Ronin Athletics MMA NYC - Gracie Jiu Jitsu and Self-Defense — Local services in New York

Well, what do you say when you're excited but don't want to sound like a lunatic blinded by some sudden urge to share your emotions with the world?

I've run into this guy (Christian) about 20 years ago while in college. Back then I was mostly interested in Thai boxing and JKD. Did it for about 2 years and then life happened (career, family etc.) so time was really scarce commodity and it still is. But I was very impressed with his humility and skills and ability to teach both (sort of a 3 legged stool). Mature beyond his years, completely immersed into martial arts before it was called MMA he was a very good instructor/coach and so I remembered.

Fast forward to the present: for about 5 years now I've been going to different places once or twice a month when I can squeeze out an hour or two without disrupting the family life. And it happens that Ronin is close to my current job and the schedule was spot on. BJJ became a necessary addition to the repertoire and as addictive as it is the need for mat time became obvious.

So I went to give him a try again. He remembered too and let me join a more advanced class which was tremendous for my game since I'm working hard on getting my white stripes (have you ever rolled with a black belt? if not, then you don't know what you're missing).

I try to stick to my schedule and divide the time between Ronin and other places so I actually can compare what I see/feel/get for my time and money.

That's about it for the story of my martial-arts life.

Now about Ronin:

pros:

there's a positive vibe in the air, i call it radiance, i don't know why or where it comes from (small room? nice people? dunno, it's there)

i have never seen anyone being disrespected there by any instructor or other guys/gals (no nasty comments, no teasing, no nonsense) and being crushed/submitted is enough of a reason for soul searching without some hurtful and discouraging "opinions"

i have never seen ego trips, nasty submissions, growling monkeys, meat head neck cranks or dazed and semi-hypnotized fighters-in-training-for-their-once-in-a-lifetime-chance-at-six-figure-UFC-contract (i hate those)

i have never seen cult like leader worship or heard of claims of superiority in every minute aspect of life with everyone scared to call out the crap for what it is (you get those quite often in this business)

I just found out last week, quite by chance actually, while stumbling on an instructional youtube video that Ryan Hall started his journey here: you see, the guys at Ronin are really humble, they don't boast

i have seen people being attended to, cared for, noticed and guided

i have seen above average instruction and techniques (for my level obviously), Christian competes regularly and you can see his matches, no bullshit there

yes, I think anyone can learn something here and maybe make some friends but it's ultimately your journey, you have to walk it and accept your weakness and insecurity as necessary ingredients for growth and improvement

Cons (semi):

it.s a fight gym not a spa, so don't expect septic environment: it gets sweaty and stuffy superfast but it.s not bad, be realistic. I am taking one star off for no shower s (out of principle)

are you a weirdo? If yes, then stay away, don't ruin it for me

do you have an insatiable need to win and dominate? If yes, then stay away, don't ruin it for me and go to some...

I was pretty intimidated watching Jiu Jitsu Videos and visiting the different Jiu Jitsu gyms in the city. I really appreciate the practical approach to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, applying leverage-based techniques to subdue your opponent. The problem for me was that I had a hard time understanding how I can get to some level of proficiency where I can train safely. I'm in my mid-40s, work in an office in midtown manhattan and have a wife and a small child, so any injury would seriously throw a wrench in my work/life obligations. But at the same time, I heard so many great things about BJJ that I really wanted to try it. After trying the different gyms in the city, I found Ronin Athletics through the Gracie University website. I watched the Rener Gracie videos (called Gracie Breakdown) on the Gracie Jiu Jitsu approach to learning Ju Jitsu. It was really well organized, methodical and complete with curriculums and offered online learning to supplement their in-school training. I searched for a Gracie certified training center affiliated with them and fortunately came upon Ronin Athletics - their official training center for all of NYC. My introductory lesson was with the head Coach and Blackbelt, Christian. The first lesson really helped me reconcile how I would get from point A to point B, in a safe way. I don't have any interest in competing at my age, but definitely would like to get to the point were I can spar with someone constructively in the advanced class and just make it part of my lifestyle. Anyway - if anyone has similar concerns as I did, you should definitely give this place some consideration - curriculum and how it is taught is really empowering. The atmosphere has been super welcoming and supportive, and the coaches lead by example - you can feel the same cool vibe from the members as well. It was self-evident from my first lesson and continues to be really motivating to see how I can improve without fear of getting hurt, until this whole COVID-19 situation. I don't really write reviews, but (aside from being home all day) what prompted me to write this is the fact that after the required closure of the gym, their online curriculum is still very helpful for me to continue towards my first Belt rank.... I hear a lot of other studios doing Zoom classes etc... but it's really impressive that they created this online university a while ago and I can continue training my basics, since the same lessons we go over our class is also presented identically online, with additional details.... also a big bonus was that Rener and Ryron Gracie, has been doing live seminars every weekend since closure for all of their training Centers all over the world. I don't know how long we'll be self-quarantining, but I definitely have a home with Ronin Athletics and can't wait to get back to regular practice. I wish them all the best during this hardship in their business. I'm really lucky I...

As a father and husband who's not getting any younger—let's just say the creaks in my joints are now my morning playlist—finding a supportive and enriching environment for physical and mental growth is like discovering a rare gem. Ronin Athletics, a Certified Training Center of Gracie University located in the heart of New York City, has been that gem for me. Engaging in the adult classes under the guidance of coaches Christian and Bart has been a transformative experience. Their expertise in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts is evident in every session, seamlessly blending rigorous training with the principles of self-defense. The adult classes cater to a range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced BJJ practitioners, ensuring a well-rounded and challenging experience. The gym's atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and friendly, fostering a community where respect and camaraderie thrive. The facilities are clean, well-maintained, and conducive to learning and practicing BJJ. Ronin Athletics truly stands out in New York City for its experienced coaching staff and the skilled student body it has cultivated.

My daughter's experience at Ronin Athletics has been equally positive and enriching. Coached by Aiden and Xavier, the youth classes strike the perfect balance between learning self-defense, developing Jiu-Jitsu skills, and having fun. The coaches exhibit a remarkable ability to connect with children, making each session engaging and educational. Their approach not only enhances physical skills but also instills confidence and discipline in young learners. The gym's accommodating nature ensures that every child, regardless of their skill level, feels valued and supported. Witnessing my daughter's growth and enthusiasm for Jiu-Jitsu has been a joy, and I am grateful for the positive environment that Ronin Athletics provides for young learners.

Overall Impressions Ronin Athletics embodies the essence of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, offering a welcoming, friendly, and highly professional setting for both adults and children to learn and grow. The gym's commitment to providing a clean, safe, and supportive environment is evident in every aspect of its operation. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a fulfilling activity for your child, or an adult seeking a comprehensive and challenging BJJ experience, Ronin Athletics is an excellent choice. The gym's ability to cater to all levels, coupled with its experienced coaching staff and well-rounded student body, makes it a standout in New York City. I wholeheartedly recommend Ronin Athletics to anyone interested in exploring the world of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, whether for self-defense, fitness, or...