Top 5 BJJ Gyms in Los Angeles: Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training (2026)

Top 5 BJJ Gyms in Los Angeles: Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training (2026)

By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Los Angeles, California | Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Los Angeles hosts five elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies led by world-class instructors: Cobrinha BJJ (multiple-time world champion Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles), Dynamix MMA (Rickson Gracie black belt Henry Akins), Gracie Barra Studio City (international network with structured curriculum), 10th Planet West LA (Eddie Bravo’s no-gi system), and Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club (premium instruction in upscale location). Each gym offers distinct training philosophies—from traditional gi-focused programs to innovative no-gi systems—making LA one of the world’s premier BJJ destinations alongside Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.​

The city’s diverse BJJ landscape accommodates every practitioner type: competitors seeking high-level instruction under world champions, beginners starting their martial arts journey, professionals wanting convenient locations in Beverly Hills or Studio City, and dedicated students pursuing traditional lineage training. Los Angeles gyms collectively boast 150+ combined years of instructor experience, dozens of world championship titles, and thousands of students ranging from Hollywood celebrities to IBJJF medalists.​

This comprehensive guide covers Los Angeles’ top 5 BJJ academies including facilities, instructor credentials, class offerings, pricing, schedule flexibility, competition opportunities, and membership details to help you choose the perfect training environment whether you’re pursuing fitness benefits, self-defense skills, or competitive excellence.

1. Cobrinha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Fitness

1. Address: 4929 Wilshire Blvd Ste 104, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (Hancock Park)
2. Phone: (323) 931-9953
3. Website: cobrinhabjj.com
4. Rating: 4.7/5 stars (Yelp)​

Why Cobrinha BJJ is #1

Yelp reviewer insight:

World-Class Instruction:
“Southern California has a wealth of martial arts, but among them Cobrinha is a true master. His legendary skills as an athlete are well known among aficionados, but when learning at his academy you will understand that he is unparalleled as a teacher. He has created a system of instruction that is exceptionally effective, an epistemology which grows beyond the mat and assists in applying jiu jitsu to life”.​

Exceptional Beginner Experience:
“Every beginner class has multiple black belts to instruct with Cobrinha himself almost always there and leading instruction. He is very friendly and welcoming. So far all the students I’ve practiced with have been a great balance of trying to learn and grow while not being so aggressive you worry about getting injured”.​

Head Instructor: Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles

Championship credentials:

• Multiple-time IBJJF World Champion (4x absolute, 9x weight division)
• Multiple-time Pan American Champion
• Legendary rooster/featherweight competitor
• Recognized as one of the greatest pound-for-pound BJJ competitors ever

Teaching philosophy:​
“Cobrinha teaches you how to utilize jiu jitsu both on and off the mats; he has a profound understanding of how life on and off the mat are the same and can help everyone from the most to least successful individuals learn ways to improve.”

Programs Offered

Classes available:

• Fundamentals BJJ (white/blue belts)
• Advanced BJJ (purple belt+)
• Competition training
• No-gi classes
• Kids programs (various age groups)
• Women-only classes
• MMA training
• Fitness/conditioning classes

Schedule:

• Morning, afternoon, and evening classes
• 6-7 days/week operation
• Flexible membership options

Facility Features

Gym highlights:

• Yelp review: “The gym itself is clean and well organized”​
• Modern equipment
• Spacious training area
• Shower facilities
• Central Los Angeles location (Hancock Park/Koreatown border)

Culture & Community

Inclusive environment:​
“Cobrinha’s has the highest percentage of women of any martial arts gym I’ve attended, which speaks for itself. You can find persons from every walk of life, race, religion, and gender on the mat and my experience is that all are treated with respect, dignity, and genuine concern.”

Personal attention:
“Even though he is sought as an instructor all over the world he has genuine concern and compassion for all of his students, from famous black belts to those learning how to tie their belts”.​

Pricing & Membership

Membership options:

• Monthly unlimited training
• Class packs (punch cards)
• Drop-in rates
• Family discounts available
• Trial classes offered

Contact: (323) 931-9953 for current pricing

Best For

✅ Competitors (world-champion instruction, proven competition system)
✅ Beginners (multiple black belts in every fundamentals class)
✅ Women (high female membership, welcoming environment)
✅ Life improvement seekers (philosophy extends beyond mats)
✅ All ages (comprehensive kids/adults programs)

Reference: Competition preparation (tournament training)

2. Dynamix MMA

1. Address: 11435 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (West LA)
2. Phone: (310) 478-5425
3. Website: dynamixmma.com
4. Rating: 4.9/5 stars (Yelp)​

Why Dynamix MMA Ranks #2

Yelp top review:

Elite Instruction:
“Henry Akins, Antoni and the rest of the instructors at Dynamix are without a doubt THE best I’ve come across”.​

Rickson Gracie Lineage:
“You understand why Rickson was the best after u train with Henry (he has a black belt from rickson Gracie)”.​

Transformative Experience:
“I have over 10 years of experience in multiple martial arts but I have never received such a high level training and direction. The vibe is great and Antony and the instructors always incentivate positive and cordial interaction even in the most intense sparring session. It has been working like a therapy as my overall well being has improved a lot”.​

Head Instructor: Henry Akins

Credentials:

• Black belt under Rickson Gracie (considered the greatest Gracie)
• One of Rickson’s highest-ranked American students
• Developer of “Hidden Jiu-Jitsu” instructional system
• Renowned for fundamental technical expertise

Co-Instructor: Antoni Hardonk

• Former UFC heavyweight fighter
• K-1 kickboxing champion
• Oversees MMA and striking programs

Programs Offered

Comprehensive martial arts:

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (gi)
• No-gi grappling
• Wrestling
• Kickboxing/Muay Thai
• MMA (mixed martial arts)
• Fitness conditioning

Class structure:​
“Each and every class has an objective in mind where we go over the fundamentals of each and every move to a point where you actually see improvement in your skills over time.”

Training Philosophy

Fundamentals-focused:

• Emphasis on core techniques over flashy moves
• Rickson Gracie methodology (invisible jiu-jitsu concepts)
• Structured progression system
• Effective for all skill levels

Positive culture:​
“Great spot! High level coaches, cool people, and lots of options (kick boxing, BJJ, and wrestling). Lots of training times too and reasonably priced.”

Facility Features

• Full MMA training facility
• Multiple mat areas
• Striking equipment (bags, pads)
• Changing rooms/showers
• West LA location (easy freeway access)

Culture & Community

Welcoming atmosphere:​
“It can be intimidating walking into a fight gym! And, there’s always the concern somebody there is waiting to smash the fresh meat walking through the door. That’s never been my experience at Dynamix.”

Smart training:
“This place pushed you hard, but not to the point where break. They spar hard but they dont knock each other out”.​

Best For

✅ MMA enthusiasts (complete martial arts training)
✅ Fundamental seekers (Rickson Gracie lineage, technical depth)
✅ Experienced practitioners (high-level instruction, intelligent training partners)
✅ Kickboxing interest (world-class striking instruction)
✅ West LA residents (convenient location, ample parking)

Reference: Is BJJ MMA? (understanding disciplines)

3. Gracie Barra Studio City

1. Address: 12323 Ventura Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91604 (Studio City)
2. Phone: (818) 888-3369
3. Website: gbstudiocity.com
4. Rating: 4.8/5 stars (Yelp)​

Why Gracie Barra Studio City Ranks #3

Official description:

Family-Oriented Academy:
“Welcome to Gracie Barra Studio City, the premier Martial Arts school in town! Our family-oriented academy offers top-notch Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai classes for kids, men and women”.​

World-Class Instruction:
“At Gracie Barra, you’ll receive personalized attention from world-class instructors in a safe, clean, and friendly environment”.​

Structured Curriculum:
Part of the largest BJJ organization in the world (Gracie Barra network), ensuring consistent, proven teaching methodology.​

Gracie Barra Lineage

Founded by Carlos Gracie Jr.

• Son of Carlos Gracie (co-founder of BJJ)
• 800+ schools worldwide
• Standardized curriculum (GB1, GB2, GB3 program levels)
• International competition team

Studio City head instructor:

• Gracie Barra certified black belt
• Years of teaching experience
• Connection to worldwide GB network

Programs Offered

Structured program levels:

GB1 (Fundamentals):

• Self-defense techniques
• Basic positions and escapes
• Foundation building
• White/blue belt focus

GB2 (Advanced):

• Sport jiu-jitsu techniques
• Competition training
• Advanced submissions/guards
• Blue belt and above

GB3 (Black Belt):

• High-level training
• Competition preparation
• Teaching development

Additional programs:

• Kids BJJ (age-specific groups)
• Muay Thai classes
• Women-only classes
• Fitness conditioning

Facility Features

Modern academy:

• Clean, organized training space
• Separate kids area
• Shower facilities
• Pro shop (gis, equipment)
• Studio City location (Valley convenience)

Schedule flexibility:

• Morning, noon, evening classes
• 7 days/week operation
• Multiple class times daily

Culture & Community

Family values:​
“Where Family Values Meet Cleanliness, Organization, and Discipline. Empowering minds, bodies, and spirits in Studio City, Los Angeles through the Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai and Fitness.”

Student testimonial:​
“I have been practicing Jiu-jitsu for a few years now, I have tried multiple different gyms, and the team at Gracie Barra Studio City is second to none! Fabio is an incredible teacher and I would recommend this gym to beginners and veterans alike.”

Pricing & Membership

Membership options:

• Monthly unlimited (most popular)
• Class packages
• Family plans (discounted rates for multiple members)
• Trial class available (often free)

Special offers: Check website for current promotions

Contact: (818) 888-3369 or gbstudiocity.com

Best For

✅ Families (kids + adult programs, family-friendly culture)
✅ Beginners (structured GB1 fundamentals program)
✅ Valley residents (Studio City location, easy 101/Ventura access)
✅ International travelers (train at 800+ GB schools worldwide)
✅ Traditional BJJ (Gracie lineage, proven curriculum)

Reference: BJJ gi types (equipment for training)

4. 10th Planet West LA

1. Address: 1080 S La Cienega Blvd #106, Los Angeles, CA 90035 (West LA)
2. Phone: (323) 543-5487
3. Website: 10thplanetwestla.com
4. Rating: 4.6/5 stars​

Why 10th Planet West LA Ranks #4

Official description:

Innovative No-Gi System:
“Why Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu System Is The Best: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Schools or BJJ schools typically require you to wear a bulky ‘old school’ kimono'”.​

Eddie Bravo Endorsement:​
“10th Planet West LA is an all levels gym and all classes are taught by Scott Epstein. ‘Einstein is one of the best teachers I have ever seen.’ -Eddie Bravo”

Head Instructor: Scott “Einstein” Epstein

Credentials:

• 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu black belt
• Direct student of Eddie Bravo
• Endorsed by founder as “one of the best teachers I have ever seen”
• Competition experience (EBI, sub-only events)

The 10th Planet System

Created by Eddie Bravo:​

• No-gi exclusively (no kimono/gi required)
• Rubber guard system (unique guard using leg flexibility)
• Lockdown half guard (signature position)
• Twister submission (signature finish)
• Focus on modern submission grappling

Eddie Bravo background:​

• Black belt under Jean Jacques Machado
• Famous for submitting Royler Gracie at ADCC 2003
• Creator of Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) tournament
• Joe Rogan podcast regular (promotes 10th Planet system)

Programs Offered

No-gi classes:

• Fundamentals (beginners)
• Advanced techniques
• Competition training
• Open mat sessions
• Submission-only focus

Training approach:

• Modern jiu-jitsu techniques
• Designed for MMA application
• No traditional gi grips/chokes
• Focus on leg locks, back takes, modern guards

Facility Features

• Spacious mat space
• No-gi specific training area
• Changing facilities
• West LA location (La Cienega corridor)
• Ample parking

Schedule:

• Evening-focused classes (working professionals)
• Weekend training
• Open mat times

Culture & Community

Modern approach:

• Casual, welcoming atmosphere
• Music during training (characteristic of 10th Planet)
• Competition-focused but beginner-friendly
• Part of worldwide 10th Planet network (80+ locations)

Non-traditional:

• No belt ceremony formality (ranked by skills)
• No bowing or Japanese terminology
• Focus on effectiveness over tradition

Best For

✅ No-gi enthusiasts (exclusive no-gi training)
✅ MMA fighters (system designed for cage application)
✅ Modern submission grapplers (leg locks, rubber guard)
✅ Eddie Bravo fans (direct lineage, EBI competitor development)
✅ Non-traditionalists (casual culture, no gi expense)

Pricing & Membership

Contact: (323) 543-5487 for membership details

Typical options:

• Monthly unlimited
• Class packs
• Drop-ins for visitors
• Trial class available

5. Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club

1. Address: 1080 S La Cienega Blvd #106, Los Angeles, CA 90035 (Beverly Hills area)
2. Phone: (310) 854-7664
3. Website: bhjjc.com
4. Rating: 4.8/5 stars (Yelp)​

Why Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club Ranks #5

Metamat Warriors description:

Personal Development Focus:
“Offers classes for all levels; led by experienced instructors with a focus on personal development”.​

Premium Location:

• Beverly Hills/West LA border
• Upscale training environment
• Professional clientele
• Convenient for entertainment industry professionals

Programs Offered

Comprehensive BJJ:

• Beginner fundamentals
• Advanced techniques
• Competition training
• Private lessons
• Open mat sessions

Schedule flexibility:

• Multiple daily classes
• Morning and evening options
• Weekend training
• Accommodates busy professional schedules

Instructor Team

Experienced black belts:

• Traditional Brazilian lineage
• Years of teaching experience
• Competition background
• Personalized instruction approach

Facility Features

• Clean, well-maintained academy
• Premium location (Beverly Hills adjacent)
• Professional atmosphere
• Shower facilities
• Parking available

Culture & Community

Professional environment:

• Mature student base
• Respectful training culture
• Focus on self-improvement
• Welcoming to all levels

Personal attention:

• Smaller class sizes (quality over quantity)
• Instructor accessibility
• Supportive training partners

Best For

✅ Professionals (Beverly Hills location, flexible schedule)
✅ Mature students (30+ age demographic common)
✅ Personal development (growth-focused culture)
✅ Quality over quantity (smaller, attentive classes)
✅ Convenient West LA (La Cienega corridor access)

Pricing & Membership

Premium pricing:

• Reflects Beverly Hills location
• Quality instruction justifies investment
• Monthly memberships available
• Private lessons offered

Contact: (310) 854-7664 or bhjjc.com

Honorable Mentions

6. Jean Jacques Machado BJJ (Woodland Hills)

• Legendary instructor (Machado brother)
• Traditional approach
• Adapted teaching (JJM born with condition affecting hands)
• 4.8/5 stars​

7. Rey Diogo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Culver City)

• Black belt under Carlson Gracie
• Traditional self-defense focus
• Competition readiness
• 4.8/5 stars​

8. Echo Park Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

• Inclusive community
• Technical instruction
• Gi and no-gi classes
• 4.9/5 stars​

Los Angeles BJJ Gym Comparison Table

How to Choose Your LA BJJ Gym

Decision Factors

1. Training goals:

• Competition: Cobrinha BJJ, Dynamix MMA
• Self-defense: Gracie Barra, Dynamix MMA
• Fitness: Any gym (all provide excellent workouts)
• MMA preparation: Dynamix MMA, 10th Planet
• Traditional BJJ: Cobrinha, Gracie Barra

2. Location convenience:

• Hancock Park/Koreatown: Cobrinha BJJ
• West LA: Dynamix MMA, 10th Planet, Beverly Hills JJC
• Valley/Studio City: Gracie Barra Studio City

3. Gi vs No-gi preference:

• Gi-focused: Cobrinha, Gracie Barra, Beverly Hills JJC
• No-gi only: 10th Planet West LA
• Both: Dynamix MMA, Cobrinha (offers both)

4. Schedule flexibility:

• Morning classes: Gracie Barra, Cobrinha, Dynamix
• Evening focus: All gyms
• Weekend training: All offer weekend options

5. Budget:

• Premium: Beverly Hills JJC, Cobrinha
• Mid-range: Gracie Barra, Dynamix, 10th Planet
• Budget: Check for introductory specials at all gyms

Trial Class Recommendations

Before committing:

1. Take trial classes at 2-3 gyms (most offer free or discounted first class)
2. Observe instructor attention (do they correct beginners?)
3. Assess training partner culture (supportive vs aggressive?)
4. Check cleanliness (mats, showers, overall facility)
5. Evaluate convenience (commute time, parking, schedule fit)

Questions to ask:

• What’s included in membership? (gi/no-gi, open mat, special classes?)
• Contract requirements? (month-to-month vs annual?)
• Competition support? (coaching, team events?)
• Promotion timeline? (how long to blue belt typically?)

Training in Los Angeles: What to Expect

LA BJJ Scene Characteristics

High level of competition:

• World-class gyms attract elite competitors
• Expect skilled training partners
• Great for rapid improvement
• Can be intimidating for absolute beginners

Diverse training partners:

• Hollywood professionals
• Industry workers
• Students
• Competitive athletes
• International visitors

Weather advantage:

• Year-round training (no winter closures)
• Outdoor events common
• Hot summer (AC important in gym selection)

Cost Considerations

Average LA BJJ membership:

• Budget: $120-150/month
• Mid-range: $150-200/month
• Premium: $200-300/month

Additional costs:

• Gi: $80-200 (need 2-3 for rotation)
• No-gi gear: $50-100 (rashguard, shorts)
• Belt testing: $0-50 (varies by gym)
• Competitions: $80-120 entry fees
• Privates: $100-200/hour (optional)

Reference: BJJ gi types guide (equipment selection)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LA good for BJJ?

Yes—Los Angeles is world-class for BJJ:

• Dozens of high-level academies
• World champion instructors (Cobrinha, Henry Akins, Machado brothers)
• Large competition scene
• Diverse training opportunities (gi, no-gi, MMA)
• Year-round training weather

Which gym is best for beginners?

Top beginner-friendly gyms:

1. Gracie Barra Studio City (structured GB1 fundamentals program)
2. Cobrinha BJJ (multiple black belts in beginner classes)
3. Dynamix MMA (welcoming culture, fundamentals-focused)

All emphasize patient instruction and safe training for newcomers.

Can I train no-gi in LA?

Yes—excellent no-gi options:

• 10th Planet West LA (no-gi exclusively)
• Dynamix MMA (gi and no-gi programs)
• Cobrinha BJJ (offers no-gi classes)

Most gyms offer at least some no-gi training.

How much does BJJ cost in Los Angeles?

Typical monthly memberships:

• $120-200/month for most gyms
• $200-300/month for premium locations (Beverly Hills)
• Discounts for annual commitments, families, students

Reference: Training benefits (value justification)

Do I need experience to join?

No—all gyms welcome complete beginners:

• Fundamentals classes designed for zero experience
• Patient instruction
• Supportive training partners
• No athletic background required

Reference: Is it hard to learn BJJ? (beginner expectations)

Start Your LA BJJ Journey Today

Los Angeles offers unparalleled Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training with world-champion instruction, diverse gym options, and a thriving competition scene making it one of the best cities globally for BJJ development. Whether you choose Cobrinha’s competition-proven system, Dynamix’s Rickson Gracie lineage, Gracie Barra’s structured curriculum, 10th Planet’s innovative no-gi approach, or Beverly Hills JJC’s personalized development, you’ll receive elite instruction in a supportive environment.​

Take the first step:

1. Choose 2-3 gyms from this list based on location/goals
2. Schedule trial classes (most offer free first class)
3. Experience the culture (observe, ask questions, roll)
4. Commit to training (consistency = progress)
5. Invest in proper gear (quality gi, rashguard, mouthguard)

The LA BJJ community welcomes practitioners of all levels—from complete beginners to world champions—united by passion for the gentle art.

OSS! See you on the mats! 🥋👊

Related Resources

• What is BJJ? Complete Beginner’s Guide (understanding the martial art)
• 10 Benefits of Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (why start training)
• Is It Hard to Learn BJJ? (beginner expectations)
• Types of BJJ Gis: Complete Guide (essential equipment)
• How to Prevent Ringworm & Staph in BJJ (training hygiene)
• Is BJJ MMA? (understanding different disciplines)