My son and I have trained with Sport Judo for over three years and now BJJ at Yamasaki for one year (since it moved from the mall). Fantastic coaches and as an older starter, having a ton of experienced training partners helps remove the fear of injury-- getting thrown may not ever be gentle, but you are far less likely to be injured by being thrown by a black or brown belt than by another new student. Getting my son involved in judo at the age of 4 is the best parenting decision I could have made-- his self-esteem, athleticism and focus have all increased immensely, thanks to Mo, Jeff, Wesley and all the members of the club. One of the strengths of the club is that in addition to the coaches there are a lot of experienced kids who can also help teach and guide the new students. A lot of the other sports my son has tried didn't have that, so the 1-2 coaches spend most of their time cat-wrangling and less time actually instructing. The instruction also encourages cross-training and incorporating instruction and techniques from wrestling and BJJ rather than just competition judo. And since judo (and BJJ) are sports that all ages can enjoy, grappling has become a huge bond between us. The incorporation of judo and wrestling techniques into the BJJ classes (both kids and adults) is also one of the great strengths of Neto as an instructor. The class is also very top-heavy with brown and purple belts, that in addition to the formal instruction from Neto and other black belts I end up learning just as much or more by asking questions from my very experienced training partners. It also makes sparring much safer, since you are much less likely to be hurt when sparring with an advanced player. While submissions may be cool and sexy, the focus of the BJJ instruction is very much on positions and transitions which then allow you to be in a position from which you can apply the submissions. There's also much more time for drilling the techniques after the instruction so that they become embedded in your muscle memory and a lot of positional sparring so that students are more able to practice techniques based on what they have just learned. I also very much enjoy the way each class builds off the techniques of the previous classes, it makes for a more structured and coherent curriculum than many BJJ schools. read more

I trained in Tae Kwon Do since the 1970s and began instructing in 1987. I've practiced Aikido for about 5 years, and was pretty regular in yoga for about 8 years. So, I've always been an athlete and martial artist. At the age of 44, I enrolled with the Yamasaki Academy and Professors Neto and Yamasaki, and learned what real martial art is. There is no pretense, no nonsense, nothing hypothetical, and no excuses about anything. At 220 lbs, I was defeated over and over again by classmates hardly more than half my size due to the power of superior technique and knowledge. Over the decades of martial arts training and before the UFC put this question to rest, we used to have the age-old "which martial art would win" debates, and my politically correct answer used to be that whichever person had the better timing would win, irrespective of their style. At 44 years old, I learned that I was completely wrong. I had failed to account for probabilities. The likelihood that I, even as a highly experienced striker, am going to connect the fight-ending kick or punch on my first attempt is extremely low--I'd put it at 0.01, maybe. However, the likelihood that a grappler with even just a little experience is going to accomplish a successful takedown on his or her first attempt? More like 0.5-0.8. Once I'm on my back, all my kicks and punches are irrelevant, and the techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu would have me unconscious or incapacitated within mere seconds. This is not an exaggeration. So that's about the superiority of the technique. Now to the atmosphere at the academy. This is the best place I have ever trained in 40 years. The atmosphere is so healthy, friendly, and welcoming. This starts from the top and permeates downward through all of the instructors, branches, and students I've come in contact with. Every single person in the place has helped me to grow and improve. I bring my children here. read more

When I moved to Northern Virginia in 2004 I was looking for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school so that I could continue training ( only a few months of it ) that I had started in Va Beach . I was told to look up the Yamasaki academy once I made my move.After looking at various schools , I finally stopped in to Yamasaki Springfield and met Fernando , one of the owners. After watching the class and talking with Fernando for a while I had a feeling that this would be the school for me. The very next class I was on the mat training and Neto was teaching this time. Neto is a high level competitor who has been on the mat with the best in the world and most of the outcomes were in his favor.The high level of instruction and attention to detail from the instructors still amazes me even after all these years. The instructors truly care about the safety and the progress of their students whether they are competing , learning self defense of just trying to lose weight. Within the last three years the move to the new location has also seen the addition of Muay Thai ,Judo and MMA class . The Muay Thai class class is taught by world Champion Mark Deluca and the only other place I've seen the level of his instruction is when I trained in Thailand. The Judo class is taught by Maurice Allan whose list of credentials is too long to fit on here, he has produced top level Judo players. The MMA class is taught by former professional Aaron Riley who has fought in Pride , UFC and many other organizations.Aaron teaches tactics that have been proven and worked in the cage and ring. A former top level MMA competitor he is now focused on teaching and making sure that anyone that wants to jump in to the cage is prepared. To sum it all up, know matter what you are looking for ( grappling or striking ) they have it here and it is with the best instructors in their discipline . read more

The Yamasaki Academy of Springfield recently moved from inside the Springfield Mall to a new, sprawling location; tucked away in an industrial park off the Braddock Road exit on 495. The head Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) instructor, Francisco Neto, is a black belt in BJJ and Judo; along with a decorated amateur wrestling background. His endless knowledge is evident in his world-class instruction, and his passion for BJJ is seen in his close relationship with his students. Neto has an uncanny ability of fusing newer techniques with older ones; and doing it in a way that is easy to learn and apply on the mat when you spar at the end of class. In addition to the nightly BJJ classes, a Muay Thai class is expected to added in early September, and it will be headed by Mark Deluca, a highly accomplished fighter who currently teaches out of Yamasaki's Woodbridge affiliate. Whatever your reason for taking up a martial art, Yamasaki Academy will fit the bill. It will help instill in you a sense of self-confidence, provide you with practical self-defense almost immediately, and it will get you into amazing shape without feeling like it's a job. First-timers will find the both the instructors and students welcoming from the first day. The sheer amount of higher belts at the school is a testament to the sense of community within the Yamasaki family. read more

I was concerned about training during the COVID-19 aftermath. However, Yamasaki Academy Springfield cleared my reservations. First, they began with virtual classes when the first outbreak occurred in the Northern Virginia area. During phase 2 they open at a limited capacity. In Phases 2 and 3 with the limited capacity classes there were strict protocols in place to prevent an outbreak from occurring within the Academy. Instructors checked temperatures at the door and asked the medical questions from the symptom checklist. Students were required to bring a clean pair of shoes for wear inside of the gym; frequent handwashing or sanitizing is required. Between every class throughout the day the instructors wipe down and sanitize frequently touched spaces, mats and the bathrooms. Lastly, there are no changing partners; this reduces potential exposure for all in the class. No concerns with contracting infectious diseases at Yamasaki Springfield. I have been a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner for almost 11 years. I've trained all over the US (and other countries). Neto, by far, is the most approachable, knowledgeable and professional instructor I've ever had. If you are in NOVA and looking to train BJJ, Yamasaki Springfield is where you want to be. I am glad to be a part of the Springfield Yamasaki family. Mike B. read more

For adult judo or Brazilian jiu jitsu, this place is excellent. (There are several other programs, including children's programs, that I have not taken so I can't speak to them). The instructors are top notch: Maurice Allan is an 8th degree black belt in Judo (not too many of those in the world) and Francisco Neto is a 4th degree black belt in jiu jitsu. I like their teaching styles - they are both very good at demonstrating a technique, pointing out the important details the first time. Does your instructor often pause the class after you've been drilling for a while to point out "one more detail?" That's a waste of time. Maurice and Neto get it right the first time. Most importantly, the classes are large with many advanced students, so you will have lots of good training partners. I often learn just as much from my sparring partners as I do from the main instructor. In both classes, the vibe is friendly. As far as facilities go, it's not pretty, but the important part - the mat area - is very large and in good condition. The mats are nicely padded. No locker room for the ladies. No showers is a bit of a bummer, but classes are in the evening so you're just going home afterward anyway, and you probably have a shower there. read more

I am police officer and have trained in various martial arts at various places for over 25 years. I can say without hesitation that this is one of the best places around. The instructors are officially certified coaches with many of them competing or having competed in national and international competitions (and many being nationally/ internationally ranked). They bring a level of teaching and experience that is unparalleled and love passing along their knowledge. The kids program is absolutely fantastic. There are four national kids champions as well as one that has won two international championships. The kids program is kept fun for them while they are learning. There are a lot of instructors on the mat while the kids are training so they can receive a lot of attention and for safety. My children attend classes here are, too, and love the instructors and learning judo. Kids have a chance to compete if they choose to but aren't pressured into it if that isn't their thing. read more

I signed up for a Judo class a few months ago. After like three month due to my work schedule I wanted to cancel my membership. I emailed the guy Neto that I want to cancel my membership due to my work schedule and he said no problem next day he said your account was closed. I was paying $230 monthly with a friend. The next day of cancellation he charged my card $390 without my authorization or notification. First of all you can't charge someone's card without authorization. That's illegal. Second I paid my monthly charges for $230. When we signed up with him he told us you can cancel anytime there will be no extra charge. Now he's saying you have 12 month membership and past months will be recalculated. Well he totally lied to us. If I knew this, I would not enroll. Because we told him that we want to try a few months see if it works for us. Plus without authorization you can't charge my card. Horrible experience. Neto is a lair and fraud and don't recommend here at all. read more

I've been learning BJJ for about 4 years now and I have to say that Neto, the head instructor for Yamasaki in Springfield VA, is the whole reason I keep going. He's a wealth of knowledge and he takes the time to explain what you may not be getting in length to ensure you understand. He not only shows you the basic concepts of a position but how that position can translate into other options. He's great at trying to get you to always think three to four moves ahead. Not only is he a black belt in BJJ but he is also a black belt in judo. With his knowledge of the two disciplines it really helps any one of any level in BJJ. Besides Neto, the students who train in Yamasaki Springfield VA are laid back and everyone is willing to help you improve your game. The only thing I can warn people about when coming in to check it out is leave the attitude and arrogance at the door. Great school, great workout, and great people. read more

I started Judo forty years ago in New York. I have belonged to several clubs as I've moved along in my career. From New York, Arizona, Florida, Washington, D.C. and Virginia, I have found none better than the Yamasaki Academy. Whether you're a serious competitor, just getting started, or interested in sharpening your mind and body, I highly recommend and encourage the practice of Judo. Maurice Allan is a highly skilled instructor who treats everyone, regardless of talent, age, skill, gender or ethnic background as the most important person in the room. His knowledge and experience is vast and his desire and ability to convey it is unmatched. My words and five stars cannot come close to expressing how strongly I recommend Yamasaki Academy - Sport Judo for anyone interested in the challenge and sense of personal achievement that Judo offers. Jim K. read more

I've trained @ Yamasaki Springfield for over seven years. I have competed in Local Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions as well as the World and Pan American Championships. Outside of competitions I've applied the techniques from Yamasaki Springfield countless times, in real world scenarios with hostile individuals, in Anacostia S.E. DC where I work as a police officer. In all situations I'm glad I've never had to question the level of instruction I've received from Yamasaki Springfield. The atmosphere is intense but fun and the school lacks individuals who just wanna "tap" someone out to boost their own egos. The workout is second to none and the training partners are amazing. The instructors are world class and a happy to answer any all questions no matter how advanced or basic. read more

Yamasaki Academy and Sport Judo is the best Dojo in northern Virginia. I have been doing judo for fourteen years and I have been apart of Sport judo/Yamasaki Academy for seven years. Because of them I am a Multi-National Champion, junior and cadet world team member, and a bronze medalist at the junior panamerican championship. Each of the head instuctors are well rounded and know what they are doing. We pride our kids and adult class as being the best in the state of Virginia as we travel around winning many local tournaments. It's a very friendly and safe environment and not only does Yamasaki Academy teach you self defense but it will teach you disipline and respect. I highly reccomend Yamasaki Academy. read more

Have had the benefit of observing this club's day to day operations for a couple/few years as a paying customer and patron of this establishment. Have three kids who have participated in the judo classes over the years - safety is always a priority. A premier judo club in Northern Virginia when it comes to instruction, training, and development. The judo club membership is huge, the largest in northern virginia for a reason, their judo club has produced the most junior state and national champions of any club in virginia. For a complete perspective check out all the filtered reviews, they are solid, authentic and date back to 2012... read more

Both the judo and BJJ classes provide a great environment for learning and advancing in the sports. Everyone is made to feel welcome no matter their skill level. Kids classes, which are no longer mixed with adults, are designed to combine hard work and fun. My daughter gained tremendous strength and self confidence during her challenging middle-school years. She now teaches judo at her college club and assists with kid's classes when home on break. I highly recommend the club and encourage anyone considering these sports to stop by to watch a class and judge for yourself. You can even participate in a class for free if you'd like. read more

I've attended Yamasaki Springfield for nearly 8 years. It is a very cohesive team with some of the most decorated instructors in the area. The training at Yamasaki Springfield is very rigorous, yet fun. Neto's attention to detail is evident, as most of the students have impeccable technique. He also shows no favoritism and treats everyone with equal amount of respect. When it comes to Judo, Maurice Allan is simply the best instructor in the DC Metro area. What I like about his approach is that he does not shy away from teaching ne-waza and his judokas can hold their own with BJJ players. read more

I just started going here for Muay Thai lessons with Mark DeLuca and could not be happier. Easy location from Old Town Alexandria, no problems parking and the gym is very clean. Mark is awesome. Very polite, extremely knowledgeable and seems genuinely interested in teaching your correctly. I'm looking forward to updating this review in a few months! ps- For those looking at other gyms, I did the prelim visit to Capital MMA and did not care for it. read more

I have been a student at Yamasaki Springfield for about 5 years. Fantastic environment, fantastic instruction. Not only is it a great place to learn a martial art and get in shape, it's family. If you are looking for an experience that will not only enhance your physical being, but also your mental , emotional and spiritual being, you need to come train with us. read more

My 14 year old son has enjoyed Sport Judo, and practicing with Maurice Allan for the past three years. He recently won the Judo National Championships in Pittsburg. Expert instruction by excellent qualified Black Belts, I could not ask for a better experience. Safety always comes first. Judo is a tough sport for kids and adults. Highly recommend to all. read more

I've trained at Yamasaki Springfield for many years. Neto and the other instructors are second to none with a hands on friendly atmosphere that feels like extended family. If you want to train BJJ, get a great work out and learn self-defense then there is no better place or instructors. Check out Yamasaki Springfield and see for yourself. Seeing is believing! read more