Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks

✅ 1. How far is the gym from you?

The number one factor is distance. If your gym is more than 45–60 minutes away from your home or work, chances are you'll struggle to train consistently.

To improve at Jiu-Jitsu, consistency is everything — and convenience makes consistency possible.

Don't overestimate your willingness to commute — pick something you can stick to long term.

✅ 2. Is the gym's online presence up to date and transparent?

A professional gym usually has an active website and Instagram page.

Look for:

• Regular updates on social media
• Instructor names, bios, and credentials clearly listed
• A detailed class schedule (not just vague times like "evenings")
• Google Reviews matter: More reviews and high ratings generally reflect a well-run gym

A lack of online information or no clear training schedule is a red flag.

✅ 3. Do the instructors have a competition background or strong lineage?

Even if you're not looking to compete, instructors with competition experience tend to teach more technical and effective Jiu-Jitsu.

Check if:

• The head coach has a legitimate black belt
• There are active competitors training there
• The gym's instructors have competed at IBJJF, AJP, or other credible tournaments

High-level gyms attract serious practitioners — and you'll benefit from that environment even as a hobbyist.

✅ 4. What happens when you reach out?

Try messaging the gym via Instagram, email, or their contact form.

• Quick, polite, and informative responses = good sign
• No reply or evasive answers = caution

If they avoid naming the instructor or won't send a schedule, something's off.

✅ 5. What should you look for when visiting?

Cleanliness: Mats, changing areas, and toilets should be well-maintained.

Atmosphere: Are people friendly and welcoming, or standoffish and cliquey?

Structure: A standard BJJ class usually includes:

• Warm-up
• Technique drilling
• Sparring (rolling)

If a gym skips warm-ups or sparring entirely, that's worth questioning.

✅ 6. What if you're only training for self-defense or fitness?

You still want instructors who teach functional, pressure-tested techniques.

A gym with real competitors is more likely to deliver effective training — even if you're just doing this for fun or health.

✅ 7. How many people train there regularly?

A good gym usually has a strong community and consistent attendance.

If you visit during a peak time (like weekday evenings) and see only 2–3 people training, ask why.

✅ 8. Are there beginner-friendly classes?

Ask if they offer beginner or fundamentals classes.

Jumping straight into advanced sparring as a total beginner can be overwhelming or even dangerous.

✅ 9. Do they offer trial classes?

Most gyms offer a free trial or a low-cost intro class.

Take advantage of this — it's the best way to get a feel for the vibe, the coaching, and the other students.

✅ 10. Trust your gut.

If something feels off — the instructor seems arrogant, students seem miserable, or the environment feels closed — trust that feeling.

BJJ is a long journey. You want to spend it in a place where you feel motivated, safe, and respected.