Mikiyo is fantastic; the school is very well-versed in the skills of Martial Arts I was impressed by the professionalism displayed. Although the sport is very physically engaging, it is the best way to develop deftness if done in a safe environment. My son has joined, too, and now we train together. Thanks, Marin MMA read more

I'm writing a new review in light of Jane Doe's post. I wanted to give at least 2 stars because the community of now mostly former members are wonderful people. My original review two years ago was a glowing five star review because of the community Mikyo has built. As two years became three, I saw that the community is one thing, but the leadership is another thing entirely. These allegations have followed Mikyo for years, and though I cannot substantiate them personally, I respect the women and men coming out who can and do, and I know them in my heart to resonate with what I've seen. I will only speak to what I know. My two daughters and I trained extensively over the last three years. Two months ago I pulled them because the community has almost no women left, and they felt vulnerable. This week I pulled myself. I found out after I pulled my girls that he rolled often with my 14 year old daughter. I roll 3-5x a week for three years and he has never rolled with me. Not once. He once made a comment about my daughter maturing that made my skin crawl. He is overly friendly with most of the women in the gym and in addition to the gym members, some of the men's wives and girlfriends have complained about it and even left the gym. I have seen Mikyo speak badly about my daughters, about my friend's daughters, and about his own daughter. I have seen him speak badly about his customers, his team, his competitors, his staff, and his coaches. I have personally watched him take advantage of his staff and push the boundaries of what's appropriate. And the pattern is that he hires a student until they wise up and leave the gym entirely. The sad part is Mikyo isn't interested in changing. He thinks Jiu Jitsu lineage is important and good technique is handed down from great man to great man. Marin MMA is his temple to himself, and for enough new white belts, it can be that... for a while. But this is an old way of thinking about martial arts and the modern practice has passed him by. Look closely, and you see that he hasn't earned the respect to have that lineage matter anymore. Most of his black belts either don't respect him or leave. Most of the competitive upper belts don't train with him. He never shows up at competitions to support his competitors unless there's a promoter involved. Most of the time while his students are rolling he's looking at his phone. My development as a practitioner skyrocketed under his other coaches who invested in me. Those coaches have all already left or left en masse this week. He will be the first to tell you he comes from a very long line of abusive trainers. He still keeps photos of Ralph Gracie on the wall, and Ralph just left prison for assaulting another coach at a tournament. I used to say that when Mikyo speaks you can see the devil and the angel at war on his shoulders. I now think the devil has had his better angels in a choke hold for too long. And I appreciate this is a human being and we're all flawed. It would be so much easier to love Marin MMA if it were run like a business and not a temple to Mikyo Riggs and Ralph Gracie. Instead he charges his own coaches for memberships and has them work off memberships or doesn't pay them at all. Loyalty is the currency and he doesn't understand it's earned individually, not implicit by Jiu Jitsu lineage. When I pulled my daughters I told him he should invest in a women's coach or a women's open mat. He proceeded to tell me how hard it is to "come down to teach at your level already" and he couldn't find anyone because there weren't enough women to support it. Years ago I suggested they bring in a yoga instructor or a Judoka. No interest unless someone on "the team" already wants to volunteer. His farm system is depleted and he refuses to bring in any free agents. And so like so many teams, he started losing. This week he lost most of his adult students and his staff. His business and livelihood will truly suffer. He's already closed the gym. I feel for him - I even still have respect for the community he created and his Jiu Jitsu, but I don't trust him to lead it anymore. I hope none of the allegations are true. I know people permanently changed by his behavior and I fear the worst. I hope he learns to respect people and himself more. I hope he invests in himself and his business and gets help to do so. But given the way he has handled this week, with ChatGPT generated damage control emails and texts, I think he's a long way from seeing where he's failing. I have so many good memories from this gym. I love many of my training brothers and sisters because they put their hearts into their training. Jiu Jitsu is a rare thing because it requires a safe place for one to be vulnerable and fully present as part of the compact. I highly recommend everyone practice Jiu Jitsu. I can no longer recommend Marin MMA, and it breaks my heart. read more

Buyer beware My 2 sons got crushed on huge cancellation fees. Ridiculous policy that was absolutely firm w no exceptions to the tune of hundreds of $$ each. Why would anyone penalize upon exit especially when it's so simple with no resources, time or hard costs logged, on a simple member cancel? Doesn't matter what the policy is in writing...if someone wants out let them go and keep what they've paid to date. Nothing more. Sadly, Can't even remember their actual experience w training and classes read more

Our daughter has been going to Marin MMA for about a year and she loves it! She never wants to miss a class and loves her coaches. She has learned a lot since joining. Not only Jui Jitsu, but also key values around respect, discipline, and good manners. Highly recommend Marin MMA! read more

Never have I written a single yelp review in my life. However, I would be remiss not commenting on the recent post by Jane Doe. I left this gym in 2020 due to Mikyo Riggs acting unprofessionally; behavior I was able to verify. I also left the gym due to rumors and personally witnessed strange behavior that hinted Mikyo was grooming underage females and attempting to have relationships with them. I confronted Mikyo over the phone, initially accusing him of simply being unprofessional. I witnessed him having relationships with multiple female students over the years I had trained there. I listed four (adult) women I knew he had been intimate with over several years, including one of his students own mother; an accusation that he did not deny. Mikyo was incapable of seeing my perspective that this was outrageously unprofessional as a teacher and business owner. I then confronted him on hearing rumors about "sexually grooming" two other female students as young as 16 years old. I let him know that me and several other of his longtime students were hearing these disgusting rumors. He furiously denied these accusations and even threatened to fight me for making them. I did not have any evidence that Mikyo had done anything illegal. I had only heard rumors and the rumors alone were enough for me to never support this gym again. I let other people know what happened and some decided not to support Mikyo as well; despite the fact that no one knew what was going on. It was simply Mikyo being unable to see the unprofessionalism in dating his students as the head instructor/owner. I've never written a review in my life but I stand by everything I say here. I hope it helps hold Mikyo accountable for his actions not only for his students well being but also his own. I remember this guy sitting down for one of his "mat chats" ....pontificating to the room what it was to be a black belt on and off the mat. Mikyo -you have always been a white belt off the mat read more

I can't recommend Marin MMA enough--it is a safe, rigorous, and positive environment to learn mixed martial arts for all ages. The instructors are amazing and the community is so welcoming. My teenage daughter is learning jiu jitsu, and it has been the most empowering experience for her to build strength, endurance, and confidence. She comes home glowing and can't wait to go back several days each week! read more

Always impressed with the level of care attention and service here. With lots of options available to the community, this business has my highest recommendation. Service, atmosphere and overall quality are amazing. read more

For Families: This academy has a very welcoming vibe and there are no egos. We have two young kids in the program (both started at age 5) and they have loved it over the past couple years. I value that they are learning practical skills, life lessons, coordination, focus, and discipline. But as a parent, I also just want them to have a safe environment to burn off a ton of energy. It's super rewarding to see them mature through the program. You can rest assured they are getting world class instruction as well. For Adults: After watching my son for a year, I finally joined myself about 18 months ago with the encouragement of other members and parents. If you've thought about Jiu-Jitsu or MMA, but have hesitated to jump in, I can't think of a more perfect academy to give this a try. You'll see your fitness spike immediately, of course. But the real pleasure is in learning your new super power and leaving any stress you have on the mat. You'll be asking yourself why were you wasting so many hours in the gym for years or decades? The Gracie Jiu Jitsu instruction here is top notch and they focus on both old school fundamentals and new school techniques. The Muay Thai and MMA is also phenomenal. Don't wait. You're only getting older. read more

Marin MMA - Kickboxing Near Me - San Anselmo, California

My son (8) started at Marin MMA about 6 weeks ago and we have nothing but great things to say about this place! The instructors (especially Noah) and Professor Mikyo (owner) are welcoming, super talented and just make you feel like Marin MMA is something you want to be a part of, which means a lot to us. My son is the kind of boy who hasn't really enjoyed any of the usual team sports. From the moment we walked into Marin MMA, he has been hooked! As parents, we love it for his increased focus, attention, overall awareness and the 'mat chat' lessons after each class. If you are considering MMA, this is the place! read more

Mikyo is a top level MMA competitor who gives his knowledge and passion to all of his students. He is gentle and firm, serious and sweet all at the same time. A true master!! Great with kids! read more

Great community, teachers, and atmosphere. Teachers are all very qualified and the classes are very flexible.

Great classes at convenient times after school. We love the staff at Marin MMA. Confidence-building for kids, teens.

I have been training and practicing BJJ since 2006, and during that time, I have experienced several different school environments. When I moved to Marin and discovered Marin MMA in 2016, I knew I had found my permanent home to continue my jiu jitsu journey. From the first day of training, I felt comfortable with the team members and their philosophy of "100% Technique." Professor Mikyo Riggs sincerely cares about the physical and mental health of his students. He regularly teaches multiple classes during the week and evenings, which benefits the beginners and more advanced students collaboratively. My progress as a higher belt is directly connected to his consistent teachings. It is no coincidence that Marin MMA has been voted "Best Martial Arts School" in Marin several years running! I am proud and humbled to be part of the team. Anyone considering joining our academy need only to try a class and experience for themselves the supportive and technical atmosphere, to then realize this is the best place to start their own martial arts journey. read more

Mikyo is an awesome Black Belt .He is a very skillful Jiu-Jitsu artist.I trained with professor Mikyo back in 2000 to 2003 and he helped me win US Open and United Gracie Championships in San Francisco. Great instructor and amazing human! read more

I had been wanting to get into MMA for quite a long time and had been looking for the right place. I instantly felt welcome here and confident in it. The atmosphere is one of seriousness with a dedication to learning and developing technique, but it is welcoming, and not intimidating for someone like myself who is just beginning as there is a range of member skill levels and Mikyo and his staff are patient engaged and helpful. Go for it! read more

I can't speak highly enough of the Marin MMA community. For those seeking a great jiu jitsu school in San Anselmo or the greater Marin area, this is the one. Discovering BJJ has been a life altering experience, much of that due to Professor Mikyo Riggs's attentive, kind, helpful, and welcoming disposition. I have only good things to say about the other instructors and my fellow students as well. I've endeavored to also incorporate the school's Muy Thai and Karate classes into my martial arts compendium, in addition to the almighty grappling sport. And I can say that after two great months of consistent training, I am a changed person, all for the better. Come in and find out how it can change you! read more

This training center is great! I feel like part of the family here at Marin MMA. My initial fear before joining just any MMA training center was that it would be full of macho, egotistical meatheads. Thankfully, I did not find that here. Both the instructors and students here are all great. The Professor, who is a true role model, shares his passion and extensive knowledge of the Martial Arts with dignity and respect. After my shopping around and my first complimentary session, I knew this was the place for me! Training in Muay Thai/Boxing/Kickboxing has really helped me regain focus on my health! If you are looking for more than just a workout, this is both fun and exciting. Not only a way to strengthen your core and build muscle but also a lesson on good self defense techniques. I promise if you drop by you'll see for yourself, and you will be impressed! I've been training at Marin MMA for 3 months now. Overall my health, quality of life, and energy have all greatly improved. I didn't realize martial arts was what I was missing in my life. My training at M-MMA has given me a greater drive that goes beyond weight loss, with new life goals and a newfound passion for healthy positive lifestyle. Joining Mikyo's team has been the best decision I've made as an adult. I can't wait to take my next steps and start learning Jiu Jitsu. Learning this art from Mikyo who was trained by- Ralph Gracie! I look forward to the next decade of training here, winning a gold medal, and carrying on the knowledge, passion and skills taught by Mikyo Riggs & his team! read more

Marin MMA is one of the best gyms I have trained at. They foster an incredibly welcoming and safe environment for beginners while providing individual attention to each student. All of the teachers are respectful, patient, and kind. read more

Similar experience to Byron's review below... Love that they offered him a free month when he doesn't like the business lol. Anyway, speaking from personal experience, billing practices are shady af. I joined before my schedule became too busy for their class times, but my brief experiences in-store were positive. I was drawn in by the free session and the instructor was fantastic. Aaaaand that's the kicker. Everyone is great in studio, but as soon as you want to leave you have to deal with Member Solutions, not Marin MMA. They should make that MUCH clearer when you sign the automatically renewed contract (that particular detail was not mentioned to me while signing, similar to Byron's review). Also, they put a lot of pressure on you to buy a lot of their equipment as soon as you sign up and don't mention the prices until they ring you up... Maybe it's just their receptionist Emily, or maybe it's just the company in general. But what is that about?! You're charging me to walk around advertising your company on a cheap shirt AFTER I just paid hundreds to join your club?? Avoid the contracts, or better yet, just go some place else. Plenty of better studios in the area to explore! Update 7/2 - my member solutions account is paid and closed, yet they continue to hound me for money. BUYER BEWARE read more

My 6-1/2 year old has been training at Marin MMA for 2-1/2 years in the Little Lions class and we can't say enough great things about the Marin MMA class for little kids. Mikyo, Bon, Julian, and all the other teachers are fantastic working with kids. They care, they know every child by name, they break up the students into belt-color groups during class, giving great focus to each child. At belt ceremonies Mikyo has special words of praise for each individual child; he knows his students and draws attention to the positives in each of them. We've heard about other martial arts studios where the teachers yell at the kid to get their point across -- not at Marin MMA. It's all positive communication here. And, every Little Lions class ends with a game! This is not a Rec Class -- students are encouraged to come two days a week to both (T/Th 3:30) classes, it is a commitment but we have seen the dedication pay off in our son. He loves the class, and many of his classmates are still in his class 2-1/2 years later -- how many other activities do you see the same interest & commitment in at age 6-1/2? read more

I first came across jiu jitsu watching the ufc. After that first show I started looking for a school to start training at. I looked at schools close to home but I didn't like any of them. I decided to look in other parts of the bay. I came across this school and it was every thing I was looking for. My first day they gave me a free one on one lesson. The main instructor here is Mikyo Riggs. He is a black belt under Ralph Gracie. When you first walk in everyone that is there shakes your hand and say welcome. They make you feel like family! The jiu jitsu is world class and the kick boxing is intense. I was training here for two years but had to stop traveling that far because of gas prices :-( If your just a beginner or expert in the art of self defense this is the school for you. Trust me you wont regret it! read more

Marin MMA - Kickboxing Near Me - San Anselmo, California

Really bad experience overall. Research your options first. It's no wonder why he can never keep people to work there. He is always looking for help on the front desk and now his best teacher (way better than he is), Andrew is gone! read more

Marin MMA combines everything that I love (and wish people knew more) about MMA - an emphasis on building foundational skills, a strong sense of respect and cameraderie, and instructors who are obviously knowledgable but also very humble and patient. I've been to MMA gyms where the testosterone and RipFuel is off the charts; and/or where I've felt unsafe training as a woman among men. Mikyo and the other instructors at Marin MMA are great models for leadership - and that happy, patient, dedicated attitude trickles down to the students. It's a beautiful thing when you can roll around the floor, drilling with a man twice your height and weight, and still feel supported, safe and respected. As a newbie at the gym, I've seen everyone from the front desk people to the younger students introduce themselves to me, welcome me into the group and encourage me to come more often. I see both students and teachers volunteer to disinfect and mop the (huge) mat space clean after each class. That feeling of ownership and belonging is not something you can fake, nor is it a regular sight in a gym that ostensibly caters to "meatheads" or "fighters." Honestly, if you want to learn how to break a man's arm you can go to any old place. But if you want to be more than a fighter, and learn to be a good human being who happens to know how to defend themselves, then Marin MMA is the place to go. read more

Marin MMA will provide you with all the tools you need to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fully and it has a great group of training partners. There is not a lot of ego with the people who practice there, so you can practice and learn in a safe environment. Like all of the Jiu Jitsu schools in Marin its a decent financial commitment, but for many people, Jiu Jitsu becomes a passion and with commitment you will find value. The kickboxing classes run a little early for my schedule, but some of the regulars look very competent. read more

Been thinking long and hard about getting back into martial arts. But I don't really have time for the evening classes and whatnot so I reached out to Antone one of the instructors for private weekly lessons. It's only been a couple weeks but I can tell you I am very pleased with the process thus far. I'm not looking for anything pretty or anything fancy at this point I'm looking for down and dirty real life self defense to protect myself and my family. And that is exactly what I'm getting. Antone, is cool, confident and a very good instructor. So far what I see of the facility is also very positive, clean respectful, positive all things you want when you're training. I'm looking forward to my next session. read more

At 8-yrs old, my son wanted to study "sword ceremony" - where to start?! My college martial arts teacher looked over the Bay Area offerings and suggested MMMA. What distinguishes MMMA over other studios is the clear emphasis on respect, community values, and honoring the tradition of the (martial) art. It's one thing to learn drills. It's another to learn one's own power, and the power of another. Now 11 years old, my son, previously interested in exercising his intellectual capacity, created a goal to compete Jiu Jitsu. Starting his third year, he's now practicing 5-days a week, inspired by Mikyo, Spencer, Lauren and Jeremy to work toward being his best self, physically and mentally. The goal is not the gold medal, but the winning attitude. Never giving up on what you believe in ,on the mat, and off the mat. And sometimes (like his recent competition) you come home with the gold as well. MMMA is a kid/adult/family friendly environment that meets everyone where they are, and supports every student in setting goals to achieve their personal best. And the women's only classes are serious fun!!! ~elana read more

I have been referred to Marin MMA by a friend who was training there. I was looking for a good martial arts school for my son (then 4-year-old). Since day one I felt very comfortable at school and I liked brining my son there. He became much better at sports overall, his coordination, running and determination improved. I like that both coaches Mikyo and Andrew teach kids good habits and focus. These skills the kids will carry through their lifetime. The classes are very good and in just a few months my son became more confident and stared to stand up for himself. I like very much that kids are taught to respect others and to ask for respect. This is not just about MMA, it is about their standing in life; you need to be strong and respect yourself, this will make others treat you with respect too. After brining my son to the school for 6 months I myself enrolled into MMA classes (kickboxing and bjj). I always loved martial arts, however, after being a mom of two kids and did not know if I would be a good fit for a school where people trained regularly. I must say that the school is great, it makes you feel at home but also makes you take yourself and your time seriously. It feels as if overtime you come to train is sort of a gift. It is a gift to yourself, of investing in yourself. The coaches help you to set up goals and work towards them. I like the fact that the school is serious, yet not pushy. The more you train the more you like it. After another 6 months my 8-year-old daughter signed to and started training in the kids class. It made an awesome change in her; she became more athletic and better at sports and games. I think MMA gives the kids not only the ability to know they are strong and they are not a punching bag, but also the skills to practice all the other sports, as it teaches you control of your body and knowing your muscles. It is a very good school for kids and for grown ups who are not professional athletes, but who want to take the sport seriously and make it part of their life. Both coaches, Mikyo and Andrew are awesome. Also, the people at Marin MMA are worth it. I like sparring with them, training, chatting and being part of this group! read more

I have trained here for 8 years now. There is so much I love from the teachings and training to the people. The place has built a community to where a good number of us not only train together but also hang out. Mikyo is very knowledgeable and very detailed with his teachings. He has great care in his students, that's why he is family to me now. Although I have been training at MarinMMA for 8 years, the truth is I started training with Mikyo 20 years ago before he had MarinMMA and he is the reason I started BJJ. read more

Horrible experience!!! The instructors may be good at MMA themselves, but they have been hit in the head way too many times to actually run a business and they don't know how to teach very well at all. Just a bunch of guys who wanted their own studio to play in. Don't pay for bad teaching and disrespectful management/billing. Watch out for their billing practices! They take no responsibility for sorting out any billing problems with their billing provider. So, you are screwed if they forget to cancel one of your kids like they did mine. They knew we weren't going there and that we had canceled, but they still kept charging us. Even when we told them of the mistake, they took no responsibility, saying that they don't do refunds. That is very bad business in Marin. They really don't care at all that they made a mistake. Sorry sucker, we don't care. They need to grow up and learn how to treat people decently. I am sure if it happened to them, they would be really upset with how it was handled. Don't support evil businesses in Marin, please! read more

I've been training here for a little over a month and I love it. Mikyo sets a great tone at his gym. I've done martial arts before and know how important it is to have a good vibe set by the instructor. Other students are very friendly and always willing to work with you. It's a bit intimidating at first but after a few classes you start to feel very comfortable. I recommend this gym to anyone wanting to train just jiu jitsu or mma. You can be as casual or hardcore as you want, either way you'll have fun and get in shape. 6 stars! read more

I ran into Mickyo while training at the SF Ralph Gracie school. I was so impressed with his skills i rented a car to go up and train with im. Man what a guy. Im glad i spent the money and time to go. If you are in the area go train there. read more

Though I am a relatively new member to Marin MMA, I am very impressed with the level of strict technique implemented in their training. I've been to a variety of gyms in the bay area and am so happy to have found one in north bay that feels like family! Everyone is incredibly caring and familiar. It can be intimidating to join a new gym and especially so, if you do not have a background in martial arts. Mikyo is wonderful at putting your worries to rest. I've always loved martial arts for the community and am quite happy to say I'll be continuing to train with them for as long as I remain in Marin County! read more

Mikyo is a rare person. He has insight most people don't have. He was teaching my son and I was very impressed with the way he dealt with the kids. I have nothing but respect and admiration for Mikyo, though I'm sure he's not actually super-human in real life! But seeing the way he helped build my kid's self-esteem, which was already pretty damn solid, was really impressive. My kid put work into his training he'd never put into anything save Lego building. I don't really have any take on the place in terms of training adults, but it was very impressed at what's going on for little kids, which is saying a lot for an organization where the adults take the training and the art of Bralilian Ju Jutsu as seriously as they do. Mikyo trains the kids because he believes in his art, not just to pay the bills, and it's clear in what you see in the training. Parents can sit and watch the training, and it's not a bore, which is saying a lot. But the parents have to SHUT UP and keep quiet! (grin). I do have to say that the 3rd party billing company has some pretty crappy policies and they are not empathetic to anyone, ever, which is in stark contrast to the way Mikyo runs his business. And so just be very, very clear what you are signing and read the fine print and know you're dealing with jerks from another state, not Marin MMA. Pay very close attention to what it takes to cancel a membership. It may not be what you're expecting ... certainly caught me off guard, but then again I didn't read the contract before I signed. So, there's that. read more

I just started taking jujitsu classes at Marin MMA and so far I have found the classes to be friendly and accessible. My first day they also gave me one free lesson to try it out. I find the instruction to be clear and specific. And the instructors to be helpful and knowledgeable. read more

Great place to learn mixed martial arts. Friendly instructors and effective training techniques make this place golden. I recommend Marin MMA to all of my friends (male/female) who want to improve mind, body and spirit. Classes are about 1 hour and are offered throughout the week. I train with people of all ages and skill levels. read more

Friendly staff, great classes and a very welcoming environment. Just step inside and breathe the air. You'll be hooked in seconds.

Marin MMA is the best training facility in Marin County! Mikyo Riggs' instruction/teaching is humble, technical and fun. I have been training BJJ & Muay Thai for 4 years including stints at two other schools in Marin and I have to say there is no comparison to the high level of technique taught in classes here; and the high level of performance by students and staff. My game has drastically improved in the 3 months I have been a student under Mikyo Riggs. Classes are regimented; training is tough but safe. Everyone has been friendly and helpful to me transitioning to this school. I look forward to every hour I spend here. I'm tall and there are an even number of bigger dudes to train/roll with. There is a real family atmosphere at the school; There are several classes and times to choose from all week; which is great for me because my work schedule changes. Thank you Jake read more

My husband was interested in jiu jitsu for our (then) 6-year old daughter a few years back. I was hesitant to let her participate because I perceived the sport to be too intense for a small child. But I agreed to take advantage of some trial classes to see how our daughter would like it. Let me just say that I was in for a big surprise. Our timid, gentle daughter who hadn't found any activity she'd wanted to continue with up to this point ended the first class by *begging* to return and continue. The kids' coaches are true professionals - very caring, yet firm, with a strong understanding of how to keep the kids moving and learning. They place a great deal of emphasis on respect, discipline and team work. I watched a Little Lions class that started with several very young and playful children (some of whom had difficulty listening or standing still for even a few moments) turn in to a focused team who could listen, follow direction and who advanced their skills dramatically from week to week. It was amazing to watch the transformation and even more amazing to see how quickly it happened. Coaches Spencer, Lauren, Andrew and Jeremy are simply amazing with a true passion for jiu jitsu and a genuine interest in watching their students develop. Owner Mikyo is obviously very skilled in his art and shows a great deal of care and interest in every student. He expects dedication from all his students because he truly believes in their potential. And this filters down to his staff of coaches, who have all been great mentors and trainers on the mat. Mikyo is highly respected by the students and parents at Marin MMA and we've watched him work really hard to make improvements to the school and program in the 2-1/2 years that we've been there. Mikyo and staff work hard to foster a strong work ethic and professionalism at the studio. But they are also fun-loving and interested in building community - evident in the several events the studio sponsors each year. Today, I watched with so much pride as my now 9-year old daughter (still somewhat a shy person) trained with an opponent with a steady determination in her face and commitment in her jiu jitsu skills. Her confidence has blossomed both on the mat and outside of the school, as she's moved from Little Lions in to the Kids Jiu Jitsu program. Marin MMA has made a die-hard jiu jitsu fan out of me and I'm thrilled for all of the skills my daughter has learned. What a gift! read more

I can't say enough good things about Mikyo Riggs and his staff. Lauren greets you with a big smile at the front desk and she is so friendly and helpful. Mikyo is such an amazing instructor. He brings a lot of patience and skill to the mat with every class. He calls every student by name and knows exactly where they are in their training and what they need to work on. I was lucky enough to attend a belt ceremony a couple of weeks ago and it was so amazing. Mikyo promoted almost all of his students, and he had something unique to say to each and every one of those students. The mutual respect that was between professor/student was so apparent, it was really great to see. The camaraderie between the students, as each student was called up to receive a strip or a belt, was so great! They clapped, cheered for each other, patted each other on the back when they sat back down. I saw two of his students get their black belts and it was a very emotional moment. Mikyo even gave out a student of the year award...I thought that was so great. If you are looking for a great Jiu Jitsu and kickboxing academy, this is your place! Great instructors and a wonderful and friendly atmosphere. read more

A very welcoming place for those who have never has any experience with martial arts before! They offer many classes catering to both the part time or competitive athlete - as well as those just looking for some self-defense training. WOMEN's only class of Brazilian Jujitsu is offered as well - although many of the women find that cross training in the co-ed classes to be very beneficial too. You will learn skills, gain self confidence as well as gain the fitness benefits from your membership with this academy for sure! Their little lions kids class looks awesome - I don't have kids but I can see how incredibly important it is to educate your child's soul and body as well as mind. Looks like the kids have a BLAST and I wish I had learned when I was young! Never too late to start! read more