Training Grounds Jiu-Jitsu & MMA

I was 42 years old and had some injuries when I decided I wanted to try a Jiu Jitsu class. I signed up for a free class and walked in to take my first class. No lie, it was way out of my comfort zone. At 42 who decides they want to try and learn something new, and admit they know nothing about what you are about to try. Here's what happened. I took my class and realized learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was something I had to pursue. It was that much fun. I signed up instantly. Still out of my comfort zone I went to my second class. That cemented it for me. This was the place I had to learn this at. The students are great. All there just looking to learn and participate in a martial art they all fell in love with. From every person I rolled with, to the coaches Ray, Josiah, Gal, Andrew, Joe, and coach Pete, all the way up to professor Wil, you won't find an environment and a group of people more willing to accept you and teach you than you will at this place. They take time to teach you, and show you and share their knowledge with you. The students are serious and dedicated and that starts from the top down and you will see for yourself if you ever sign up to come and take a class. I love this place and it has become a second home to me and everyone in there makes you feel that you are at the place you are suppose to be at. Want to learn self defense and feel confident and secure and able to handle yourself in a hostile situation should it ever arise, this is the place you need to come check out. Stop waiting and come try it. Really just a great place and great environment with great people. Come see for yourself.

I signed up my 5 year old son in December and decided to also try it out myself. I couldn't recommend the place more. I have learned a lot, in a sport that I was not knowledgable in. I've always played the team sports (hockey, football, baseball, etc...). Not only is this a good life skill for my son but for me as well. TG has a free trial 2 day course offering that I'd recommend anyone to give a try. It's not a large commitment 2 - 4 days a week, and is something worthwhile where you can invest in yourself and or your children. Well worth it any age. Seeing my son get a belt promotion is a tear jerking moment.

I had always wanted to take a martial arts class and when I was ready to do so, I did some research and found that there was a very reputable gym close by. I could have taken the 30-day free trial, but after one class, I decided to join for a full year and have just recently re-signed for another. Up until this time I have concentrated on jiu jitsu but will be adding kickboxing shortly.

For those contemplating whether to join, Training Grounds is an excellent destination for a number of reasons.

As with any new venture, there is always the intimidation factor, but immediately, the friendly demeanor of both the staff and students put me at ease.

Master Wil does a great job of putting training plans together and after demonstrating a move, works with every training pair to provide input, encouragement, and helpful tips. His enthusiasm is evident and his teaching skills are top notch. Along with Wil, the support staff has been excellent as well.

Over the past year, I have trained with many different guys (and girl) and everyone has been great. Regardless of experience and skill level, everyone is willing to help each other to further their knowledge and improve their techniques. This is a product of Wil cultivating a family environment at the gym.

When I first joined, my goal was to learn to better defend myself and get into better shape. My flexibility, strength, and cardio certainly improved and as part of a healthy lifestyle, has helped me drop 25 lbs and 7% body fat.

If you are looking for a gym or are on the fence about joining, stop in and check it out. You won't be disappointed.

I trained in this school for 5 years before moving to Tennessee. My kids trained here even longer. Except for immediate family, this school is what I miss most about NJ. The place is clean, the atmosphere is fantastic, and the skill level is world class. You will never regret choosing this place for yourself or your kids.

I started my search for a place to train Gracie Jiu-Jitsu by asking around. Taking the suggestion of a good friend and MMA fighter I found my way to Training Grounds. It was close to home and had awesome reviews, plus you had 30 days to test it out. Just a few minutes after filling out a form online, Professor Wil contacted me to set up my first class. When I arrived , to say that I was initially intimidated is an understatement. But to be completely honest, once I stepped on the mat and started class, I was in love! Mentally stimulating, physically challenging and NEW. Plus, everyone there was so kind and helpful. I signed up my 2nd day.

Professor Wil is an incredible teacher and wonderful with the students. The community of people at TG made me feel instantly welcome. I recommend Training Grounds to anyone looking for BJJ/MMA . They won't let you down!

Our son is having a great time learning from Coach Wil and his amazing staff. He looks forward to his class each week and has developed great skills in such a short period of time.

I have never written a yelp review before but I felt Training Grounds deserved it. Often we dont realize "how good we have it" until someone else describes their experiences. While talking to a co-worker about their recent negative experience at a BJJ school, I realized that Training Grounds is special. Master Wil, Ali, Coach Dave and all the other coaches and students are exceptionally welcoming to everyone, whether they are a future client or have been training for years. The instruction is well thought out and broken down in such a way that even a novice (such as myself) can understand. Master Wil is definitely knowledgeable and demonstrates it in the way he teaches, the scenarios he presents,and the modifications he makes when students have difficulty performing the techniques. The class is a great mental and physical exercise and leaves you exhausted yet excited for the next class.

From a parent's perspective, I can say that Training Grounds is an excellent place to bring your children. My son is in the "ninjas" class there and he absolutely loves it. He always asks me when he gets to go to "wrestling" (he has trouble pronouncing jiu jitsu) again. Master Wil keeps the children engaged while teaching them real BJJ technique. He rewards the kids when they do well but still demands respect from the children at all times. I am very happy with the decision I made to enroll my son and will be enrolling my daughter when she is old enough.

Whether you are an adult or a child, I would recommend Training Grounds. I have tried several BJJ gyms and it is by far the best.

For the sake of transparency, I've been training at Wil's academy for four years now. It wasn't until just this evening that, while trying to recommend the place to a friend, I discovered that it has a five star rating on Yelp. Not that I was surprised, training grounds has the best instruction in Northern Jersey. Wil has a great eye for detail and an INSANE knowledge of the art. He's also a complete beast on the mats and definitely "walks the walk." Despite this, he has somehow managed to remain one of humblest people I know. He has a really open mind and is willing to meet people where they are at.

If you are looking to try out jiu jitsu, or are an experienced practitioner in search of some place to train, make sure to check out Training Grounds!

This is the first experience I ever had with any type of self defense school and I think that others should follow the example led by Training Grounds.

The staff and the facility are top of the line. Very clear gym, well maintained equipment all complimented by a very friendly staff. The school is headed by Master Wil, who simply loves what he does and it shows everyday you work with him. He has a true passion for the sport, and for his students. He exemplifies care and attention to detail to ensure everyone feels welcome and learns the fundamentals in a friendly and well controlled atmosphere.

What really opened my eyes about this place was how devoted the staff are to their students. Not only during class, but the follow up if you have any questions about the material in class, your diet, your exercise or in general about physical fitness. Master Wil and his team have so much to offer and are genuinely devoted to give you the best possible experience. While there, I had a muscle sprain and the amount of support from the staff was so unbelievable. They called to make sure I was ok, offered rehabilitation advise and helped me return as quick as possible to the class. I cant tell you how much fun you will have and how great you will feel about your self and about getting in shape. They offer a great trial program so you don't get in over your head and know exactly what to expect if you want to sign up.

All in all, if you are looking for a place that is fun, physically and emotionally rewarding, give this place a try, you'll be pleasantly surprised. No matter what age, what physical shape, this place has room for everyone!

I feel very fortunate to have found this school. My seven-year-old son loves going there and it is by far his favorite sport/activity that he has ever done. Professor Will is simply amazing with children! Not only are the kids trained to defend themselves with jujitsu, but are also taught to be mentally tough and about the importance of discipline and respect. I highly recommend Training Grounds for anyone looking for a martial arts school for their child!!!
- Jonathan Blume