Renzo Gracie Ramapo Valley

I’ve obsessively trained in jiu jitsu for 4 years under some amazing instruction. As a woman, mother of 4, professional often traveling for work, I believe that having the ability to defend yourself is imperative. Jiu jitsu is a discipline that not only trains you to physically defend, but also mentally strengthens your confidence. Having said that, my journey and obsession was to learn and advance in technique and skill. Professor Dan has so much knowledge and passion for the sport, encompassing Judo, Jiu Jitsu, wrestling, and striking. He truly embraces students who share the passion and goals. He teaches so much valuable lessons, his curriculum has such high level skill and technique for every position and possible counter, you can’t blink! In less than a month, I went from stagnant blue belt to advancing at such a rapid pace, accelerating my game, accelerating my strategy, accelerating my awareness under Professor Dan. It was a visible transformation! As a coach, he watches, shares feedback, and if you’re humble enough to want to learn, he will take all the time you need to show and teach to enhance your game.
The environment he has created in this school is truly what a healthy family environment ideally looks like. He is a father of two beautiful boys and a loyal and loving husband. Juliana, his wife, is just as dedicated to him, to the school and the philosophy of jiu jitsu. This is the foundation the school is built upon. And all the students in here share the same philosophy. We are treated like family and therefore treat each other the same. The focus is not just on our own development, but for each other as well.
The school is small, but it is perfect! The spirit in here is unmatched, and hearts here are unmeasurable! Best of the best!

Professor Dan is a world class bjj instructor, helping to elevate the skillset of all his students. My family and I have been training with Dan for 4+ years and have seen the growth and confidence he has instilled through is instruction and live training. He offers a welcoming environment to adult, teen, and kids of all levels.

As a parent, I couldn't be more pleased with the progress my children have made while training at Renzo Gracie Ramapo Valley. From the very first day, the instructors have been incredibly supportive, dedicated, and professional in guiding my children through their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. The atmosphere at the academy is warm and welcoming, and it’s clear that every instructor is passionate about helping each student grow both on and off the mat.

My children have not only improved their martial arts skills but have also gained so much confidence, discipline, and respect. The focus on personal development has been truly remarkable – I've seen my kids grow in character, resilience, and teamwork. It’s amazing to watch them embrace challenges, push through obstacles, and celebrate their achievements, all while fostering strong friendships with their peers.

What I appreciate most about Renzo Gracie Ramapo Valley is the personalized attention each student receives. The instructors are patient, observant, and tailor their lessons to suit the individual needs of every child, ensuring that they progress at their own pace while still being challenged. The emphasis on respect, focus, and perseverance is instilled in every class, and I can see the positive impact it's had on my children's overall development.

I’m incredibly grateful for the positive influence this academy has had on my children’s lives, and I wholeheartedly recommend Renzo Gracie Ramapo Valley to any parent looking for a school that fosters not only training excellence but also growth in character and confidence. It’s truly been a rewarding experience for our family!

This place is amazing. I am relatively new to the sport as well as the New Jersey area, so I consider finding this place a blessing. If your looking for a clean, judge-free, area to develop, grow and hone in your skills, this is the place I recommend you come too! The community has been respectful, supportive and very welcoming. It has parking AND full access to a gym (with a nice locker room + sauna combo might I add). Before joinning, I looked around at some other schools in the area (since i just moved here) and honestly, walking into this school, I felt at home. I've been here for about 2 months, going on 3 months and I have learned A LOT. The instructor Dan is very patient, and passionate about the sport/practice, the community and dojo, and it shows in the way he teaches. If your reading this review and are considering giving the school a visit, pack a gym bag and sign up for a trail class! Your gonna have so much fun, your
gonna forget your working out!! Come experience this amazing dojo first hand, and see what I'm talking about!

I really enjoy coming to classes here! Professor Dan is knowledgeable about Jiu-jitsu and is always great about taking time to answer questions. The mat space is clean and with the connection to the gym there are great showers and steam room. The students at the gym are very friendly and everyone makes you feel welcome and safe! Definitely a great place to train!