It's been over 2 years since I first stepped foot into the gym. I've moved far away and tried out other gyms, but have not found a gym on the same level as Edwin's. This is the most kind and understanding owner around. He teaches all the meta in jiu jitsu while still being a good person. The gym feels like home and everyone in it is extremely kind and accommodating for people of all level. Oh, and the level of instruction is top notch. Edwin has a great explanation of every question or idea you have. I came back to the gym despite moving further away. You will definitely LEARN jiu jitsu while also being in a very good environment. The environment part is also extremely hard to find, especially in combat sports. read more

The atmosphere of this gym is super chill and non-intimidating. Everyone I've met has been friendly and supportive! I like that Edwin spends a bit of extra time giving detailed explanations and answering questions, explaining WHY you do or don't do something and not just how to do it. He's great at breaking down complex movements into digestible pieces and suggesting tweaks to improve your technique. He tailors advice for every student depending on many things - different body types, personal goals, current injuries, whatever you can think of. I feel like I have made quicker progress at this gym compared to other places because of this. It's a small gym at this point in time; a lot of the classes feel almost like private sessions. It's a hidden gem! Definitely drop by if you're in the area, whether you've been doing bjj your whole life or if you're interested in trying out for the first time! I felt comfortable to roll during the trial class as a small woman. The people at The Grappling Lab make sure all students feel safe. Also offers best pricing in the area :) read more

Coach Edwin is a highly-qualified black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu who truly cares about the art, as well as the progression of his students. I trained with Edwin for more than a year, and 100% still would be if I lived in the area. Before starting, I watched a little UFC, and had heard of BJJ but I had zero experience in practicing combat sports, and really didn't have a clue what BJJ was. Now I'm all in, two comps deep, and am eager to train whenever I can - I really don't think that would be the case if Edwin's classes weren't so engaging, and if the environment wasn't so welcoming (even the other students go out of their way to help make their training partner better each session). Coach Edwin concentrates on the fundamentals and builds a foundation for his students, no matter what level they are. It's apparent that he has experience teaching, and uses that to his advantage when coaching. He understands the fine details of each technique that he's teaching, and can explain how you can improve in any given position by applying small adjustments to your game. When he starts explaining a guard, movement, take-down, submission, etc., the entire class is dialed into whatever he's saying. He's not one of those guys who will scoff at you for asking a question, or look down on you for not knowing something. He actually encourages you to ask questions, especially if you are a white belt. If you're considering starting BJJ or if you're looking for a new place to train, I would highly recommend the Grappling Lab. Your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, confidence, and cardio will thank you! read more

I wasn't looking for a gym to get buff or be some sort of MMA machine, I just wanted to feel better about myself body and with time about myself. I don't think I knew that when I first started working with Edwin, but I discovered it during our time training together. I was a lousy student, perhaps I still am. But even after all these years he hasn't given up on me. Still sees a fighter worth training. I think that's incredible. Give his class try and know that even if you leave one day for what ever reason; money, time, or life, that crazy son of a gun will still welcome you back each and every time. No shame, just sweat and smiles. Good luck warriors and have fun. [Wrote this review in google maps first, but I believe in this gym enough to post it here too.] read more

I love training with Edwin! He's a great teacher that deeply understands BJJ while also adapting to his classes experience and areas of need. Personally, being brand new to BJJ, I love being challenged physically and mentally by this sport. But as challenging as it is, I'm genuinely excited every week to train Edwin and the encouraging and friendly atmosphere he creates with his class. read more

I first met Edwin while taking his group BJJ classes at a local gym. I ended up transferring to a gym closer to my house for a little while but then sought Edwin out again for 1on1 lessons about a year later because I wanted his help preparing for my first competition. There's no getting around it. Edwin knows Jiu Jitsu. Sometimes the difference between okay technique and amazing technique is just a tiny adjustment. Edwin knows what these adjustments are. Every time I would attempt a technique, he would provide some small tweaks to optimize it. I was and am still impressed at how much he knows about the sheer mechanics of grappling. He puts a lot of emphasis on grips, hand fighting, head control. These seemingly small details that have made a huge difference in my rolls. I feel like I make a couple months worth of progress every time we meet for an hour. He's also gotten me thinking a lot about strategy - what techniques are optimal for a person with my body type? What techniques will be optimal against my opponent's particular body type? Hanging out with him is like drinking from the fountain of knowledge. Highly recommend. read more

Great instruction from Coach Edwin. His background in exercise and his BJJ lineage is as legit as they come. Laid back environment but serious jiu jitsu. Oss!! read more

Cliffnotes provided for long and thorough review - skilled black belt - has a masters in exercise science from a top tier school - certified strength and conditioning coach - posts incredible/useful information for grappling athletes on thegrapplinglab.com - rolled with him and he could've destroyed me, but he took it easy on me and gave me useful advice that has been a game changer - Go to The Grappling Lab and train with Edwin Edwin is an outstanding practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, holding an impressive black belt and showcasing remarkable skill in the martial art. What sets him apart is his comprehensive understanding of the human body, thanks to his master's degree in exercise science from a top-tier university and program. This knowledge extends beyond manipulation techniques, as Edwin has a profound grasp of how the body functions. Additionally, he is a certified strength and conditioning coach, further enhancing his ability to optimize performance. My introduction to Edwin came through his website and his exceptional conditioning programs. I must admit, these programs are not for the faint of heart. They are highly effective, pushing me to my limits while producing tangible results. What impressed me the most was Edwin's generosity in providing a wealth of information for free, underscoring his genuine commitment to the growth and success of his clients. Having the privilege of rolling with Edwin was a truly memorable experience. Despite his superior abilities, he recognized that I was returning to Jiu-Jitsu after a long hiatus. Instead of overpowering me, he skillfully balanced the intensity and ensured I felt both engaged and competitive. Following our session, he offered valuable advice that has undoubtedly contributed to my progress and improvement. If you're looking to enhance your skills, I wholeheartedly recommend Grappling Lab and Edwin. Not only does he prioritize your safety and injury prevention, but his expertise in both grappling and fitness is unparalleled. Edwin's professionalism, extensive knowledge, and unwavering dedication to his clients make him an exceptional choice for anyone in the area. read more

Coach Edwin is an amazing BJJ coach. Exceedingly patient, incredibly knowledgable, with deep layers of experience. I'm currently taking beginners lessons with him, and he is incredibly good at understanding each individuals capacity/level and giving the right challenges/lessons for each of us to learn. I've been to a few BJJ gyms in the past, and I've learned more with him in a few weeks than I have in multiple months in other gyms. Fantastic coach, and if you even have a mild interest in BJJ, check him out. read more

Best coach I've come across!! Coach Edwin has a comprehensive approach to teaching jiu jitsu. I've been to a couple other establishments and its not even close. If you are a beginner or expert, coach Edwin will not disappoint. His prices are extremely low for the knowledge and experience that he shares. Ive only been training with him for a month now and can't wait to see where I'm at in a year. Don't waste your time with other facilities. read more

As a novice BJJ practitioner I appreciate the easy to follow instructions and welcoming environment. The clear and easy to follow format & classes make each session challenging for novices like myself and habitual practices looking to refine their skills and gain more control with their movements. I've recommended Edwin & The Grappling Lab to all my friends & colleagues, and encourage anyone interested in trying out BJJ or getting a safe introduction to martial arts to give The Grappling Lab a try! read more

The Grappling Lab - First training and roll session at The Grappling Lab. - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Garden Grove, California

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Coach Edwin is my first jiu jitsu coach and I could not have asked for a better one! He is super chill and very kind but when it's time for jiu jitsu he's completely locked in which I really appreciate as a coach. He teaches jiu jitsu in a way that makes sense and isn't confusing. I only go to jiu jitsu about twice a week and I feel like I'm learning a lot and gaining much knowledge under coach Edwin. 10/10. read more

I have the honor of being taught by Edwin back in the days and he carefully teaches bjj from the very beginning to end if needed. great attitude and awesome guy to work with. He was a purple belt when he taught me and now hes a black belt! I'm sure he has tons of knowledge to share by now. You can definitely tell he has a passion for teaching BJJ. Give him a try, you wont regret it. read more

nice group of guys! good instruction! feel like Ive learned a lot! can't believe the classes are so affordable

Coach Edwin is a great bjj coach, he has a way of teaching that makes it very easy to understand the complex movements of Jiu-Jitsu, he not only teaches a technique but also teaches why each technique works and flows into another. He is very patient and takes the time to go over things if students don't understand something and is always ready to answer any questions students might have. I couldn't recommend his classes more! read more

This school just opened up and I think it's a gem waiting to be discovered by the grappling community. Edwin is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and uses his advanced knowledge of sports science and body mechanics to create a very unique approach to teaching the art. The curriculum focuses a lot on the fundamentals of jiu jitsu and grappling. He doesn't just show a technique and have you practice it, but has you stay in specific positions long enough for your body to naturally adapt to the mechanics while guiding you and making corrections. I wish more BJJ schools taught like this, but hopefully this method of instruction catches on. read more

Edwin is an amazing teacher. He keeps the atmosphere fun and cerebral. His approach to teaching jiujitsu is creative and oftentimes mindblowing. I've been to a handful of jiujitsu schools and they all have different vibes. And this one is most truly a lab of unarmed assassination science. It's a far drive for me down in OC but it's worth it. read more

I've been training Jiu-Jitsu on and off for about 2 years now and this has by far been the best experience I've had, ever. The instructor is really cool and very knowledgeable. He focuses on practical techniques and uses real world science to explain why it works. I'm definitely gonna be training here for a while. read more

I've been practicing BJJ for a couple of years on and off, so I've tried other BJJ gyms in and around Long Beach. Edwin is by far the best teacher I've come across! I've learned much more in the short time at the grappling lab than at any other gym. As a smaller woman it's easy for me to feel intimidated, but never felt that training here. So, if you've ever wanted to try bjj but felt intimidated, dont be! Stop by the grappling lab and give it a try! It's still a small school but I look forward to seeing it grow. read more

Edwin really runs a great a good training spot here. Some other gyms in the area have more students or more well known name, but I think the overall training and attention you get by having a smaller school is a great value. Edwin is really accommodating if you have any questions and is a legit black belt. He does a good job of focusing on actually developing knowledge of the movements needed for jiu jitsu without over explaining. It's especially easier training here if you're new at bjj because it's not as much dog eat dog mentality like some other places. I highly recommend training here. read more

this is probably the best jui jitsu school ive been to in long beach the instructor is super chill and is extremely versatile in his teaching style. definitly a grear school read more

Edwin is a great instructor who is both effective and efficient with his instruction. He expanded my knowledge of BJJ in an environment that is relaxed and positive. The improvement that I found in my BJJ game transferred seamlessly into my judo shortly after. I would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for: excellent grappling instruction, fun rolls, and good vibes! read more

I have known Edwin since I started training BJJ nearly 3 years ago and have known him first as a great training partner and now that he has opened his own school as a fantastic coach. When he told me he was opening his own school it was a complete no brainer that I would want to come learn from him as he has the most cerebral and science based approach to Jiu jitsu of anyone I have ever met and combines a deep understanding of technique with unmatched knowledge it body mechanics and effective learning methodology. The school is small with lots of 1-1 coaching and an atmosphere that focuses on increasing the efficiency of everyone's learning curves and not on smashing or beating less experienced practitioners. The class is structured in a way that allows everyone to learn a technique in the most efficient way for their body type and physical attributes and unlike in some classes where drilling a technique does not equip you to then use that move in a live sparring environment Edwin structures the class to train your body and brain to perform the technique in an active situation with a resisting opponent. The Grappling Lab is how Jiu jitsu should be taught! read more