Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

I stopped in at this gym while i was in town visiting family back in late june. my First review didn't post for whatever reason. I attended two early morning classes and their friday noon open mat.Really love the atmosphere at this gym. everyone is just wanting to get after it which i find very pleasing. Derek the Owner is very responsive via email and was able to tackle all of my questions. Sean is a great instructor and can't wait to take another class with him. IF your new or old to the sport, this is the place to go.Can't wait to come back for more over thanksgiving.

The BEST BJJ FOR KIDS in Sacramento hands down. Tried a few other gyms with my girls that were very intimidating or didn't seem to know how to handle toddlers. Very fun and kind staff. Very grateful to have found WAZA. Our girls love it!

I'm revisiting my review from three years ago, and my sentiments have only grown stronger. Since joining Waza BJJ in 2020, I've found it to be one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. It's not merely about mastering Brazilian Jiu Jitsu; it's about the unparalleled sense of community, support, and camaraderie within the Waza family.I initially stepped onto the mat to accompany my 12-year-old son, hesitant given I was in my mid-40s. Yet, it quickly became evident that age was just a number here, and Waza BJJ was a place I truly belonged.The instructors are not only experts in their craft but embody humility, approachability, and kindness. The students mirror this ethos; they're always ready to assist, egos are set aside, and there's a pervasive atmosphere of joy. Waza BJJ masterfully blends the rigor of a formidable martial art with an ethos of openness and compassion.

My daughter and I were visiting Elk Grove for vacation from Alaska. We wanted to continue our BJJ training and Waza BJJ welcomed us with open arms. The facility was very clean and professionally ran. Highly recommend coming in and taking a class!

Welcome to the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I am a 61 year old unhealthy man who just lost 70 lbs and was looking for a way to get exercise, improve flexibility and get healthier. I am an intervert and I hate the gym or other organized activities. I took Judo at a young age and I looked around for something that might fit the bill. Luckily I found Waza BJJ. I contacted Derek and explained my goals and asked if his group would be a good fit. I tried the free trial where I met Instructor Sean Wright. I talked over my goals and expectations with Sean and he completely understood. After joining I went to the early morning classes on Monday and Wednesday with Sean as the instructor. Sean was absolutely awesome. His way of instructing and his hands on (literally) approach helped drive home the technical concepts of BJJ. He also paid close attention to all participants and offered encouragement and tips to mastering the techniques. He also made sure that anyone I worked with understood my limitations. Additionally, the class members were unbelievably supportive. I met some absolutely wonderful athletes and all were generous with their help, support and friendship. They do foster a positive environment for learning and they don't let you slack off. They make you earn your learning. If you are looking for an exciting and demanding work out then WAZA BJJ is the place to get that. I only wished I would have taken this up earlier in my life. My compliments and appreciation go out to Derek, Sean and the whole WAZA BJJ team. Thank you.Craig Todd, Retired Engineer, US Navy Submariner Veteran

I have been studying at Waza for over 2 years. I am a life long martial artist and retired law enforcement officer. Coach DiManno and his instructors are very knowledgeable and foster an atmosphere of respectful learning. Instructors and students are committed to learning, teaching and challenging themselves and each other to strengthen the mind body and spirit. I would recommend classes here to children and adults including law enforcement and safety professionals. I am confident they will find the practice of jiu jitsu here to be life enriching as well as improving their safety.

Great instructors with captivating teaching styles. Waza has a great atmosphere that is welcoming to all individuals.

Waza Bjj is an incredible gym. I look forward to every training session with great people, skillful yet patient instructors, insightful lessons, and high quality rolls - I couldn't be happier with the decision to join this gym over a year ago. I came in with 0 experience in the sport and was immediately welcomed in with open arms, which is all you could ask for as a white belt starting your BJJ journey. The environment is friendly and relaxed but at the same time focused and driven. Everyone in the gym is is focused on increasing their BJJ skills and knowledge while also enjoying the process. Waza BJJ is a true family environment with great training opportunities for all levels, including children. The past year has been extremely foundational for me in my own BJJ journey and I have the entire Waza family to thank for that. If you're looking for a new gym or to get into the sport of BJJ, look no further than Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You will not regret it!

Best BJJ school in N. CA...bar none. A "chill" but competent "vibe." Excellent black belt instruction from professional instructors. A welcoming place where the student is the focus & decides how intensely they wish to train; if new to BJJ. you won't be "thrown to the wolves" (too common an experience in many BJJ gyms)! Great techniques! Kids program (beyond) outstanding!

Waza is an amazing gym with friendly and encouraging instructors. Everyone is focused on improving their jiu jitsu but it is also an environment that is welcoming to all levels and abilities. The friends I’ve made at Waza, I will have for life. I can’t recommend this place enough. It truly has become like a second home for me, and I know it has had the same impact on others as well. Derek DiManno, the owner and head instructor, is not only a phenomenal coach but also a great person! He truly does set the atmosphere of the gym, and from the top down it is a place where anyone can feel comfortable and welcome to learn bjj! If you’re looking for a place to train, Waza is it! I’ll hopefully see you on the mats soon!