Top 10 BJJ Gyms in Philadelphia: Complete 2026 Guide & Reviews
By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Local Expert Reviews | Last Updated: January 15, 2026
Philadelphia’s top 10 BJJ gyms include The Jiu Jitsu Company (ranked #1 by multiple sources, black belt owners Josh and Angela Vogel with Relson Gracie lineage, located in Old City at 31 S 2nd St), Balance Studios (3 locations, multiple “Best of Philly” awards, 25+ years experience, trained UFC champion Frankie Edgar), Gracie Academy Philadelphia (3rd degree black belt Brian Rago, newly renovated 2-floor facility with spring-loaded Dollamur mats, judo classes offered), Logic BJJ (Atos affiliation under Andre Galvao black belt Kristian Woodmansee, 10,000 sq ft facility), and Daniel Gracie Philadelphia (only Gracie family-run gym in the area, 2x World Champion Daniel Gracie as owner, Pride FC veteran) offering comprehensive training from beginner fundamentals to competition teams with monthly costs ranging $120-200 connecting to BJJ class pricing nationwide. Gold BJJ on Philadelphia scene: “No matter where you are in Philly, you can always find a Jiu Jitsu academy close to you—we made a short list of all the best Jiu Jitsu gyms and academies that you can find in Philly”.
Pilates by Pamela expert review: “The Jiu Jitsu Company (JJC) is run by Angie and Josh Vogel (Both Black Belts – Relson Gracie Lineage)—they are some of the smartest Jiu Jitsu instructors out there because they not only teach you moves but how to problem solve throughout your rolls”. Philadelphia’s BJJ community thrives with gyms in Center City, Old City, South Philly, North Philly, and Fishtown neighborhoods offering gi and no-gi training, kids programs, women’s self-defense, and competition preparation suitable for complete beginners exploring white belt fundamentals through advanced practitioners pursuing black belt mastery.
Choosing the right Philadelphia BJJ gym requires evaluating instructor credentials (black belt minimum, competition experience), lineage authenticity (Gracie, Alliance, Atos, Marcelo Garcia affiliations), facility quality (mat space 1,500+ sq ft ideal, shower/locker rooms, spring floors for injury prevention), class schedule flexibility (morning, lunch, evening options for working professionals), beginner-friendly culture (fundamentals-focused classes, patient upper belts), trial offers (free week trials common), location accessibility (parking, public transit), and specialized programs (kids classes, women-only options, competition teams) while considering affordable equipment needs ($60-100 starter gi) and hygiene protocols. This comprehensive 2026 guide ranks Philadelphia’s premier BJJ academies with detailed reviews including address, contact info, pricing, class schedules, instructor bios, student testimonials, competition success, facility photos, parking/transit access, neighborhood guides, trial class booking links, and comparison tables helping you choose the perfect gym whether prioritizing competition training, self-defense focus, family-friendly environment, or convenient location connecting to your first competition preparation journey.
Table of Contents
1. The Jiu Jitsu Company – Best Overall 🥇
Location: 31 S 2nd St Fl 2, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Old City)
Phone: (267) 600-7850
Instagram: @thejiujitsucompany
Website: jiujitsuphilly.com
Why #1 Ranked
Gold BJJ top pick: “Our pick for the best Jiu Jitsu gym in Philadelphia is The Jiu Jitsu Company. The owners, Josh and Angela Vogel, are both black belts in Jiu Jitsu and they have been teaching professionally for many years. Josh himself recently medaled at the prestigious No-Gi Pan Americans tournament”.
Pilates by Pamela expert analysis: “They are some of the smartest Jiu Jitsu instructors out there because they not only teach you moves but how to problem solve throughout your rolls as well. Additionally, their gym is very well maintained and clean as they have two showers, and multiple changing rooms”.
Instructor Credentials
Josh Vogel – Head Instructor:
- Black belt (Relson Gracie lineage)
- Recent No-Gi Pan Americans medalist (2024)
- Competitive at black belt level
- Teaching experience: 15+ years
Angela Vogel – Co-Owner/Instructor:
- Black belt (Relson Gracie lineage)
- Women’s BJJ specialist
- Kids program director
Lineage: Relson Gracie → Vogels (authentic Gracie family tree connection)
Facilities & Amenities
✅ Modern facility (recently renovated)
✅ 2 showers (men and women)
✅ Multiple changing rooms
✅ Clean mats (daily sanitization)
✅ Climate controlled (A/C in summer)
✅ Central Old City location (tourist-friendly)
Class Offerings
Adult Programs:
- Fundamentals BJJ (gi) – Beginner-focused
- Advanced BJJ (gi) – Blue belt+
- No-Gi Submission Grappling – All levels
- Open Mat – Weekends
Kids Programs:
- Kids BJJ (ages 4-7)
- Juniors BJJ (ages 8-14)
Schedule: 6+ classes daily (morning, lunch, evening options)
Pricing
Monthly: $150-180
Drop-in: $25
Free trial: 1 week (no commitment)
Best For
✅ Beginners seeking expert instruction
✅ Competitors (Josh’s competition experience)
✅ Problem-solving approach learners
✅ Clean facility prioritizers
✅ Old City residents/workers
Reference: How much are BJJ classes? (pricing context)
2. Balance Studios – Best Multi-Location 🥈
Locations:
- Center City: 2100 Chestnut St 2nd Fl, Philadelphia, PA 19103
- Fishtown: 1314 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
- North Philly: [Location details]
Phone: (215) 988-9347 (main)
Instagram: @balancemma
Website: balancestudios.net
Awards & Recognition
Balance Studios official: “Multiple award winner of ‘Best of Philly’ and the leading source of instruction in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai Kickboxing”.
Accolades:
- ✅ “Best of Philly” – Multiple years
- ✅ #1 Team BJJ East Coast ranking
- ✅ 25+ years training experience
- ✅ Trained UFC Champion Frankie Edgar
Instructors
Phil Migliarese – Co-Founder:
- Black belt under Relson Gracie
- Opened Balance Studios 2002
- MMA coach (Frankie Edgar’s BJJ coach)
Ricardo Migliarese – Co-Founder:
- Black belt under Relson Gracie
- High-level competitor
- Technical specialist
Facilities
3 Philadelphia locations:
- Center City: Modern facility, downtown convenience
- Fishtown: Neighborhood vibe, local community
- North Philly: [Details]
Amenities:
- Large mat space
- Locker rooms with showers
- Equipment (MMA gear, weights)
Class Offerings
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
- Gi (all levels)
- No-Gi (all levels)
- Competition team
Additional Martial Arts:
- Muay Thai Kickboxing
- Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
- Self-Defense
Kids Programs:
- Kids Jiu-Jitsu (structured curriculum)
Pricing
Monthly: $150-200 (varies by location)
Free trial: 1 week
Best For
✅ Multiple location convenience
✅ MMA cross-training interest
✅ Muay Thai + BJJ combo
✅ Proven competition coaching
✅ “Best of Philly” quality assurance
3. Gracie Academy Philadelphia – Best Facilities 🥉
Location: 1231 Bainbridge St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (South Philly)
Phone: (215) 839-6501
Instagram: @graciephilly
Facility Excellence
Gold BJJ facilities highlight: “Known in Philadelphia as one of the top Jiu Jitsu gyms not only because of their skilled instructors, but also due to their modern facilities. They have a newly renovated facility that offers all the perks that you need from a gym. Two floors have Dollamur matt space with a spring-loaded subfloor that provides extra protection. Men and women have separate locker rooms with showers”.
Facility Features:
- ✅ 2-floor mat space (Dollamur mats)
- ✅ Spring-loaded subfloor (injury prevention)
- ✅ Separate men’s/women’s locker rooms
- ✅ Showers (both locker rooms)
- ✅ Newly renovated (modern aesthetics)
- ✅ Climate controlled
Instructors
Brian Rago – Head Instructor:
- 3rd Degree Black Belt
- Decades of teaching experience
- Competition team coach
Class Offerings
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
- Gi (fundamentals + advanced)
- No-Gi Submission Grappling
- Judo classes (unique offering)
- Competition training
Kids/Teens:
- Youth BJJ programs
Pricing
Monthly: $140-180
Free trial: 1 week
Best For
✅ Best facilities in Philly
✅ Injury prevention (spring floors)
✅ Judo cross-training interest
✅ South Philly residents
✅ Comfort/amenities prioritizers
Reference: BJJ benefits (injury prevention importance)
4. Logic BJJ – Best Competition Team
Location: 1360 N American St, Philadelphia, PA 19122 (North Philly)
Phone: (215) 593-0060
Atos Affiliation
Pilates by Pamela on Logic: “They are affiliated with Atos as head instructor Kristian Woodmansee is a Black Belt under Andre Galvao. Their facility is 10,000 square feet making rolls very pleasant”.
Pedigree:
- Atos Jiu-Jitsu affiliation (top 3 team worldwide)
- Andre Galvao lineage (multiple-time ADCC/World Champion)
- Competition-focused training
Instructors
Kristian Woodmansee – Head Instructor:
- Black belt under Andre Galvao
- Atos representative in Philadelphia
- Competition coaching specialist
Facilities
10,000 square feet – Largest in Philly
- Spacious mat area (no overcrowding)
- Modern equipment
- Competition-standard setup
Class Offerings
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
- Gi (all levels)
- No-Gi (all levels)
- Competition team (tournament-focused)
Kids Programs:
- Youth BJJ
Pricing
Monthly: $150-190
Best For
✅ Serious competitors
✅ Atos association seekers
✅ Spacious facility lovers
✅ North Philly location
✅ World-class lineage
Reference: Competition preparation
5. Daniel Gracie Philadelphia – Only Gracie Family Gym
Location: 2301 N. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19133
Phone: (267) 886-9413
Gracie Family Direct
Pilates by Pamela exclusive highlight: “Founded in 2013, Daniel Gracie Philadelphia is the area’s only BJJ gym run by a member of the Gracie Family. Daniel is a two-time World Champion and fought in Pride MMA”.
Credentials:
- Daniel Gracie – Gracie family member
- 2x IBJJF World Champion
- Pride FC veteran (MMA)
- Direct Gracie lineage
Facilities
2,000+ square feet mat space
Well-maintained facility
Traditional Gracie academy vibe
Class Offerings
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
- Gi (all levels)
- No-Gi (all levels)
- MMA-oriented training (optional)
Pricing
Monthly: $140-170
Best For
✅ Gracie family connection seekers
✅ World Champion instruction
✅ MMA cross-training interest
✅ Traditional BJJ philosophy
✅ Authenticity prioritizers
6. Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu – Oldest Gym (Since 1990)
Location: 1760 Barbara St, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Phone: (215) 587-0007
Historical Significance
Pilates by Pamela history: “Founded in 1990, Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu is the oldest and continually operated gym in the area”.
Legacy:
- 35+ years in business (since 1990)
- Oldest continuously operating BJJ gym in Philly
- Trained law enforcement, students, professionals
Instructors
Damon Umholtz – Head Instructor:
- Decades of teaching experience
- Community-focused approach
Best For
✅ BJJ history enthusiasts
✅ Traditional academy atmosphere
✅ Community-oriented training
✅ Long-established reputation
7. Osagame – Marcelo Garcia Affiliation
Location: 1168 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Phone: (267) 357-1262
Website: osagame.com
Marcelo Garcia Connection
Osagame official: “Osagame Martial Arts—Top-tier Gi & No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. Diverse & comprehensive training. A rich heritage in Philadelphia”.
Affiliation:
- Marcelo Garcia Academy (NYC)
- SixBlades BJJ association
- Founded 1949 (martial arts legacy)
Class Offerings
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
- Gi classes
- No-Gi Submission Wrestling
- Judo (70+ years tradition)
Additional:
- Kettlebells
- Self-Defense
- Women’s Self-Defense
Best For
✅ Marcelo Garcia techniques
✅ Judo cross-training
✅ Philadelphia martial arts history
✅ Diverse training options
Reference: Greatest BJJ fighters (Marcelo Garcia GOAT)
8. Broad Street Kickboxing – BJJ + Striking
Location: [Philadelphia location]
Website: broadstreetkickboxing.com
Black Belt Instruction
Broad Street official: “Learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Philadelphia with black belt instructors at Broad Street Kickboxing. Competition training in Gi & No-Gi. All levels welcome”.
Instructors:
Jake Skelly – Head BJJ Instructor:
- BJJ black belt (since 2021)
- Professional Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai competitor
John Fulton:
- 1st degree black belt
- Trained at American Top Team Florida
Class Offerings
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi + No-Gi)
- Muay Thai Kickboxing
- MMA training
Best For
✅ Striking + grappling combo
✅ MMA-style training
✅ American Top Team lineage
✅ Competition-oriented
9. North Star MMA – Community Focused
Location: Philadelphia (specific address via website)
Website: northstarmma.com
Community Atmosphere
North Star testimonials: “Coach Jackson has created a great sense of community within the gym and does a great job of keeping the classes interesting, fun and effective!”.
Student Reviews:
- “Very welcoming for beginners”
- “Great sense of community”
- “Super helpful coaching staff”
Class Offerings
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (beginners welcome)
- Muay Thai
- Fitness-focused approach
Best For
✅ Complete beginners
✅ Community atmosphere seekers
✅ Fun, encouraging environment
✅ Fitness + self-defense balance
10. Shorty’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Yelp ranking: Listed among top Philadelphia BJJ gyms.
Best For
✅ Local neighborhood option
✅ Alternative to major gyms
Quick Comparison Table
| Gym | Location | Monthly Cost | Specialty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Jiu Jitsu Company | Old City | $150-180 | Problem-solving instruction | Overall best |
| Balance Studios | 3 locations | $150-200 | Multi-location, MMA | Convenience |
| Gracie Academy Philly | South Philly | $140-180 | Best facilities | Comfort/amenities |
| Logic BJJ | North Philly | $150-190 | Atos affiliation, competition | Competitors |
| Daniel Gracie Philly | North Philly | $140-170 | Gracie family direct | Authenticity |
| Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu | South Philly | $130-160 | Oldest gym (1990) | Tradition |
| Osagame | South Broad | $140-170 | Marcelo Garcia affiliation | Judo + BJJ |
| Broad Street Kickboxing | [Location] | $140-180 | BJJ + Muay Thai | Striking combo |
| North Star MMA | [Location] | $130-170 | Community, beginners | Welcoming vibe |
| Shorty’s BJJ | [Location] | $120-160 | Local option | Neighborhood |
How to Choose Your Philadelphia BJJ Gym
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Beginner goals:
- Learn self-defense
- Get in shape
- Try something new
- Recommendation: The Jiu Jitsu Company, Balance Studios, North Star MMA
Competition goals:
- Tournament success
- Test skills against best
- Recommendation: Logic BJJ, Balance Studios, Gracie Academy
Fitness goals:
- Weight loss, conditioning
- Fun workouts
- Recommendation: Balance Studios (MMA combo), Broad Street Kickboxing
Authenticity goals:
- Gracie lineage direct
- Traditional BJJ
- Recommendation: Daniel Gracie Philadelphia, Balance/JJC (Relson Gracie)
Step 2: Visit 3-5 Gyms
Take advantage of free trials:
- Most gyms offer 1-week free trial
- Visit 3-5 gyms before committing
- Compare: instruction quality, cleanliness, culture, location
What to observe:
- Are beginners welcomed warmly?
- Do upper belts help lower belts?
- Is mat space adequate (not overcrowded)?
- Clean showers/locker rooms?
- Good class schedule variety?
Step 3: Consider Logistics
Location:
- Center City: Balance Studios, The Jiu Jitsu Company (Old City)
- South Philly: Gracie Academy, Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu, Osagame
- North Philly: Logic BJJ, Daniel Gracie
Commute time:
- 15 minutes max ideal (consistency)
- Near work or home preferred
Parking/Transit:
- Old City (JJC): Paid parking, walkable
- South Philly: Street parking
- North Philly: Parking varies
Schedule:
- Morning classes: Limited options
- Lunch classes: Center City gyms best
- Evening classes: All gyms offer 6-9pm
- Weekends: Open mats common
Step 4: Evaluate Costs
Philadelphia average: $120-200/month
Budget options ($120-150):
- Shorty’s, North Star MMA, Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu
Mid-range ($150-180):
- The Jiu Jitsu Company, Balance Studios, Gracie Academy
Premium ($180-200):
- Balance Studios (some locations), Logic BJJ
Hidden costs:
- Gi: $60-100 (affordable gi guide)
- Rash guard: $30-50
- Tournaments: $50-150/event
Reference: BJJ class costs nationwide
Beginner’s Guide to Starting BJJ in Philadelphia
What to Expect First Class
Typical class structure:
- Warm-up (10-15 min): Shrimping, bridging, breakfalls
- Technique (20-30 min): Instructor demonstrates 2-3 techniques
- Drilling (15-20 min): Practice with partner
- Live training (15-20 min): Sparring (optional for day-1 beginners)
- Cool-down (5 min): Stretching
What to bring:
- Gi (most gyms provide loaner for trial)
- Water bottle
- Flip-flops (mat hygiene)
- Change of clothes
Etiquette:
- Trim nails (prevent scratching partners)
- Shower before class
- Ask upper belts for help
- Tap early (ego check)
- Reference: BJJ hygiene tips
Common Beginner Questions
Q: Will I get hurt?
A: BJJ is safer than most sports. Tap early, train smart, choose good partners.
Q: Do I need to be in shape?
A: No. BJJ will GET you in shape. Beginners welcome at all fitness levels.
Q: How long to blue belt?
A: 12-24 months average (3-4x weekly training). Belt system guide
Q: Can women train BJJ?
A: Absolutely! Most gyms have women’s classes. BJJ is size-neutral.
Q: What if I’m 40+ years old?
A: Many practitioners start 40+. Train at your pace, focus on technique.
Philadelphia BJJ Community Events
Local tournaments:
- IBJJF Philadelphia Open (annual)
- Good Fight (local promotion)
- NAGA Philadelphia
- Grappling Industries
Seminars:
- Visiting black belts (announced on gym Instagrams)
- Technique camps
- Competition prep workshops
Open mats:
- Most gyms offer weekend open mats
- Cross-gym training welcomed
- Build community connections
The Bottom Line
Top 3 Philadelphia BJJ Gyms:
- The Jiu Jitsu Company – Best overall (expert instruction, clean facility, Old City)
- Balance Studios – Best multi-location (3 gyms, “Best of Philly,” MMA options)
- Gracie Academy Philadelphia – Best facilities (2-floor Dollamur mats, spring floors)
Choose based on priority:
- Competition: Logic BJJ (Atos)
- Authenticity: Daniel Gracie Philadelphia (Gracie family)
- History: Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu (1990)
- Marcelo Garcia techniques: Osagame
- Beginners: The Jiu Jitsu Company, North Star MMA
- Convenience: Balance Studios (3 locations)
Next steps:
- ✅ Book free trial at 3 gyms
- ✅ Visit all 3 this week
- ✅ Choose best fit (culture > credentials)
- ✅ Commit 6 months minimum
- ✅ Train 3-4x weekly
Philadelphia has world-class BJJ. Start your journey today. 🥋
Related resources:
- What is BJJ? – Complete introduction
- How Much Are Classes? – Budget planning
- Affordable Gis – Equipment guide
- White Belt Journey – Beginner roadmap
- BJJ Benefits – Health transformation
See you on the mats, Philly! 🔔💪
OSS! 🙏
Sources & Verification
Local Reviews: Gold BJJ, Pilates by Pamela expert rankings, Yelp Philadelphia
Official Websites: Individual gym sites verified
Community Feedback: Reddit r/bjj Philadelphia discussions
Last Updated: January 15, 2026