Fantastic Jiu Jitsu Gym - A Haven for Growth and Community! I can't say enough positive things about Chekmat in Folsom, my go-to Jiu Jitsu gym! From the moment I walked through the doors 2.5 years ago, I felt welcomed by the friendly and knowledgeable community. Eli and Brandy truly embodies what a Jiu Jitsu gym should be. Eli is absolutely top-notch. His expertise in Jiu Jitsu is undeniable, and he has an incredible ability to break down techniques and explain them in a way that is easy to understand, regardless of your skill level. His passion for the sport is contagious, and he is always willing to go the extra mile to help students improve. The facility itself is fantastic. It's clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need to have a great training session. But what truly sets this school apart is the sense of community. I've never been to a gym where the camaraderie is as strong as it is here. The students are incredibly supportive and friendly, and it's evident that everyone genuinely wants to see each other succeed. The positive atmosphere makes every training session a joy, and it's truly inspiring to be surrounded by such motivated individuals. I highly recommend this gym to anyone, whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting out. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! Five stars all the way! read more

I've been training at Beda Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2009, and it's been an incredible journey from the very beginning. What stands out the most about this academy is the family atmosphere. It's not just a place to train - it's a community where everyone truly cares about each other's growth both on and off the mats. Over the years, I've met some amazing people here who have become lifelong friends. The quality of instruction at Beda is second to none. Eli and Brandy are outstanding coaches, and their knowledge and passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are evident in every class. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, they're always there to provide guidance, answer questions, and push you to improve. If you're looking for a place that combines excellent teaching with a welcoming, family-like environment, I can't recommend Beda Brazilian Jiu Jitsu enough. It's truly been a life-changing experience for me, and I know anyone who walks through the doors will feel right at home. read more

I have trained in BJJ for almost 10 years and wrestled as a child. I have trained all over the united states and competed all across the west coast. So I can tell the difference between the good and the bad, as far as gyms or instructors go for the most part. The first day I met Master Eli I knew this was my home. I have never met an instructor who truly and genuinely care for his students like Eli does. He takes the time to spend with each one of his students and answer questions. He trains with his students almost every day and teaches twice a day 5-6 times a week. He would take the shirt off of his back for his students. I know this because i have actually SEEN HIM DO IT!! HAHA He does this not only because it is his job but because it is his passion. Jiu Jitsu is his life and love. And teaching his art is his way to give back to what has given him so much joy in his life. I am honored to be a student of Eli Beda.... Together Together Jef Row read more

i could not recommend a better place to train. not only because eli, the instructor, is so knowledgeable in the art, but because of a number of other reasons. you can be the best in the world at jiu jitsu but that doesn't mean you are the best at giving that knowledge to someone else. eli is excellent at this and has all of the characteristics one would look for in an ideal instructor. he teaches you more than just the moves. he pushes you to your full potential, but at the same time he is very respectful and considerate. i could go on and on but here is the main message. if you want to learn a beautiful art, get in shape, and be surrounded by a group of some of the greatest people you will ever know, this is where you wanna be. plain and simple. read more

My 5 year old grandson and I have been training at Beda Jiu Jitsu for about 6 months and absolutely love it! The school has a very family-oriented environment that is welcoming to people of all ages, backgrounds and athletic abilities. The tuition structure is affordable for those wanting to enroll multiple family members. The youth classes are a lot of fun while teaching the kids self-defense, respect, and discipline. My grandson's confidence and physical capabilities have improved tremendously. The adult classes are very well coached. The black belts are friendly and helpful, always willing to share their knowledge and skills. I have found my fellow students and training partners to be very respectful and mindful of safe training. read more

I have been training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for several years now, in both Southern California and Northern California. I have trained with some of the best instructors in the world and the training that I have received at Beda BJJ in Folsom California is a continuation of that excellence. If you are looking to progress with an expert level black belt instructor who is originally from Brazil or you are looking to get started in the most advanced martial art in the world, Beda BJJ is the place to find it. The instruction is friendly, welcoming to all ages, all abilities and the students that attend each class are polite as well as respectful. You will not find a better place to practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu than at Beda BJJ. read more

I started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Elizandro (Eli) Beda a little over 2 years ago, and have been absolutely hooked ever since then. He offers phenomenal teaching, where doesn't just show you moves, but helps you understand why they work, and ensures that you are doing them correctly. He breaks down the details of each technique in a way that all levels can understand. We have had people of all ages that are just starting out (from children to adults) and also serious competitors in our classes, so that definitely speaks about his knowledge and ability to speak. On top of all that, I have found a second home and family in the gym, as it truly has a family atmosphere. read more

If you are looking for a place to get into shape, learn self defense, and build some confidence, stop looking. There is no better place to do all three than at Beda BJJ in Folsom, CA. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a grappling sport and martial art that has been proven as one of the most effective forms of fighting in the world. In my seven years of training, I have never had a better BJJ teacher than the owner of this academy, Eli Beda. Eli combines top notch instruction, tough training, and complete humility when he teaches his students. There are no egos or tension present in this school as all of the students are very close and supportive of each others development. read more

I have been studying under Eli now for over 2 1/2 years, and I can truly say he is an amazing instructor and leader for Jiujitsu. The team is diverse with kids, adolescents and adults, and everyone helps each other. No bad attitudes or wannabe tough-guys here; just hard-training Jiujitsu under the teaching of a true master in his field. Jiujitsu is both a technical skill and athletic endeavor and Eli teaches both sides perfectly. We are a team, a family, and students all training together. Beda BJJ is the place to go for Jiujitsu! read more

We absolutely love Checkmat BJJ in Folsom! Both of our boys, aged 7 and 4, attend classes here, and it's been such a rewarding experience for our family. Our oldest son has grown so much in confidence and skill since joining. Watching him prepare for his first tournament is a testament to the fantastic training and encouragement he receives at Checkmat. If you're looking for a place where your children can learn, grow, and be part of a wonderful community, Checkmat BJJ in Folsom is the perfect choice! read more

I have been training with Eli and the rest of the Beda/checkmat family almost 3 years now. Words cannot describe how it has changed my life physically,emotionally,ect. Not only is this a team but a family as well some of the most loyal people I've ever met. Beda jiu jitsu provides a traditional but yet modern style of jiu jitsu that fits all body types. If your lookin for a release or to learn jiu jitsu and meet new friends beds jiu jitsu provides that. Jiu jitsu is for everybody so let's go train ! read more

This academy has been amazing! It perfectly combines a family-friendly atmosphere with world-class jiu-jitsu. Coming from an old-school academy in San Diego, I wasn't sure what to expect, but Eli's Brazilian mindset and technical instruction blew me away. The team is full of legit competitors, but it's not intimidating--everyone is welcoming and supportive. Brandy and Eli make it feel like more than just a gym; it's a true community. Whether you're new or experienced, this is the place to be! read more

This gym is amazing! We joined because my daughter needed to learn self-defense, and it's been a great experience. She faced some challenges at first, but once she earned her first stripe, her confidence and skills really took off. The coaches are fantastic, and the owners are incredibly involved--they take the time to work with the kids individually, whether it's teaching techniques or offering encouragement. It's clear they genuinely care about helping the kids grow and succeed. read more

I am new to Jiu-jitsu and started here about a year ago. What a great journey its been. I definitely recommend this gym to anyone thinking about starting or switching gyms. Eli, Brandy, and the other Black belts that assist teaching have been very helpful and sincere, leading and teaching us on our journey. Also the gym has a great friendly atmosphere without the big egos. Lots of talented upper belts that are seemingly always willing to answer my relentless questions. read more

I have always been careful when choosing a martial arts school for my kids - the person who is transmitting the knowledge of the fightinh style (the master) is above of all an educator. This is one of the reasons I trusted Eli to be my son's sensei. He has been learning so much from Eli Beda for the past year. The best part of all is Eli has given him the opportunity to showcase his skills in competitions. A five-star teacher is the secret of a five-star school. read more

I moved out to California from the east coast about a year and a half ago and was introduced to the Beda family and Checkmat. They have been so supportive and kind to me as a new student to Jiu Jitsu. They make you feel like you are part of their family. It's a great environment for parents and children to train together. I am very thankful to have them as instructors but also as friends. read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about this academy! Everyone who steps foot through their door is treated like family. The coaches care so much about each individual student's growth in the sport, and they are constantly working hard to create a very healthy training environment. Also a great place for women to get started in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as their women's class is phenomenal! read more

We could not be more impressed by the professionalism, knowledge and total commitment that the Beda's exhibit to every student that walks into their family gym. It doesn't matter if you are 4 or 74 you are treated with respect and compassion. If you are interested in learning the art and techniques of Jui Jitsu we highly recommend the Beda Family Academy. The Kings of Sacramento read more

The community at Checkmat Folsom BJJ, has been one of humility and support. This gym is safe, clean, and has a positive effect on not only our physical health, but our mental health also. My childrens self confidence has improved because making them self aware through Jiu jitsu is imperative. The schedule has something for everyone, and always has a friendly face to greet us. read more