Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu

So here goes. I’ve reviewed some food and stuff but this is my first attempt at a place I train at. ***NOTE: I’m not under duress of getting beaten if I post a review or not!!!***
I began at the Renzo Gracie Academy (RGA) Weston almost 3 months ago. As I hit my 35^th birthday, I realized I’m tired of working out (lifting weights, etc.) and wanted to do something fun. A friend of mine refers me to RGA and I take the intro class. You typically get amped when you try something new but BOOM! I’ve found something awesome! I opted for the Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu because for me, crossfit, my knees may explode!
The normal thing for newbs like me is to hit the mat 1 — 2 days/​week. Sure I did that for the first month, but after that, I upped it to 3 days/​week. Why? Because I enjoy it! I’m doing this review different — pros/​cons.
Pros: Excellent location. What’s not to like about Weston? Plus you can pick up your dog food next to the academy. | Great facility. Not trashed and the folks there keep it up nicely. | THE PEOPLE! This is HUGE! This isn’t like you walk in and you get sized up. From the instructors to the students, it’s a family-​like environment. Everyone is so pleasant to each other. | The instructors are awesome! They’re not trying to get you to win UFC 4,000 (if you want to, they’ll get you on your way), they’re there to teach you an art… a martial art. They teach self defense. They teach confidence. From the blackbelt to the white belt, attention is given intimately in a way which fosters learning. | Class size. The MULTITUDE of classes can A. fit your schedule and B. are never overwhelming. You’re going to get your questions answered, you’re going to get attention. There’s never anyone stuffed in the back wondering what’s going on.
Cons: Far from me. Yup… I drive 20 miles 3 days/​week to this place! There’s closer BJJ academies with all of the big names but why when you’ve found a home elsewhere? BUT… It’s not too much of a con since I continue going. There’s a story you might remember if you’re over 30… about 3 bears… porridge, beds, etc… Well this academy is «JUST RIGHT» for me. I don’t mind the drive. | Aroma… Again, not a huge con as it’s to be expected in a training facility — just don’t want you bashing my review if you notice an olfactory overload at first. It grows on you but after 20 dudes get done training, YOU are going to have 19 other folks sweat intertwined with yours and the flavor you give off definitely says, «I just trained… booyah!»
So whether I do this for another 2 months, 2 years, or 2 decades… This is one place to get some cardio, strength training, and camaraderie all-​in-​one and I’m enjoying every second.

I have trained at Renzo Gracie Weston for about three years, and I can say that it has been one of the most positive changing experience in my life. I was very lucky to run into amazing people at this academy, it feels more like a second home to me.
Professor Stan is very knowledgeable, patient, and brings an outstanding positive, fun attitude and energy to his classes. Professor Juan, Nai, and all of the staff are excellent on what they do. THEY ARE THE BEST!