If you're looking to learn martial arts and get in shape then this is the place. The culture,…read morecoaches and fellow students are all very supportive and encouraging. I've taken BJJ and cardio kick boxing classes for the last 6 months. I was a little worried as an older student about injury and not "keeping up" with the younger crowd, but everyone is so supportive and care is taken for all our training partners. It has definitely been a life changing experience for me, and I hope to continue to journey. Thanks to all the coaches and students.

Dumlao's Academy of Martial Arts is such an amazing place for any aspiring martial artist. They…read morehave so much to offer from Karate, Jiu Jitsu, Cardio kickboxing and more! I've been in their Jiu Jitsu program for about 5 years and absolutely love it. The atmosphere is so welcoming, not only for this program but any program you choose to be a part of. All of the instructors are knowledgeable and take the time to ensure that you understand what they are teaching before moving on. anyone and everyone who either attend classes here or have children/family that attend classes here can tell you that it's one big family. Dumlao's is simply the best school around!

Attended the USAPL 2022 Winter Swolestice on 12/10 where my son was a powerlifter participant. This…read more2 story gym is a pure powerlifting gym, compact. Since there was an scheduled event, I did not notice any treadmills or cardio related equipment, probably on the 2nd floor perhaps? Situated in a commercial area with not a lot of traffic. I like the feel to this gym - just get in there, do your thing and leave. The owners here are very nice, young gentlemen. Hope your gym thrives! Good luck!

I recently got into powerlifting over the last few months and I gotta say... this place became…read morehome. New equipment, a variety of bars, 4 combo racks, a room called "the dungeon" to do accessories in and take quality pictures, amazing body work sessions upstairs for warm up or recovery (separate from the membership). It's the perfect place to train for a comp or just train during off season. My favorite part? The people. I live across carquinez bridge but the gym and its people are so worth paying toll for. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. The owners Tai, Bryan and Toney are extremely hospitable and will treat you like family. I think I speak for everyone that goes to this gym when I say the support and love between everyone is amazing. I feel very lucky and grateful having started my powerlifting journey here, and finding a home along the way.

I first started my training with Chris Mags about 9 months ago. Working out at Cutz has always been…read moresomething I wanted to do as I always see them being tagged on body builder and athletes social media profiles. I was finally able to do so and can't express how happy I am that I finally did. Before working out with Chris I was fairly athletic and went to the gym about 5 to 6 days a week. I used all the apps and went off of what people posted online. I was just never really able to get my body to where I wanted. Thats where I am happy I finally met Chris as he pushes me every workout to get closer and closer to my goal body. Due to his training I was finally able to reach a goal that I had always set for myself but could never accomplish. He helped me get there with such ease, that, I was finally able to question myself, and wonder how far I can push myself and how much more I can grow with his help. In the darkest times during COVID Chris helped not only push me in accomplishing goals, but also be there as a friend to help me through mental and emotional stress I struggled with. He became not only my trainer but also my psychiatrist and a great friend. Being gay I was very nervous going to a gym that is known for body building, but quickly I realized that the environment is extremely friendly and a no judgement zone. Everyone helps to motivate each other and not just be friends at the gym but outside the gym as well. Chris goes the extra mile to create friendships between clients that extend outside the gym. The friendships with his other clients and him helps make the obstacles in achieving fitness goals easier. Whether its from pushing yourself for the last rep, or helping in eating the right things, Chris and friends at Cutz help you get there. Not just so you can physically look how you want but, to help you get to a better wellbeing. I have personally gained about 25lbs in muscle all thanks to Chris's help. I would recommend Chris's program to anyone that truly wants to change their life and reach goals they have trouble achieving on their own. The hardest part of the journey is taking the first step, going in. After that it becomes a whole lot easier, because you have Chris as your trainer, therapist, motivational coach, and most importantly, as your friend, to stand with you and help you the rest of the way. PS. Always bring your own pre-workout. ( Feel free to ask about what this means on your first day xD )

I was in my most unhealthy state, physically and mentally, and haven't stepped into the gym in…read moreseveral years. I was 172 lbs at 5'5. I woke up tired and sluggish, miserable every day. I knew I had to take action to get myself to a place where I didn't feel awful anymore, so I stepped into Cutz Training Facility. I was scared my first session, not knowing what I was getting into and did not think I would last through the entire one-hour workout. I pushed and got through it, moving my body in ways I didn't even think was possible. The trainers and members of the gym were so motivating and patient with me. I immediately felt like I was part of a family. I came back and kept at it for a week. I took a chance and officially joined the six week transformation program. I can honestly say that it was truly life-changing... I was skeptical at first and didn't think I'd lose any weight, especially given my love for food. I initially wanted to drop 5 lbs and improve my mental health. Six weeks later, I dropped 13 lbs, averaging a drop of 2 to 3 lbs a week! I'm beyond my six weeks and I am still dropping weight at the same rate --on my own from everything I learned through the program! The crazy thing is, there was NO MEAL PLAN. I was still able to continue my current lifestyle and eat the foods I loved. The trade-off I had to make was to eat in moderation and incorporate more protein and vegetables, which was easier to accomplish than I thought. I am so incredibly grateful for the experience I gained from Arman and all the trainers at the gym - Jose, Richelle, Karina, Chris, Erica. Everyone is truly wonderful to work with, genuinely cares about your well-being, and pushes you hard to achieve your desired results. Cutz has all my love! The program has not only improved my overall health, but has also inspired me to focus and prioritize what matters most to me in my personal life and my career.

My son has been attending lessons at Yee's Martial Arts for four months. He loves going. Very…read morefamily oriented and trustworthy. My son learns so much from everyone there.

I wish I knew about this place sooner. It has it all:…read morekungfu, taichi, judo and san shou kickboxing. The instructors are experienced and personable, and the students are well-rounded and supportive. As a beginner in kickboxing, I never felt out of place or awkward even though I was new. Everyone is upbeat and the highly charged workouts are flexible for the individual, but challenging nonetheless. The school teaches more than just kicking someone's butt, but rather, stresses self-discipline, self-respect, and overall fitness. I highly recommend trying one of their free-trial classes in any of the arts, and see for yourself what a great community of people you will find there.

My son attended this dojo for over a year, consistently showing up and putting in effort. Despite…read morehis commitment, he was never promoted, even to half yellow, while I noticed other kids who attended less frequently or who seemed less focused did receive promotions. According to their online system, my child had about 68 hours of verified instruction, yet still no advancement. From what I observed, promotions sometimes appeared to happen faster for children whose parents were more involved in dojo activities outside of class. For example, I saw families volunteering their time or providing other support, and those children seemed to advance more quickly. In my case, we were not involved in those types of activities, and I couldn't help but wonder if that played a role. Behavior standards also seemed inconsistent. I witnessed my son being told his behavior was a reason for not advancing, yet other children -- including some who were regularly reminded to focus or who disrupted class -- were promoted. At the same time, I often saw my son working hard, staying engaged, and following instructions. I'm not the only parent that felt this way either. There were also some teaching methods I personally felt uncomfortable with. For instance, I once heard comments directed at kids, such as calling them lazy, that struck me as discouraging rather than constructive. While some families may see this as tough coaching, it didn't align with what I wanted for my child. In the end, I felt the promotion process was unclear and discouraging for my son. Eventually, I decided it was time to move on. This is just my personal experience, but I think other families may want to carefully consider whether this dojo's style and values are the right fit for their child.

I have been attending EBJI since 1999 at age 7 as a white belt (beginner). Since then I have…read morevisited many dojos around the country and on 4 continents and achieved 3rd degree black belt. EBJI is a unique dojo, and one that upholds the traditions of Judo and Japanese culture. Their moto of "building good people through Judo" is an understatement I've witnessed firsthand. I have had the privilege of seeing peers and myself grow. From originally attending the kids class, where the focus is on exercise, good manners, and safe falls (which saved me from broken bones outside of the dojo growing up), to intermediate and adult classes where Judo skills are built upon, community and giving-back is fostered, and a complete person, both inside and outside of the dojo, is born. The adult advanced class focuses on competition and Judo techniques while the adult beginners class focuses on the recreation of Judo for all ages ranging from 20s to 60+. EBJI has a history of athletes who have competed in the olympics, coached olympians and MMA fighters, and olympic level referees. But they also have a history of successful entrepreneurs, parents, first responders, educators and more. I am thankful to have experienced and been part of this dojo. I cannot recommend giving EBJI a try highly enough, both for your child and yourself!

My friend invited me to a women's self defense class on a Saturday morning. I didn't know what to…read moreexpect and was a little nervous that I'd be able to keep up but Igor and Jeff and the RGR family made me feel so at home and well taken care of. Igor was an incredibly patient and effective teacher. I never thought I'd do a BJJ class but when it was over I left wanting more. As an educator it was so wonderful to see all of the kids in class. They seem to be learning way more than just jujitsu. Self respect, confidence, community, just to name a few. Thank you Igor, I appreciate the lesson and great experience at Ralph Gracie Richmond.

I am a new student of Professor Igor's. The facility is clean & orderly. Professor Igor & Mrs…read more Elise have always been courteous & willing to address any questions & concerns I may have in a timely manner. At my age (late 40's) & fitness level (severely out of shape ), I found starting Jiu Jitsu to be very physically challenging but Professor Igor is always encouraging & provides guidance when needed in a professional manner. I look forward to continuing my Jiu Jitsu studies at Ralph Gracie Richmond Academy & I plan to enroll my son at the Academy when he is old enough.

Bar Athletics - Where Real Strength Lives…read more Okay y'all, let me tell you why EVERYONE needs to be working out at Bar Athletics in Hercules--not just for the gains, but for the good deeds! I had a NutriPro blender cup jammed shut for DAYS. All my baby's food was locked inside. I carried it up and down my neighborhood asking grown men to open it--nobody could. I went to Target, checked with Amazon, even filed a claim with the manufacturer. I literally gave up hope. Then on a random Monday afternoon, I thought: "Where can I find strong people?" So I googled local gyms and walked into Bar Athletics. Y'all... this kind, shredded man looked at it and opened it in two seconds flat. TWO. SECONDS. Then casually said, "Tell those other men to come work out here." Bonus: I tried working out here years ago and it absolutely whooped my ass--in the best way. Their programming is no joke, and clearly, it builds real strength. So if you're in the area and you're trying to: * Actually get stronger * Be able to open stubborn blender lids * Look good and be useful in society Bar Athletics is the spot.

They're always patient and professional. I'm always feeling motivated to train here and welcomed…read more My friend that recommended I go here was like a miracle for changing my life. Any time is the right time! I hope you all find this place and its people. You will be humbled and possibly ripped someday.

Great place to train if you're looking for technical Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Professor Liz and Mineiro…read moreare very welcoming and passionate about their craft. The academy caters to all ages, skill levels, and welcomes all. I've been fortunate to train here for over a year and have trained with multiple champions. 10 out 10 would definitely recommend.

Professors Mineiro and Liz have been training my kids since they were 5 years old. They are now…read more7&9. Before they opened up shop in Emeryville, they used to travel from Fresno to San Jose to coach the kids class at LUTE. Their dedication to being there for the kids is what really stood out. Mineiro's style of coaching and disciplining a bunch of 4-7 year olds is pretty impressive. I've seen complete chaos at other academies, with kids not following simple instructions. But not Mineiro! He has always been firm and wasted no time. It was always "Keep Quiet and Pay Attention!" Some parents might think it's a little too direct, but it's exactly what every kid needs to hear. Mineiro always encourages the kids in class to try out the local competitions. It's always a you'll never know if they'll like it unless you try situation. In reality, it helps them build up the self confidence and teaches them to train harder win or lose. When the news came that they were moving to Emeryville to open up their 1st location our kids were so bummed. There's a special bond that sticks with them as well as us parents. You realize the kids become smaller versions of their coaches. Good news is we were always traveling north, so we made it a point to drop by every chance we could. Til' this day we still visit Mineiro once a month on a Saturday morning. When you step into the room you can see how much pride, and hard work was put into this place. The competition banners are starting to fill the walls, and when you watch how they train you know why they took home the 2024 JJWL 1st Place Academy Champion Banner. Potentially going for a back to back win this weekend. Seeing the growth on social media these past months, I wouldn't be surprised if they moved into a bigger space. If you're in the area looking for a reputable and well respected Professor, then you and your kids are in good hands. You'll also get a chance to meet the CEO Harley! Thank you Mineiro and Liz for pushing our kids to be the best versions of themselves. Nothing but love and respect to the both of you!