Beware of their 60 cancellation policy requirements. They will not consider the duration of time…read moreyou've been enrolled. It's a good program but after a while it becomes redundant. Also never really felt like my children learned real self defense skills.

I'm writing this review not to be negative or cause problems but because I hope it creates some…read morekind of change. I trained at GB Upland for about four years. I was consistent, sometimes training twice a day, and I competed around 7 times, always placing gold or silver. I trained through injuries, balanced family life, and showed up ready to help others on and off the mat. I gave a lot to this place. What really pushed me to leave was a comment from Professor Ana. She told me, "I don't really see you at class that often." That hit me hard, because I knew how much time I'd put in. I plan to post my attendance card and medals not to brag but to show that I was showing up, even on days I was hurting. That comment made me step back and look at things more clearly. Over time, I started noticing a lot of favoritism. Certain families especially those who are friends with the owners or have kids that compete get more attention, more praise, and more support. I understand why competitors are highlighted. They represent the gym. But let's be honest the people who pay monthly, train consistently, and support the academy from the ground up deserve just as much respect. If you use words like "we," "family," or "community," that should apply to everybody not just a few. I also heard stories from people especially at CompNet tournaments who didn't have a coach in their corner when it was time to compete. Some had to wait. Others had no one. That's rough, especially when you're out there nervous and relying on your school to back you up. And it wasn't just adults. In the kids' classes too, who gets more attention often depends on how involved their parents are with the school not just how hard the kid trains. When you see it enough, it starts to feel off. Injuries are expected in this sport I've had two or three myself. But I'm always upfront about them. I let the professor or coach know before class, and I let my partner know too. I want to protect myself and others. But not everyone trains like that. There are some people who roll with ego and try to prove something every time and they end up injuring other students. I know at least one person who hurt multiple people and is still there. I'm not naming names, but in my opinion, one person shouldn't be allowed to ruin the experience for so many. Another thing that started bothering me was the 60-day cancellation policy. After doing some research and talking with people from other schools including other Gracie Barra locations I found that most have a 30-day policy, no contracts, and more flexible options. For people who are dealing with financial stress or personal issues, being forced to pay for two extra months feels like it's about money, not community. Then there's the issue of people with prior martial arts experience competing in lower-level brackets. I'm not hating on anyone's success. Like I said, I've competed and done well. But when someone barely trains at the gym, walks into a competition with a big advantage, and then gets praised like they just climbed Mount Everest it's hard to watch. I stayed quiet about it for a long time, but it didn't sit right with me. I've always earned everything whether in the Army or in Jiu Jitsu through effort and integrity. I want to be part of a gym where that kind of value actually means something. Since leaving, several people have reached out to me privately, saying they've felt the same way but didn't want to speak up. I've also run into former students who said they stopped going for the same reasons. The feelings I had weren't just mine. Leaving wasn't easy. I made a lot of good friends. I had a routine. I still love the sport. And to be fair, the coaches themselves are very knowledgeable and talented. That was one of the best parts of being there. They made training enjoyable and challenging. This review isn't an attack it's just my truth. At the end of the day, for my own mental well-being, I needed to go somewhere I'd feel genuinely valued not just as a student, but as a person. If you're reading this and thinking about joining go see it for yourself. But if you're already there and you've noticed some of the same things, just know you're not alone. -- Rod

I was in the area for a family vacation and was able to drop-in on the Wednesday 6am gi class (I…read morehad made a mistake and only brought no gi stuff). I had DMed the academies instagram a few days prior and heard back very quickly. I was greeted by professor Elder, very cool and nice guy. I was caught of guard when I saw everyone in their gi's (MWF gi) as I must have seen an old schedule that said it was no gi. I would have been happy to just watch the instruction but Professor Elder asked one of the students to take his gi top off and allow me to get reps in. He went over some awesome techniques - explained very well: conceptually and fundamentally sound. Class was structured into warm-ups, techniques, positional sparring, and live rounds. This academy is full or killers of all ages, shapes, sizes and skill levels! It was a pleasure to meet everyone. Thank you for the hospitality and the rolls!

Hands down, thee Best BJJ in IE and many places period…read more Infamous World Champs Marcelo Lapela Mafra & Lucas Leite teach you hands on, and bothhave seperate other locations La Habra & Hesperia: So you get a solid mix of both camps here. I trained many years and honestly need a Brasiliero Professor and level with my teamates. But beginners, solid fundamental classes that i even go to bcuz basics are very impirtant and with soo many techniques, u cant know them all, and refreshing or learning is something that bjj just evolves. i came from sd a rival big team, and honestly, peeps here are really team based and enthusuastic. Dont waste $$$ at other gyms with ego's, ufc attitude etc.. this is a team sport if u compete, or just train for what ever reason, all walks of life here. And both Mafra & Leite are moito bom! (the best). Checkmat: love my new home. Fight Studio

I enrolled my daughter when Alliance opened in 2024, and she is now 8 years old and absolutely…read morethriving in jiu-jitsu. Professor Mayra, Coach Ryan, and Coach Valeria are incredibly well-versed in their art and do an excellent job teaching and motivating children. Because of them, my daughter now competes and is doing very well. I also want to highlight Miss Mari--she is amazing with everyone, always kind, welcoming, and incredibly helpful. She truly adds to the positive experience at Alliance. Alliance Upland has created a wonderful family environment that makes you feel supported from day one. I recently decided to enroll myself in the women's-only fundamentals class on Saturdays, and I had an amazing time. Thank you to everyone at Alliance for your love, encouragement, and support. If you're thinking about joining, don't hesitate--you'll love it here.

We are beyond grateful to have found Alliance Jiu Jitsu. From the very first day, everyone here --…read morefrom the instructors to the students -- has been incredibly kind, welcoming, and supportive. My child has developmental delays and had a really difficult experience at her first gym, which made us very hesitant to try again. Alliance Jiu Jitsu completely changed that for us. The instructors are patient, understanding, and truly accepting. They meet her where she is, encourage her, and make her feel safe and valued. The other students have also been amazing -- respectful, kind, and inclusive in a way that genuinely means so much to our family. Now, she is excited to go to class, excited to see everyone, and excited to learn. Watching her confidence grow in such a positive environment has been incredibly special. This gym is more than just a place to train -- it feels like a community that truly cares. If you're looking for a gym with skilled instructors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a heart for every student, I can't recommend Alliance Jiu Jitsu enough.

We're new to the jiu jitsu community and started here about 4 months ago. This gym has been very…read morewelcoming and has provided a fantastic learning environment to its students that range from white belt to black. The classes are full enough that there's always a partner for everybody but small enough that every student gets some individual attention. The three main instructors are well practiced in their craft and present it in a way that's easy to digest and learn. If you're looking to join a combat sport, want to get in shape or you're just curious about jiu jitsu, this is a great place to start.

This location is owned by the same owners as GB Upland. If your goal is just to do jiu-jitsu for…read morefitness, this school may work fine. The main issue is the curriculum. It's very basic, standardized, and repeated year-round. This appears intentional. Regular classes teach only the minimum, while techniques outside the posted curriculum are pushed into paid private lessons. Because of this, most students are trained as hobbyists. Extra instruction or advanced opportunities often depend on personal relationships rather than a structured development path. The curriculum is designed for retention, not depth, and this model is consistent across Gracie Barra schools. The gap becomes clear when students compete or train outside the Gracie Barra environment. While internal GB tournaments create an even playing field, they can give a false sense of progress. When students compete outside of GB or train at another academy against the same rank the difference in technical depth, adaptability, and exposure is often very noticeable. Even the instructors don't train the same curriculum as regular students, which speaks to how limited it is. Compared to other academies that teach more as part of regular training (without extra fees), this approach leaves students less prepared overall.

Jeff is very knowledgeable and cares about his students of all skill levels. Just show up, be…read morerespectful to everyone, and be willing to learn. Understand it takes time and work/effort. You will reap many benefits.

My son goes to this martial arts studio led by Jeff Frater and my husband and I are truly happy…read morewith Jeff's teaching strategy and method. I highly recommend this place for every parent who wants their child to be disciplined, to have self-respect and respect for others, especially parents. My son goes there 4 times a week for 2 hours. There is a possibility to attend 13 classes a week which is in my opinion just great. I see difference in my son's attitude and I see his growth. He is stronger, smarter and faster. Thank you, Jeff

My experience at UCS has been phenomenal. I could not be happier at any other gym. The environment…read moreis friendly and welcoming to anyone coming from any background. Myself personally having zero martial art experience, found it very difficult to begin and get a hold of everything. Coach Jamar and the students have been incredibly insightful walking me through all of the drills and ensuring everyone gets their reps in properly before moving onto the next. Having both morning and evening classes which start at 6pm is perfect for those 9-5 workers looking to get a good workout in. Since joining, it has been the best decision for my life. I've lost weight, gotten stronger and feel the best Ive ever felt. I look forward to every day inside such an enthusiastic and competitive environment created by a wonderful instructor pushing everyone to be the best they can be. UCS for the win! Also shoutout Eddie and Aaron for being such wonderful Kids class coaches. It's a great feeling coming in everyday to see such passionate teachers empowering the youth and next generation.

Started my Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu journey in Feb of 2025. I did not know what to expect at all and…read morewhere to begin. I typed mma gym into google map and UCS popped up. I emailed Jamar for a trial run and he set up an appointment for me. I will break this review down into a few sections. Head Instructor: Jamar adapts to each individual and motivates them according to their personality. He is one of the finest and most professional individuals I have ever had the pleasure to work with. He takes MMA very seriously and passionately. He cares about his students on and off the mat has made positive impacts on many people's lives, me included. He runs his business with integrity and honesty even if it means not making as much money as he could. He is upfront and honest with his students whether it's promotion or not being a good fit for the gym. He puts his students first and truly believes that his team is his family. Parking and facility: There are plenty of parking spaces. Facility is spacious with two restrooms. Got a few changing rooms to change in between classes from Muay Thai to Jiu Jitsu. Got a staging area for your gear and cameras all over the gym so you do not have to worry about your stuff going missing. Jamar offers refrigeration in case you have protein or drinks you want to keep chilled. Plenty of weights and workout equipment in case you are injured and cannot participate in sparring or rolling.I recently tweaked my ribs and while others rolled after lessons I just worked out at the side. Jamar cleans the gym after each use after the morning session as well as the night session. Environment/hours/schedule: UCS is one of the friendliest places I have ever been to. Unlike some of the other gyms out there, the students and instructors are not out to impress anyone. What I mean by that is no one is going to beat you up just to show you how cool they are. In fact Jamar is very big on being respectful and frowns upon being a mat bully. Hours of the gym are very accommodating. However accommodating Jamar is he does not tolerate being late, it's part of being respectful to other students! Muay Thai/Jiu Jitsu: As far as I know, this gym is one of the only gyms that still offers Muay Thai around the area. There is no "beginner's class" as everyone learns in a big group setting. This goes for both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu as well. Jamar has a keen eye for each individual's skill level and pairs you up with people that can teach and guide you. Each session starts with warm up following up with a lesson plan for the week and ends with light contact sparring. Safety is very important at UCS as it should be at any MMA gym. Jamar has a no nonsense policy when it comes to the hygiene and safety of his students. With that being said you will get punched/kicked in the face and body, but it's something you will be able to tolerate. I mean after all you are coming to learn a combat sport. This is a Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu and they teach both Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu. One of the reasons why I love this gym is because it is a very balanced gym. Jamar encourages his students to learn both and be well versed in both. At first I was super lost as to what I'm supposed to do but from the short months I have been here I feel like I have improved significantly. Everyone here is very patient and welcoming and I never felt pressured to practice any moves I'm not comfortable with. One of the earliest lessons I have learned from Jamar is tapping early and not pushing myself because I do not know what I am doing yet. As far as promotions, go there isn't a test so you do not have to worry about paying extra to advance. Overall, I cannot recommend this place enough. I have made many valuable friendships that I know will last a lifetime. you will just have to come and check it out. Reach out to Jamar about trial class and begin your journey, you will not regret it, OSS!!!

I joined We The People BJJ a little over 2 months ago and I've been loving it. Jerbo has built a…read morevery safe environment for all levels to learn the art of jiu jitsu. I was immediately impressed with the higher rank belts who make us feel comfortable rolling with them. They constantly challenge us but at a pace where we can still keep up. It's just a really solid group of people. I was also wondering how you could integrate new comers with people that have been doing this for a while. Well Jerbo's brown belt Adrian does a great job at layering on new knowledge with things we've already worked on. Come see it for yourself!

We The People BJJ has been a great place to learn and practice Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. Professor…read moreJerbo runs a great Gi & No Gi class with highly detailed moves and demonstration. There is a variety of skill level and the people at this gym are all extremely respectful and willing to teach. I have learned a lot in the 2+ months of training here and plan to continue because it's a good group of people to train with and learn from.

My kids have been training at JV Jiu Jitsu since they were 5 years old, and the growth we've seen…read morein them has been incredible. Not only have they become tough little monsters on the mats, but they've also learned resilience, discipline, humility, and confidence that carries into everyday life. Professor Javi truly cares about the kids and pushes them to be strong mentally and physically while still staying respectful and grounded. The environment feels like family, and the lessons they learn here go far beyond jiu jitsu. We're so grateful to be part of this team and highly recommend JV Jiu Jitsu to any parent looking for something that builds both skill and character. The force is strong here !!

Been training here for a month now and love it. Professor Javier is a great instructor and the…read moretraining is practical and relevant for self defense and sports BJJ. The BJJ instruction ties in well with striking and teaches you how to apply BJJ techniques in an environment where punches are being thrown. Everyone here is chill and it has a great vibe. Would definitely recommend.

I couldn't be more happier with my choice of signing up my 2 kids here. Michelle and Ken are so…read moregood with the kids. They really do always have a positive attitude all the time and that makes the kids very happy. The classes are great. My son who is 10 has learned so much! I had a concern with my daughter's weight and she has lost a lot of weight due to staying active in this class. My husband and I are more than happy and satisfied with Michelle and Coach Ken.

very welcoming! my daughter just completed 1 month of BJJ and could not be happier with the whole…read moreexperience. very professional friendly and truly caring staff. my daughter is having such fun learning all these new BJJ skills. definitely recommend gladiator Jiu Jitsu.

Been training for decades but stopped. Dropped in due to a recommendation from…read morea buddy. Stayed because I accidentally joined a family that tries to choke me with love. Claremont BJJ is the perfect mix of discipline, technique, and "wow I really need to stretch more." The instructors break things down clearly, whether you're brand new or trying to level up your guard game. Zero ego, high respect, and everyone's there to get better, not to collect gym tap trophies. Clean mats, structured classes, solid fundamentals. You'll leave humbled, sweaty, and somehow already planning your next class. 10/10 would get gently folded again.

Great place to learn. Great environment focuses on what you need to know rather than some program…read more The instructor is willing to work with each person and create a custom program tailored to their needs. I have 20 years of martial arts experience, and I would recommend this place to people of all skill sets. Jiu-Jitsu is the perfect martial art for the smaller weaker person, and it's not extremely tiring or physically demanding. This place trains a more relaxed and disciplined trade, s o there is little to no chance of injury.