How To Find A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy

Since Royce Gracie won the first UFC championship in 1993, martial artists have been asking how to find a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy. Jiu Jitsu technique focuses on finding openings in an opposing combatant’s technique, closing the gap, and using pressure to get opponents into locks, chokes and other holds that result in a submission.  A strategy that emphasizes finding qualified, credentialed instructors that are recognized by the top Jiu Jitsu organizations is the best way to find the right academy for you.

1. Look up local martial arts studios. You will be able to find how many dedicated Jiu Jitsu studios are in your local area, and if they are limited, you will be able to expand your search. Many Thai Boxing, MMA, Tai Kwan Do and Judo studios also have a qualified Jiu Jitsu instructor on staff. Learn about the instructor and what they bring to the studio.
2. Check reviews online. Probably the best way to find out if a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy is trustworthy is to check reviews online. Are past students still attending? Has the better business bureau received any significant complaints?
3. Find out if you can try before you buy. The best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academies give students a chance to see what training is like before signing up for an annual contract. When you attend class does it seem like there are extreme rivalries or that aggressive or dominating attitudes are permitted by the instructor? The academies you want to select have a sense of comraderie and respect rather than aggression.
4. Is the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy accredited by national or international organizations? Ask yourself, “Is the instructor or academy credentialed by any national or international federations?” Is the studio listed with the United States Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation? Answers to these questions will go a long way in helping you find a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy.