Alliance Jiu Jitsu

I’ve been training at Alliance Jiu Jitsu for about 2 months and I’ve loved every minute of it. This is one of the few real Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools around this area (they also do Muay Thai and Kali, but I haven’t gone to those sessions).
Instruction takes place every day of the week except Sunday. Most days, training is done wearing a gi (the uniform) and one day is reserved for no-​gi classes.
I can’t recommend this place enough. Alex is an encyclopedia of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu knowledge and the other instructors are also well-​trained and friendly. Alliance is the most prominent team in North America having won the world championships several years in a row. There’s really no better team to train with in the country. Alliance’s American headquarters are in Atlanta, but this is the only Alliance school within this area. Even if you have to pay a bit extra and drive a bit further, it’s worth it because their reputation is unmatched.
I did Taekwondo for a couple of years prior to Jiu Jitsu and I can honestly say I’ve found Jiu Jitsu to be on a different level. It’s much more demanding physically (which is great because it helps you lose weight and condition your body) and is incredibly technical. It’s also very difficult to fake being good at grappling, so you can see your progression very clearly over time. It will require patience because it’s a complex, technical art, but you’ll begin to notice results both in terms of your technique and your stamina within a few weeks. You will probably continue to get your butt kicked in class for a while, but you’ll feel more confident in yourself and your ability to use self-​defense techniques.
The people here are also generally a friendly group. There’s no «macho» vibe going on and everyone is very helpful in getting you to improve your game. Every day I finish class, I leave with a feeling happy and with a sense of accomplishment.
There are people of all ages and all levels here. Give it a try!