Best Judo Club Ann Arbor Near Me

Zainab Tello: started judo few months ago here, great teachers and great place, they have spring floors to prevent large injuries which is cool, they have lots of senseis that are very good at teaching and helping you learn. if your unsure you can watch a class and do a intro lesson for free. i definitely reccemond. the only thing youd have to consider is the price being a little high but if you can pay that its worth it so much.

Adam MacLean: 5/5 would train here again. Everyone was helpful, nice and encouraging.

Laura McGinn: Quite literally the best place you could go to for Japanese martial arts in all of Michigan. All of the instructors are knowledgeable, humble, world class and just great at teaching all around. The dojo is always very clean and enjoyable to train in. I’m always having a good time while training there and feel that I have found another family.

Josh Kitchens: I cannot speak highly enough about every single aspect of this dojo. The sensei's are some of the most talented individuals I've ever seen. The focus on personal growth and positive attitude is felt through every interaction with every individual there. They're some of the most friendly, welcoming, determined, and just all around amazing people I've ever met.The dojo itself is fantastic. The building is very well designed; Plenty of open space, a wall of mirrors to help analyze technique, and spring loaded mats all along the floor make falling and taking throws a (relatively) painless experience.Price-wise it may not be the cheapest dojo in the area but you are absolutely getting your moneys worth and then some. Besides, when talking about your health, I'd say that's something worth investing a little extra in, wouldn't you?Overall, JMAC is phenomenal and you should absolutely stop in and check the place out if you're interested in martial arts. You won't be disappointed.

Robert Hinderer: This place is fantastic. My son is enrolled in the kids Judo and I haven’t seen a smile that big on him in a while. The staff are all very knowledgeable and my son’s sensei are some of the best teachers I have ever seen. They stress safety and work with all the different levels of students consistently while making the class extremely fun. If you are interested as an adult or for your child I HIGHLY suggest you give them a call and come watch a class.

Cobarah: The people who work here are nothing but kind. I do karate here and I recommend this place to all my friends but, most of they are very skillful and great practitioners of martial arts.

Beth Wiggert: I have been in and around martial arts for many years...decades.JMAC is the best dojo one can imagine.The senseis are quite literally the best in the world.Training is challenging, yet safe and fun. The program is systematic, yet engaging and innovative.JMAC is working to preserve the rich legacy of the traditional Japanese arts .The dedication, commitment, and skill of all the senseis is evident in every class.I’ve been a member for about 2 1/2 years and love it more each month.Thank you JMAC.I can not recommend JMAC highly enough.UPDATEI've never done a lot of Calesthenics, but started during the JMAC 18 while Off work due to COVID.It has been great! It's fun yet challenging, and every day is different.We're encouraged to "do what we can with what we've got". And everyone can work at their own pace or modify as needed. But knowing others are there too (on zoom), helps to keep me going!And it's only 18 minutes, early in the day, so I have the rest of the day ahead.Since doing the JMAC 18, I have better endurance, better upper body strength, and less knee pain.I've even been known to do old workouts on off days!Short version: I'm hooked!

Alfredo Sosa: Excellent martial arts education! Very happy that our son is enjoying his training and development in Karate at JMAC. The instructors are wonderful and the environment is conducive to learning! Great job JMAC!

Andrew Hauptman: My 8y/o son and I have trained there. I started training there because of the resumes of the instructors... they are world class instructors with training/education/experience that is (as far as I could find in their respective arts) unmatched anywhere in the Midwest (if not outside Japan!) we really feel like we’re part of an extended family at JMAC. My 8y/o trained there and LOVED the teachers and class structure. Best kids martial arts program in the area, hands-down.

Ayse Muniz: As a beginner with little athletic experience, I was hesitant to throw myself into the world of martial arts. After my first interaction with Suino-Sensei, I knew JMAC would be the best place to learn properly, safely, and challenge myself in a demanding but supportive environment. This place is defined by its world-class instructors and friendly students. If you are even remotely interested in learning a martial art, you should consider joining the JMAC community. You'll never look back!

Stacia Proefrock: JMAC was a wonderful place for my kids to do Judo and has the best Iaido program in all of Michigan. You can make a lifetime of study here because the instructors have already amassed a lifetime of knowledge to share with you. A great place for personal development and deep learning.

Y Xiao: My son had been trained in 3 other martial arts centers, before we finally found JMAC. It's been over 2.5 years now with JMAC, and we feel very lucky to have all these amazing Senseis. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn martial arts!

Amber Cathey: JMAC changed my life! The instructors are incredible - both as teachers and as people. Other students are supportive and fun. I couldn't ask for a better training atmosphere.

Tara McKnight: Our 12 year old son is thriving at JMAC. He is more confident, calm, and stronger. The instructors are shining examples of discipline and hard work. Thank you for creating a safe, learning environment for Everyone!

Gina Dahlem: Our son has a visual disability and it has been wonderful to see him grow in his judo skills and confidence. We are grateful for the instructors who truly care, willing to make accommodations, and are experts in their field. We have been here for almost a year and have been very pleased with our experiences.

jason otten: Absolutely wonderful instructors. The staff is so patient, friendly and talented. JMAC is such a warm and welcoming place to learn. I have two children in the judo program and they love it. They are learning so much and having an amazing time. I wish I would have signed them up sooner.

Michael Bellas: Incredibly supportive team, knowledgable and professional instructors, and clean facilities.

Robert Wolfe: My dojo had the distinct honor of hosting Suino Sensei, Holland Sensei, and several members of JMAC for a weekend seminar. What an experience! Some of the most gifted instructors, talented martial artists, and engaging / delightful individuals one could ever meet. If you're near Ann Arbor, I can't imagine training anywhere else.

Brett Peterson: World class instructors and amazing group to train with. I still miss JMAC everyday.

Ma Pa: My son wanted to learn Iaido this year. We did not know anything about it. His grandpa was a paratrooper and a green beret and encouraged him to learn martial arts and particularly jujutsu. JMAC is a true Japanese dojo. We did not know what good exercise one gets with Iaido. It' fantastic. Most students are serious adults and the environment is really not bad at all for our teenager. We're looking forward to many years of Iaido and hope our son will decide to also add another martial art. Here is what he thinks about JMAC:"JMAC is, in my experience, a very open place. Although I am introverted in new areas, the people that actually speak to me and to others around me are very nice, and make conversation very fluid.JMAC is a fantastic place to learn martial arts. It's a very nice environment with clean mats and it looks like what you'd expect a modern dojo to look like. I take Iaido, which is work with a japanese sword, and it's an art that requires diligence. Thankfully, Sensei Suinu is a very helpful person and helps me through the difficulties in technique that I have with Iaido.The work done at JMAC is largely based on mental focus and respect of your upper-class-men. Every movement should be carefully thought out and done slowly in your mind before executing it in reality.JMAC is a very great learning environment as well, starting you off with great warm ups, and a great work-out as you learn the most basic of basic forms and eventually (after like, 10 years - it's very arduous and the forms are difficult]) you can learn the most difficult of forms and execute the "easy" forms with the most minute attention to detail, to flow your forms seamlessly from one to the other and to make the entire form look like a single movement."

Josh Jiang: Great coaches and welcoming environment. Has a good mix of beginners and upper level belts. Everyone at the gym is super friendly and fun to roll with. Was at the gym for about 8 months while I was in Ann Arbor for school and wished I had joined sooner! This place is the best!!!

baperrizo: Great program, both gi and no gi sessions, friendly to out of town drop ins, nice facility with friendly staff.

Sarah Wroblewski: Great place to train! Especially impressed with the atmosphere for women; lots of ladies training jiu jitsu and very positive attitudes. Students aren’t overly aggressive and upper belts are generally helpful. Professor is extremely knowledgeable and follows a regular curriculum which makes it easy to learn new techniques and refine old ones into an actual system. Facility is clean and staff is excellent. Only three reasons it’s not 5 stars: 1) is it is pricey- you don’t get that many classes for such a high price tag (although I also understand Ann Arbor rent...), 2) they don’t allow people to come to open mat from other gyms in the immediate area, and 3) you can only wear IBJFF approved gi colors (blue, black, white). Still, would definitely recommend it!

Colette Rackleff: Clean spacious facility. Welcoming front staff. Head coach is humble and approachable. Excellent high-level technique taught in an way that is organized & easy-to-grasp. Training partners are supportive, receptive, & conscientious. Female friendly. Lots of higher belts to train with. My only disappointment is that this gym is not in my home town!

Marissa Barsotti: Positive:QualityI'm new to kickboxing and I couldn't have picked a better place! The instructors are knowledgeable and cater the classes to all skill levels. It's a very friendly environment and I always leave class feeling great. The prices are solid for how many classes you can take a week. I will definitely continue to take classes here.

Keely Zuri: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,ValueLove this place! Challenges me and keeps me on my toes, I never get bored with the classes, they are well organized and a lot of fun!

Josh Rojas: My boys and I are proud members of this unique and special tribe. The thoughtful and detailed programs they’ve developed help anyone enjoy the challenging and rewarding sport of BJJ. All of the coaches are top shelf, do not hesitate to sign up and enjoy everything BJJ has to offer! They make you feel like Norm from cheers except the beer is a lot of focus and sweat. It’s your neighborhood BJJ bar.

Jessica Rhiannon: I love Ursa! I’ve been attending the kickboxing class here for about 6 months and I’m still really enjoying it. A friend recommended it to me years ago, but I was too intimidated to try it, so when another friend recommend it to me this spring, I decided to give it a go. I worried that the classes would be too difficult or become boring (contradictory, I know), but Jay does a great job of adding different skills and layers so there’s always something new to learn. I love the instruction style – Jay is attentive and has a calm and methodical way of running class. I got in a bad car accident about a year ago so occasionally I need modifications for certain drills and Jay is always flexible. Also, folks are really friendly! Great workouts, great people.

Ben Ratner: Dropped in at Ursa a few months back and had a really great experience. Great facility and instructors and students of all skill levels. Would highly recommend this gym to anyone who’s looking to train or learn BJJ in Ann Arbor.

Kevin Daher: Friendly staff, professional coach and excellent atmosphere.I start my training more then four month ago, my health improved, I developed good discipline.we lucky to have a very good coach with a lot of experience.I am sure I will continue my training at URSA

Stacy Fowler: My “box gym” closed down at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Like many, I had to switch up my routines. With a background in Karate, I found URSA Fittness Kickboxing (FKB) in February of this year and haven’t turned back.I have and continue to be impressed by the small class sizes that allow space when social distancing is necessary as well as individuation for all levels; the ever changing routines that still challenge me after nine months; and most importantly the friendly, encouraging, guidance from coach Jay and the URSA family.

Maricela Avalos: Positive:Communication,Professionalism

Andrew Lamoreaux: Very nice gym and staff

Gabrie Italia: I visit Ann Arbor from time to time and I called hoping to drop-in for a jiu-jitsu class for when I do visit. I live about an hour away and I called asking about the drop-in fee. However, the academy believed that an hour away distance is “too close” and would not let me drop-in for a class. I would have to become a member if I were interested. It’s frustrating that the gym seems exclusive and considers an hour distance to be too close.

Josh Barrett: A very experienced, knowledgeable, and professional staff. If you've been on the fence about getting into this, rest assured that this isn't a bully-academy or a meathead parade of people trying to prove how "tough" they are to more inexperienced players. I continue to learn and couldn't be more grateful.

DOMINIC MAGLIOCCO: Finally took the plunge and started BJJ. As an older student I didn’t expect what came next. The coaches made sure each and every student was involved and pushed you not only physically but mentally. I have to say I felt welcomed and part of a family right after the first class. Two months in and covid hit. All the training on the mats stopped BUT all the coaches have stayed interactive to help with virtual learning along with video and audio lectures with great teachings. This by far has been a fantastic experience and know I will be here for many years to come. I would recommend this academy to anyone who asks.

Dustin Vegas: Dropped in for a couple weeks. Very friendly team and excellent instruction. I'll be back whenever I'm in town.

Ron Hay: Great instructors and a really positive environment!

Brittany Hamilton-Reed: URSA Fitness Kickboxing program really has changed me for the better and imI beyond grateful. The staff is amazing and always helpful. The workouts are designed to meet people where they are and you have the freedom to push yourself. There is always something new in the routines and the coaches really pay attention to technique to ensure you are being safe and preventing injury.FKB has not only boosted my weight loss but it's just fun to come in and workout with folks.

Andrea Hardy: My friend found an offer to try three classes for fitness kickboxing at a great deal. Her and I couldn't line up our schedules to try at the same time so I went alone. At the first class, it wasn't a bad experience but it definitely wasn't something that had me convinced. Then come on the high pressure sales tactics where their minimum packages were maybe 20 classes and if you "buy tonight" you can save $100. I'm against those sales tactics so I didn't buy. Later I discussed with another friend and she goes to a place that has prices similar to the price with the $100 discount and lets you pay per class instead of agreeing to some $200+ package the first night. You don't even know yet how you'll feel the next day! Needless to say - neither my friend or I ever came back for a second class, and what's probably the worst part is that they still send text messages over a year later asking if I'm still interested. Nope.

Archana P. Subramanya: Huron Valley Aikikai is like an extended family for Vishnu.The friendly atmosphere ensures that he is always excited to go to class to learn with his teachers and fellow students.The classes have nurtured his understanding of the value of discipline and excellence - the evidence lying in his wanting to practice even after he gets back home!“

AidenSomoYT: Great place to learn self defense

Emily Bellile: Andy and the whole gym are so great. We are really pleased with how they took my boys (5 and 6) in as little ninjas and taught them so much already. Each class is a combination of skills and activities that keeps them engaged and on their toes. No class is ever exactly the same but they are learning so many skills! The coaches and helpful “older kids” are so kind, patient, and such good role models while my two little ones learn to listen and follow directions (and release some energy) in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Couldn’t be happier with Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts!

niki ardis: This is the BEST martial arts studio for both kids and adults. Professor Andy and his staff are amazing with children and have decades of experience. Highly recommend!

Travis Stachlewitz: I have been going to the Jiu Jitsu class here for a month now and don't have any plans of stopping. From the first day I felt welcomed by the owner Andy, the coaches and the other students. Always clean, always friendly, always eager to answer questions. 10/10 would recommend to anyone.

Sharon Patterson: We've had two kids in martial arts at Ann Arbor MMA for a year and a half now. We love the tone of the instruction. It feels like the most practical way to learn self-defense - rather than standing the whole time and practicing throwing a million punches and kicks, I'd rather have my kids learn how to escape when someone is pinning them down or how to stand up quickly with an arm out in defense. They've learned so much and we never hear them say that they don't want to go. Love this place! :)

Tracie Clarke: My children have been attending Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts for about 5 years and are really enjoying it. It has taught them discipline and self control. Master Andy is an amazing coach who is very patient with the children and makes sure that everyone is safe he also teaches an anti-bully class. While the children are exercising I also get a TRX work out in with Coach Russ. I would highly recommend this place

Joshua Bonilla: I cannot say enough good things about Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts and the teachers. My son is in the intermediate program (moved up from beginner) and loves every minute of it. Andy and Russ teach not only martial arts, but valuable life lessons. I'm so glad we found this place!!

Angela Kaimal: Absolutely an amazing place to celebrate your child's birthday! Andy and his team kept our crew entertained the entire time with their patience, skill and professionalism. I highly recommend celebrating with AAMMA!

rs p: Great place nice seating and thrusday doge all new fountain plus new skills

Daniel Bordt: This place has great bjj instruction in a comfortable environment with plenty of mat space.

Daniel Smith: Great people, great instruction, great environment. 1000% recommended!

Olivia Crosswell: At first I was very nervous to try the kickboxing class. As a young woman with absolutely no experience in fighting, I thought I was going to get destroyed or made fun of due to my lack of skill. After I finally went inside to the class, it was not horrible like I imagined it would be, in fact, it was one of the best and most fun workouts I have ever done! Andy gave me one on one training to learn the punching and kicking combinations and made sure I had the hang of it. My partner was also very understanding that it was my first time and was a little slower. I had a great experience, and am looking forward to more classes.

Craig Gallo: Love this place. No previous experience in any grappling and was nervous to go. I'm glad I made the step to go. Love all the people there and look forward to training bjj.

Elaine Wong: I highly recommend Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts to anyone who values being trained by an instructor that is not only extremely skilled but also exudes character and quiet strength. Master Andy has the gift of teaching - making complex moves simple by using questions and concise explanations. He commands so much respect from the kids in such a gentle way. I loved that he cross trains the kids not only in Tae Kwon Do but Brazilian Jiujitsu as well. Besides earning their black belts, our 3 girls have gained so much confidence, perseverance, discipline, leadership and character under Master Andy's guidance. I highly recommend Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts.

Patrick Donahue: (I've studied martial arts for over 42 years, I have a black belt in 4 styles and a brown belt in Brazilian JiuJitsu.) I have been fortunate to be able to practice at Renzo Gracie NY and with the Machados on the west coast as well as several in between.I can say that Master Andy is one of my favorite training partners, who has helped me work on and taught me a great deal. His JiuJitsu and martial arts is only second to his caring and teaching ability.Sifu Robert Brown

Erin Ware: I don't think I could possibly rave more about Ann Arbor MMA, Master Andy, and all the coaches there! I've attended both the Women's only fitness class and the kickboxing class. As someone who finds exercise a chore, I can say that I truly look forward to the nights I go to class. After years of searching for a fitness program where I have fun, don't feel judged or self-conscious, and feel like the time I spend is 'worth it', I finally found it.I've worn a heart rate monitor (Polar) several times to class and have consistently burned more than 450 calories (occasionally getting up to 600+) in the 50 minute class. I'm energized afterward, covered in sweat, and 'the good kind' of sore. The women's class consists of kickboxing (bag and partner work), circuit training, conditioning, and strength training (primarily TRX). This is NOT a typical 'cardio kickboxing' class where someone has taken a Zumba class and added some punches and kicks. We work on technique, speed, and strength in the combinations.Master Andy has been flexible both in class (altering exercises/circuits based on ability) and in scheduling (several of the women were unable to make the MW women's class due to work/family commitments so he has temporarily opened up a TTh class). He has always had a positive attitude and just naturally knows how to encourage and push people to get more out of themselves. As a teacher myself - I very much respect his natural teaching abilities.If you twisted my arm and made me say something that Ann Arbor MMA could improve on - I would want them to offer more women's only classes (particularly Friday and Saturday). But Ann Arbor MMA has way more to offer than just the women's only classes and they have to have time, too.I know there is a 30 day free trial that includes a one-on-one session with Coach Ethan. It's well worth it! Don't be surprised if you get hooked.

Ryan Fiorenzi: Andy DeJesus is an amazing teacher and martial artist! He is amazing with the kids, and he works magic with his adults. I've seen many of his adult students test for blue and purple belts (as well as brown), and they are very technical.And one of the best things is the environment he has created. You don't have to have any previous martial arts experience, or already be in shape, they will help you from where you're at. If you're nervous about training, you won't be once you go there. Students are friendly and helpful- you won't have to deal with egos. You're going to get solid Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training, you'll have fun, get in shape, and your life will change. You won't regret it!

David Emerson: Best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction in Ann Arbor.

Jordyn Norkey: My experience at Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts was top notch! I came into the facility wanting to change my life through physical fitness. With the help of Coach Andy and Ethan, they were able to come up with a plan for me to meet my goals by the end of the summer. The women's kickboxing class really whipped me into shape and boosted my confidence in everyday life. Toward the end of the summer, I attended another kickboxing class that pushed my body to the limit. Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts is an amazing facility for all ages. Whether you are looking to get your body in shape or just wanting to punch some bags for a couple of hours, this facility tailors to each student's needs!

Marissa DaSilva: Master Andy is an amazing teacher. He has helped our son develop his confidence, listening skills in addition to increasing his agility, flexibility and strength. Then tenants of school: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit have become a core set of values for our son that are easy to tie into real life challenges. Master Andy is always available for our son to talk to and works with children in the most positive way. Our son has not been the most athletic however, he is thriving at Ann Arbor Mixed Martial Arts and loves coming to class. We are so grateful that we found this school and we would recommend it without hesitation to anyone.

I Hate Wedge Salads: This place is terrible. The owner is rude and made me feel so uncomfortable. I worked really hard to be less than a year away from my black belt in another city. The instructor told me that before I could even consider what rank he'd put me at, I'd have to spend at least 6 months "getting in shape." Not a great confidence booster. I saw the start of a kids class before I walked out, and I don't understand why parents would subject their children to that. You can learn the art from someone that isn't a total dick. When I asked him about other schools in the area, he shot them all down saying they were expensive and low quality. Now he's listed on Living Social, but the linked website from living social is not his normal one, and the address on that linked website doesn't match the LS deal.

Mukesh Nyati: My son is learning this art for last 4 yrs at Ann Arbor Tae Kwan Do and I can clearly see his progress not just at the physical level but at mental level as well. The teachers have constantly working with him to improve his skills at various levels. In addition to kicks, punches and sparring, there is a lot of stress on stretching too, which is great. We have also started our little one and hope that he can grow on to become as stranger too!