California BJJ Academy
12958 Hawthorne Blvd, Hawthorne, CA 90250
+1 (731) 513-0341
Instructor
2729 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90278, United States
California
5.0 (62 total ratings)
View Details5618 W. Manchester, Los Angeles, California 90045
California
5.0 (38 total ratings)
View Details19019 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, California 90503
California
5.0 (37 total ratings)
View Details19800 Hawthorne Blvd #420, Torrance, California 90503
California
3.9 (383 total ratings)
View Details351 East Alondra Blvd, Gardena, California 90248
California
4.8 (29 total ratings)
View DetailsFinding BJJ gyms near your location...
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.
A professional gym usually has an active website and Instagram page.
Look for:
A lack of online information or no clear training schedule is a red flag.
Even if you're not looking to compete, instructors with competition experience tend to teach more technical and effective Jiu-Jitsu.
Check if:
High-level gyms attract serious practitioners — and you'll benefit from that environment even as a hobbyist.
Try messaging the gym via Instagram, email, or their contact form.
If they avoid naming the instructor or won't send a schedule, something's off.
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:
If a gym skips warm-ups or sparring entirely, that's worth questioning.
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.
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.
Ask if they offer beginner or fundamentals classes.
Jumping straight into advanced sparring as a total beginner can be overwhelming or even dangerous.
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.
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.