Choosing the right Jiu-Jitsu gym is vital.
Your Jiu-Jitsu journey is your own and as unique as you. Different gyms have unique strengths and weaknesses. Finding the proper one for you can be challenging but manageable if you know what to look for. Don’t settle. This is your time, your energy, your growth. Train in a space that inspires you. A place that challenges you when you’re sharp and supports you when you’re struggling. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. And find a teacher who shares not just their technique — but their values. Because the right academy won’t just make you a better grappler. It will help shape a better you.
First step check the facility.
Is the facility clean?
Are mats kept up to date and cared for?
Changing areas and bathrooms clean?
Are you comfortable going in and out of the parking lot?
Do they provide amenities that you need such as showers?
Second step – look past the hype.
It’s tempting to chase big names and championship banners. Maybe there’s a world champ running classes or a dominant competition team training there.
But ask yourself — what’s the atmosphere like?
Does the instructor make time for everyone, or just focus on the “killers”?
Is the room filled with patience and passion, or is it intense, loud, and intimidating?
A great academy welcomes everyone with respect and care. Technique matters, sure — but culture is what keeps people coming back.
Speaking of culture – what is it like?
The best academies feel like a family. Upper belts stay humble. Rolls are technical, not reckless. Ego takes a backseat to learning.
Ask yourself:
Do people support one another?
Are teammates helping each other grow?
Does the instructor actually live out the values they preach?
If the answer’s yes, that’s a place where you’ll thrive — as a grappler and as a person.
The instructor
The instructor sets the tone for everything.
Do they explain things clearly and patiently, or rush through the details?
Do they teach concepts and principles, or just throw techniques at you?
Do they notice when you’re struggling and step in — or only pay attention to the top performers or even worse – devote their attention to members of the opposite sex?
Are they more concerned with themselves and their upcoming competitions or living in past glory, or are they focused on you?
You don’t just need a great grappler. You need a teacher who knows how to communicate, who cares about the little things, and who wants to see everyone improve.
The best instructors aren’t always the loudest or flashiest — but they noticed what mattered and made sure you did too.
Your goals
Jiu-Jitsu isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Some people want to chase medals. Others want to build confidence, stay healthy, or roll with their kids.
Before committing, ask yourself: why am I really doing this?
If you’re after competition success, you need structured, demanding training and a team that pushes you.
If your focus is on longevity, wellness, or simply loving your time on the mats, find a place that won’t leave you battered and burnt out.
The right gym is the one that fits your reasons, not someone else’s.
At the end of the day, this is your journey.
Train somewhere that makes you better on and off the mats.
Good technique, winning records, medals, flashy facility, all matter. But good people matter more.