Highlights: 48 classes/wk · Gi & No-Gi · Kids classes · Women's classes · Members only · Free trial · Competition team
Looking for Jiu Jitsu Foundation in La Mesa, CA? It's a Brazilian jiu jitsu academy at 8380 Center Dr A, La Mesa, CA 91942, USA, rated 4.9/5 across 79 Google reviews. Below: programs, schedule, pricing, reviews, and how to book a free trial.
JJF is a welcoming, family-oriented academy where owners Gabi and Cadu (both black belts) have built a supportive community focused on personal development alongside technical excellence. The atmosphere emphasizes safety, respect, and making students feel like family from day one.
Jiu Jitsu Foundation runs about 48 classes a week. Call (619) 741-3000 to confirm the current timetable.
Weekly women-only classes for teenagers and adults; Access to an online technique library for members; Structured adult programs with clear prerequisites (Intro, Fundamental, Intermediate, Advanced); Facility is professionally cleaned every evening
Rated 4.9/5 across 79 Google reviews.
My boys have been training at Jiu Jitsu Foundation for almost 8 years! The kids program is incredible. The classes are organized by age, skill, and size, which means the kids have training partners that are just right for their ability and experience level. There is a strong focus on safety, taking care of your partner, and community. The owners are both Brazilian black belts, and have children of their own. They understand very well how to work with children- to motivate them, while instilling discipline, and making training fun! The coaches pour their hearts into the kids, and truly care for each one. After my boys were training at JJF for just one year, my husband and I began training, as well. We've had just as a great of an experience as our kids. We've built close great friendships and feel like JJF is our 2nd home. JJF offers multiple different adult classes- fundamentals for beginners, intermediate, and all levels. Since we bega
Our 7-year-old started at the Jiu Jitsu Foundation four months ago and we couldn't be more pleased with the quality of jiu jitsu training he has received so far. Coach Panda and Coach Emma (Coaches Luke and Lucas, we love you too!) are incredibly special human beings and it is obvious how much they care about the wellbeing and success of their students. Our son came to the Jiu Jitsu Foundation with zero Jiu Jitsu experience and four months later was able to participate in his first tournament. It was truly amazing to see how much he has learned in such a short time. It's not just the time on the mat that makes the Jiu Jitsu Foundation special. It's the way they greet their students by name on the way in the door. It's the time they take to answer any questions we might have and to check in on us when we miss a class or two. I have zero hesitation in recommending the Jiu Jitsu Foundation.
If you're in La Mesa, CA, and looking for a place to train, Jiu Jitsu Foundation is the spot. From the moment you walk in, you feel the positive energy and strong community that Professors Cadu and Gabi have built. Their instruction is top-tier—technical, detailed, and rooted in years of experience—but what truly sets them apart is their passion and care for each student. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, you’ll find the perfect balance of challenge, support, and growth. Cadu and Gabi lead with humility, heart, and a deep commitment to the values of Jiu-Jitsu. It’s more than just a school—it’s a family. Proud to support what they’re building in La Mesa! 👊🥋 #JiuJitsuFoundation #LaMesaBJJ #TrainWithCaduAndGabi #JiuJitsuLifestyle #BJJCommunity #TrainHardStayHumble
Jiu Jitsu Foundation La Mesa is an amazing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school and truly one of the best in the East County area! The environment is welcoming, family-friendly, and perfect for all levels—from kids just starting out to experienced adults. The instructors are top-notch, and Gabi does an incredible job taking care of the academy and making sure everything runs smoothly. You can really feel the pride and care she puts into the school. The facility is always clean, the classes are well-structured, and the community is super supportive. If you’re looking for a high-quality BJJ academy in La Mesa, this is the place to be!
I’m 42 years old, still active duty 21 years in the military, and I can honestly say joining the Jiu Jitsu Foundation has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself. Walking in for the first time, I’ll admit I felt intimidated. That feeling is normal, but it doesn’t last long here. The staff and coaches are incredibly welcoming, and the environment is humbling in the best way. The coaches are thorough, patient, and clearly passionate about what they do. They don’t just teach techniques they break things down in detail and make sure you understand the “why” behind it. The hours are very flexible, which makes it easier to balance training with a demanding military schedule. The new app makes signing up for classes and tracking sessions effortless. On top of that, the building is always clean, the atmosphere is friendly, and the team makes you feel like you belong from day one. For anyone considering starting, no matter your age o
Even though I haven’t had the chance to train at Jiu Jitsu Foundation yet, I’ve been following the amazing work that Gabi and Kadu has been doing and it’s truly inspiring. their dedication to Jiu-Jitsu, the way that they leads by example, and the community they built through the academy have made it a true reference point for me. The values, the energy, and the professionalism that shine through everything she shares speak volumes about the quality of the training and the culture inside those walls. I have deep respect for Gabi and Kadu as an athlete, instructors,and leaders,Jiu Jitsu Foundation is definitely on my list of places I’d love to visit one day. If you're looking for a Jiu-Jitsu academy with heart, vision, and excellence, I highly recommend checking them out. Much respect and continued success to the whole team! Martina ❤️
Jiu Jitsu Foundation is at 8380 Center Dr A, La Mesa, CA 91942, USA. Call (619) 741-3000 to confirm class times or book a trial.
Jiu Jitsu Foundation doesn't publish pricing. La Mesa 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, Self-Defense, Private Lessons.
Head instruction is led by Cadu (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 La Mesa gyms.
See all BJJ gyms in La Mesa or browse jiu jitsu in California.