Sorry to see them go but my time there doing the women's empowerment classes were great! Learned a lot and met a lot of good people.

I took a few of the women's self defense classes here and was very impressed with the curriculum as well as Christian, the head instructor, who was very kind and gave thorough feedback. My only note is that Lara (?), the co-instructor, was a bit obvious about eavesdropping and it led to a really tense atmosphere among the students, some of whom were oddly careful about what they said but relaxed once they were in the elevator, out of earshot. Not a knock on the school itself but perhaps just a reminder to stay professional, as the instructors set the tone for the students! read more

Great training! Excellent instructors! Clean facility. Perfect location. A great group of training partners. Check it out!

Review for Ronin Athletics - Gracie Jiu-Jitsu School in NYC I've heard so much about Jiu-Jitsu from various podcasts as one of the most effective martial arts. It piqued my curiosity, but I was specifically looking for something that focused on self-defense. That's when I discovered Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and it led me to Ronin Athletics in Manhattan. What surprised me was learning that Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but prioritizes self-defense rather than the more sport-oriented styles that are widely popular. It's truly a system of self-defense--covering not just grappling but also standing striking defense, which I never realized was part of the practice. Ronin Athletics is the only school I've found in New York City offering authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training directly associated with Rener and Ryron Gracie, sons of UFC founder Rorion Gracie. Their connection to the Gracie brothers ensures the instruction here remains true to the original self-defense philosophy of Jiu-Jitsu. What sets this gym apart is its organized and structured curriculum. Every class is thoughtfully designed, making it easy for beginners to follow while also offering depth for those who want to advance. The collaborative and supportive environment makes it feel incredibly safe to train, especially since they emphasize learning over competition. If you're looking for a self-defense system that's practical, effective, well organized, Ronin Athletics is the place to go. Highly recommend it for anyone in NYC seeking authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu! read more

I was visiting from out of town and the Ronin team welcomed me in like family. If you want to start or continue learning self defense in the New York City area...this is the place. Christian and team are experts in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu no matter your skill level. read more

I am currently a student at Ronin athletics in Midtown. I joined the school to participate in the all women's self defense program created by the Gracie Family, "Women Empowered." At first, I was very intimidated by the school and the program, but the instructors and the students were very welcoming to me as a newcomer. Christian Montes and Lara are really great instructors. Since I started my time in this program they have been very informative and they really take the time to coach and guide us through all of the techniques in great detail. Since the day that I was randomly attacked near my home, I have been reluctant to go out anywhere by myself. Participating in this program has slowly helped me to become more confident in walking around by myself again. My husband still picks me up when I am coming home late, but it's nice to know that I am learning how to defend myself. I really like coming to the school and drilling the techniques with my training partners. We train in a very safe and friendly environment. Each class we are taught a new technique from the Gracie program and take turns drilling them with each other. Unlike most BJJ programs out there, we DO NOT free spar or roll in this class. It is geared specifically for women and designed to prepare us specifically for the kind of scenarios we may encounter on the street. After completing my first training cycle, I have earned one stripe on my white belt. I believe there are 15 classes and you have to take each one 3 times. Then at the end of the program I will be able to test for the "Women Empowered Pink belt." Ladies, if you are reading this, don't wait around until you are attacked by some low life on the street to start training. Start learning how to protect and defend yourself now, BEFORE anything bad happens to you. Ronin Athletics provides a free trial class so don't hesitate to go over and give it a go. You will not regret it. If you do go, tell them that Christine sent you! read more

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I learned about Ronin Athletics while researching jiu-jitsu programs for my young daughter. Co-owner Jasper spent an hour on the phone with me to explain the programs, their philosophy, benefits of jiu-jitsu, etc. and answered all my questions. I really appreciated the fact that he took the time to talk with me. I was ecstatic when I found out the school is a Gracie CTC school that offers the Gracie Bullyproof program among other things. Since joining the program, my daughter has become more confident, disciplined and social. She loves all her coaches (Christian, Bart, Johnny, Jorge and Xavier). They are humble, patient, fun, passionate and friendly. They do an amazing job with all the students regardless of their age, level or experience. After witnessing positive changes in my daughter's life, I also joined a few months later. Wish I had joined sooner. The Gracie Combatives program has been so much fun. I feel more confident when walking around town and taking the subway than before. I look forward to continuing my jiu-jitsu journey at Ronin Athletics. All the coaches are very approachable. I love picking their brain. If you are looking for self-defense in light of rising crime in the city, look no further. Take advantage of their trial offer. read more

Ronin Athletics - Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, MMA NYC - Gracie Game Day - Self-defense Classes Near Me - New York, New York

TLDR; If you have been on the fence about trying BJJ cause you have been afraid of getting smashed, crushed, beat up, hurt, humiliated or whatever. Maybe you should come and try out the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Combatives program based out of Ronin Athletics in New York City. You will learn the proper Self-Defense techniques before you get your butt whooped in a sparring match. When I first stopped by the school I was greeted with a big smile, super positive energy and was even addressed by my first name before they even met me once! These guys run a very fine oiled machine here, it is impressive! In any case, being greeted by such positive vibes really helped me out because I was extremely anxious. I was so scared to go that I nearly didn't. I was giving myself every excuse that one can think of to weasel out of the new situation. At the end of the day, it was me who got up the courage to show up, but the warm greeting definitely helped to put me at ease. So it's funny, I was the one who sort of put my wife on to the Women Empowered program and in turn her enthusiasm and excitement over it encouraged me to come and try the Combatives program. At first I was a bit reluctant. I live and work in queens. I have absolutely no reason or need to commute into the city. I was coming in only on Sundays to accompany her and keep her safe. However, Ronin Athletics is the only school that is a Gracie Certified Training Center. If I want to participate in this program, then these are the sacrifices that must be made. So far, I'd say its totally worth it, I'm learning so much stuff that I'd usually avoid. The entire Combatives program is focused on teaching you to survive a street encounter. They have the classes planned well in advance, it's logged on a card and everyone is on the same page. All Gracie CTCs follow the same exact uniformed format. As far as I know, you are required to wear white only (preferably Gracie branded) gis in this class. Say what you want about Rener and Ryron, they got this branding thing on lock. Those guys are smart business men. For me specifically, this program is great because it allows me to learn a lot of technique with little to no risk of injury. I am filling in so many gaps in my fundamental BJJ game and I am loving the learning process so much. So many things are starting to make sense with how it is broken down and I find that so enlightening and fascinating. The facility itself is quite beautiful. We have an adequate area for changing, a private bathroom, very clean and hygienically maintained mats, a nice reception area and of course, great instructors. I maintain that I prefer not to commute, but as I go more often, it has become less painful. It doesn't even bother me anymore. read more

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Great NYC studio with exceptional instruction. Visiting NYC on business, i was able to join a Combatives class on a "drop in" basis. Christian led the class with deep technical skill and teaching ability. Coach Richie also jumped in as a skilled and thoughtful training partner. Highly recommend! read more

I have trained in various dojos and have generally had good experiences. But Ronin is better. The instructor, Christian Montez, is a high-level jujitsu blackbelt who is really good. Equally important, he is an excellent, meticulous, and very patient teacher. His assistant coaches are also well-versed in jujitsu, super friendly, and extremely helpful. If you want to learn jujitsu in an excellent, supportive, friendly, and knowledge-based environment, I highly recommend Roni Athletics in Manhattan, New York. read more

Watching MMA fights like the UFC and Bellator, I've always wanted to learn Jiu Jitsu. Googled Jiu Jitsu gyms in midtown and did some trial classes from the different gyms here in New York City and they all seemed really knowledgeable. Here's 2 main reasons why I decided on Ronin Athletics: Orgranized - Specifically for the way they teach Jiu Jitsu. I was really impressed that they had a very methodical approach to bringing me along as well as an actual curriculum they work off of. This was especially true after taking class with their different coaches - no matter who was teaching, the Jiu Jitsu Classes were numbered by Lesson# and they'd picked up right were the other one left off. Not Intimidating - I signed up for the 10-day Free Trial. By the time, my trial week was up it's as if I've been training with them for a year. The coaches like Christian, Bart and Jonny new my first name, say high and shake my hand when I arrive and leave. I already made friends with other members, which made partnering up less awkward. I watchd the advanced classes afterwards and noticed that everyone had a good sparring work-out but it was definitely less aggressive than the other gyms I tried. I saw on their social media that some folks here compete, but they don't really stress the need for it. Seems like everyone is here to enjoy the training. I haven't tried Kickboxing yet, but looked like a lot of fun and the same members I train Jiu Jitsu with enjoy the fact that they can mix in some punches and kicks with their Jiu Jitsu. I'll be making this place my home for a while. Between the Jiu Jitsu and Kickboxing classes, I don't see how I'll ever get bored learning here. Glad I found this place. read more

Ronin Athletics - Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, MMA NYC - Self-defense Classes Near Me - New York, New York

Excellent martial arts gym teaching BJJ. All instructors are very knowleadgeable and provide great level of details when teaching the techniques. Beginner classes are very well structured and focused on basic techniques that can be useful in real world self defence situations. Everyone in the gym is very respectful and focused on providing safe learning environment. Highly recommend to everyone. read more

Excellent instruction and a friendly atmosphere! I definitely recommend training at Ronin Athletics!

This place is awesome! I've done boxing before but didn't like the experience much. I found this place through a friend. I came in for a free trial class. I took the kick-boxing for beginners. Everyone was so nice upon arrival. Everyone there had been taking the class for quite some time, I was the only real newbie. But that didn't stop the instructor from going step by step on all moves. In the hour I was there I learned to do a jab-cross-kick move. I was impressed lol. I highly recommend anyone who wants to try boxing or kickboxing to start off here. They definitely make you feel comfortable and work with you. Thank you for the amazing experience. read more

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What a great place to train! I was visiting from out of town and train at Gracie location In MA. I came in for an afternoon class and found Christian's instruction to be top notch and the atmosphere to be friendly and welcoming. Just a great group of people. The school was very clean and super convenient if you are staying in Manhattan or work near herald sq or times sq. I'm looking forward to training again at Ronin and so should you. read more

I've been training at Ronin for about a year now and I've been nothing but impressed by Christian and his team. I've taken trial classes at four other jiu-jitsu gyms before finally finding Ronin Athletics a.k.a. Gracie University NYC. Other places would typically show me a technique or two and then send me off to spar (roll). Ronin has a much more systematic approach to teaching jiu-jitsu, which requires you to show proficiency with 36 fundamental techniques before you graduate to sparring. This structured approach gives you a way to track your progress, plan class attendance, etc. Ronin Athletics is the place to go if you're looking to learn traditional, self-defense oriented Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. See you on the mat! read more

I've been with Ronin Athletics Gracie Jiu-jitsu New York City since 2007, from its old location near Penn Station to its brand new digs near Bryant Park. The gym offers kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu, with a focus on self defense. Head coach Christian Montes maintains a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through the front door. The students here are super collegial with one another and the vibe has always been open, honest and friendly. Now that my kids are getting older, I'm looking forward to introducing them to the gym through the bullyproof program soon. Awesome spot for anyone looking for a safe, clean and friendly environment to further their martial arts study! read more

Ronin Athletics is definitely a highly recommended gym if you are interested in starting up kickboxing or jiu-jitsu. Not only that, if you are looking to burn some calories, lose weight, and get one of those "I really got some intense cardio today" feel, the kickboxing classes will be satisfying. I can vouch for this since I lost about 20lbs in less than a year, going to class about 3 times a week. I only took the kickboxing classes, but the teacher/coaches, mainly Bart, Dom, and staffs like Anthony, have been nothing but amazing. I joined in 2017 not knowing a single thing about kickboxing and while I still have plenty to learn, even the simple jabs and hooks, I've improved quite a lot. Christian always greets everyone, and you can tell that he is a very respectful and honorable owner. He'll be watching the classes and on occasion, he'll throw in some tips. When he does, you can see that everyone is watching closely. Christian does teach KB, however, it's later in the day, which I'm not able to go to. Overall, its a great environment for anyone to join. If you're the type that is looking for some intense training, or a serious fighter, then I couldn't comment on the validity of the classes, but for beginner to intermediate level, or those that are just looking to burn some serious calories, this is a great place to do just that. As far as my experience with KB: Beginners are warmly welcomed by everyone. There are days when you have 2-3 people, to the busier times with 10+ more, but everyone is in different stages. The advanced members are happily engaging with beginners, and while Bart or Anthony can't focus on each and every person on the busier days, you have other members who can fix or show movements that have been there for a while. It's truly a family community and when I'm there, I'd be happy to partner up with anyone. About 6 months in, Bart allowed me to join the 201 classes (more contact and 1-on-1). To be honest, it was a bit nerve wracking putting on shin guards, mouth piece, and facing an opponent, but once again, the experienced members were not uptight about a new member and gave plenty of great tips. The occasional sparring was intense, but nobody is there to give you a good beating. Currently, I'm limited to attending class, due to my wife recently giving birth to our daughter, however, I intend on returning as soon as my schedule free up a little bit. read more

If you're scared to try jiu jitsu or looking for a place that will help you with self defense, you need to come to Ronin. Christian is an amazingly kind instructor and very detailed. I grew up doing 5-6 years of training judo and also trained at the popular jiu jitsu schools in New York. I never felt quite confident to defend myself on the street till I started training with Christian in his Gracie combatives program. Also most schools throw you in the gauntlet on day 1 and have you sparring out of the gate. Ronin builds a foundation of techniques in a safe atmosphere. If you're slightly interested, just try it out. It's free for 10 days so why not. read more

When I was looking for a place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there were a ton of options in New York City. I did a lot of research online, visited schools, and talked to anyone I could find. My search ended after finding Ronin Athletics. I'm writing this review one year after having started training at Ronin. There are a lot of things I could say about how much training here has meant to me, but the most important is the community. I came into the gym completely green and was embraced by everyone. As I learned the difference between a kimura and americana, I was supported by a group of folks who left their ego at the door. Ronin's pricing is reasonable, location is central, and facilities are classic. read more

I've been going to Ronin for a year and a half and I've never been in better shape (and I'm 35 y/o). I take both group classes and privates with Coach Dom (boxing). I love all the staff and the fellow members. It's judgement free. I also love that there are many more women here than any other martial arts gym I've been too. In fact some of the best fighters are female! Training at this gym is the highlight of my week (and I am NOT a fitness freak, I'm the woman who would rather eat Doritos and play video games than work out)!! read more

The main thing that elevates Ronin above other gyms, in my opinion, is the quality of the instructors. They are highly enthusiastic, great at working with new entrants to the sport and are all very laid back characters. Christian, the head guy is pretty self deprecating (claims he is not a natural athlete - although it's hard to believe when you see his moves) and his instructors are cut from the same cloth. I felt that the other gyms seemed more focused on their "stable" of fighters than working with beginners and intermediates. Ronin is more of an all inclusive atmosphere. They are serious about their work but you won't find yourself drowning in testosterone in this gym. If you need a marine drill sergeant to shout into your face to reach your goals then this gym probably isn't for you. Also, given the gallons of sweat that are excreted in the place on a daily basis in MMA training, the gym is extremely clean. read more

The quality of instruction is superb, the facility spacious and fully stocked, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. There's a great range of students, from total newbies to some very high level guys, who are the vast majority humble and helpful. I've trained a few other places in the city, and Ronin has been by far the best experience. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be tough to get into, as the first few months pretty much always consist largely of getting your face ground down into the mat. The best place to learn this awesome martial art is when where you always feel respected and like you're ready to jump up to the next level. Ronin is an awesome place to get that start. read more

SUMMER IS APPROACHING!! ....And I'm still carrying holiday weight and happy hour calories. In comes Ronin Athletics to save the day (and slim my thighs)! I've gone to their 11am kickboxing Saturday classes these past two weekends and I can honestly say, it was one of the best workouts I've had in a while. The instructors seem very knowledgeable and are extremely accommodating to beginners, like myself. The school itself has been recently renovated. It didn't seem like they any ventilation issues, like other Yelpers have said. Mats and other equipment look brand spanking new. Right now, my thighs are sore, my abs hurt, and my arms are killing me...but as the saying goes "No Pain, No Gain". Ronin definitely worked me out. read more

Ahh, Ronin - My favorite place! If you want functional training with good peoples, then Ronin is the place for you. They have numerous classes throughout the day where you can work on your boxing / Muay Thai, Brasilian Jiu Jitsu, and Wrestling. The people there are super helpful and can work with you to improve your game. read more

I've been coming to Ronin for about 6 months and I can't say enough good things about both the staff and the other students (which probably also reflects on the staff). There is a tangible "no a-hole" vibe to the place, and undoubtedly that comes from the top, as Christian Montes is as nice a guy as you'll meet anywhere, let alone running a martial arts gym. If I didn't know he was a BJJ black belt and a retired MMA fighter I'd have pegged him as your kid's favorite middle school teacher. He's got that special kind of patience and passion for instruction that makes everyone feel welcome and important - this is clearly a man who loves teaching, loves helping students improve, and just happens to also love combat sports. Bart and Seydou (the primary assistant coaches) are also really nice guys in addition to being good instructors. If you're at all interested in trying out BJJ or kickboxing but feel a little intimidated to get started (just as I was), you should give this place a try. I don't think you'll regret it. read more

If you want stellar BJJ training, this is the place. Everyone says their school has the friendliest/chill instructors (Christian & Dom) and students but it can't compare to Ronin. They also have good classes such as wrestling and conditioning (saturday). While their weekday schedule is diverse enough, I am a big fan of their Saturday classes. Kickboxing followed by conditioning and then wrestling will have you walking out the door ready for a nap and then a night out. Also, their prices are a LOT better than gracie or any of the other gyms. In regards to another poster who complained about the ventilation: All martial arts gyms are like this. It's hot on purpose to make you sweat. If you want A/C go do some cardiokickboxing at crunch or something. lol. Also, the gym had moved so they were still in the process of setting up. All the bags are up now and mats placed. In regards to size, its NYC and a lot of gyms are small... Still, there is plenty of room to train even with 20 people in the class. I never had an issue. I'm not sure what you are expecting to do with more space... Run laps around the gym? Wait, we do run laps around the gym. read more

I've trained at Ronin for 5+ years and I highly recommend it. It's a great group of athletes to learn from and train with. Christian and the other instructors really take an interest in your progress. There are people at all skill levels and levels of training, from once-a-week to serious MMA/BJJ competitors who train every day. There's always someone there who's better than you, which you need in order to improve, but afterwards they will EXPLAIN how you can do better next time, or show exactly how they did that cool move. Everyone is super friendly and very respectful. They take their jiu-jitsu very seriously but there's such a cool attitude at the same time. Great place to train in NYC! read more

I've been taking the kick boxing classes here now for about 5/6 weeks. Combined with 8 weeks of healthy eating I've dropped 14 pounds. I look and feel better than I have in years. All the people that go here are friendly and welcoming. It's nice to go some where where everybody knows your name. The coaches (Christian and Ryan) are great and the speed at which they bring you on is just right. Just wish I wasn't going back to Europe so soon. Would have loved to get into the mma and bjj they have here. Looks fun. They have an unlimited membership for a fixed price as well. The place gets hot and you sweat loads. But I like that. Go for a free first lesson. Nothing to lose, everything to gain. read more

If you're looking for an MMA gym in the city, your search ENDS NOW!! And yes, that includes all levels! Joining this gym was perhaps one of the best decisions I've made in my entire life, and this is not an exaggeration. Aside from the fact that this gym will teach you all you different styles of martial arts and ways to integrate them flawlessly, you'll get one hell of a workout while doing it. I've actually considering dropping my normal gym membership and I'm only going to ronin now...That's how amazing of a workout you'll get there. I've been lifting weight all my life and now I barely do it and I've never been in a better shape! On top of that, the staff is extremely friendly and professional and I'm honestly surprised that their rates are so low. If I was the owner, I'd charge double the current rate...They're THAT good!! Also, the place is ridiculously clean considering the amount of sweat being squeezed out of its members on a daily basis. Long story short, this is the place to be! read more

Ronin Athletics - Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, MMA NYC - Self-defense Classes Near Me - New York, New York

I began training at Ronin Athletics in 2008 and I never looked back. Ronin provides a fun safe place to learn Muay Thai, Boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling correctly. No matter who you are or what you think you are capable of, Christian Montes and his highly experienced coaching staff know how to bring out the best in you. The students understand that better training partners means better training so they will help you improve. If you choose to train consistently, Ronin is a place where you can develop a higher level of physical fitness, a solid knowledge of combat and a sharper mind. Ronin Athletics has all belt levels present (black to white). Additionally, your partners will run the gamut in size, age, strength and fitness, making your training experience more robust. The coaching staff will work with you to refine your technique from the first day. The attitude of the gym is relaxed but not to the detriment of your education. Personally, Ronin gave me a kind of secondary education. I learned lessons through training that translated to my everyday life, making me a stronger, better person. My training partners, who come from all walks of life, have become friends. If you have a chance, stop by, start training and hopefully it can change your life for the better too. read more

Before I found my way to Ronin I took introductory BJJ classes at two other places that were both close to where I live in Manhattan. Although I've studied standing Martial Arts for years I was new to BJJ and at these places, I was thrown into rolling in the first class before I even knew the most simple basics. I could have used my strength and bigger size to muscle through the opponents I faced but that wasn't why I wanted to learn BJJ, I wanted to learn techniques I could use on opponents who might be bigger and stronger than me. And unfortunately, that method of teaching seems to be all too common at BJJ schools. Luckily I was familiar with Gracie University, had watched their videos' and looked into their curriculum, and was thrilled when I found out they have a Certified Training Center in NYC. So my next stop was 39th and Madison to take a Gracie Combatives trial class at Ronin Athletics. All I can say is Ronin Athletics exceeded my expectation, so much so that I joined right away. The instructors, Christian and Bart are not only excellent teachers but are also warm, and welcoming. The curriculum is top-notch, this is Gracie Jiu-Jitsu as it was taught when they first came to the US, which is self-defense oriented (read Worth Defending by Richard Bressler, the Gracie family's first US student in 1979.) You know exactly what you're going to learn before each class and you can review the Instructional videos produced by, and starring Ryron and Rener Gracie, both before and after the class. There's nowhere else you'll find a curriculum as well thought out as this, that provides you with all the tools you need to succeed at being the best you can be in a positive and welcoming environment. So if you want to train in a great environment, with great people, I highly recommend you check out Ronin Athletics. read more

Amazing environment, knowledgeable instructors, excellent culture of learning with great organization and the home run of high quality customer service. I've been in martial arts for over 27 years and recently joined and my ideal school in my head matches what this place and people do. I'm always excited to come and though commuting from Jersey is no easy task, it's a no brainer for the wonderful and well-rounded experience they give you here. Highly recommended to anyone of any experience. read more

Awesome gym. Free class so def try it out! No ego - just all hard work, sweat, and amazing people (students and teachers). Awesome part is you can push yourself as hard as you want or light as you want. Perfect gym for people in beginning stages and maybe attending for cardio, and also a perfect gym for people who want to compete. Structured classes that eases you into more advanced classes. Instructors are phenomena. Instructors go on competitions and and also train because they love the sport and this creates an awesome environment. Students and people are very respectful as well. I really enjoyed my time here - only reason why I am leaving is because I am moving to a different city in LA. I hope I get to find a gym like Ronin in LA read more

I came to Ronin Athletics about five months ago because it was the only place in the city (NYC) certified in Gracie BJJ. I had learned about the Gracie Women Empowered program and was looking for a trainer who could help me start from the very beginning. I had never taken any form of martial arts before and knew I needed a trainer that I could trust but that was also going to teach me the self-defense techniques that, frankly, every woman should know. From the first lesson I knew I had found the right place. Christian is a patient and skilled instructor. He breaks down the techniques and demonstrates each move that makes easy to learn because you understand the dynamics and physics behind each move. He teaches the methodology just how it is taught at Gracie University and that makes it easy for me to practice the techniques on my own via the Gracie online program. The studio is clean and convenient to get to -- just a few blocks from Penn Station. I leave every lesson feeling like I learned something new or got better at some move and that feeling of empowerment and accomplishment is irreplaceable. I would recommend Ronin to anyone -- women especially -- looking to begin or extend their Brazilian Jui Jitsu practice. Gracie Jui Jitsu will change your life. read more

Highly recommend Ronin Athletics. I've been attending the Gracie Combatives CTC at Ronin Athletics for a little over a month now. I've never practiced martial arts and I've never been to another BJJ school. Christian runs an amazing program; he is very detailed, always has time for questions (before, during, and after class), and makes it fun to learn BJJ (no horror stories of getting smashed by higher belts). I think he understands that a lot of people are there to learn BJJ for self defense and not necessarily tournaments. He genuinely seems to want to know more about you, and is happy talking about nonBJJ activities before or after class. There are no words for how amazing this place it. Once you take a class you will want to continue rolling for the rest of your life. read more

Great place to train whether you're there for the fitness aspect or competition aspect. I've been to a few schools across the US over the years and this place makes you feel at home and egos are checked out the door! Guys and girls alike, good place to start! read more

I had a superb first class experience. Nothing but great things to say about instructors Bart and Johnny. Based on my experience I plan to continue classes and sign up full time. The curriculum is extremely systematized and rigorous to ensure that nobody leaves the program without extensive experience in the 36 fundamental gracie jiu jitsu techniques. Unlike other martial arts schools I've visited, this one is very attentive to making sure that students do more than just show up and practice without a clear test of their abilities. The classes are also structured so that beginners can pair up with more experienced practitioners who carefully watch their moves and correct mistakes. This is also a detail that was often absent from my previous martial arts experiences. Combining the two strengths I mentioned above makes this dojo truly excellent and well worth enrolling in. The introductory program is also generous, uncomplicated, and geared toward student satisfaction. I can feel how much the instructors care about making their dojo shine every time I visit. 10/10 read more

I've receive the best training at Ronin Athletics. Their instructors are top notch, providing skill, discipline and patience for students of any level while keeping egos in check. Their ability to transfer knowledge in a stress free environment with a sense of community is what I admire most. Big ups to the Ronin team. read more

I have trained at small martial arts gyms and empathize with the fighters/small business owners that run them, but even after several weeks since my trial class, I'd like to share info that might save time for other aspiring/continuing martial artists with similar criteria as me. My gut feeling was one-star "methinks not" but I'm giving an extra star/the benefit of doubt due to this being based on a trial class only. Cons: -No showers. This is a deal-breaker for me. #1, b/c staph. #2, b/c I want to be able to go other places after the gym besides straight home. -Bathroom is inconveniently located outside of the gym, down the hall, and shared with other businesses. -Small space. You open the door and you're a step away from the mat. It's NYC, but still. -The "trial class" was actually a short, underwhelming semi-private lesson. The teacher didn't ask if I had any past martial arts experience. The trial consisted of demonstrating and then drilling basic techniques: a simple Muay Thai combo, a transition from striking stance to a rear naked choke. It wasn't particularly challenging. This didn't give me an impression of attentive instruction nor good fit as a place for me to grow. I was also unpleasantly surprised to find that the trial lasted only ~25 minutes. I would have preferred to experience an actual class for evaluation purposes, and to get in an hour's workout. -Vibes. I observed the BJJ instructor addressing students with a tone of voice beneath the high level of respect I've come to expect from more traditional BJJ teachers. This did not bode well to me (if the _instructor_ speaks that way in front of visitors...). Also, I found the sales pitch--which took place in a tiny back office--weird and uncomfortable. I know that training with a teacher can make students feel strongly attached and loyal to an instructor, gym, and community. But given the high caliber of BJJ/MMA gyms in NYC, the five-star ratings I saw here on Yelp didn't hold up in my experience. read more