I normally do not write reviews like this, but this one deserves a special mention. First and foremost, from the first day I stepped foot into this gym it was clear that the gym owner and instructor didn't have the slightest clue about how marketing/selling memberships worked. 1) There was no mention of any contract. 2) Payments were randomly asked in cash each month (is he trying to avoid paying taxes?!) 3) I witnessed the instructor handing out stripes to students for free in class, yet he also mentioned that there would be fees for stripes/belts in the future (huge inconsistency). First and foremost, what I expected out of a BJJ gym membership is that I am a paying customer who receives guaranteed BJJ instruction in exchange for my monthly fee. I can train as much or as little as I please, and the only thing that is guaranteed should be that when I show up, there is BJJ instruction. Oh boy, how wrong I was. Because of my busy schedule (I work 40++ hours a week in order to support my family), I am only able to train consistently on Fridays and the weekends. There have been SEVERAL (I am talking 10+ times) where I showed up either on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday and a scheduled class has just not occurred. I received absolutely no prior warning as to what would be happening... just a no-show pulled by the instructor. Being a curious individual, I decided to do some of my own research. Slowly, I spent time gathering intelligence asking some of the students just exactly what was going on. The information I uncovered was just unbelievable: THE INSTRUCTOR PERIODICALLY JUST SKIPS CLASS IN ORDER TO PARTAKE IN 3 DAY WEEKEND TRIPS TO GO REFEREE TOURNAMENTS. On TOP of that, I found out that he is a HEAVY weed smoker who shows up to class high as a kite nearly 100% of the time. I HAVE MY CHILDREN TRAIN UNDER HIM FOR GOD'S SAKE. All I know is, all that I've read on the internet regarding negative stereotypes for Brazilian instructors (take a look at "Renato Laranja" on youtube for an unfortunately accurate parody) have been tragically true at this academy. Finally, to put the nail in the coffin: The instructor has on several occasion YELLED AT THE ENTIRE CLASS PUBLICLY regarding not training at other gyms. That's right: he was so insecure that he told people that were already paying members of his gym that he didn't want them training elsewhere. Let me ask you, the intelligent customer, if this makes any sense to you? Do you sign exclusivity rights to L.A. Fitness when you sign up? No. Do you sign exclusivity rights to Comcast when you sign up for their TV/Internet? No. Do you sign exclusivity rights to a BJJ gym when you sign up? NO He has absolutely no right to say anything of that nature unless it has specifically been stated on a contract (which is non-existent). All I can say, is that I am most certainly going to take my business elsewhere. If you are intelligent, I highly urge you to steer clear of this gym. read more

I am not the type to write reviews either, but when someone writes a review with all false information I believe it is only right to tell the reviewers the true story. Daniel has been my children's trainer/coach for several years now. They began training with Daniel at a different academy but that one closed down. It has been about a year and when my children found out Daniel was opening his own academy they begged me to sign them up. Usually with 4 children it is a hassle to do anything. But when it comes to Jiu jitsu with Daniel they are all in and ready to go. Daniel is a very positive inspirational coach, but like any good leader he corrects wrong behavior. He doesn't scream at them publicly like others say, instead he respectfully puts them back on track. Daniels classes are filled with positive energy and he provides a safe learning environment for all, adults and children. There was never an instance where he didn't show up or a situation where he arrived for class high. If there were any times that he was not able to have class due to him refereeing or participating in coaching his students during tournaments we were given plenty of notice either via email, text, or phone call. Daniel doesn't just provide jui jitsu instruction, he also provides information about proper health such as nutrition and exercise. He even keeps a bowl of fruit at his desk for the students to take after class so that they have a healthy snack after an intense workout. Moreover he teaches self confidence, respect for yourself and others, and discipline. In a matter of a few weeks my children came home more focused and well-behaved. They were even able to count in Portuguese and say a few other words. Along with that they learned a few tips about how to approach a bully if ever confronted with that type of situation. Daniel coaches his students into reaching their full potential and as they progress they earn their stripes (STRIPES FOR CHILDREN ARE NEVER PURCHASED, THEY ARE EARNED). Overall Daniel is an excellent trainer and friend and I recommend him to everyone I come in contact with interested in the sport. read more

I have been training with Daniel for a few years now, and he is the most amazing Professor I have ever had, and ever will have. I agree with others that have said that learning from Daniel is like learning from the source itself. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is his life. Daniel constantly reminds his students that BJJ is more than a sport, but a lifestyle. When you train under Daniel Tavares you aren't just joining a team, but a family. I feel blessed to have him as my Professor, and while there are no "exclusivity agreements" I would never think of training with someone else. When practicing any sort of martial arts you learn respect, discipline, and loyalty. It isn't easy, and he expects a lot from his students, as any great Professor would. When I started BJJ I had low self-esteem and self-confidence. Daniel and his teachings have allowed me to break free of that, and to realize how much potential I have within myself. He teaches his students that they are capable of so much more than they think, and that they can accomplish anything they set their mind to. As long as they give it 100%. I have evolved as a person ever since I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and I know it sounds cliché, but it changed my life. It changed my whole world. Thanks to Daniel I have learned not only the technicalities of the sport, but the beauty and art of BJJ as a whole. If you are torn, and can't decide where to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, give Daniel Tavares BJJ Academy a shot. I can promise that you will not be disappointed. My advice to you will be to remain persistent, because a lot of people enter this martial arts world expecting immediate results. Be patient. I can guarantee that Daniel CAN and WILL make you a champion. You would be learning from the best. P.S. THE SCHEDULE IS AWESOME! read more

Let me start off by saying that I have trained with Daniel for many years and I can vouch for his experience teaching kids and adults and his ability as a high level competitor and instructor in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. One of the best instructors in the whole state of New Jersey thats for sure, and I have been training BJJ in New Jersey for seventeen years. Daniel has the unique ability of breaking down techniques and explaining them in a way that makes it easier to learn. Whether you are an absolute beginner or an experienced competitive athlete, in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or mixed martial arts, Daniel can benefit your game greatly. What also makes him unique is that he comes directly from Brazil where he trained from the renowned SAS Team under the tutelage of Master Sazinho (A highly decorated Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Master from Fortaleza, Brazil). So, training with Daniel is like learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from the source. Daniel's classes can benefit anyone whether you are looking to defend yourself, get in shape, or aspire to become a competitor in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or Mixed Martial Arts. Over the years I have witnessed Daniel instruct many kids and I have to say I have seen him bring kids to the next level. His classes benefit kids in many ways. Kids end up having better self esteem, better discipline, and will put them in better shape. Daniel's kids' classes are huge on discipline and he will never allow unruly kids to upset the ones who want to learn. Bottomline: he turns kids into better students. Overall the end result speaks for itself! If you are in the area and are serious about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or mixed martial arts , there is only one choice: Daniel Tavares Academy. read more

This message is a rebuttal for "Jay B." I would like to express my distaste toward this horrible review about Professor Tavares.. Jay B is obvious an alias for who he really is. Professor Tavares including the whole academy are well aware of who Jay B really is along with his children. It's unfortunate "Jay B" is unhappy with his time here at the school but it's his own opinion and it's his right. 95% of the students here have been with Professor Tavares for years with no issues. From reading "Jay-B" review it is totally bias and completely ignorant. To describe your ignorance Daniel is from Brazil, they don't Spanish in that country. From your horrible grammar and writing skills you don't seem to be educated. How can an individual who doesn't own a martial arts school, yet alone a business criticize somebody on how to run a business? To add to that, you can't even spell out why and you, and you have the audacity to tell Professor Tavares how to run a martial school. My name is John and I'm in the Army, I'm one of Daniels veteran students and I don't lack character or guts. I don't have to hide behind an alias to express how I feel. If you feel this disgruntled where you have to bash somebody you should have enough intestinal fortitude to have a professional sit down and express your views and feelings. You need to set a better example for your kids,and yes I'm a father myself. Your cursing, being racially ignorant and hiding behind a computer is making you look horrible. Hopefully you'll just be able to move on in peace. It's unfortunate we lost your kids as students but we wish you the best. Good luck to you and your kids. John. read more

I have been training with professor Daniel Tavares for over four years now and have been training Brazilian Jiu Jistu for almost 5 years and I have seen many schools and spoken and trained with lots of different martial artists and professors and can proudly say that Daniel Tavares is without a doubt one of the best instructors I have ever seen. Not just in his teaching abilities or world class skill. But also how he takes the time to make every student feel important regardless of belt rank, or anything else. Like I've said I've spoken to many Brazilian jiu Jistu practitioners and I don't know too many of them who would feel comfortable calling up the professor with questions or issues but that's how Daniel is. He is close to all his students and it truly feels like a family. He is there for you regardless of what your goals are. I am proud to be one of his students and highly recommend his school and teachings to anyone who is interested in trying this beautiful art !!!!!!!! read more

Professor Daniel Tavares is a fantastic instructor. I take a lot of private classes with Professor Daniel Tavares. Since I've been taking these classes with Professor Daniel Tavares my JIU JITSU has greatly improved. I've won many tournaments and placed in many others. In addition my confidence and overall health is in top shape. Professor Daniel Tavares is a caring instructor that goes at your pace does not rush. Being a dentist is extremely stressful but everytime I train JIU JITSU with Professor Daniel Tavares my stress is released. read more

Amazing training under a world class competitor and overall a great guy! I've been training under Daniel for almost 8 years and he is the real deal. Nobody spends more time on the mats with students and cares more about their individual progress in BJJ and life. I highly recommend this school for kids or adults. Very friendly family environment. Mats are extremely clean. The price is the best in South Jersey. read more

Over the past few years my daughter has trained with Daniel. I have seen an amazing difference in her self confidence and self esteem. She has made amazing friendships!!There is a culture of love and loyalty bred there. She is definitely in the best shape of her life! read more