Rate My BJJ Instructor

2. Submitted by G McClure on Wednesday January 4, 2012 11:30 PM

AJ's top notch. He was my very first instructor and, because I was training at UCI, I was able to get his instruction at the university's rate, or, in other words, very cheap. I was completely out of shape and would run out of gas in no time at all, but AJ was always encouraging and had the kind of attitude that made me want to keep training hard, even when I was winded. Because I was new to jiu-jitsu I was interested in finding a full-on school and, as soon as I was able, I signed up with Gracie Barra Irvine. Now, I've had a first-rate experience at GB and I love it there. But that was my first opportunity to compare instructors and I can honestly say that, as excellent as my experience has been at GB, I can now appreciate just how good AJ was and the kind of detailed, high-level instruction that he was giving to students paying a fraction of the price at UCI. He's detailed, enthusiastic, controls the class well, and consistently demonstrates a high level of skill and dedication. In my opinion and as far as my own experience is concerned, you can't go wrong with this guy.

3. Submitted by Duc Phan on Wednesday January 4, 2012 11:34 PM

AJ is a very technical instructor. his teaching philosophy is very awesome. he does not teach the techniques, but the art. he pays close attention to everybody, makes sure that his students learn the basic techniques well, and thoroughly answers any question. he's also down-to-earth and tries to create a friendly learning environment. you don't just learn BJJ, but how to be a better person when training with AJ. AJ is the man.

4. Submitted by Ryan on Wednesday January 4, 2012 11:51 PM

AJ is a great teacher. I look forward to every class.

5. Submitted by Mike Torrijos on Thursday January 5, 2012 12:02 AM

The great thing I like about AJ, was that you can truly witness the concern he has for his students' progression in BJJ. He not only makes practicing the art fun, but he also makes it a friendly environment, which creates a much better training atmosphere to his class. He is always more than willing to help you out in any area of jiu jitsu you need help in and always gives a strong technical insight to your questions. The things he demonstrates are awesome. He doesn't just teach you the art, he makes you become better at it.

6. Submitted by Anthony Chin Loy on Thursday January 5, 2012 12:20 AM

AJ is an incredible teacher. His class at UCI is top notch. I have been training with AJ for about 6 months and have gained an incredible amount of knowledge in this short time. He gives a large amount of personal attention and will address any question with an answer suited for you, whether you like it simple or technical. His classes are run extremely well and are a ton of fun. He truly cares for his students from the casual learner to the competitor and encourages them to grow in the art as much as possible. Training with him is a great honor

7. Submitted by Ryan P on Thursday January 5, 2012 12:56 AM

AJ is a stud. He's as passionate about teaching as he is about BJJ. He gives attention to all areas of grappling--guard, top, takedowns, conditioning-- and offers phenomenal technique. He has a humble attitude towards the skills he possesses and teaches, at the same time he instills a similar attitude in his students. He cares about his students and pushes them to excel as much as they can, while still maintaining a safe environment. Down to earth and highly technical -- can't ask for much more in a BJJ instructor.

8. Submitted by Doug Nguyen on Thursday January 5, 2012 2:44 AM

AJ is a phenomenal teacher. I love how the class is structured and how we learn something new every session. Not only that, he incorporates the structure in how every move we learn is related to one another or something we learned in the past. He explains the technical aspects as well as which moves suit which kind of people/body types. Not only that, but he answers all of us students' questions very well. I absolutely love taking his class.

9. Submitted by LT on Thursday January 5, 2012 8:39 PM

I can only give the highest of recommendations for AJ. If you have the opportunity to train with him, do not pass it up. His enthusiasm for Jiu Jitsu and instruction makes it difficult for beginner and veteran alike to not get really excited about coming to class and getting better. I have had the opportunity to take classes from over 10 instructors all over the US, some of which were very high ranking practitioners, and AJ's instruction is easily comparable to the best. He does a great job of planning a curriculum of effective techniques for beginners and more advanced students. AJ's teaching really embodies the spirit of the art, technique over wasted strength and learning the way to use your body to its full potential. As I said earlier, if you can train with AJ, do it.

10. Submitted by Thomas S on Monday January 9, 2012 4:50 PM

AJ is detailed oriented and accommodating in his teachings of jiu-jitsu. I trained under him through the university so I imagine he doesn't get paid much to teach so you can tell he is very passionate in the art. His casual demeanor makes it easier for newer students who may not be as athletic to join in. While he never hesitates to show his personal style in fighting, he is also keen that his style may not necessarily fit with others so he makes sure to teach the complete game of jiu-jitsu and encourages others to develop their own game

11. Submitted by Dennis H. on Thursday February 9, 2012 1:00 PM

Very good instruction. AJ does not seem feel the need to rush through explaining techniques, rather he focuses on the details. He speaks and understands english very clearly which is advantageous because often times important details are lost in translation.Lastly, AJ is a true student/teacher of the art and places importance on the learning experiences of the student rather than on money.(which is exceptional when compared to many BJJ instructors)

12. Submitted by Ali khoshkish on Thursday March 8, 2012 3:23 AM

THE best Brazilian jiu jitsu instructor out there! It's a shame I can't make the class anymore due to my work schedule, but I would recommend AJ over many other instructors that I've had in the past. He runs his class better than black belt instructors and he teaches techniques without an accent and reviews them many times. Seriously, you'd be crazy if you didn't train under him. Love & Respect, Ali K.

13. Submitted by J on Thursday March 8, 2012 3:39 AM

It's been great having AJ as my instructor. He honestly cares about your progress from the very start and continues to every single training. I have to say that in all my time with martial arts instructors, he is one of the most invested. He's always open for questions and advice, even if it's a huge class. UCI is lucky to have him as the BJJ instructor, as am I.

14. Submitted by Christopher Liu on Thursday March 8, 2012 3:45 AM

AJ is a very passionate and welcoming instructor; from the start you will notice that the class has a very relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for beginners to transition in. The techniques are explained well and repeated as needed while any problems or concerns can be clarified with a simple question. Teaching and the students come first for him. He makes his fees as affordable as possible; you will definitely get your money's worth through AJ. The price for classes are extremely cheap, especially through the university, so there is no risk in giving him a shot.

15. Submitted by John A. on Thursday March 8, 2012 11:48 AM

AJ is a very technical, detail-oriented instructor that truly cares about the progression of his students. He focuses on the essentials and explains everything in detail; which I find it extremely helpful because not only he can properly demonstrate the technique, but also delivers a higher understanding to how/why such technique is effective. Being in his class, I find myself in a very relaxed atmosphere. AJ's students are well-trained and well-mannered; which definitely reflects on how awesome of an instructor AJ truly is.

16. Submitted by Ian on Thursday March 8, 2012 1:17 PM

As soon as you start a class with AJ, right from the start you can see that he truly cares about his students. It doesn't feel like a class, rather more a family, and he takes the time to give attention to each of the students who needs it. His instruction is extremely thorough and concise, which makes it very easy to learn from him, and even if you don't get it the first time, if you ask him, he'll demonstrate it again for you. The class in general has a great atmosphere, and everyone works together to help out one another, which is a testament to how AJ runs his classes, in which everyone is treated with respect. Attitude and disrespect is non-existent and everyone whom I've rolled with is both good and extremely respectful. I look forward to continuing my training with AJ for quite some time and learning the fine nuances of Jiu-Jitsu from this well-knowledged(if this is a word) instructor.

17. Submitted by Kyle H on Friday March 9, 2012 12:15 AM

A.J. is a knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate instructor. His instruction is technical, but the learning and training environment is very welcoming, which is crucial to the success of new students. He never hesitates to repeat or re-demonstrate his instructions as needed, but he's so thorough and well-spoken that you'll rarely need to ask for clarification. His classes are well-structured, he teaches techniques in a clear progression, and his enthusiasm makes you want to train harder and more often. Besides being an excellent, well-rounded BJJ instructor and practitioner, A.J. is affordable. You can't beat it.

18. Submitted by armando on Friday March 9, 2012 4:06 PM

easy to understand instruction & very patient with beginners.

19. Submitted by Robert on Monday April 2, 2012 6:43 PM

AJ is awesome. What I love about his teaching method is that it is more than just a class; it's more of a life lesson. The philosophy that comes with his teachings really makes an impact and drives us, his students, to want to achieve something more than just kicking butt. All-in-all, overall, good quality. Would recommend again and again.

20. Submitted by Matt S. on Wednesday April 18, 2012 1:26 AM

An extremely technical instructor and all around bada$$. I trained under AJ when I was attending UCI and haven't seen a more passionate BJJ teacher who cared more about the quality of his teaching than simply making a quick buck. When my thirst for knowledge grew, AJ took me to some of the top local BJJ schools in the area to help me find a BJJ school that was the best fit. What other instructors have you seen take time off their busy weekends to help their students explore other schools? Highly recommend this instructor!