Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

I initially came to BBJJ expecting to get one, maybe two things out of my time there: physical fitness and the ability to defend myself. As an undergrad student who lives on a big college campus 85% of year, I just wanted to learn how to land a good punch should I ever need to fend someone off. After spending my summer going to Thai kickboxing classes 2-3 times a week, I can indeed land a punch - but I was surprised to discover that that wasn't the most rewarding part of being a part of BBJJ. You can probably learn basic technique at most decent dojos, but BBJJ gives you so much more than that. Over the course of two and a half months, I learned the importance of discipline and self-respect and how to build my confidence so that I can push myself to do the best that I can while accepting the fact that I have limits.

Honestly, as a person who has gone through life with a personal vendetta against exercise and a physically limiting case of exercise-induced asthma, I didn't expect much of myself when I signed up. But BBJJ makes it impossible for you not to grow to expect more of yourself. Just seeing the commitment and the passion of everyone else in your classes makes you genuinely want to put your all into every exercise.

The environment is the best thing about this place, and I would wager that it's the thing that makes BBJJ singularly unique among other martial arts places. The personal treatment the instructors give you, and the extremely uplifting, supportive, and friendly that they have built, puts you at ease no matter what your beginning level of fitness or skill is. As someone who was not particularly fit, I was so nervous walking into my first class. But by the time I was sweating on the bench forty-five minutes later, I was completely at ease. The instructors knew my name after the first class. My fellow kickboxing seniors are always willing to help me with my technique if I'm struggling, and are always there to offer words of encouragement and concern if my asthma flares up during class. The instructors are the same way, and have never once made me feel inadequate or lacking in any area. (I'd also like to mention that at some point during my time here, I unexpectedly had to get stitches and could not go to class for two weeks. The instructors were very understanding of this fact, and we were able to quickly iron out any issues regarding payment and missing classes.)

In conclusion: if you want to learn kickboxing or jiu-jitsu technique, there are plenty of places you can go to, but if you are looking for personable and encouraging instructors, self-confidence, a clean and safe environment, and - most importantly - a family, come to the 13th ave BBJJ.

As a young and small college student, I came to try out BBJJ's intro kickboxing classes with a friend to learn some self-defense and to gain some motivation to work out for the summer. I didn't expect to become part of such kind and wonderful community in such a short period of time! I got what I expected and so much more. The classes encourage and challenge me to push my limits without pressuring me to impress anyone but myself. No matter the size of each class, a lot of individual advice is always given and that's one of the things I appreciate most at BBJJ. The instructors truly recognize and appreciate the effort that you put into each class, not the power you kick into the pad. Both the instructors and fellow students at BBJJ are super supportive and have become a huge part of what made my summer so special. Because of them, I've been feeling more accepting of my body and what it is capable of and I hope that I've left the same impact on them!!

BBJJ is so incredibly welcoming and exciting, I highly recommend to anyone considering martial arts/BJJ. They make sure you learn all the techniques you need to defend yourself, while also ensuring you are in a safe environment. Everyone in the class is both learning and teaching, with more experienced students staying behind to assist the beginners. Couldn't recommend this more, especially for women who want to learn self defense, feel empowered and find a positive welcoming community.

I have been a student at Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for many years and I simply love it. Clean and super safe environment for everyone. Professors and Staff are very helpful while they go beyond the technique to teach you life skills that will help you reach your full potential both in the martial arts and on a personal level. The students assist one another in achieving their goals and learning. Here, I was taught the skills to stay safe, to be confident, to problem solve efficiently and to deal effectively with anxiety. It is motivating to be part of this community and watch people grow into healthy, strong and socially useful beings!

These instructors are world class. We travel around the country to train with them. Professor James taught me to like BJJ when I was afraid of it. They are super caring and amazingly knowledgeable. If you get a chance, train with the best!