Really great academy. Amazing instructors, amazing people. I came with zero experience in close combat sports, which can feel like a very intimidating position to be in. But the instructors are encouraging and patient, as are the other students, especially the upper belts. Seven months in I’ve already had the opportunity to compete in two competitions and couldn’t be happier to have had that experience. Training at GD has been one of the best decisions I’ve made and they’ve helped me achieve my goals I set for myself this year. Very highly recommended!
I visited while in town. The instructor and students couldn’t have been more welcoming to me. The class was fun and informative. I would definitely visit again. Thanks G.D. BJJ for the warm hospitality. OSS
I drop in here when Im in town visiting family. Theyre super welcoming and I always learn something cool!
I’ve had a great time here so far! I’m brand new to the martial arts world, and challenging myself to not let a long lost childhood dream die. I started in the middle of March and in what feels like such a short period time I have learned a lot about BJJ, found very patient and supportive coaches & training partners, toned my body, and have began to gain the mental discipline I desired to get back when I stepped into this gym.There’s so much to learn but the diverse and welcoming atmosphere of this gym make the classes enjoyable for anyone who is interested in BJJ and the many rewards that come from training. If you’re on the fence, I highly suggest giving it a try!
Cleanest BJJ gym in the state of AZ. Amazing owner who supports nonprofit organizations and youth efforts all across Arizona. Great teachers.
Excellent atmosphere to begin or further your martial arts journey. Instructors are first rate and patient with new folks. Polite training partners. Clean facility.I began training at this location because it was convenient and I enjoyed wrestling for fun and exercise. It took me years to comprehend how lucky I was to be training with so many successful competitors. Sometimes you will even find other world class academy owners training here which speaks volumes to the quality of what Gustavo has built.
Super friendly with real applicable techniques
Absolutely phenomenal BJJ facility. The gym itself is always clean, the staff are lovely, and the instructors are amazing teachers and clearly well-versed in their trade. I tried out several BJJ gyms in Tempe before deciding and GDBJJ was easily the best--I would highly recommend training here if you have the opportunity!
This gym has helped improve my BJJ since I have joined. It has a fantastic variety of professors who provide important details and explanations of techniques and positions.The culture of the students are hardworking individuals focused on bettering themselves.Whether you need a great workout, want to learn self-defense, or want to compete at a high level this BJJ school is for you!
Excellent intro class. Very professional trainers. Very clean gym. Hoping I can fit this into my lifestyle!!
I dont know where to start. Gustavo is awesome! His other instructors are not only great bjj practitioners, but fantastic teachers and friends as well. The facility is nice and clean. The overall vibe of the gym is friendly yet competitive. Im lucky to train here!!! If youre considering it then come by and youll see what makes this place so special!
Gustavo Dantas Brazilian jiu jitsu academy is a great place to train. I felt welcomed from the first day I walked in. It has a great family environment for those looking to learn self defense, get in shape, or gain confidence. There are also many competitors for those looking to compete in jiu jitsu. Gustavo and his team will help you develop your skills and achieve your goals. I wouldn’t want to train anywhere else.
I can’t say enough good things about this gym. The curriculum is broken down systematically in a way that flows into the next lesson. This allows beginners like myself to retain the moves but also more importantly understand the concepts behind the sequences. As someone new to the grappling arts, this gym offers a great learning environment for white belts to grow together. The instructors do a great job of explaining verbally as well as visually. Gustavo has impressively synthesized his bjj experience with a rare high class degree of teaching ability...resulting in this great Academy. If you are looking to try something new, I highly recommend starting here.
GD Jiu Jitsu is a top tier jiu jitsu training facility! The atmosphere is very friendly, and the quality and depth of knowledge from all the instructors is excellent. I highly recommend stopping in and checking out the academy!
This review is written by a blue belt jiu jitsu practictioner of roughly 3 years. I will attempt to tailor my review for new beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.After relocating from California to Tempe, AZ, I wanted to continue my jiu jitsu journey in the best possible way. I dropped into several gyms around the Phoenix metro area, and ultimately chose Gustavo Dantas academy for several reasons.Primarily, the community that trains here was very welcoming and is comprised of TOUGH colored belt competitors. I was a freshly minted blue belt from Alliance San Francisco Bay (defunct after being shutdown by governor Newsom for the pandemic) and I quickly realized how many holes were in my game. I am still feasting on a never-ending supply of humble pie today. Everyone here has been respectful and welcoming. If you are new to jiu jitsu, you will find a warm and welcoming environment to start your jiu jitsu journey here.The academy in Tempe is also very clean and professional. There is a comfortable waiting area in the lobby with windows to observe classes. Two large classrooms are split by nicely furnished bathrooms. There are also ample locker rooms, but those have been closed off during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mats are disinfected and wiped clean after every class. This is important for those of us with sensitive skin and cant afford to suffer staph infections. Gustavo has built a wonderful space to learn, teach, and explore jiu jitsu.Another reason I chose this academy is because Gustavo has been a pillar of the Arizona jiu jitsu community from early on. With over twenty years of teaching experience, he is simply the best equipped to improve your jiu jitsu game. You can search the internet and find him in competition and interviews with top names in the jiu jitsu game. He is a living encyclopedia of jiu jitsu from days past through the evolving present. Along with Gustavo himself, you will meet and learn from other black belts from Nova União, world-class competitors, and plug into an impressive network of jiu jitsu players.A piece of advice I took to heart a long time ago was to find the best jiu jitsu teacher and just attend as many of his classes as you can. So here I am! If you live in or around the Phoenix metro area and are either interested in dipping your toes into the sport, or are a seasoned competitor looking to take your game to the next level, you owe it to yourself and your friends/family to visit Gustavo Dantas Jiu Jitsu Academy!
Ive know Gustavo for over two decades, in that time he has contributed greatly to the Jiu-Jitsu community and built an amazing school to train at.Gustavo Dantas is a former World Jiu-Jitsu Champion, his attention to detail and easily understood instruction is second to none.The facility is spacious and clean. His academy offers both Gi and No-Gi training with some top notch instructors to assist.The staff and students are polite and courteous, if you are looking for a great place to train you owe it to yourself to swing by and check it out.
If you want a true master to learn from the best from then Gustavo Dantas Academy is the place for you. It’s not the cheapest but you will get what you invest in. Before joining GD Academy I hoped around few BJJ schools and tried other teachers in the valley who were lower cost. Though they had records to show for as fighters but I didn’t feel there had a systemized program that I can trust and weren’t great teachers.They threw me on the mat on day one where I felt lost and playing catch up. But when came to GD academy i immediately felt in the presence of a true master who respect the sport and doing it for the right reasons. He earned the right to teach and him and his trainers are professionals. They have flexible morning and evening classes. Beginners and advanced. Different programs depending on your goals. You go through an interview session first where you’ll learn the basics and if approved you’ll get your welcome kit with a gee and shirt. You can pay monthly or all together. Best of all, everyone is friendly and respectful. Makes a great place for learning!What I like most about Gustavo that he walks the talk. He is the president of the BJJ association and continue to develop and grow as a BJJ teacher but also as a human being. He relates BJJ not just as a martial art for self defense but also as a way of living and relate it to life. How to be a better human. Psychology. He relates it to real world practical situation if you had to defend yourself on the street.I’ve been training BJJ since the lockdown less than three four months and I’ve been training Muay Thai for 8 years before, so taking on BJJ from a true Brazilian master added tremendously to my fighting skills. Now I feel confident and comfortable if faced with any uncomfortable situation. Where I don’t need to exert much energy to neutralize an aggressor, simply pin him down in submission without being aggressive. And it looks good in-front of eye witnesses. It’s flawless, practical and gives me confidence to protect myself and my loved ones if needed.Gustavo promote tournaments, he is also a life coach, he competed all his life. His wife Charissa is as charming and welcoming to everyone makes us feel at home as well as all the staff and trainers. When you join GD academy you’ll have a family and friends. Like Bruce Lee says, you want to be the best learn from the best! Jump in, you get what you pay for and more!
My 8-year-old son and I both train here and have had nothing but positive experiences. The atmosphere at this gym is friendly and welcoming and the coaches are always patient, motivating, and willing to help out when needed. My son has seen a big jump in his confidence since he started training bjj and I can honestly say after trying out other gyms in the area this place has one of the best kids programs around. I also like that they have a ton of morning and evening classes available, which makes it easy to work into my schedule.
Just started my journey at this academy and i am already loving it. GD academy has a very welcoming atmosphere to students coming from all levels of experience. I had no previous martial arts experience but Gustavo and his team are always there to get down to my level to explain a concept.
I started coming here in September of 2017. Due to a few personal reasons I wound up losing motivation and my attendance was spotty at best. I ultimately took about 7 months off, I kept paying but just couldnt find the motivation to show up. The surprising thing was it did not take long for Gustavo to notice, and he took the time to personally contact me. Im happy to say Im getting back into the swing of things. Everyone here has been incredibly welcoming both on my first day and my first days back. The trainers are amazing, and everyone is super encouraging.
My six year old and I have been training at GD for about a year. No matter whether you are in the women’s class or general classes, everyone is extremely respectful and helpful. Coaches are supportive, patient, and bring a range of teaching styles. GD is an extremely family friendly environment. The kids coaches, who are world class athletes btw, actually want to work with children which is reflected in how the kids are treated. HIGHLY recommend GD.
Cant express how much GD has impacted my life. I started a little over 19 months ago and since I have been in the best shape of my life and learned so much! Not to mention the friendships and bonds that I have made. The detail and care every instructor has is amazing. I appreciate the dedication and help each instructor has been to my growth in this amazing personal development skill!
Great friendly learning environment! Gustavo always goes the extra mile to help and answer any questions.
Best place to train in AZ!Hands on training from Gustavo himself every week, in addition to his incredibly skilled and knowledgeable team of coaches. Josh is an incredible teacher and everyone is friendly and eager to help. I walked in with zero background or experience and have felt welcomed and encouraged from day 1.I was told by several friends with decades of combined bjj experience to check out this gym if I was serious about my training and I am not disappointed.All the staff are very helpful and friendly, come check it out!
Ive absolutely loved training here. People and staff are extremely welcoming. Mentally, I feel at peace after training each class and has part become a necessity in my weekly routine. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to train in Arizona.
The attention to detail is superb, it really is the best school I have attended.
I couldn’t be more pleased with my decision to train at GD. I’ve been training at GD for 4 years now and this gym has become an extended family to me. If you want to bring real positivity to your life as well as learn the most incredible martial art, then look no further with GD. The coaching and curriculum is unmatched. I can honestly say I’m a better Father, better Husband, and better provider because of the discipline learned from the environment and culture surrounding GD. Become curious like I did and try a free class and see how you feel. You won’t regret giving it a try but you may regret never trying it. I’m just so thankful that I found this place 4 years ago. It only took me 38 years to find it, but I found it and I’m here to stay. See you on the mat.
All i’m going to say about this place it’s a great environment, the friendliest staff, and most importantly, it’s knowledgeable instructor.
I’m in my 40’s now and have competed at a high level in sports my whole life. I can say, without reservation, this is some of the best coaching I’ve ever been around. The environment Gustavo has created here is elite in every respect. The coaches not only know the material but present it in an understandable way, and actually seem to very much care about their students’ progress. This is not an environment littered with 20 year old “Bros” shouting at each other, it’s a place to learn and grow as person. The gym is clean with a set of rules so all can flourish. Whether you’re a beginner in the fundamentals classes or a seasoned killer, you will be challenged and find what you’re looking for here. My children are enrolled in the kid’s classes, and again, the quality of instruction and thought that goes into the pedagogy of the program is better than I’ve seen in any youth sport.The workouts are fierce and the time commitment extensive, but the benefit cannot be undersold. You will learn a usable martial art that will get you in shape, protect yourself and your family, and offer a new line of competition that will change your life. If Jiu-Jitsu is on your radar (and if you’re reading this it probably is) than come to a trial class and see for yourself, this is the best school in the state!
GDs is a well developed, well-run gym that is full of some of the best people Ive ever met or trained with.Every instructor is accomplished in competition, has a unique way of presenting the techniques and has a mentality that makes showing up to train a pleasure rather than a chore.Feeling intimidated to start training is normal, but this gym has always had an incredibly healthy, welcoming and productive vibe. Its a 2nd home for me in Arizona and a privilege to be a part of.
GD Academy offers a great schedule of classes, has competent coaches, is a clean facility, has a family atmosphere for everyone. As a Moroccan recently coming to America this place has helped me to meet new friends with similar interests and I highly recommend it!!!
Excellent place to train, high level bjj instruction, kids class is awesome. My son and I just joined several months ago and are very happy. Great instruction for competition and self defense. Highly recommended!!!
I joined Gustavos team after 11.5 years of BJJ training in San Diego and was welcomed immediately. This gym fosters a positive team atmosphere and learning environment. Students of all levels are welcomed here whether it is your first day, youve been training for over a decade, you are looking to get in shape, or you aspire to compete at the highest level. Gustavo and his other instructors (Josh, Tyson, Jody, etc) have a wealth of knowledge and are proficient at sharing it with all students, no matter their rank. If you are looking for BJJ training in the Phoenix area, I highly recommend GD BJJ.
Great place to train, the family loves it! The staff is welcoming and the coaches effectively teach everyone on the athlete spectrum (from true noobs to prior wrestlers). I never leave disappointed.
Ive been training here for a few months now and the experience has been great! Excellent instruction, very clean, everyone is welcoming, and a wide variety of class options (which is huge for me being a father and having an unpredictable work schedule).
One of the most welcoming environments I’ve ever encountered in the martial arts space, no matter what level you’re coming in at, or what your goals are in Jiu Jitsu this academy will bring you in with open arms. The instructors are some of the best around, the facility is extremely clean and very well maintained and the staff at the front desk is always friendly. I would recommend this place to anyone, whether they’re looking to get in shape, want to learn self defense, or want to compete this academy has it all.
I have trained with Gustavo since 2012, and he has always provided one of the most consistent, professional, and high level BJJ academies in the valley! It is a family friendly environment, with tough competitors and great coaches. Thanks G!
I have been training at GDJIUJTSU for almost 19 years, its my second home, with amazing instructors and a family atmosphere. Not only do I get to train hard and learn a skill that helps me in all aspects of my life I get to hang out with my best friends. One of the best schools Ive ever seen.Brian MitchellBJJ 3rd degree black beltJudo black belt.
GD is a great place to train. All the coaches are extremely knowledgeable and make you feel welcome from the beginning. The womens class creates an environment that truly makes you feel comfortable yet empowered at the same time. My teammates here have become my family. I would recommend GD to anyone who wants to compete at the highest level or if you are just trying to find something new to try.
I walked into Gustavos academy without any prior grappling/wrestling experience and now after a few months I feel pretty competent when it comes to situational positions that we go over in class. All the coaches and Gustavo himself are very helpful and very receptive to any questions or concerns no matter what your belt level or experience is. I highly recommend this gym to anyone, especially to a person like myself that had no prior jiu-jitsu experience.
I’ve been training here for almost 4 years, and can’t say enough good things about GD Academy. Gustavo genuinely cares about his students and helping them achieve their training goals. All the instructors are top notch, and your teammates are supportive and respectful. Hands down the best school in Phoenix for anyone at any level.
Ive been training at GD Jiu-Jitsu for over a year and have nothing but positive things to say. The atmosphere is friendly but competitive with a super cool and diverse group of students. The class rules are maybe more traditional than other gyms yet its welcoming and I appreciate the structure. The gym is clean, organized, friendly, well ran, and most importantly GD has great instructors that know the sport and are excellent teachers. Super happy I found my jiujitsu home here.
Update: Ive been training at this academy for about 5 years now and wouldnt want to train anywhere else. There are several classes each week to accommodate different schedules. The classes are for everyone, beginners, mix levels (advanced), women, kids, and No-Gi. The instructors are world class and are willing to help and answer any questions. Gustavo offers a wealth of knowledge that can applied on and off the mats, incorporating personal development tools. He is down to earth and very personable which is a great quality for an instructor to have. Come train at GD!
I visited from MN while traveling for work in Phoenix, and I loved my visit. Gustavo introduced himself personally and was very friendly and inclusive, the instruction was awesome, all of the people training were very friendly and welcoming. Clean, professional, warm, friendly, great instruction, just a first rate BJJ experience all the way around. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting from out of town or looking to start training BJJ in the Phoenix area. Thanks Gustavo!
An amazing kids program. Its positive, respectful, and has a great instructor/helper to student ratio! As well, there is an amazing number of classes for adults to choose from. High level coaches and no egos! A very family-oriented environment.
Great vibe and spectacular facility. You get so many different looks from the variety of training partners. The instructors are A1 and definitely invested into their students. Gustavo has helped me mentally as well as with my technique as well. The schedule is a plus too. No matter what hours my personal life needs me, Im able to find time to train. I recommend Gustavo Dantas JiuJitsu to anyone, from anywhere.
Ive been training here for a few months now, and have had nothing but a positive experience. GD has world-class instructors (Horlando and Josh), but are extremely approachable, helpful, and motivating. Since youre reading these reviews, you must be interested so come in for a trial class and see for yourself. If youve never trained before, or just need a refresher, youll get a one-on-one with an instructor to get you up to speed.
I’ve been training under Gustavo Dantas since early 2000. I watch the school grow from just a few students to being one of the best schools in Arizona. If you’re looking for quality Brazilian Jiu Jitsu you’ve come to the right place. The school has classes every day for men women and children with a great atmosphere and caring instructors.
Gustavo was my first Professor in 1999 and he has went on to do amazing things in Jiu Jitsu. I am proud and honored to have trained under him. He has one of the nicest academies in Arizona!
Great way to teach BJJ where everything seems to fit together, as in a system where all positions have a connection and make sense. Its not just a bunch of unconnected positions. Not to mention the familiar environment, with many teenagers, many children, fathers and mothers. Thank you GDBJJ Team!
This is the 2nd jiu jitsu academy I have attended and it is really great. The coaches and students are so welcoming and make you feel very comfortable. They offer so many classes everyday and even have women’s classes. I would highly recommend GDBJJ.
I have been a part of GDJJ since Fall 2006. I received my purple, brown, and black belts from Gustavo, and am honored to run a GD affiliate gym in Lawrence, KS. The training I received and continue to receive from Gustavo is top-notch, and I always strive to run my gym with the same integrity and professionalism as Gustavo.
Great place to train friendly and welcoming environment as well as top level instructors and competitors. Very flexible training schedule that will fit your schedule come try a class.
I couldn’t ask for a better academy to train at in Arizona. Great instructors, teammates and atmosphere. GD Jiu Jitsu Academy is extremely welcoming of all ages and skill levels. Highly Recommended!
The 630AM mixed levels early birds class is my favorite way to start the day. Quality instructors and great teammates and training partners. I have trained under Gustavo Dantes since 2008 and after moving a distance away and taking a few years off for injuries I started checking out schools near me. While I did appreciate the opportunity to try out the competition, I still found it worth while to drive 25 miles to GD jiu jitsu Academy. The level of instruction, my training partners, and a great family friendly atmosphere, makes GD the place for me and well worth the drive.
My husband has been training here for some years now and anytime I go watch him I always feel welcomed and everyone is very kind. No egos or attitudes!! He loves it and has gained so much skill and some great buddies!
I have been training under GD Jiu-Jitsu since 2003. Gustavo is an amazing instructor/person on and off the mats. All of the coaches are solid with their jiujitsu and care about the students. They have an amazing facility and it’s equipped with everything you need. It’s a great place for anyone from the average person to the highest level competitor. Highly recommend 🙌
Gustavo is an extremely dedicated professional! He will not only teach you jiu-jitsu, but will also help you become the next that you can be! World class!!!
Great staff! Instructors care very much about the students understanding.
Ive been to a few different schools in the valley and this by far is the best school in many ways. The professor is a world class competitor and a world class mentor; he leads by example and runs a tight ship at the academy. The academy is extremely clean (coming from a military guy that is saying something), the layout is very aesthetically pleasing, and the training partners are dedicated and helpful. You will not regret joining this academy.
I’m relatively a shy person and I’ve never felt more at home in a gym or in a sport as this one. The staff is great and only wants the best for you, on top of that it is super family friendly and all inclusive. What more do you need? Oh also the gm is a cool brown belt.
I started at the gym the summer I turned 15 and it has been a great experience! Joining the womens program has been really fun and even if I cant make it as often because of school everyone feels like a big family. I started BJJ by joining this gym and the foundation it has given me has been awesome!
Kids teens womens fundamentals and mixed levels. There is a class for every person in your family. Class times are very accommodating to various schedules. Classes start at 6:30 a.m mixed levels & continue at 10 a.m. 2:30 p.m. mixed levels. 4:30 p.m. for kids 5:30 p.m. for teens & women only. 6:30 p.m. for mixed levels & fundamentals class. Each coach is a seasoned competitor and articulate the techniques so they work for you. Come try a class for one of the best workouts youll ever get.
I recommend GD jiu jitsu because it has a culture that promotes camaraderie, self-growth, and positivity. The instructors’ passion, knowledge, and open-mindedness creates a great environment to train and learn.
Me and my father have trained together at GD since I started Jiu jistu at 8 years old. Not only has the gym been my family for years. But with a phenomenal kids program they helped me to grow and find my place in the adults class as well to continue my bjj journey. Not to mention that the staff is amazing and attentive at all times.
Gustavo Dantas and his staff are world class instructors. You can’t find a more professional, clean, and personal place to train at. See you on the mats
This is an awesome place for people of all skill levels and backgrounds. Learn from world class instructors in a clean, safe environment. The staff is friendly and make sure everyone can achieve their personal goals. I highly recommend BJJ, and this is definitely one of the best gyms you can go to.
Started training here a few months ago and I love it everyone in the class is very helpful when you first start on giving you advice on how to get better and Gustavo is a great teacher and had a very deep understanding of Jiu-Jitsu
I visited this BJJ gym in Tempe while traveling from Wisconsin and I am more than impressed with the variety of belts on the whites,, all with great attitudes and respect for me (the new guy ) . Gustavo is world class and is very professional . The gym is huge and clean, plenty of mat space, plenty oof changing rooms and bathrooms ! Highly recommended.
Incredible people. First-rate knowledge and training. I couldnt recommend GD Academy more highly.
Welcoming community from the minute you walk in the door. What surprised me the most was the amount of friendly coaching on technique that I was receiving not only from the main instructors, but from fellow students who decided to partner up with me during class. Seems as though everyone wants to help each other succeed and watch the gym grow as a whole.
GDJJ fosters a wonderful learning environment for everyone of all ages. They have great programs for kids, teens, women, white belts, and advanced students. I highly recommend anyone who is interested in trying out the sport to come by the gym for a free class!
Been consistently attending the Fundamentals class for about a month. The staff is fantastic, the facility is very professional (and professionally maintained), and all of it works together to make the sport/art/self-defense system very approachable. Youll be looking forward to class every day :)
The GD Jiu-Jitsu academy is the best gym I’ve trained at in the Phoenix area. Great teachers, great staff, and great environment! I have been with the gym for a little over a year now and I have already grown so much in my bjj game.
I’ve been training with Gustavo since 2005 (15 years) and have trained at many gyms all across the U.S. throughout my time as a professional mixed martial artist. GD’s is the complete package. It’s a healthy family environment where the jiujitsu is second to none.I’ve been fortunate enough to have been a successful competitor under him as well as someone who does Jiujitsu as a hobby & to stay in shape. Whatever you are looking to do, you can accomplish it at GD’s.Over the years my favorite part other than the skills I’ve gained, is the people I’ve met. There are no egos and everyone respects one another. It’s a second family.5 stars without a doubt.
My 5 year old son has been practicing Jui Jitsu for 3 months now. The kids program at GD is top notch. This academy was recommended to me by a former mma world champ and in the 3 month exposure I have had yo the academy, I truly understand why.The kids instructor, Sarah, is not only a brilliant practicioner, she is also gifted at interacting with children by creating an environment of safety and confidence for each child in her class.The academy also organizes events for the kids outside of the academy to foster bonding between the students and between parents. This coupled with the warm and welcoming culture of the academy make it an enjoyable experience for both me and my son.
I have trained at many gyms across the US and can say that GD Jiu Jitsu is the best place I have ever trained. I moved to AZ from Colorado and felt welcomed and made to feel a part of the team from the first day at the gym. In addition to the friendly atmosphere, the instruction and the level of training partners is of the highest caliber. I thoroughly enjoy the variety of classes and class times at GD Jiu Jitsu. I have been able to find a class to train at regardless of my busy schedule. This is the place to be for quality of instruction and access to classes throughout the day.
In my opinion the best school for a number of reasons. mental strength, technique/art, and convenience. do you want self defense? no problem. do you want good training partners and excellent instruction? they have that. what about ladies/ kids and no gi classes? yes, yes, yes. I have tried many different schools, while all are respectable in their own right, there was only one choice for me. feel free to come in and discover what your life has been missing, at your own pace.
Fantastic place to train whether youre looking to win a world championship or just get in better shape. The coaching staff and older members have shown support from day one and have become mentors in BJJ as well as life. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a complex skill to learn and it can be physically demanding, but the environment at GDs allows for anyone to come in and grow. Outstanding gym and Im proud to be apart of it.
Jiu jitsu has provided for me discipline and structure where my life were otherwise lack there of. Jiu jitsu gyms are plentiful, world class training facilities like GD are not.GD provides care for new students while fostering a drive to improve. A 90min class at GD guarantees you will be in a positive, healthy environment with a group of individuals all dedicated to becoming a little bit better than they were the previous day.
I had the pleasure of training at Gustavo s Academy last month when I was in town for business. It was my first time training outside my home academy RMNU and couldnt have been more pleased with Professor Tysons class. I highly recommend checking GDBJJ out if you are looking for an academy in the area. It was the perfect mix of a family atmosphere and high level bjj from a legend and his instructors. Everyone was very friendly and inviting, place looks amazing and super clean. Thanks again to everyone at GDBJJ for letting me come and train, and I will definitely be back to train next time im in town.
This is one of the premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academies in the entire State of Arizona! As a police officer it is a great place to train with awesome instructors and students.World class competitors are always in the academy and available to train with. I highly recommend GD Jiu Jitsu!
World class facility with the highest quality instruction you can find. class times work for all types of schedules. great team environment. I always look forward to training.
This is a great place to train for all levels. Jiu jitsu is hard enough as is, but the instructors and training environment at GDs really make it a treat. Ive made some great friends at this place and highly recommend it to anyone interested in jiu jitsu.
GDBJJ goes beyond simply training the physical components of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Gustavo incorporates: preparation for competition, mental resilience, and problem solving that have far-reaching benefits beyond the mats. Each of the GDBJJ instructors and coaches are top-notch, bringing their own techniques, experience, and training to the Academy.The Team at GDBJJ is fantastic.
GD’s is one of the best schools to learn jiu-jtsu. The academy has experienced instructors that are dedicated in improving our skills, plus Gustavo emphasizes on building champions both on & off the mat, which has developed a really awesome team to learn jiu jitsu with.
I have been a team member since March of 2019 – from day 1, not only were my expectations met, but leaps and bounds beyond what I was hoping for. From the front desk staff, White Belts and all the way up to the Black Belts... the level of respect and genuine care for one another here is beyond words.The coaches:This group of coaches is by far among the best Nationwide (in terms of level of competition records/experience/detailed knowledge of this sport/lifestyle. Gustavo himself teaches the White Belts Fundamental Classes as well as the Mixed Level Classes. Josh also teaches the Fundamentals and the No Gi classes (for wrestlers like myself, the No Gi has been an incredible experience itself... it has absolutely improved my Gi training). Tyson also does the Mixed Levels and kids classes. Sarah teaches the womens, self-defense, and kids classes as well. Each one of these Professors are VERY high-level competitors and know how to get the best out of EACH individual athlete.What makes this Academy unique is Gustavos Mental Preparation Classes during Tournament time. GD Jiu Jitsu is a very decorated and successful competition team – Gustavo, being a certified Life Coach, offers classes for all belt levels before the weekend of competitions to talk about what to expect, how to prepare your body and mind, and to really understand how your mind can either be your friend or biggest adversary. These classes mostly are comprised of White Belts, and some returning color belt athletes.Bottom line is, if youre looking for the ideal academy with a family environment that not only will help transform you physically, but also sharpen you mentally... this is the place. Try the first free class and get a sense of the environment. You will not regret the moment you did. I signed up the very next day and havent looked back since. This sport and THIS TEAM have shaped me into the best possible version of myself I never thought I could be... on and off the mat.I am beyond grateful for Gustavo, my coaches Josh and Tyson, and all of my teammates. Genuinely feel like part of a large family. Oss.
Ive been training at GD Jiu-Jitsu for the past year and a half and have been so blessed to become part of this academy! The instructors are world class and committed to making you a better practitioner! The students are welcoming and supportive of each other with little or no ego. As an older student (49 years), I was concerned that I would simply be fodder for the endless stream of young competitors preparing for the next big tournament. But I have found a community of teammates who work together to help everyone accomplish their personal goals. In sum, if youre interested in JIU-JITSU classes, then I recommend GD Jiu-Jitsu without reservation! Hope to see you on the may!
I own and operate Primero Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in Tucson, AZ. I have been an affiliate member of Gustavo Dantas Jiu Jitsu since late 2012. I make the drive up to Tempe a couple of times per month to train with my GDJJ teammates and advance my knowledge of the art. I picked Gustavo Dantas Jiu Jitsu because of the quality instruction and the positive environment. Ive always been glad I chose to go with Gustavo Dantas and I am proud to represent Gustavo Dantas Jiu Jitsu. Signed, Joe Solorio-Owner of Primero Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
GD jiujitsu is a wonderful academy for everyone interested in jiujitsu.If you are a serious competitor, looking for a place that will support you in competitions and help train you to become a better player at the game, GD will take you there.If you are a lady looking for a group of other BJJ ladies to train with, GD has an amazing womens program run by black belt Sarah Black, who is also an incredible teacher. You dont have to come to the womens classes either to train with other ladies, because there are always ladies in every class.If you are a parent looking for an activity for your children so they can get both physical and mental exercise, learn some self defense, or learn how to grapple and compete, the youth program here is like an extended family. My two children have made quick friends here, and are improving with their self discipline and control at home, too.If you are toying with the idea of beginning a jiujitsu journey, the beginner classes at GD, offered multiple times a day, will get you where you want to go.The curriculum at GD stands out above other academies I have studied under. I appreciate the approach to BJJ through systems rather than through isolated moves. The instruction is geared toward understanding how to set up moves to play the game you want to play in BJJ.When learning a system, the instructors (all black belts) will cover attacks, defenses, set ups to enter a position, options you can take in certain scenarios, and how to handle multiple possible opponent responses while in a certain position. Instructors emphasize why positions need to be done a certain way rather than just having students memorize a series of moves.Ultimately, the curriculum is structured to develop a way to think with the fundamentals enough to improvise while rolling.What else can I say? I love it! (obviously, eh?)
Gustavo Dantas Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a high level jiu jitsu academy. Teammates are very friendly, coaches are extremely knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is always positive and fun. I’ve trained at several different gyms and I can confidently say Gustavo’s has the best jiu jitsu I have experienced. I would recommend this gym to anyone from beginners to seasoned competitors. Plus, there are class times ranging from the early morning, throughout the day, and into the evening with the gym being open Monday-Sunday. That is tough to beat!
Perfect place for training bjj.Ive been training about 1 year.All coaches and teammates are kind.If you are going to learn about Bjj, this place is perfect place for starting.I highly recommend to you.
I have been training under Guatavo for quite some time now and can honestly say that I have absolutely no regrets and I am very grateful! There is a reason that quite a few of the other Instructors with their own schools in Az and other states have origins from GD jiu jitsu.Great atmosphere, training environment, training partners, and instructors! If youre looking for a top quality school to train at then check out GD jiu jitsu! Whether youre wanting to compete, get in shape, self defense, or all the above, GD jiu jitsu will help you attain your goals!
My family and I have been training here for 5 years now and the experience has been amazing. The classes and instruction are great for my competition preparation, experience and results. My wife and nieces love the women’s and kids classes as well as the mixed level competition class. Having trained BJJ around the world I can tell you that this is my favorite BJJ environment I’ve been in.
Gustavo is one of the best BJJ instructors in the US.
Excellent place to train: everyone is helpful, knowledgeable, friendly and encouraging. Highly recommend.
Great Place to Train!! Incredible Staff and Super fun and friendly. I couldnt ask for a Better School!
Great atmosphere! No egos here just great training with awesome people!
I’ve trained martial arts for roughly a decade but only started Jiu Jitsu in the past year. As a 39 year old white belt, the learning curve has been quite steep. But, the instructors here have help me through the growing pains and have shown great patience with me, as well as everyone I’ve trained with. An utterly remarkable experience. Whether novice or expert, I would recommend anyone come here to train.
I have been training at GD Jiu-Jitsu for 6 years now. The environment is as welcoming to the brand student as it is to the Black Belt World champion. This academy has it all. The facility is beautiful. The classes run all day. They have kids, teens, women and adult programs all run by black belts. Come do a free trial class if you are new to the sport, or drop in if you are traveling through!