| Address: | 8302 Southern Blvd, Boardman, OH 44512, USA |
|---|---|
| Postal code: | 44512 |
| Phone: | (330) 782-3869 |
| Website: | http://youngstownjiujitsu.com/ |
Very welcoming environment for beginners like myself. The amount of highly experienced students and staff was impressive. Can’t wait to go back!
I'm a 3 month white belt. Here's my take:
Ohio BJJ & Self Defense Academy is an amazing place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, wrestling, boxing and MMA. It is a Pedro Sauer affiliate, with several of the instructors students of Master Sauer himself.
Under the leadership of Tony Rinaldi, students are taught extremely technical, fundamental concepts of BJJ, with a focus on technique. There are 9 other black belt instructors who either teach or assist with classes, so everyone gets careful instruction and attention to ensure that lessons, drills and rolling (sparring) is done properly and safely.
Ohio BJJ offers classes 7 days a week, and several classes each day to fit any schedule. Each class has a large number of students, which offers a variety of ages, skill levels, body types and both male and female students to give a lot of experience against different partners.
The gym members themselves are all laid back and helpful. This isn't your 'tough guy' type of gym, it feels like more of a club atmosphere. New members are quickly welcomed and made to feel a part of the team. There are no real formalities, uniform requirements, or strict rules to memorize, just straight up pure BJJ.
Oh, and forget about testing fees, and required advancement ceremonies. When you've proven yourself and earned a stripe or new belt, it is awarded to you by the instructor on the spot. Advancement is not just given after a period of time either. Every stripe is merit based, and when it is placed on your belt you know that you've proven yourself.
If you are experienced with martial arts or looking to just get started, this is the place to go, hands down.
Matt (coffee)
Great instruction, great atmosphere and extremely beginner friendly. I would highly recommend whether you are a competitor, or just trying to get in shape and learn self defense.
Best place around for Jiu-Jitsu. Knowledgeable instructors with a very welcoming atmosphere. A wide variety of class times.