It’s easy to feel intimidated whenever you begin something new like jiu jitsu or any martial art, but my first class at Start Jiu Jitsu Academy, I was welcomed very warmly and I was made to feel very comfortable. Professor Raphael, Alex, and all of the instructors are very humble, friendly, and genuine people. They always make me feel like I am important and that they care about me and being apart of my journey with Jiu jitsu. I consider the professors and my fellow students to be a second family, I would do anything for them Because I know they would do the same for me. I have a long way to go and a lot to learn before I reach my ultimate goal of earning my Black belt but I know that I am in the right hands and i look forward to every lesson and every stripe earned.

Updated review: Typically people only leave initial reviews. I've decided to leave an "extended stay" review, as I feel some users would like to see if the quality is still there for the reviewer. This is my 3rd year at START, and it only gets better with time. Just yesterday, I attended a "black belt" advanced class (which is open to higher belt holders), and the mats were filled with high level bjj practitioners. It always is, but yesterday was special in my mind. On one end, I had my professors, who are in a class by themselves, along with one of the best brown belt competitors in the world, and everything in between. That's the thing, BJJ is like a rubix cube, that you never really finish solving. I watched one of my professors, experiment with a movement he wanted to figure out. How many people at such a high level, allow others into their world, and figure things out. That kind of humility is commendable, and just reinforces the kind of people I want to be around, and I want my kids learning from. This is just a sample size of the kind of vibe at the school, but I welcome people who have young kids (as my oldest is enrolled, and the younger wants to begin as well), or folks who have walked away from the mat..to come..you won't be disappointed. Original post: I've been attending Start BJJ Academy for about 2.5 years, and it's been nothing short of LIFE CHANGING. I have a high-stress job, and this allows me the perfect opportunity to channel my stress in a meaningful way. The training partners here are nothing short of legit. They legitimately care about your progression and well-being, and you don't have to come "in shape" to see results. Just show up...the natural progression will happen. It is a very traditional school, in the sense that while competition is a facet, it's not the only thing. There's no pressure to compete..just be yourself and it comes together. My kids will come here as well, when it's their time.

Started training at START in May of this year, my only regret is that I didn't start there SOONER. There is an astonishing level of jiu-jitsu knowledge and experience amongst the staff. They welcome everyone into the family there. Can't find a better place to train! M

Instructors for kid’s classes are amazing. They do a great job of teaching the kids in a safe and effective manner. I highly recommend to any parent considering Jiu Jitsu or any martial art for their children

My son has been going to Start for 3 years now and I must say it has been a fantastic experience so far. The center's approach to teaching is centered around scaffolded learning, encouragement, and engagement, which has made all the difference in my child's progress and enjoyment of the martial art. The instructors at the Jiu-Jitsu center are incredibly skilled and patient. They understand that each child learns at their own pace and tailor their instruction accordingly. The scaffolded learning approach ensures that kids master the fundamental techniques before moving on to more advanced ones. This step-by-step process has allowed my child to build a solid foundation and has boosted their confidence as they see their skills improve with each session. What truly sets Start Jiu-Jitsu center apart is the level of encouragement and positivity that permeates the training environment. The instructors go out of their way to praise and acknowledge the efforts of each child. This not only fosters a sense of accomplishment but also motivates the kids to push themselves further. The positive reinforcement has had a remarkable impact on my child's self-esteem and overall attitude towards learning. Another aspect that I appreciate is the engaging nature of the classes. The instructors use creative teaching methods, incorporating fun games and interactive activities to keep the kids interested and eager to participate. This approach ensures that the kids stay focused during the lessons and look forward to attending each class. Furthermore, Start emphasizes values such as respect, teamwork, and self-discipline. These life skills are woven into the training, helping children develop not just as martial artists but also as well-rounded individuals. The center also places importance on safety during training. The instructors ensure that the kids learn in a controlled and supportive environment, reducing the risk of injuries while still allowing them to challenge themselves and improve their skills. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with Start Jujitsu. The combination of scaffolded learning, encouragement, and engaging teaching methods has made it a truly positive and enriching experience for my child. I have noticed a significant improvement in their physical abilities, focus, and confidence, and I am confident that the valuable life skills they are learning will benefit them well beyond the martial arts classes. I highly recommend Start Jujitsu for parents looking to enroll their kids in a program that promotes holistic growth and development.Thanks to professor Rafael , Alex , Rodrigo , Peterson and rest of the Start Team!

We absolutely love START Jiu Jitsu! Our boys have been attending over a year and a half now and we couldn't be happier. They have lots of fun while also learning and practicing defense techniques, core values and discipline. It is evident that the coaches and professors are deeply invested in their students and their performance, not only on the mat, but also at home. The sense of community they provide is very endearing and important to us, they are always hosting special and family events- getting everyone involved. It really is just a great and wholesome environment, one we are proud to be a part of and will continue to be a part of for years to come!

My daughter been coming for more than 8 months and she loves it and the professors are always very attentive to her and teaching her in the areas she needs to improve. They all show her respect and she feels likes it’s her second family. The best decision I made for my 14 year old daughter.!!

Awesome place to train, great environment and very welcoming, even for a 40 yr old beginner like myself. Been training for 7 months and it's been life changing. My son has been going for about 5 yrs, he's 10 now, and I've watched him develop into a strong and capable kid, which I owe a lot to some of the best coaches here at Start. They know when to relax and have a good time with the kids and when to cut the nonsense and teach discipline... great balance. Highly recommend.

A great BJJ academy to train at. The kids classes are the most difficult to teach, with that said watching the instructor (coaches) take there time and there willingness to show the move of the day doesn’t go unnoticed. The most impressive thing is seeing a kids self confidence grow within a few classes. From the very beginning you are treated like family, to add the academy host several family friendly events throughout the year. Those events are wonderful. For the adult classes, what can I say! You have multiple classes to attend through the day, you can attend at least one day 7 days a week and you can take it at your pace. To add you have world class professors teaching the classes. You can’t ask for anything else. Oss! 🤙🏼

This place is Amazing, my son has been attending for two months now and absolutely loves it. The instructors are tough, but nurturing. They make it a point to make every student feel welcome and push to get the best out of them. Wonderful martial arts school and we are so happy to be part of it.

5 stars all the way!!! As parents, we are extremely proud and happy we have the privilege to be a part of such a great and positive environment. From the moment our son began training here, the professors were very caring, knowledgeable, friendly and supportive. Not only do they teach everything there is to know about BJJ, but they emphasize the importance of everyday real life values and teachings that adults and kids all ages can put to practice on a daily basis such as respect and kindness. This is a such a great family oriented place that has taught many great things to our son along with boosting of self confidence. Keep changing lives! Your passion to teach goes above and beyond.

I train at this academy for more than 7 years. It is the best academy to go. Everyone is welcome, family environment, I highly recommend Jiujitsu and Start Jiujitsu Pembroke Pines as the best Jiujitsu academy at the area. It worth to go go and check yourself. THE PLACE THAT MAKE ME FEEL HOME!!!

Best experience ever! My son has been enrolled for about 3 months and has learned so much. The coaches are on top of everything and just like they reward the kids, they also make them accountable. As I sit and watch during practice, I notice that the coaches are aware of everything that is happening with every kid. They take their time to give more attention to anyone that needs it and it’s great to see that they put in the effort so that every kid can succeed.

I cannot say enough about how wonderful START Jiu Jitsu has been for my son. Ever since day 1, everyone has been so welcoming and the instructors have taken to time to teach him and encourage him on his good and bad days. I’ve seen him grow as a person and as an athlete and I can tell he really enjoys learning from his instructors and peers. So grateful that START offers great programs and wonderful, caring teachers who enjoy what they do.

If you are looking for an amazing opportunity to learn self-defense and after-school activities, this is where you wanna come. They treat everyone as family, warm and welcoming atmosphere. Coaches are extremely patient with students of all ages and especially kids and most importantly they show interest in student's progress.

Start Jiu-Jitsu is top notch! Great people with great instructors! My daughter loves them, they are super patient and professional! I highly recommend it!

My daughter was having behavior issues in school and i thought maybe the discipline in Jiu Jitsu would help. In a matter of two months my daughters behavior has change for the better. All the professors are great but a special thank you to professor Alex for the undivided attention, care and support he gives. The classes are great and i love how the kids enjoy it. Definitely “START” here if you are interested in Jiu jitsu for whatever your reason may be!

We just can say good things about Start Jiu-Jitsu Academy and it’s dedicated staff. Our son has been enrolled for about 4 years, he trains every week, his self confidence has improved and he appreciates punctuality, respect for others and discipline and that will stay with him the rest of his life. Besides all that is getting stronger physically as well. We found for him on this mat people to grow with and live forever, we found family.

START Jiu-Jitsu is the best school I could of chosen. The instructor’s take the time to make sure you understand the fundamentals of jiu-jitsu and it’s application for tournament and real life self defense scenarios. START has been life changing for me. The school has great core values and caters to young and old. I could not have made a better choice than START and would recommend this school to anyone wanting to learn BJJ.

START Jiu Jitsu is amazing. The coaches focus on the individual needs of the students while developing their personal skills and fostering an atmosphere of teamwork and disciple. They are challenged in a way that even though it is difficult they are able to rise to the challenge and feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. My son is developing valuable life lessons and loves going to class. I'm so happy I discovered this academy for my son!

START is awesome! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to family or friends. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and professional. The enthusiasm and energy the instructors and students share make the environment great. The Academy is kept clean and sanitized. For my fellow first responders, START is very welcoming to us and the staff understands the needs of our career field. If you’re thinking about learning Jiu Jitsu I highly recommend START.

We were recommended by another great jiu jitsu school in downtown Miami, and we are very happy to have found Start Jiu Jitsu. My three kids have been going there since we moved to the area and they have kept fit and have been developing great techniques and discipline. The instructors are also very good with them. Overall i am thankful to have them close by.

No words can explain the feeling of practicing jiu jitsu expecially in this academy. If i have to recommend it i will tell people to make the sacrifice,drive a bit longer but this school is amazing!

The academy is very clean and any questions or concerns I have, there is always someone there who is knowledgeable and can help me. They help build confidence and discipline, not to mention great self defense techniques. My daughter has been going there for over 6 months and she loves it! Great family oriented place for your kids to grow and learn.