John's Gym Mixed Martial Arts and Jiu Jitsu

Fantastic experience: If i could give 10 stars or more to John's Gym I would do it in a heartbeat. On my first day upon entering John's Gym to observe the environment, I felt a sense of belonging. I was immediately greeted at the door as well as by everyone else inside. There were no egos as everyone was welcoming with open arms. As a veteran of 13 years in the Marine Corps I was amazed at the FREE veterans jujitsu class that are offered as well (which was my original purpose of observing the gym). The instructors at John's Gym have tremendous work ethic, and have impressed me with the vast amounts of knowledge, and the high quality of energy they demonstrate on a daily basis. Their knowledge instilled in me has helped lead me to a gold medal at my very first competition. Overall, John's Gym performance exceeded what was expected. Their knowledge and tireless instructions will be instrumental to the successful family oriented environment. I enthusiastically recommended this Gym for everyone. It will definitely be worth your time.

Fantastic experience: I had an great experience working out at John's Gym! I had just moved to Austin, and I searched all over for a great gym to practice BJJ, and I found it here. John's Gym offers world class BJJ and other martial art instruction for an incredibly good price. I have been to quite a few gyms in the past, and I never felt as welcomed as I did here. There is quite a gender and age mix of the martial arts practitioners, and you really are treated like family when you walk in the door. The Jiu-Jitsu instructor was amazing, but he was also very open and very easy going. You train very hard, and I got in great physical shape, but the instructor never tries to stroke his own ego -- he is most focused on you, the student. I don't have children myself, but I know that the gym offers a number of great children's classes as well. The kids always look like they're having an awesome time training. I was also very impressed with the cleanliness of the facility; the gym was very well kept. I would DEFINITELY still be training here if I didn't have to move away for work, and I was very bummed when I had to leave. Seriously, if you're at all interested in amazing BJJ or other fitness instruction, please check these guys out!

Fantastic experience: I joined John's Gym almost 2 years ago and still love going every day, and not just because I lost 50 pounds. Everyone that you meet at the gym is super friendly and just want to help you reach your fitness goals. The trainers are amazing and will make you work hard but you'll have fun doing it. I've never had so much fun working out before! No matter what classes you take, from cardio kickboxing to Jiu Jitsu to the Kettlebell classes you'll be having fun. Most likely you'll even leave your first day with a few new friends! John's Gym is the only gym that I've ever been to where I actually feel welcome and that everyone is actually happy to see me and happy that I am there. No matter what fitness level you're at, there's a spot for you at John's Gym. We really are a family.

Fantastic experience: John's Gym is truly a place "where every one knows your name". It's not a big, flashy gym, but it's got everything you need for a solid workout. It's the first gym I've been to that the owners, John and Jasmine, are participating in the classes with you. They honestly care about your success and are always right there cheering you on! I've met some pretty awesome people here that treat me and my kids like family. It's been almost a year now since joining John' Gym and I can honestly say I LOVE training here!

Fantastic experience: I have been a member at John’s Gym for a year now. In that time it has become a second home to me. The knowledge and experience of the trainers is excellent. The gym is clean, functional, and well equipped. But more important to me is the promotion of constructive growth and acceptance. Individuals who want to learn and develop in their chosen discipline thrive here; while show boaters, and more abusive people that might thrive at other gyms are quickly excluded. This gym and its trainers changed me from an unskilled and inexperienced boxer and helped me to become skilled and confident within the ring. I love this gym and I am grateful to John and Jasmine for the culture of family that they have created here.

Fantastic experience: Looking for a family instead of big box gym? You have arrived! Previously, I was a member of a large corporate gym for 12+ years and never felt like I was a real "part" of it. I was a nameless face lost in a sea of spandex. It was extremely easy to loose motivation and desire to make myself better. Personal attention, encouragement and support are what I need to succeed...and John's Gym was the beacon I had been in search of for so many years! I joined in January 2013, after the birth of my first child, and I've still not looked back. At John's Gym they are there for YOU. They want you to succeed...period. Coach Henry Marshall has been a godsend in my training and has unlocked a personal passion into the world of kettlebell sport I never knew existed. At this very moment, I am almost 8 months pregnant with baby #2 and am HEALTHIER and STRONGER than I've been in a over a decade! This place is home to me and I feel so lucky to be a part of their family. Thank you John's Gym! You are my beacon in a sea of spandex...

Fantastic experience: I moved up to Leander from South Austin and wanted a good gym to jump into the community and to get physically fit. I mean, just the name "John's Gym". It just made sense for me. But anyway, at 44 years old, I am a lifelong skateboarder and my body is pretty racked up and out of shape. I have zero experience boxing, so it was pretty intimidating at first, but all that went away once I started getting into it and focusing on the workout and being encouraged by the coach Ernesto and everyone there. Everyone there wants to learn and help each each other learn. We all push each other and encourage each other while we try to figure it out. I have not experienced any douche-baggery or hyper-aggro competitiveness, but at the same time, the workouts are not easy at all. I am physically and mentally pushed to my limit, and it is paying off for me in many ways physically, mentally, and spiritually. Ernesto doesn't fool around. He will carefully gauge where you are and push you to where he thinks you can go. A true professional in his area of expertise. I am also learning how to truly box and it is more fun than I ever thought it would be. My grandfather was a golden gloves boxer in the Army during WWII and now I am beginning to understand his passion for the sport. If you are looking for a quick gym to get in a quick workout before work, maybe this is not the gym for you. However, if you are looking for a community to encourage and be encouraged and learn truly useful skills, this is a great place to be. It is not a corporate style gym, so expect there to be some learning and growth on the staff side of things while we all navigate through the uncertain waters of these uncertain COVID era times. Have some patience and adapt and you will certainly thrive at this gym.

Fantastic experience: Really awesome place to train. As a total beginner to BJJ, I was pretty nervous about diving into martial arts (especially as a woman) but the team here is super welcoming to beginners. The coaches do an excellent job of balancing the pace of teaching new techniques for people at different experience levels. Grateful to have found this place!

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training BJJ here for almost 4 years. Starting Jiu-jitsu has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has had tremendous effects on all areas of my life. If you want some of the best coaching in the area, this is the place for you.

Fantastic experience: Been training here for a little more than a year and can't get enough. I look forward to noon BJJ class everyday, such a great group of people that are incredibly friendly. John has a ton of experience competing and teaching and it really shows in how he teaches class and dedicates tons of extra time to his students. If you want a high quality world class martial arts gym that's been around Austin for more than a decade, you've found the right place.

Fantastic experience: Since joining John’s gym, my kids built confidence, discipline, and respect for other. In addition, Self defense is a great skill to have!!!

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this JiuJitsu/ Muay Tai gym to anyone who is any level. My kids love it! My husband loves it! I can’t wait to start taking JiuJitsu myself!!! GO JOHNS GYM!!!

Fantastic experience: From the start everyone is very welcoming. It doesn’t matter your skill level- the coaches work with you where you’re at. They know how to push you, and motivate you to help you reach your personal goals. Even though I have a crazy schedule I have never regretted fitting in Muay Thai class!

Fantastic experience: John’s Gym is not just a gym that you go to for a weekly class to get some exercise. This gym is so much more. My daughter’s confidence has soared and my son’s wild energy has found an outlet. The coaches and staff have treated them as part of the team from day 1. I cannot speak highly enough about this place. I always strongly encourage anyone who is considering Jiu jitsu to check out Joh’s Gym.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training at John’s gym for coming on a year now. It’s been great! I had a couple years of BJJ before coming in, and have been to a number of gyms in different states. Ive since shifted my attention to Muay Thai. The vibe here is friendly, the coaches are approachable and helpful, and I’ve been progressing really well. I won’t hesitate to point anyone in North Austin and above to this gym for any boxing/MT/BJJ.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training at John’s for 4 months and have seen a crazy difference in my competence and confidence. I signed up for the dual discipline program (Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and have found myself more self mastered and with a ton of new friends. Highly recommend John’s Gym, today is the day to start!

Fantastic experience: Our kids look forward to going to John's Gym. They train with coach James, coach Kylie and have had great experience the last couple years. Jiu-jitsu is a great martial art form that focuses on self defense and our kids enjoy training with the other kids at the gym.

Fantastic experience: I have two sons that train BJJ at John's gym and they love it here. They both have learned so much since starting. They have grown both as grapplers and individuals. The coaches are very knowledgeable, great mentors and always willing to help. The gym is very clean, spacious and overall a great environment to train. The teammates are very positive, supportive and we have had a wonderful experience here.

Fantastic experience: Gym staff is fantastic and everything runs like a clock. Instructors are amazing, patient and attentive. Very friendly atmosphere. BJJ program is welcoming for all levels of experience. Best hobby and best way to workout!

Fantastic experience: A phenomenal gym for all North Austinites! Has a perfect blend of competition and family-friendly atmosphere. Great, knowledgeable coaches that are willing to spend extra time with students to improve skills! Plenty of classes and can act as a great replacement for a gym membership. I’ve been at the gym for 2.5 years and don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon!

Fantastic experience: Training at Johns Gym I feel like my Jujitsu has improved faster than it ever did before. We have a variety of teachers with very different styles which allows for a lot of freedom in picking and choosing what works for you, and creates a lot of discussion and critical thinking in the learning process. Furthermore when I came to Johns gym for the first time I was about 55lbs over my ideal weight with intense back and knee pain and lots of neck tension; one year later I have dropped about 30lbs and my aches and pains have also dropped in intensity by about 70%. You meet a lot of great people on the mats, of all ages and races and from all walks of life, it’s a good place to make friends, get fit, and have lots of fun learning and sparring! Absolutely satisfied with joining Johns Gym.

Fantastic experience: Nothing but good things to say about this place. John teaching jiu jitsu is legit af, the level 1 teachers are very knowledgeable and helpful as well. No one makes you feel dumb for not knowing what you’re doing. I’ve been training jiu jitsu here for a year and I’m down 45lbs. and I’m not stopping! Camaraderie, a killer exercise and a great skill to know! 10/10 would recommend!

Fantastic experience: When I first walking in to johns gym I had a massive smile on my face and was weighted 300 lbs, they immediately trated my like family and coached me through my journey. Now I’m a long time member and have lost nearly half my old body weight. I recommend johns for anyone wanting to train to fight or to reach you fitness goals

Fantastic experience: I came into John's Gym a year ago on a curiosity. Brazilian jiu jitsu interested me as a different way to work out and get back in shape while learning something new. I got HOOKED immediately. BJJ is amazingly addictive, and John's Gym is the perfect place to learn it. I wasn't sure what to expect as far as the vibe at a "fight gym". I worried it might be intimidating. Those worries were unfounded. It is welcoming and even familial atmosphere. The coaches are all great. My favorite are the weekday noon sessions taught by John himself. I'm amazed at how much I have learned one year in. As well, I have dropped 30 lbs! As of three weeks ago, my fiance has joined me in training. She heard me rave about it for long enough and had to try. She is hooked now, too! If you're considering it, then it a try, you won't regret it. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: John's has been a game changer in my training. I have advanced so far in such a short amount of time and I couldn't be happier. The coaches and the staff are not only world class but provide knowledge and support for the all the newcomers as well as the more advanced folks. Coming in 3X a week for muay thai is my therapy and I think everyone in this country could benefit from pushing their body to the absolute limit and getting punched in the face from time to time

Fantastic experience: I boxed at John’s Gym for three months in the fall of 2021. I’ve moved cities since then, and just took my first boxing class at another gym. Let’s just say, I did not know how good I had it at John’s Gym!! I cannot say enough good things about the place, but I’ll try to sum it up here. I was so nervous when I walked into class on my first day. I’d never boxed in my life and didn’t know the first thing about the sport, but I went anyways because I felt a strong pull towards it. That first class changed my life. Ernesto (low key one of the best humans on Earth) pulled me to the side and showed me the basics. The first time I heard the slap of my glove hitting his, I knew I was hooked. I could feel it in my whole body, the feeling of pent up anger and tension being dissolved and released. Ernesto was so incredibly patient and enthusiastic and thorough. He is such a damn good teacher. Leaving class that first day, I felt like a different person, like a whole new part of me had been activated. I felt stronger and tougher and more confident, and as a woman, that was a big deal. I could even feel myself walking differently after that day, faster and more upright. Over the next three months, I fell more and more in love with the sport. Ernesto and Roger gave me so much guidance and encouragement, and helped me improve fast. I got in the ring and sparred with them and my other classmates every Saturday. It was scary at first and then fun and then unbelievably thrilling. I could literally feel myself turning into a cooler version of me. By the end of my time there, I was helping teach new people the basics. This was hugely motivating and validating. These classes became the best part of my life, and undoubtedly put me on a path toward knowing myself better and being a more self assured person. I cannot thank y’all enough. I wish I could take John’s Gym and Ernesto and Roger and the whole crew with me to every new city I move. Alas, I’ll just have to come visit.

Fantastic experience: Much more of a homey feel environment compared to other gyms I have been to. I’ve always felt welcomed by all the coaches, especially Coach Ernesto. He is a fantastic boxing coach and anyone would be lucky to have him. The kids here are great and living so close by it only makes sense to train here. Lucky to be here!!

Fantastic experience: Great facilities and even better coaches. Great combination of learning and exercise, would highly recommend to anyone new or experienced already.

Fantastic experience: This place has a great energy to it with many welcoming teachers and members. Would highly recommend for anyone either just starting or returning to the MMA scene.

Fantastic experience: There aren't enough good things i could say about this gym. I've been training BJJ for almost 9 months now, and i feel the time I've put in is invaluable. The coaches and teammates have made me feel so welcomed and comfortable from my very first class. All of the coaches take their time and make sure EVERYONE understands what's being taught, and all of my teammates couldn't be more encouraging. I feel like I've gained a second family, and i couldn't imagine training anywhere else

Fantastic experience: Started boxing here to train for self protection and I absolutely love it. Ernesto is an awesome coach and has even stayed after hours to help me when i first started.

Fantastic experience: My 17 year old son joined John's Gym 3 weeks ago. I have to say, that from the moment we first visited to now, I feel very confident in the instructors and staff at John's Gym . My son is a beginner and they eliminated any insecurities he and I had that usually comes along with joining a gym. My son is excited to go and he learns something new to improve his skills everyday that he is able to go. I highly recommend John's Gym at every level.

Fantastic experience: Amazing facilities, remarkable coaching and even better people! When becoming a member at John’s they will welcome you in like family. They are very patient and phenomenal at coaching people new to martial arts. This place can be an awesome opportunity for people new to Austin to meet and make friends with some high quality individuals. Also this is a true MMA gym with very high level coaching in BJJ/grappling as well as striking. Very common to be on the mat with multiple black belts in a class who are experts at their craft and can help you improve yours, while in the striking classes you get precise coaching on your technique and aren’t just hitting a bag the whole class. 5 stars, 10/10 review. Don’t hesitate and stop by and give them a try!

Fantastic experience: Although my son and I are rather new to Jiujitsu, not a single moment inside of Johns Gym has felt in any way uncomfortable. We felt completely welcomed here, and relaxed. Which is hard to say because BJJ is very intimidating at first, but with the genuine care that everyone shows to all the grapplers, that intimidation is lifted instantly. While here, my son and I have grown to love BJJ and look forward to each class we take. Everyone is beyond friendly, and knowledgeable, they dont leave anyone feeling like they cant do this and really take the time to teach. Even with the class having people at different levels with their belts, everyone is amazing, and helps teach each other so everyone grows together. You for sure feel like family while attending the classes because you can see and feel the groups desire to grow as a group rather than individuals. I cant express how happy I am that I found Johns Gym and allowed myself the opportunity to not let my intimidation get the best of me. This place is amazing!

Fantastic experience: If you never want to have to join another gym again, this is it. It is such a fresh air to finally find a gym that is locally owned with the owners in the gym every day and hold you accountable to workouts. I have spent the last 20 years before John's gym joining and cancelling gym memberships and finally found something i have used for three years now. I have used Jas for training and been to several classes before and after Covid and the staff has done great job of keeping me motivated, safe and in a clean environment before and after Covid. The best part is that its not your normal gym with members coming and going(with their germs) and sales people just trying to get your credit card. If you are looking for some life changing workout environments, this is the place. If you just want a cheap membership and a fad type gym with some new type of 15 minute workout, you need to keep driving!!!

Fantastic experience: From day one of just signing up everyone at John’s gym has been really friendly. After signing up I got tons of messages welcoming me to the team. I’ve trained at several gyms for Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai and I can tell you their instructors know what they are talking about. There has been no harshness and instruction is detail oriented. I’m very glad with my choice to join here and I look forward to growing with the team.

Fantastic experience: Joining a new gym, especially a martial arts/boxing gym can be a little intimidating for someone who has never practiced the arts before. I can say for sure that this is definitely not the case with John’s gym. From the minute I walked through the door I was wholeheartedly welcomed from the owners, staff, coaches and fellow members. This is definitely a no judge zone. I started with boxing which was excellent but after an injury I figured I would give jui jitsu a try. I had never wrestled or done jui jitsu in the past, but did not need to. They have classes for every level and allow you to proceed at your own preferred speed. Owners and staff are attentive and friendly, coaches all are excellent, and the fellow members are there to help you improve. I highly recommend people give this gym a look if you want to try something new to get into shape and learn a new skill. That goes for both adults and kids.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training at Johns gym for almost 3 years now and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. I love coming and training Muay Thai here. Coach Branden is great and has really invested in teaching me everything he can. Also love being able to use the gym for extra workouts between classes. Highly recommend checking out any of the classes, especially Muay Thai!

Fantastic experience: Kylie and the front desk staff are great and make me feel welcome so I'm glad to be a member. Coach Ernesto is the absolute best! I first met him in March when he came to my school to teach a seminar, now I have the privilege to learn from him on a regular basis here at John's gym.

Fantastic experience: I came in as a newcomer and was treated with warmth and professionalism. Kylie and each trainer were friendly and informative. I tried BJJ, Muy Thai and Boxing, and experienced consistently strong workouts with excellent tips for growth in the off hours. The pricing is very fair considering the quality and skill of the coaches. The trainers will work to accommodate your goals and constraints. I would recommend to anyone of any age.

Fantastic experience: I tried many gyms in the area when I moved here and all of them are very good. ATX has an excellent Jiujitsu community. Johns Gym stood out to me because of the people. From the top down everyone is wonderful, helpful, welcoming and have excellent bjj. I am very happy to be a student and coach for Johns gym

Fantastic experience: John's Gym is a great place to go and learn martial arts or to just get a great cardio workout. If you want to learn how to defend yourself from people who may mean you harm,this gym can definitely help you accomplish that goal. I have been training there for years and I have learned so much about how to handle a fight and I have gotten way tougher and stronger. It's night and day from when I started until now. I encourage you to give this gym a try if you have similar goals.

Fantastic experience: I wrote the review below about 2 years ago and we are still here and still just as amazed with this gym! I now have 3 kids all training Jiu Jitsu here as well as a husband! I love the setup of the kids class which allows for kids to move at a pace that works for them. Coach James teaches the kids in the younger class and his love for Jiu Jitsu and his passion for teaching it to the younger generation is undeniable. If you’re looking for a great gym for you or your kids, THIS IS IT! My son has been taking the kids Jiu jitsu class here for about 5 months now (and will be continuing) and has loved every second of it! The coaches here are fantastic, the owners are great down to earth people who make you feel like you're part of the family and the classes are fun. I would highly recommend this gym, and not just for their fantastic kids classes!

Fantastic experience: 2-3 years ago my son started taking Jiu Jitsu classes at John’s Gym. The impact that Jiu Jitsu and the coaching staff made on my son led me to start training Jiu Jitsu. I saw his confidence building, he was getting tougher mentally and physically and I realized that I could also get similar benefits from training here. Fast forward a couple of years and now I have three kids that train here. I love the coaches at John’s Gym and am thankful to have this community to have my family be a part of.

Fantastic experience: I have been at John's gym now for about 4 months. John and the front office staff are amazing. They were super flexible to my specific situation and they always greet you with a smile. The coaching staff is great as well as the people who train there. Everyone is so helpful and the utilization of technology to keep everyone informed and in the loop is simple but super effective. My experience here has been nothing but positive. Thank you John, I'm having a blast training with you guys!!! - David Q.

Fantastic experience: This is our 3rd gym for Jiujitsu for my kids and it is by far THE BEST one we found and we are here to stay!! The kids love it here and all the coaches are fantastic. John is very knowledgeable and knows how to teach the kids really well. I am so happy we found this place and after only a few months, we already feel like we are part of this gym's family. Don't look further, this is the best place is town and my kids have learn a lot more here. Quality teaching is hard to find.

Fantastic experience: John and the team have been outstanding! I experienced a knee injury a few years ago and wasn’t certain if ever make it back to training. I found John’s gym and gave rolling another go. John listened to my story and showed that he truly cared about helping get back and helped ease me back into the fold. I’ve been training the last 3 months and my knee has never felt better and my confidence is back! John and everyone single person I’ve met at the gym all have great attitudes and genuinely want to help others out with improving their game. The culture at the gym is very laid back and inviting. I’ve experienced other schools around Austin and John’s is truly a cut above. Highly highly highly recommend John’s gym to anyone thinking about starting to train or just looking for a new gym. Damn good Brazilian jiu-jitsu and a fun friendly atmosphere!!!

Fantastic experience: I came to John's Gym to learn Muay Thai and strengthen up and I've been very satisfied with the results. The staff and coaches are very friendly and supportive. The will Immediately call out when your doing something wrong and make sure your doing it correctly before moving on. They always stick around to answer any questions or help improve your form. The coaches will also push you to do your best during workouts which is something I admire a lot. I used to stop during workouts at the gym thinking I couldn't go anymore or that I hit my limit, then get frustrated when I didn't see the results I wanted. Coaches here showed me I could do more and go further and just after 2 weeks, I could already feel my energy levels growing and my body changing. I would recommend John's Gym to anyone wanting to get fit or break away for the regular gym routine. And those wanting to learn martial arts /self defense.

Fantastic experience: I've been training Jiu Jitsu at John's Gym for close to 5 months on a friends recommendation. Very welcoming and knowledgeable staff and great patrons. John(owner) once told me that one of the things he was most proud of was the culture he and his team had cultivated within the gym. I cannot recommend John's Gym highly enough.

Fantastic experience: Started training BJJ here 6 months ago with zero experience. Highly recommend this gym for any age (kids classes look amazing) or experience level. The coaches are patient and skilled, the people are friendly, and most importantly there is no ego in the gym. What this means is when you train with someone more skilled than you they're there to help you grow. I ask a lot of questions and am always surprised that people/coaches are willing to spend so much time on me. If you're looking to improve yourself this is the place for you. Without a doubt one of the best decisions I've made.

Fantastic experience: I joined John's Gym about 3 weeks ago and love it. I took a trial class, and afterwoods spoke to several of the students as well as John. Everyone was very friendly, helpful and excited to be there. Although I am new to BJJ, the instructors and my fellow students have been very patient and encouraging. This is a great group of people. I highly recommend John's Gym.

Fantastic experience: This has got to be the best gym I ever joined. When I walked in two months ago I was greeted with friendly faces and smiles+ and to this day that hasn't changed. Where else can you find a gym that let's you have a free trial for 30 days. I knew after day 1 though that this was the gym for me. The instructors are great and actually want to see you get better. The classes offered here are great and so are the people. The atmosphere is great for the whole family.

Fantastic experience: John's Gym is great! I had always wanted to try Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but I was always scared to get started. After looking at a number of gyms, Jasmine showed me around and set me up with a test class. I was hooked, and immediately signed up. Everyone at the gym, from the owners and coaches to the other members, couldn't be nicer. The gym has a family vibe, and everyone really makes you feel welcome. The instruction is at a very high level, and the coaches really know how to get the best out of their students. I have been a member a little over a month taking BJJ and cardio boxing. I can't wait to continue to learn and grow for years to come. I would highly recommend John's to anyone looking to learn new skills, get in shape, and make friends.