of schools across the OC and believe me when I say these students & professors here have the best jiujitsu game around. They're so tough that it is both frustrating & empowering. Highly highly recommended, for all practitioners from children to high level competitors. read more

Very clean, professional, and respectful gym. Professor Martin is very kind and welcoming. The culture here is very welcoming. I only had a drop in free trial but everyone was extremely kind and helpful! read more

This gym deserves an All star rating. The instructors are very welcoming and detailed in their teachings. While a smaller space compared to other gyms I have been to the lead instructor made it simple you don't need much space if you're willing to train hard and that's what they do here. My son and I really enjoyed our time here and would be willing to come again read more

This place is really great. I came for a class to check it out and was treated very well and felt very comfortable. The training is great, and I had a lot of fun rolls. I think Professor Martin does a excellent job teaching technique. The parking is easy, they have big changing rooms and clean bathrooms and showers, which is a big plus. I'm glad I got the experience of coming here. read more

Working with Professor Martin has been an amazing experience for my 2 kids! He has a fantastic way of engaging the kids (even those who have ADHD), teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in an exciting, non aggressive way and empowering the kids with self-discipline, self-confidence and respect. I can't speak highly enough of Phenom Jiu Jitsu and Professor Martin Marachimo. We are so lucky to have found him and will follow him wherever he goes! Our third daughter will be joining once she is 4 years old. read more

Phenom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Kids session - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Irvine, California

*This is a review from a parent* This place is amazing. My son was 4 years old when he joined and my son has that prankster personality. He always jokes around, can't focus, don't listen, very bad with following directions. I was looking for a martial art class for him that can teach him discipline and of course, self defense! On the first day, I was very impressed with how awesome, energetic, & engaging the class is. They make the class very fun but the instructors do not hesitate to discipline the kids when they don't pay attention (not like other places when they totally ignore the kids who are just goofing around). It has been about 6 months now since he started, and I can see big improvement with his BJJ skill and his attitude. I am very happy to see how much my son has grown, and he loves BJJ now. Phenom is on the total opposite direction from my kids' school but I am planning to keep him in Phenom for as long as possible, totally worth it. It is almost impossible to find another place as good as Phenom. Prof Martin and Phenom deserve 6 stars. read more

Been training here for about a month and absolutely love it! I've been going to the morning grind Monday to Saturday 6 am to 7 am (and sometimes class doesn't end till 745ish) this schedule works perfectly with my bz life schedule, dad of 2 and accountant that puts in 9-10 hours per day... been learning a lot as well as I previously came from other BJJ/MMA gyms... very confident that I will learn and grow my jiu jitsu here. Instructors are very technical and stress the important of fundamentals before moving onto the more advance moves. read more

I've been training with Professor Martin for 3 years. I have lost 65 lbs since I've started. Professor Martin is Orange County's best kept secret. Team Phenom is my family. Everyone is so humble and respectful. read more

Phenom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - I've lost 65 lbs since I've started Brazilian jiu jitsu - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Irvine, California

Professor Martin is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. I started training with him more than 2 years ago and haven't stopped since. This sport is the perfect mix of physical and mental game. With Professor Martin's guidance my game exponentially. I've always had fun since I started training here and I don't plan on leaving. If you want to try something new and enjoy yourself while having a blast Phenom is the way to go. We also have a fantastic kids program as well. Having worked with kids for the last 3 years I have learned how to combine exercise with fun and learning self defense. read more

This place is amazing. I've been training jiu-jitsu, muay thai, mma, wrestling, and judo for 9 years. This is one of the best schools I have ever trained. Professor Martin has a great spirit, full of knowledge, and is completely capable of not only telling you but also showing you incredible techniques. He is very technical, has an answer to every question, and not only that but his answers work every time. I still have not come across a move where is say "well maybe this doesn't work for me or my body type". Everything Professor Martin teaches works for me. The students are a reflection of their leader. Everyone at this school is very welcoming and are genuinely interested in helping one another to grow and learn. No meat heads here. Great place. Please come train and check it out. Do yourself a favor. read more

Update: The team has moved into the Next Level Fitness Center. The team has grown and so has the mat space.

Anyone wanting to learn self defense or get some great cardio with a purpose should join! Everyone is so supportive & humble. We all instantly grow a bond that only if you were in Jiu Jitsu you would understand. We all come from different back grounds shapes sizes but we all train the same way - together. Bernard is such a patient & technical teacher. He helps you understand the fundamentals of BJJ. Come join for some awesome training!!! #PhenomBJJOC #FeelTheBern read more

Got an invite from a friend who trains here to come in for a session. I was slightly hesitant to go as I already belong to a gym and have minimal training under my belt. Long story short, went and had a great session. Any reservations I had being a beginner were unfounded as everyone was nice, respectful and patient. Professor Martin has a lot of knowledge to share and the same goes for the entire team I trained w/. Thank you Professor Martin (and the others at Phenom) for being such a generous and gracious host!!!!! read more

More of a family than a team. Professor Martin is amazing and continues to grow my skills and make me into the best player I can be. I love this academy. read more

I am new to this sport. I had no idea that all I knew about self defense was not even close to what I'm learning now! Professor Martin and other instructors are great, very friendly, very technical and extremely into what they are doing. I really enjoy my training no matter how hard I should work and really appreciate the effort they are putting into every individual's training. I will definitely continue with them and recommend this class to all friends and family at all ages! read more

Great environment no egos Prof Martin is a black belt under Romolo Barral, and has so much knowledge to pass down to his students. Everyone on the mat is nice and helpful they all try and push one another to be better. If your ever in the area looking for a roll or want to learn the art of jiu jitsu stop by you won't be disappointed. read more

I know professor Martin for a few years now! He gives good instruction and understands professionalism!

Professor Martin without a doubt is one of the best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors in the Orange County area. Professor Martin is knowledgeable, highly technical and his teaching style makes it easy to learn. The attention to detail is second to none. Every student is nice, helpful and eager to learn from one another which makes the environment even better. Every class I've attended was fun and I would always walk away with more information to improve my game. I'm a recent transplant to the area and looked at a few other schools. There was no other place that made me feel like a part of the team from day one. Long story short, I signed up on my very first visit. Finding the right environment, friendly and supportive training partners and a knowledgeable instructor can be difficult. Phenom BJJ has it all. read more

Professor Martin and Coach Vince are child-whisperers! The program is perfect for my kids to learn about respect, discipline, and fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu in a fun and safe environment! Would recommend for anyone who have children!! read more

Great people, great place! Very professional and a lot of fun. My 4 nephews just started training ju jitstu and they love it and look forward to it every week. They're great and patient with kids. I've also have the pleasure of training with professor Martin and the others at Phenom, I've always felt very welcome and everyone is always very helpful. I would definitely recommend this place. read more

I prefer the original Phenom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu better. They also teach no gi and kickboxing.

Professor Martin is hands down one of the best BJJ instructors in Orange County. He is very knowledgable when it comes BJJ and his teaching style is very detailed, which makes it easy for his students to learn. Everyone in this school is very friendly and only help each other become better BJJ practitioners. I would truly recommend this school to anyone, from a beginner to experienced. read more

Professor Martin Morachimo is am amazing bjj practitioner. I am not a member, but i have participated in the class. I have been training BJJ for 11 years, and have trained with many instructors, but he is one of the best that I have had the chance to meet. Coming from an outside perspective, He made the whole experience enjoyable, fun, and exciting. It is obvious that Martin both has a passion for the BJJ and for teaching. I would highly recommend patronizing this brazilian Jui jitsu academy! read more

I honestly don't know where to start. Before I even came in to see the gym, I called Phenom and spoke the Professor Martin to see if it was possible to come check out how a class worked. He highly encouraged me to come participate and ensured he had a Gi waiting for me whenever I had a chance to come by. I decided to show up to the class that day and was able to get a taste of some fundamentals, as well as some self-defense basics. Everyone was extremely inviting and helpful from the professors to the students. After a few days of trialing both the beginners class and a little of the advanced, I decided to sign up and give it a shot for a few months. That was well over a year ago. I can't tell you how the time flew by, but I do know my understanding of the art, and even more so of myself, is leaps and bounds from the person I was when I first signed up. Professor Martin is the hidden gem in Orange County as far as Bjj goes. If you have any interest in learning the art from someone who's been in the game almost two decades, then I highly recommend you stop by. I could spend another paragraph writing about his back story, technique and skill, but it's truly something to experience. This school is for anyone, whether you want to compete or if you want to fine tune your self-defense, we are all here to help each other improve. read more

I came to Phenom BJJ (with no experience) a few months ago, and I can't stress enough how much I've learned since then. I walked in uncertain to my first class, signed up the next day, and have shown up basically every day since. If you have the right attitude: the more you roll the better your Jiu Jitsu will get, period. But at Phenom, everyone on the mat is encouraging, welcoming and eager to learn... That type of environment makes mat time fly by. Professor Martin is to blame. He makes every class dynamic and challenging and projects his experience to his students through precise demonstration. By relating each technique to the range of skill levels present in each class, Professor Martin keeps everyone engaged. I'm very, very new to BJJ, but Professor Martin can even get me to pick up on some of the "invisible" Jiu jitsu that makes each technique that much more effective. Bottom line: Phenom BJJ is a solid group led by an extraordinary teacher. If you are eager to learn and willing to leave every class exhausted, you will not regret it. read more

Phenom was the first studio I visited when I moved to the area. It does feel small at first because it is small but the gym is really growing and has a bright future ahead. Professor Martin has been an excellent teacher. He observes and feels when students need to push their training a little harder or when students should relax more. II am constantly learning and Professor Martin is not afraid to take some time to answer any of my questions when I feel lost in the art. Two thumbs up. read more

I visit Irvine once to twice a year to see family and my most recent trip I got the opportunity to train for a couple days at Phenonom. Martin Morachimo delivered top notch instruction with a patient and fun attitude. He taught functional techniques that I will be able to utilize immediately. I got the chance to roll with Professor Martin and really appreciated his ability to coach will sparring rather than just black bullying on the mat. The fellow members of this gym promoted this fun environment and treated me as one of their own during my stay. I'm glad to have found such a great place to train in the Irvine area and look forward to visiting again in the future. read more

I moved back from Northern CA and had some previous jiu jitsu experience. When I moved to orange county, I already had in mind the type of jiu jitsu school I wanted to train at. I tried at least 6 different schools in orange county before I found phenom. I have been training for 2 years now. Professor Martin is a world class coach. He makes sure you know the fundamentals. The atmosphere is great. Every one is super friendly and works hard. Half the team like to compete and the other half is to learn self defense and have a great work out. read more

as a martial artist ive trained with different schools different teachers professor Martin is one of the best most technical teachers you can find in orange county. machado and romulo barral back round makes the style he teaches dangerous and effective. the place is super clean everyone is friendly you always feel welcoming PHENOM JIU JITSU definitely a place to check out if your thinking to start your jiu jitsu journey .no egos, friendly , but the best and most important not pushy when it comes to try out a class or asking for enrollment informantion read more

I needed a place to train while I was visiting my family and I decided to try out Phenom. My experience here was excellent and I'm glad I chose this place while I was in Orange County. The instructors paid a lot of attention to detail during the technique portion of class and everyone was friendly and willing to help. This gym had a very inclusive vibe to it which made classes all the more enjoyable. I will definitely be training here whenever I come down again. The dojo is on the smaller side so at times during rolling, we had to make good use of space but other than that I was very satisfied with the training experience. read more

I tried two other schools before trying out Professor Martin's school. I'm really happy I found him and his school. As an older guy, I'm in this to get in shape and do something I love. It's great to train with people who are humble and supportive, not out to prove how tough they are. If you are looking for a place to practice BJJ, not get injured, and learn from an amazing instructor, you owe it to yourself to give this place a try. read more

Professor Martin is the BEST instructor in the Jiu Jitsu world I started training with him about 9 months ago as a new blue belt and he has taken my jiu jitsu game to a whole new level. Everyone who trains under him is very nice and very helpful. His techniques are very good and simple to learn. I recommend anyone to try out his classes as he welcomes all to train. read more

Phenom BJJ is a great gym for both beginners and advanced students! Professor Martin is great at teaching and is very approachable. The whole team is friendly and very encouraging. They also have a kids class and they also look like they are having a blast. I plan to put my kids in the class when they get older. read more

I joined Phenom a few months ago having no idea about BJJ. Professor Martin and his students have welcomed me from day one. This is a great learning environment. Everybody is so humble and interested in helping one another be successful at this art. Professor Martin takes the time to show the details in what he is teaching and is always available to answer any questions. I highly recommend this academy to anybody interested in BJJ. This year there is even a beginners BJJ and self defense course that is great for people like me who are starting out and have no idea where to begin. Come and give Phenom a try. You will not regret it. read more