Highlights: 44 classes/wk · Gi & No-Gi · Kids classes · Women's classes · Members only · Free trial · Competition team
Looking for Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Elk Grove, CA? It's a Brazilian jiu jitsu academy at 2525 W Taron Ct, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA, rated 5.0/5 across 113 Google reviews. Below: programs, schedule, pricing, reviews, and how to book a free trial.
Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers (gi & no-gi) adult and kid (ages 4-16) martial arts programs in the greater Sacramento area. Try a Free Class Today!
Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu runs about 44 classes a week. Call (916) 667-3575 to confirm the current timetable.
Women-only classes; Structured beginner onboarding with 'coaching rolls'
Rated 5.0/5 across 113 Google reviews.
I came to Waza to learn Jiu Jitsu, but I received more than I could have ever imagined. I was 37 years old when I walked into Waza and I had zero grappling experience. I’ve been wanting to learn BJJ for many years, but always felt so inadequate when watching the sport online or during MMA events. The last straw for me was my son being born. I knew I wanted him to train BJJ and I wanted to be the example and show him that if Dad can do it, he could too. My baby boy was my “why”. I am forever grateful for how welcoming Waza was to me. I used to think if I walked into a Jiu Jitsu school without any knowledge of how to “fight”, I’d just get beaten up and bullied until I either quit or became a bully myself. I have never been so wrong in my life. I remember in the early days I would constantly hear my training partners talking to each other saying things like, “hey, it’s his first week, go light, no subs, just show him how to move”. I quickl
From what I understand, Waza BJJ is 1 of the 2 original Bjj academy's here in Elk Grove. I joined in September of 2021 and it was one of the best decisions I've made in life. Jiujitsu, in and of itself, is the perfect outlet for the everyday stressors of life. But mind you, this is NOT fight club. More so, it is a place where people go to help each other get better. Speaking of helping each other, I want to talk about the Vibe of this Academy: nothing but open and welcoming arms. There are no "gate keepers", you'll be met with a smile, if it's your first time here, and you'll continue to be greeted the same way every time you show up. When respect is given, respect is earned. It is truly humbling to learn the broad strokes, and the intricacies of the "Ground Game." And you'll love every step of the way. You'll be shown the ropes by our cadre of coaches, lead by Derek DiManno (owner and head coach). You'll have plenty of training partner
A Family's Journey At Waza Jiu-Jitsu Our family of four has recently embarked on a transformative journey together through the world of Jiu-Jitsu. From the moment we all stepped onto the WAZA mat at the ages of 8, 7, 4, and uhhh… 40 it was clear that Jiu-Jitsu was going to be more than just a sport. The school's emphasis on discipline, respect, and self-defense has been invaluable in shaping our children's character. They've developed a newfound sense of confidence and resilience, both on and off the mat. Our kids absolutely adore their Jiu-Jitsu teachers! They're patient, encouraging, and have a remarkable ability to make learning fun. It's evident that they genuinely care about helping our children develop their skills and confidence. We're incredibly grateful for their dedication. Coach John and Chris are exceptional. In a class of 50 kids, they know all their names and maintain a disciplined yet supportive environment. In today's wo
2017: My 7 yr old daughter is very petite for her age, so we've always known that we would introduce her to some type of martial arts for self defense. We were introduced to Waza BJJ by a friend 2 years ago and decided to enroll her. My daughter loves going to class and interacting with other students and her instructor, John. John is an awesome instructor. He plans the lessons in a way that the kids are learning new moves, while still having fun. My daughter has become a confident student. She learned to be fast and use good techniques, instead of soley relying on muscle strength. My daughter said, "I'm never going to quit. I'm going to do jui-jitsu until I pass away! .... I listen to John and do what he says. I make good choices. Not bad choices. And be good, helpful friends to other students.. ... It doesn't matter how big or small you are, you just try your best. Sometimes, you just try a move again and agian until you get it right.
Waza BJJ is easily one of the best Jiu-Jitsu academies I've ever trained at—and I’ve been training for over 20 years and have been a black belt for more than 10. Head instructor Derek Damano is a true standout. A black belt under world champion Casio Werneck, a former D1 wrestler, and a decorated international competitor, Derek brings a level of knowledge and athleticism that’s almost impossible to match. He’s the kind of coach who can break down the most complex techniques and still keep things fun and engaging. The coaching staff is excellent, with a strong group of black belts and high-level instructors supporting the program. The kids classes are thriving, and the coaching team does a phenomenal job keeping the classes structured, fun, and effective. Kids love it—and parents do too. What really sets Waza apart is the atmosphere. Derek is one of the coolest, most down-to-earth guys in Jiu-Jitsu—calm, upbeat, and genuinely fun to be a
This is a long overdue review to express my gratitude for the positive impact Waza BJJ has had on me. I started training at Waza 8 years ago and through different life stages (career, children, Covid), I’ve spent what sometimes feels like more time away from the mat then on it. However, every time I get back on the mat, it feels like returning home. There are new faces but I always feel welcome coming back because that’s the environment promoted. It is a gym that is open, energetic, focused, and fun! People share knowledge about BJJ and life. It is a great place with amazing people. I train in the 6:30 am class and there is open mat available even earlier! I find the morning schedule is perfect, especially when I have to get the kids to school by 8. Believe me, there is no shortage of tenacious grapplers in the morning. It is a good class! Chris, who opens the morning open mat is the epitome of sheer determination and force of will. The
Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is at 2525 W Taron Ct, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA. Call (916) 667-3575 to confirm class times or book a trial.
Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu doesn't publish pricing. Elk Grove BJJ typically runs $150-$250/month for unlimited. They offer a free trial so you can test the room first.
Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi Grappling, Kids BJJ, Little Kids (3-6), Teens BJJ, Women's BJJ, Competition Team, Wrestling, Self-Defense.
Head instruction is led by Derek DiManno (black).
Beginners are welcome. Use the trial class to watch a fundamentals or all-levels session and meet the coach before signing up. No experience or gear needed for your first class at most Elk Grove gyms.
See all BJJ gyms in Elk Grove or browse jiu jitsu in California.