Rio Combat Team — Local services in Alameda

If you’re looking for a gym that feels like home, Rio Combat Team (RCT) is the place to be. I’ve been a part of this incredible BJJ family for over 10 years, and it’s been an amazing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, RCT is a place where you’ll feel welcome, challenged, and supported, no matter where you are on your Jiujitsu journey.

What truly sets RCT apart is the environment that has been carefully cultivated by Diogo, owner and head instructor, a seasoned black belt with decades of experience. Not only does he have a deep understanding of Brazilian Jiujitsu, but also teach it in a way that’s both practical and approachable. Classes offer a blend of technique, strategy, and real-world application, all delivered with patience and precision.

Over the years, I’ve watched this gym evolve into a tight-knit family where everyone, from white belts to black belts, supports one another. The culture is welcoming, friendly, and inclusive. You’ll never feel like an outsider. The sense of camaraderie here is awesome, and it’s not just about getting better on the mats; there's opportunity to pick up long lasting friendships as you grow into the sport.

In addition to Brazilian Jiujitsu, RCT offers classes in Muay Thai and Judo, giving members a well-rounded experience and the chance to explore other martial arts. There are BJJ and muay thai programs for children and teens as well. They also offer specialized law enforcement training, tailored to the unique needs of officers who want to improve their control and defensive tactics in real-world situations.

RCT isn’t just a gym in Alameda, it’s homebase to a network of associated gyms that spans across Oakland and even into a few states outside California. This expansion speaks volumes about the quality of training and the positive impact RCT has had on the broader BJJ community. Wherever you go, you’ll always feel like part of the RCT family.

I can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re even a little curious about Brazilian Jiujitsu or you’re looking for a new gym to call home, give RCT a try. There’s no pressure to sign up, no “sales pitch” or hard sell, just the opportunity to see what this incredible gym has to offer. Come check it out, roll with us, and see for yourself why RCT is such a cornerstone of the Alameda BJJ community.

If you’re looking to get better at BJJ, be surrounded by friendly people, and have a great time while doing it, RCT is the...

Rio combat has been a great experience thus far. I have been attending for 11 months, this is my second review. Rio combat is the best thing I have done for myself. Don’t get it twisted, there is nothing easy about BJJ, it is the most challenging thing I have ever done. I have a master degree and it was easy compared to this, nothing compares, I had a total shoulder replacement, no big deal. I donated a kidney to my wife, no big deal. BJJ is a big deal, men half my age trying to choke me out every day, gassing out, falling out and yet I keep coming. Why??? Because I love the challenge, I love the guys, I love instructors, I love the way they push me and pick me up. I ain’t gonna lie and tell you it’s easy because like I said it’s the hardest thing I ever done but I love it because it makes everything else seem easy in life. Diogo has created a family that welcomes you when step on the mat and then over time will make you one tough sob. There is a wealth of experience at this dojo willing to train you and push while supporting you in the journey. BJJ is a marathon, I guess that is the most important aspect to understand going into this, you have to be in it to start this journey. I live in the journey so this is what I need in life. I invite you to come meet Diogo and the team at Rio and start your journey. Who knows it might just be the thing your life has been...

I came in here thinking I knew something, left knowing that I barely know anything. At 46 years old on my birthday I decided to join Rio Combat Team, and it was one of the best things I could have done for myself. I lost 20 pounds and got close to the best shape of my life, competed for the first time since college and made great friendships along the way. Starting from the top down coach Diogo sets the standard and creates a great family environment that is chill to be around. All the coaches and affiliates have something great to offer, my experience there has been nothing short of exceptional. Did I mention we went to Rio de Janeiro for a summer training excursion? RTC...