
Okay writing this from personally personal experience and for my absolute love for this gym.
I got into Jiu Jitsu over a year and a half ago and while the gym I was going to was great, I found that I wasn't learning much and the environment just wasn't for me, especially as a first timer getting into a contact sport. I gave it my all but I could not keep up and I kept getting injured and I just felt like I could not fit in, no matter how much I tried.
Fast forward to half a year later, I moved to the Fremont area and stumbled upon Baem Jiu Jitsu!! Ironically, it was the stellar google reviews that led me to this place (SO JUST FYI). I had my first trial day and the gym was so welcoming and also so homey, there were way less people which I loved since I easily became intimidated at my last gym and there was also DENNEY.
If you've ever been in any sports at all throughout your life, you KNOW that a coach can either make or break your love for the sport. I went in expecting to be easily intimidated and also ignored (since I was still only a white belt with no knowledge) and Denney was the GREATEST.
You know those people in life who have found their "niches" and make it their entire personality to demonstrate not only how much more they know about it than anyone else but they also need you to take it as seriously as life or death or else you're just not good or committed enough? That is not Denney...
The man is an insanely knowledgeable and talented BJJ black belt MASTER but if you take one of his classes, you would instantly realize that he values it for you as a student because of the confidence and real world skills it gives you in life. He isn't obsessed with the fact that you need to compete or how well you can nail a technique or how many wins you've had, he simply wants you to think critically and really see Jiu Jitsu as a means of being able to figure tough stuff out and how to get out of messy situations.
Honestly I see BJJ as an entirely different sport than I did when I started and because of Denney, I've grown to love and be just as obsessed with the sport because of his passion and his classes. Trust me when I tell you, you NEVER want to miss one of Denney's classes, they're so fun, dynamic, and I swear you learn something entirely mind blowing each time you take his class. On top of that, he's one of the most genuine and kind hearted people I've met in this crazy intimidating sport. I even competed in my first comp this year, something I never thought I could or would even want to do! But being at Baem has taught me to much and it motivated me to push my comfort zone even more, on top of that, everyone is so kind, helpful, and supportive. I've never felt as if I didn't belong or that I wasn't good enough to learn, the community here is the best, so if you're new and like me, want to build your confidence, learn some valuable skills, and feel right at home while doing it, I highly recommend this gym and no where else. I will be a Baem BJJ member as long as I can, so highly highly...
Read moreEveryone is incredibly friendly and welcoming to new and experienced people.
I've trained and dropped in at many more gyms and still none have been able to make me feel so welcomed as well as provide me with such a high quality of instruction found. Denney doesn't just simply demonstrate a few moves each day. He teaches the mindset behind techniques and how they can be incorporated into larger game plans. To me, this makes learning Jiu Jitsu much more digestible and trains my brain cells to think more strategically about the bigger picture instead of just memorizing movements.
There's kids classes, dedicated classes for stand-up, open mats, and gi and no-gi classes.
The location has recently moved about 5 minutes from the first location and is MUCH bigger. There is now a huge mat space with brand new Dollamur mats, a shower, as well as a workout area with free weights, squat rack, hex bar, assault bike, battle ropes, and kettle bells. The fact that the gym has upgraded with so many additional amenities amidst a pandemic is a testament to the quality of the instruction and care Denney has towards the gym and...
Read moreI’ve been training at this BJJ gym for a few months now, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best spots in town. As a beginner white belt, I was nervous about jumping in, but the coaches here are incredibly welcoming and patient they take the time to break down techniques without making you feel dumb for asking questions. The hospitality is A1 from the moment you walk in; everyone from the front desk to the instructors makes you feel like part of the family. What really stands out is their kids program it’s top tier! My little one joined recently, and the structured classes keep the kids engaged while teaching discipline and fun fundamentals. The coaches are amazing with them, turning what could be chaotic into a positive, empowering experience. And let’s talk about the vibe on the mats: You won’t find any black belts here getting offended when a white belt like asks to roll or seeks advice. It’s all about growth and community, no egos in sight. If you’re looking to start BJJ or level up, this gym is a must-try. 5 stars...
Read more