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    Ground Rules Academy

    5.0 (14 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 pm - 8:00 PM
    Updated a few days ago

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    Awesome place very welcoming, I just started after taking two trial classes for free and have loved it so far. I recommend trying this place out to see if you'd be willing to join. Very clean and I love the sense of community. Have always wanted to try BJJ and I am grateful to have came here.

    Ground Rules Academy Shirt!!
    Jennifer M.

    I recently took a self-defense class with Sensei Russ at his new location with friends and it was so much fun! Russ is an exceptional instructor, making what appears to be complex techniques easy to learn! Along with getting a good work out in without having to go to the gym!! HIGHLY recommend this academy for anyone looking to boost their self-defense skills!!

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    2 years ago

    Amazing class, learned some great techniques. Facility is clean, instructors are extremely knowledgeable! Will be coming back!

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    Review Highlights - Ground Rules Academy

    The Russ's instructions are top-tier, but the highlight is the incredibly welcoming atmosphere.

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    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu - Great training at a wonderful gym

    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu

    4.9(81 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu has truly been one of the best decisions our family has made. All four of us my…read more2 girls, my husband, and myself are part of the Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu family, and it's been an incredible experience for each of us. From day one, the customer service has been top-notch. The environment is welcoming, supportive, and genuinely feels like a community. What stands out the most is that they welcome everyone there's no discrimination here. No matter your age, background, or personal circumstances, health condition etc. you're treated with respect and encouraged to grow. My girls are learning so much beyond self-defense. They're building discipline, confidence, courage, respect, and strong character. As a parent, that means everything. The instructors are exceptional highly skilled, patient, and truly invested in every student's progress. You can tell they care. The owner leads with kindness and creates a culture that pushes you to become the best version of yourself while still feeling supported every step of the way. This place is not just about learning jiu-jitsu it's about growth, empowerment, and becoming stronger mentally and physically. The place is extremely clean. If you're thinking about it, don't hesitate go sign yourself up. You won't regret it. And on top of everything, the pricing is extremely affordable for the value you receive.I wish I could give more than 5 starts because 5 starts isn't enough. Thank you Guerrilla jiujitsu.

    If you are in the area and are looking for a jiujitsu academy to join, Guerilla is going to be one…read moreof your top options. They have an extremely clean facility, and all the instructors and practitioners are committed to helping you elevate your health and martial arts goals. My experience here for open mat preparing for competition was amazing, and I benefited from training with people here immensely. Thank you Guerilla Jiujitsu.

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    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu
    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu - Awesome instructors.

    Awesome instructors.

    Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu - Super Guerrillas ages 3-5

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    Super Guerrillas ages 3-5

    Ralph Gracie - Emailed to state we were having hard times. Ignored my email.

    Ralph Gracie

    4.8(18 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    My son is autistic and I put him in this place for safety and protection since his was 7 and he…read moreloved it... 4 year of payments $7000 that came from my son ssi money. I am single parent going through a rough patch and verbalized this and stated we will return once we got settwe after we mov. I was told to never come back to the gym. After a double payment in Dec that was taken out of my son account to supposedly cover Sept bill. this caused a hardship that I explained to the owner. As the only Black American in their business they don't see how disrespectful this is and never cared for my son. All I tired to do is pause his membership until after the hard time but was told I still had to pay even if he was attending. He did attend Dec and was charge even though they know he is with his father for the holidays. The fact the my son was NEVER invited back is okay. But this is why Black Americans don't support other cultures. You come over here... take our money, then disrespect us after we have supposed you! To the owners: You should be ashamed to treat the disabled black child like this especially when he was the ONLY BLACK BOY in the class! I communicated to your staff as soon as possible and was harassed by your staff for weeks for oayment after I emailed, spoke to and texted your staff my situation. My son didn't deserve to be treated like this. And I will be filing a complaint for the Unauthorized Retroactive Billing to a disabled childs income.

    I am a Licenses Therapist and have sent clients here who I felt Jiu Jitsu would be a great fit for…read moreand they have taken them under their wings and contributed immensely to their mental health and personal development. I have been training for years and can only hope that if I start work with a client they are open to Jiu Jitsu for all of the benefits, and these guys and Ralph Gracie Pleasanton have really delivered with who I have sent there and I just felt the least I could do is leave this review for anyone thinking of joining or getting their kids into Jiu Jitsu.

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    Ralph Gracie - We will find another Jujitsu's place that honors us being there. We thank you for showing us you don't give a f about us! We will move along

    We will find another Jujitsu's place that honors us being there. We thank you for showing us you don't give a f about us! We will move along

    Ralph Gracie - First place IBJJF Los Angeles Open 2022, promoted to Black Belt on the podium by Professor Marcio Moreira

    First place IBJJF Los Angeles Open 2022, promoted to Black Belt on the podium by Professor Marcio Moreira

    Ralph Gracie - Reza promotion to Black Belt on 7/30/2022

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    Reza promotion to Black Belt on 7/30/2022

    Combat Sports Academy - CSA Logo

    Combat Sports Academy

    4.8(159 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    15 years in business
    Family-owned & operated

    This gym feels like a 2nd home and it is a great place to learn martial arts since they have…read moreunlimited classes and access to 1-on-1 coaching and you can decide who you want to coach you. I personally gravitated towards Amber Leibrock (tall & tatted girl). Amber Leibrock is also the kids class coach so I also enrolled my 11 year old nephew so we can build him up too. I always leave the gym feeling stronger and with an increase in confidence. They really try and ensure you have the enough experience before letting you go to more advanced classes and the result? well I have been to watch many of the professional fighters and they usually always win so that is really motivational for the newer people. I personally have placed my emphasis on muay thai but they also have Jujitsu and Crossfit. I feel like I am now a more technical fighter and I can't wait for each day to keep progressing with my training. All of the coaches are awesome and have given me great advice in my life which I will forever be grateful for. CSA is the best gym I have ever been to and I never want to quit since they are my family now. Thank you for everything Coach K, Amber, MJ, Jessica, and Javi.

    At this gym you will find world class coaches and athletes. There are a variety of classes at a low…read moreprice. The gym is very large and has a ton of new equipment to use. One side of the gym has multiple striking and grappling equipment for the MMA program including a ring and cage. The other side of the gym has a full CrossFit area with weights pull up bars. I personally have attended most of the classes the MMA program has to offer and all the coaches are some of the best in the game, but I attend the morning Muay Thai class with Amber the most and she is a fantastic coach with years of experience. My overall striking and grappling have improved because of this gym and I plan to train here as much as I can. Thanks CSA!

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    Combat Sports Academy - 30 X 30 Octagon

    30 X 30 Octagon

    Combat Sports Academy - Strong is the new skinny!!!

    Strong is the new skinny!!!

    Combat Sports Academy - CSA Kids Programs

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    Warrior Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy - Tracy teaches a women's class every Saturday morning, ladies come check it out!

    Warrior Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy

    5.0(45 reviews)
    7.0 mi

    Pretty nice BJJ dojo. I came here for an open mat and enjoyed training with this crew. The coaches…read moreare nice and are very welcoming to newcomers to the gym. There are hobbyists and competitors, so you get the best of both worlds. Check this gym out if you are in the area!

    Put my girls in Warriors since fall of 2022 twice a week after the trial class. My girls are not…read morenaturally physical or into sports/martial arts, and for one of them, it's very much out of her comfort zone! But Coach Alex is simply fantastic with kids and instructing them in the most positive way. I was a little concerned about the potential injuries and chokeholds in BJj, but the coaches are so good at watching the kids closely and making sure kids stay safe. There are several assistant coaches that vary depending on be day, and all are excellent and promote learning, safety and positivity. The dojo is spacious and clean. I honestly can't say enough good things. There are classes for the whole age range of kids and adults. I never thought my girls would do BJJ and I have to say, it's been a great experience--my kids used to get nervous going, bc again, physically grappling with another kid was an alien concept to them, but now they are pretty comfortable and I can see how empowered they feel after each class. Their stamina and physical fitness are much improved--they used to complain about PE in school but now, they have no problems running the laps, doing pushups, etc. If you are a parent looking for a new activity for your kid that will help with not only their physical wellness but also really promote feeling confident and empowered, Warriors BJJ under Coach Alex is a fantastic option, great for both girls as well as boys!

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    Warrior Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy - TL takes the award for most photogenic kid while being choked out!

    TL takes the award for most photogenic kid while being choked out!

    Warrior Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy - Reef practicing his forward rolls.

    Reef practicing his forward rolls.

    Warrior Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy - Smiles all around when we are on the mat!

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    Smiles all around when we are on the mat!

    Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy - 1st Competition @ JJWL

    Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy

    4.8(48 reviews)
    7.9 mi

    Our son has continuously trained for +3 years here at Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy( new name, same…read moreteam). He looks forward to training and it has become his favorite extra curricular activity. He has fun. Coach Chris, Jorge, and team have a created a captivating learning environment and community where discipline, respect, and confidence are foundational virtues to compliment the knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu . Our son has made many friends and built relationship , but most importantly, has been learning everyday life skills that will carry on into his adult hood.

    Jitsu Has Truly Transformed My Daughter's Confidence…read more Choosing Jitsu for my daughter was intentional. I wanted her to learn how to protect herself -- and if needed, to protect her little sister and her friends. I wanted her to grow up knowing she was strong, aware, and capable. What I didn't realize was how much more this journey would give her. When she first joined, she was shy and uncertain, but everything changed once she stepped onto the mat and into a community that believed in her. Having her best friend there made the experience even more special. They pushed each other, laughed through tough drills, and grew side by side in ways only true teammates can. Now it's been two years and counting, and she's still not sick of it -- not even close. If anything, she loves it more than when she started. That alone tells you they're doing something completely right. One of the biggest takeaways she's held onto is: "Never cry on the mat." And she takes it very literally -- but honestly, it's not a bad thing. For her, it means fight harder, stay focused, and don't give up. We get it... but let's be real, moms are absolutely allowed to cry on the sidelines. As a mom, it still scares me watching her train and compete -- that feeling never truly goes away. But her confidence has grown so strong that she's now the one asking me to sign her up for competitions. Seeing her walk onto the mat with purpose and pride is something I never imagined two years ago. I have to give so much credit to Jorge, Coach Chris, and Coach Brandon. They prepare her for every competition with patience, discipline, and unwavering belief in her. They've helped shape her into a girl who isn't afraid to push herself, challenge herself, and trust her own strength. Because of them, my heart is at ease a little more each time she competes. Jitsu didn't just teach her self-defense -- it opened a whole new world inside her. One filled with courage, growth, friendship, and confidence. Watching her transform has been one of the greatest gifts, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

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    Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy - Promotion Day!

    Promotion Day!

    Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy
    Alere Jiu Jitsu Academy - Getting her belt done right and her first stripe that day

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    Getting her belt done right and her first stripe that day

    Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Livermore

    Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Livermore

    4.8(22 reviews)
    8.0 mi

    I'm so glad I found Charles Gracie Academy. We moved to Livermore in August of 2024, and I signed…read moremy daughter up for Jiu-Jitsu classes shortly after. When I learned they had family plans, I signed myself up as well. What I was expecting when I enrolled my daughter was just an extracurricular activity to fulfill her need to move (and because she wanted to be like the Ninja Turtles). But what we've gotten back has been so much more. I've lost three pants sizes, for starters!! And I've also gained improved self-esteem, better focus, confidence in defending myself in shifty situations, a shared activity my daughter and I can practice at home together, and a passion I'll carry with me for the rest of my life. The list goes on and on -- but most of all, it's the camaraderie. In so many ways, I feel like I found my second home when I started training. Everyone is so friendly and patient as I learn, and I've met some truly awesome new friends. The coaches are all passionate about their craft, and that really sets them apart from other Jiu-Jitsu gyms. I know because I've tried other academies before, and Charles Gracie is unmatched in the level of care their coaches give to each student. They know their students by name and take the time to check in with how they're doing. They make sure no one falls through the cracks and that everyone understands the techniques. Last of all -- this place is super CLEAN!!! Every day after class, we see the coaches cleaning the mats, floors, toilets, locker rooms, and doors. It's such a relief not to worry about catching anything nasty. The other academies I tried were honestly grotesque -- grime in places that's hard to ignore -- it made me cringe. Honestly though, come check it out and see for yourself.

    They don't let parents watch their kids. They have a big set of benches that I was told used to be…read morea parent viewing area pre-covid, but now everyone must wait outside. The classes are so full you have to get there early to see at all, and even then it's obstructed views and a long distance over the mats. You have to stand in the front of the stuido, I was asked to leave from the back window. I'd really like to see them offer the inside viewing again. My kids like jiujitsu training, and it sucks that this one aspect absolutely ruins the experience for the parents. I've seen jiujitsu have a sense of community and this place ain't it.

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    Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Livermore
    Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Livermore
    Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Livermore

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    Ground Rules Academy - brazilianjiujitsu - Updated May 2026

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