OSMA — Local services in Herndon

As a former longtime student of this Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school, I’ve had the opportunity to witness its evolution over the years, both the good and, unfortunately, the bad. It’s disappointing to see the current state of the academy given how strong and community oriented it once was.

One concerning trend that stands out is the sudden influx of overly positive reviews from individuals who, to my knowledge, are not actively training there. As someone who was part of this community for a long time, it's disheartening to see marketing tactics seemingly being used to mask deeper issues within the academy.

Over the past six months, class attendance has dropped noticeably. During that same period, membership prices increased while several class offerings were quietly removed. These changes have made it difficult for students to justify the value they’re receiving.

Equally troubling is the frequent turnover in school management. I’ve personally witnessed several transitions, and in each case, the instructors and staff who invested heavily into the program were not treated well. The owner has a pattern of leveraging their influence, only to part ways poorly when they begin to advocate for themselves or challenge poor behavior.

The current primary instructor tends to dominate class time with excessive talking, often drifting off-topic. The focus on consistent instruction and student development has taken a back seat to what feels like personal extracurricular female interests.

If you're considering joining, I strongly encourage you to do your research. Speak with current and former students if possible. Be aware that the school has previously had negative reviews removed, which may distort the online reputation.

I no longer recommend this academy. It’s unfortunate to see a once promising gym decline in this way, but transparency and accountability are important, especially in a community that should be built on trust, respect, and...

I trained here for two years before moving out of town. Had a phenomenal experience at this school. So much so that I think about this school often. I miss the instructors, staff and curriculum. All the instructors were great. Nino, John, Chris, Less all helped me on my journey in profound ways. The other students and the community are always a big plus. I always felt at home. Pedro would be visiting every once in a while and it was great to hear his philosophy. Something I think people underestimate when I bring it to other school. I only wish they kept Chris’ Judo class around. People felt it was too hard, but in my opinion that’s what made it great. Chris helped me see the importance in grip fighting and Kazushi. I saw the holes in my standing game and it was improving. It was too short lived. If life every brings me back in the area, I would rejoin...

I have been taking Muay Thai classes here at OSMA . The teachers and the students are very respectful and careful, the place doesn’t have any bro culture , so you get top notch instruction in safe environment. You have some advanced students with black belts in other martial arts, so you get to see and learn some of the tricks they know.

The only complaint I have is that they don’t stretch enough and get right into the techniques. The Muay Thai class is preceded by a BJJ class which is always packed ( no surprise it’s an amazing BJJ school ) , so even if you want to go early to stretch and warm up by yourself there is no space . None of the other students care about it , so I think it’s just my...