Paragon Jiu Jitsu and Kickboxing

Paragon is hands down the best MMA gym in the county, from jiu-​jitsu to wrestling and kickboxing. They have it all and know how to teach most importantly. All of their instructors are highly skilled and can work with any level. If you’re interested in learning from the ground up, I recommend taking one-​on-​one sessions with Sean. I’ve been training with him for six months and have never had prior experience with jiu-​jitsu. It’s a great workout while you learn the fundamentals. Tyson, Gus. the crew at Paragon is second to none.

Great studio. My son and daughter have attended the 7 – 12 class for more than 2 years. The program has evolved under Coach John to have a fabulous rhythm. Lot’s of role models with different BJJ styles to keep it fresh. The core group of kids are terrific and supportive of one another.
FYI Parents – BJJ is a contact martial art, thus bumps, bruises, mat burn, pulled muscles and hurt feelings can happen.

I had an amazing experience for the time I spent at Paragon, before having to move out of Santa Barbara. As someone who was looking for a good place to get back in to kickboxing while managing a student budget, I got a lot more than what I initially went in expecting. Considering that martial arts gyms can have a competitive nature and be intimidating, I was very surprised about how friendly and sincere everyone was– from management, instructors, and members. From that, I was able to make incredible friendships and be apart of a fun community that’s supportive of everyone’s goals. You can be there as someone completely new and searching for a new hobby, someone who wants to train hard for fitness and the sake of self development, or someone who is really looking to take the skills you learn to the next level and compete or spar. I was able to step out of my comfort zone and try jiu-​jitsu (which I had briefly done at another martial arts gym before and felt out of place) but the instructors and members training at this gym were so much more open to helping you and give you detailed, clear instructions. The management knows how to treat their members with sincere care and attention, while the instructors each offer very technical training that is enjoyable and challenging. And they do so while making sure they go around to each person and help improve their technique. I highly recommend trying Paragon if you live in the Santa Barbara area, you will be apart of a quality community, and in my case, take away experiences that still make me feel very happy to look back upon.

I love Paragon! As a woman, most MMA, kickboxing, and/​or jiu jitsu gyms intimidate me but the atmosphere here is truly awesome! The coaches are all super friendly and encouraging. Not to mention it’s the best workout! I always leave my workouts feeling strong and refreshed, which is exactly what I go there for! The coaches are great about making sure that I learn the proper technique which is really helpful! I also love what a strong sense of community Paragon has. Sean, the owner, is really good about planning fun events for all of the members as well as hosting fun fundraiser events, watching fight nights on pay per view, holding classes at the beach/​on the sand and doing other things to mix it up and keep it fun while bonding with fellow members! Paragon is amazing and I would encourage anyone who’s interested in kickboxing, jiu jitsu or MMA or anyone just looking for a fun new workout to try this place! I can guarantee you will get hooked!!!

Paragon is hands down the best place to train on the Central Coast (if not the whole state of CA). Franjinha and Sean have created an amazing atmosphere that ranges from hobbyists to multiple world champions!
I trained at both the SB and Ventura locations for approximately two years. I continue to train with Paragon whenever I am visiting home (Santa Barbara) and have nothing but great things to say about their academy.

There is something very special about Paragon. My son began BJJ in Tucson, AZ, at a Paragon affiliated school. What stood out for me was the love of BJJ that each instructor demonstrated. They loved teaching the children their love for BJJ. When we relocated to Ventura, I was thrilled to find out that Paragon was here. As soon as we arrived to check it out, it was clear that the same positive family values were the foundation of the program.
The instructors sincerely care about each person that walks through those doors. You’re not part of a belt-​mill or some program focused on getting as many people signed up as possible. They care about the individual, and want the individual to love BJJ as much as they do. Instructors are patient with the kids, and provide direction the kids to help them grow and become the best that they can be. I can watch my son grow during each class. It is such a great feeling when I hear him say as we’re leaving from practice — «I love this place.» He counts down the days between practice, and is ready and waiting for me to bring him to practice.
For California, the monthly fee is very reasonable. The only drawback is the time of the kids’ classes. When both parents work a more traditional 8:00 AM — 5:30 PM schedule, it is impossible to get their child to the kids’ class at 4:30 — 5:30 PM. It seems that a lot of programs for kids are between 3:00 — 5:00 PM in this area, so enrichment activities for kids are hard to come by for working stiffs. I do wish that Paragon offered some early evening classes for kids (6:30−7:30 PM), so that my son could go more often, and kids in similar situations could get the same benefit from the Paragon program that we have received. However, to be honest, I am happy that my son is getting influenced by the Paragon folks in any amount he can.
Ricardo «Franjinha» Miller has instilled a real interconnected family feel to the school. His warm and compassionate attitude comes through each of his instructors. It’s also pretty amazing to watch him train my son and the kids in his class as well. Sure, you can learn BJJ at a lot of places; but if you want to learn a lot more than just BJJ and know that you are part of something rewarding and fantastic, Paragon is the place to go. I hope that if you check out Paragon, you’ll get as much from them as me and my family have. Paragon is unquestionably the best place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Paragon is a life changer. If it’s getting in shape or competing, paragon has it all. Kick boxing with Tyson Mendes or wrestling with Adam and Sean Apperson and one the best jiu jitsu with a hand full of great instructors ! You have kids??? Great!!! Bring them in and watch them progress in jiu jitsu and kick boxing !!! You can only get better !!! Come on in !!!

Started going here back in January. Was doing KB at the gym I worked at, but the classes didn’t work with my schedule so I decided to try Paragon. The instructors are so friendly and will really make you sweat. I love that with the KB membership, I’m able to take any class I want throughout the week and there are at least 2 beginner classes per day on weekdays. The flexibility is really important to me as a student because my schedule is constantly changing. Love this place!

I’ve been introduced into Paragon by a good friend of mine. I’ve been blessed to be able to train with some of the best in multiple martial arts. There are so many champions here from all levels but most of all their professor here is Franjinha Miller. He’s a world class BJJ black belt, a multiple IBJJF champion and has produced some of the best in BJJ.
I come down here whenever I can get a chance to train. Whether you’re starting to an advance practitioner they will have your needs met. I’ve been training for a long time, and to this day Franjinha and Sean always have more details to add to my techniques. Doesn’t matter what gym you’re from there’s no politics here, come down and train.
If that’s not enough to convince you to train here they have awesome training régime, tough training partners, and an extremely friendly atmosphere. Everyone helps eaach other grow as martial artist; tough training for any level, whether you want to lose some weight, compete at the highest level this is the gym that you want to be in.
The facility is huge and have a ton of equipment for your needs. Men and females have their own locker rooms, showers, lots of parking, and comfy couches. Go try it out whenever you have the chance, I guarantee you’ll enjoy training here.
Jerome Basilio
BJJ/​Judo/​Karate Instructor

Amazing gym. The instructors are fantastic and really work with students in order to improve their technique and build confidence in their abilities. The atmosphere fosters friendships that help support me in my fitness goals. The diversity of the instructors allows for a wide range of workouts, which keeps it fun and fresh no matter how often you go! I have been training at paragon for nearly two years, and would not consider any other gym.

Lots of classes and lots of experienced black belts. They will show you proper defense in any situation. Because off them and other jiu jitsu teachers throughout the california paragons
not afraid to defend myself against any man lol :)

When I started at Paragon I had virtually no martial arts experience, taking the beginner classes and watching the higher belts roll had a captivating quality to it. The cardiovascular exercise BJJ provides is incredible, on par with Cross-​fit. Though I am not a regular at the gym, I’ve earned a blue belt and love going in and spending time learning new moves while getting an awesome workout. As a therapist here in Santa Barbara, I frequently recommend Paragon to clients whom are looking for a new passion that provides exercise, mental stimulation, and comradery.

Amazing place with great, caring instructors. I was new to kickboxing and everyone there, both instructors and students, went out of their way to make me feel comfortable. I’ve met some amazing friends here — everyone is like a family.
I’ve done cardio kickboxing but this is an entirely different level. As a female I feel much more confident in my ability to protect myself. If you’re thinking about it just go, you won’t regret it.

This is a real local treasure in Santa Barbara. You have several great trainers who have accomplished quite a bit in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA. They are tough enough to reach elite levels yet they are intelligent enough to really be able to help their students progress as quickly as the student is capable based on time the student spends.
I’ve trained one on one with Franjinha and Sean and have progressed quickly. It isn’t about getting the next belt, it’s about a growing sense of capability sunder standing of the surprisingly complex world of Jiu jitsu.
My three children also attend BJJ classes at paragon and have enjoyed it very much. Highly recommend this Santa Barbara gem of a gym!

Paragon is one of the best academies in the country, top notch instruction from a great role model and teacher. Worth every penny.

Paragon BJJ and Kickboxing is hands-​down an amazing gym.
I decided that my daily routine needed a little something extra to keep me motivated, while still getting in a great workout. I looked online for kickboxing classes in Santa Barbara and stumbled upon Paragon. After reading the various Unilocal reviews, I decided to sign up for an orientation class, initially for the Kickboxing program. Sean Apperson, the co-​owner of the gym, quickly responded to my email and worked around my full-​time job to schedule a one on one class. I then expressed through email that I was also interested in the Jiu Jitsu program at Paragon, and he was extremely open to provide an introduction to both sports.
Let me start off by saying that I have no background in martial arts or wrestling. I am female who has stayed active my entire life, but starting a new sport with no previous experience can be very intimidating, especially when there are a lot of guys taking the classes. When I walked in my first day, Sean was in the midst of a training session and was rolling with a female purple belt… it definitely intrigued me. Sean looked up from the mat and proceeded to introduce himself with a big smile on his face and right away I felt at ease. We started with an introduction class in Jiu Jitsu and my nervousness disappeared when I realized how Sean went out of his way to make sure that I was comfortable. He was extremely encouraging throughout the training, we worked on basic technique and even laughed when I made a fool of myself (which happened a lot that first day). When the introduction class was over, I was so excited that I had found a new sport and signed up to join the gym right away.
After that first orientation class, I continued to attend beginner classes with nerves about how the training would go and how other athletes would perceive me. However, those nerves quickly faded after building a friendship with my fellow classmates and instructors. Everyone at the gym is extremely welcoming, approachable, and willing to work with you regardless of your level of training. ‘Family’ is the word that comes to mind when I think of the athletes at the gym because there is a feeling of love and respect for each other, while still pushing each other to succeed. It’s a great feeling when you walk into the gym and the instructors and other athletes greet you by name and have actual conversations with you.
Also, Paragon is a very clean facility. They have a huge mat space, boxing ring, weights, cardio machines. and they have just expanded into a bigger space, which is very exciting! The large mat space is great for the classes and the locker rooms are clean and tidy. The shower area may be nicer than my shower at home! It’s open 7 days a week and they offer classes at different times throughout the day, so you can work around your schedule.
I am so glad I joined Paragon BJJ and Kickboxing. Not only have I embarked on a new lifestyle, but have met an amazing group of people who are inspiring and fun to be around. I would definitely recommend Paragon to anyone, don’t hesitate and sign up!

I too had been auto billed due to my membership when I moved to SF, although I spoke to Sean, the co-​owner, and he immediately refunded my money that was billed by the 3^rd party company. Him and the rest of the team were extremely helpful with not only my refund, but also giving me the proper coaching and sense of direction during my BJJ and Kickboxing training. I loved how friendly and chill everyone was at Paragon… absolutely no discrimination. The sense of family and academy pride was palpable.
Started training at Paragon Summer of 2011 and ended in Dec 2012 to move to SF. Love the people, trainers, culture and atmosphere of Paragon. Jeff Glover a legendary BJJ World Champion and one of the best all time American BJJ practitioners started here and received his black belt from Alliance BJJ Black Belt Ricardo Franjinha Miller, the owner and founder of Paragon. I took more of the Kickboxing and Muay Thai, as I have more of a stand up background than grappling.
Def recommend this to anyone… don’t be shy. lol

Wanted to swing by here and write a five-​star, raving review for these guys. Sparing you all the lengthy details about how I – a female with no martial arts training — ended up taking jiu-​jitsu classes, I’ll say it became important to have a set of practical self-​defense skills in my toolbox.
Because of that, this might not be a useful review for people who DO have tons of training experience/​opinions on martial arts and all that. But if you’re a n00b and you want to know if this place is the place to check out, read on.
So, naturally, because I wasn’t raging to wrestle… well…anybody, I was really nervous to take these classes. I disclosed this to Sean and a handful of the coaches/​athletes at the gym, and I was BEYOND warmly welcomed. They went out of their way to help me feel comfortable, to help me practice the basics, to laugh at me when I did ridiculous things, and to encourage me to keep coming. I would always go into class anxious, and I would always leave with a sense of being glad I’d gone.
The athletes train hard, and it shows in their overall fitness and performance. Warmups included drills and rolls and pushups and situps and pullups and you name it. It’s sort of sad to realize that you’re an adult and you have the most awkward forward roll on the planet… but you’ll get better. You can’t help but get better with these guys and everybody has a story about how awkward they were when they first started, and they’ll share it with you if you look freaked out enough (which I think I must have).
A word on cleanliness, in case any gals reading this are wary: aside from a general smell of sweat, I was never grossed out by anything in the facility. The women’s locker room was NICE and CLEAN and SPACIOUS and smelled good. The mats were in good condition and there was a lot of room to spread out in the event that a super-​sweaty guy left a puddle somewhere that you wanted to avoid.
Also, there were girls in the classes! I tried to convince myself that I was the only girl and that that was a reason to not show up to class but every single time I did, there were a handful of other girls there — young and old, experienced and inexperienced.
Basically what I’m trying to say is that this studio has a reputation for training exceptional athletes but that does not, in any way, make it inaccessible to newcomers of varying age, gender, fitness level or intention. You show up, you don’t quit, and you progress alongside a group of people who treat you like family. You can’t go wrong with that.

This review is purely for Paragon’s kickboxing program, as that was my main focus while I was there.
Kickboxing at Paragon changed my life for the better. I trained there for one year before moving out of state. During that year I lost 15 pounds and got in the best shape of my life.
The kickboxing instructors are patient, easy to follow, and they will challenge you in a positive way to ensure that you are getting a high-​intensity workout and are learning proper technique. If you come to every class with a willingness to learn and work hard, you will see amazing results in your fighting technique and personal fitness in a surprisingly short amount of time.
When I first started kickboxing, I would gas-​out quickly, my core was weak, and my technique was horrendous. By the time I left, I was sparring with the instructors, amateur fighters, and guys with over 50lbs on me (Thanks Big Dave). Kickboxing has become my new passion, and I plan to take what I’ve learned with me to the next gym I join, knowing that I will have a VERY strong base of fundamentals to work from.
Investing my time and energy in Paragon’s kickboxing program has been one of the best decisions of my life. The people are friendly and encouraging, the atmosphere is conducive to learning, and the instruction is top-​notch. I highly recommend Paragon to anybody interested in kickboxing.

Let’s take aside the fact that Paragon is a 7-​day a week, 2 – 3 class per day facility with stellar mat space, weights/​plyometrics, cardio machines, elite instruction from multiple time world champion pedigree, and a great place for both men and women. So what makes this gym a special breed from the rest?
Easy. The familial bond, friendship, and altruism that is created amongst instructors and training partners. Paragon isn’t strictly business, it isn’t another McDojo that just brings you in and drives you out.
For instance, I remember hearing a story about a mother bringing in her son. He was awkward and a bit reserved at first. Gradually, he opened up and started frequenting the gym and having a great time. Later on, it was divulged that her son was a recovering drug addict and the gym actually helped to change his life and errant ways.
This establishment also holds montly UFC parties at Union Ale for its members and those interested in the sports and other social events that are nothing but a good time.
This is just one of the defining characteristics of Paragon. Don’t even let me get into the athletic aspects of this gym… you’ll just have to check it out! Just remember to bring a lot of water and clothes that’ll absorb sweat!