Real mats, verified listings. Every academy is checked before it earns a spot — never pay-to-rank.
Beginner's guide & FAQ

Everything you need to start rolling

New to jiu jitsu or new to the directory — here are the questions we get most.

I've never trained before — where do I start?
Look for academies tagged "Beginner-friendly," and take a free trial class. Most gyms offer one. Wear comfortable athletic clothes for your first No-Gi class; the academy will loan or sell you a gi when you're ready.
What's the difference between Gi and No-Gi?
Gi jiu jitsu is trained in the traditional uniform (the "gi"), where grips on the fabric are part of the game. No-Gi is trained in shorts and a rashguard, with a faster, more slippery pace. Many academies teach both — filter by the style you want.
How much does BJJ cost?
Memberships typically run $120–$200/month depending on the city and how many classes you attend. Many academies offer intro deals. We list details on each profile where the academy publishes them.
Do you have kids classes?
Yes — filter by "Kids program" to see academies with age-grouped children's classes, usually from around age 4 up through teens.
How are academies verified?
We confirm each academy's address, schedule, and contact details, note the head coach's rank and affiliation where public, and score each one on an independent 0–5 star rating before listing. Listings are never paid placements.
How are the "Top Gyms in [City]" lists decided?
They're editorial rankings based on coaching, competition results, facilities, beginner-friendliness, and student reviews. Academies can't buy a spot.
I own an academy — how do I get listed?
Head to "List your academy." A basic verified listing is free; you can also claim your profile to manage it, or explore sponsored placement and advertising.

Ready to find a gym?

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