Emerald Coast Jiu Jitsu (Beach Jiu Jitsu) — Local services in Upper Grand Lagoon

Had a chance to train at this facility, and I couldn't be happier to have done so. My experience first started with email correspondence with Brandi. I had some logistical questions (e.g. cost, waiver information, etc), and she was immediately responsive. To me, the immediate customer service was warm and quick. Thank you, Ms. Brandi.

For me, going into new environments can be daunting and never more so than in the combat arts. I'm an older "practioner" (#ImNotGoodAtBJJ). I have been to a few facilities, and they can go different ways. Gladiator Camps. Egos. New comers can be "bait." I don't think I made it more than 30 seconds when I walked in, and I saw one of the black belts (Rio) nod to what I learned to be the owner's son (Priam) indicating that I clearly looked lost. Priam greeted me quickly and with such beautiful energy and zero pretentiousness. A female presence, to me, indicates that the culture of a gym is pretty inclusive, and this place had a number of females. Between Priam, Rio, and female presence, I took these to be wonderful indicators of great culture. Whether I'm correct or not, I can say the gym culture was amazing, welcoming, inclusive.

As for competency, I'm not the best to gauge this. I'm only a blue belt. What I can say is that for me, I really enjoyed Priam's tutelage. There was enough detail that I could try the technique while not offering too much that I'd get lost in the weeds. I eventually got the opportunity to meet Mr. Shaffer, the owner. He could've gone the entire time not saying a word, but he opted to engage me. He could've gone the entire time focusing on his students' success, and he provided me with what I felt was helpful feedback on a technique I was doing incorrectly. Again, I think it speaks to the culture of a gym: local student or not, help everyone be better.

If the pace of the leader indicates the pace of the team, everyone followed suit. From black belt to white belt, it was an exceptional experience. I'll offer one more example and then I'll stop. If one researches gym etiquette long enough, at least to me, you'll be overwhelmed by what to/not to do while being a guest. One which stood out to me was the idea that a lower belt shouldn't ask a higher belt to roll. I don't know the validity of this etiquette, but I wanted to be a good guest in someone else's home. A purple belt offered to roll with me instantly (Jason and Julian). After that roll, other people paired up, and I was on the edge of the mat. Mister Rio didn't allow that to happen but about 3 seconds, and motioned for me to come over. He said, "Happy to have you. I'll go as hard as you go. How's that sound?" No menacing tone. No sense of arrogance. He was a person of his word. He let me flounder about, and I got my own little black belt lesson from Rio.

It's a pretty extraordinary thing to experience that sort of respect, kindness, and hospitality. Yes, the training was exceptional. The culture and leadership was every bit on par. To me, that speaks to the human portion. Thank you all at...

We’ve recently had to move away, and one of the hardest goodbyes was to Emerald Coast Jiu Jitsu. My two sons started training there in February, and from the very first day, I knew we had found something truly special.

This is hands down the best gym we’ve ever been to. The coaches are not only incredibly skilled professionals — they’re also amazing human beings who genuinely care about each child. They don’t just teach how to fight — they teach discipline, emotional control, respect for others, and how to be a kind, confident person. They model exactly the kind of behavior I want my kids to grow up with.

Every single class had multiple coaches on the mats, always engaged and giving personal attention to each child. The structure is fantastic — the mats are always clean, hygiene is a priority, and the kids follow meaningful rules like “no running,” “wash your feet,” and “shake your partner’s hand.” These may seem simple, but they teach responsibility and respect in a way that truly sticks.

My boys absolutely LOVED going there. The energy was so positive and motivating. They were always excited for class and constantly growing — not just in Jiu Jitsu, but as people. ECJJ also holds competitions and rewards the kids for their progress, which builds confidence and gives them goals to strive for.

They offer smaller group classes for 3-year-olds and free trial classes (even though their regular classes are full), and trainings Monday through Thursday — all at prices far lower than they could be for the level of care and quality they provide!

To everyone at Emerald Coast Jiu Jitsu: thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve made a lasting impact on my sons and our whole family. You should be so proud of what you’ve built — you're changing lives every day. We’ll miss you deeply, and we hope to come...

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I recently signed up my three-year-old daughter at Emerald Coast Ju Jitsu, and I couldn't be happier with our decision. From the very first visit, the atmosphere was incredibly professional, welcoming, and family-oriented. The staff made us feel right at home, creating an environment that is both inviting and supportive for families.

The cleanliness of the facility is outstanding, which is so important, especially when you're bringing young children into a new space. The instructors are phenomenal—patient, knowledgeable, and excellent at explaining each move in a way that's easy to grasp, no matter the age or skill level.

What impressed me the most about Emerald Coast Ju Jitsu is how attentive they are to the needs of different age groups. They make sure that all children are placed in the right class, focusing on age-appropriate learning and safety. Seeing my daughter excited and engaged in her class, learning new skills, and interacting with her peers has been wonderful.

Whether you're considering martial arts for yourself or for your child, Emerald Coast Ju Jitsu is the perfect place to start. It's more than just a dojo; it’s a community where each member is nurtured and respected. We look forward to continuing our journey here and highly recommend it to other families looking for a safe, clean, and professional martial...