been training for about 4 years now and ive visited probably 15+ gyms across the metroplex. figured id start a thread where people can share their honest experience instead of relying on google reviews written by peoples moms after their first free trial.
im at Mohler MMA right now in dallas. great instruction, solid comp team, good mix of gi and nogi. the culture is chill but competitive if you want it to be. travis lutter is a legit black belt and the coaching staff actually cares about developing lower belts.
ive also dropped in at Fortis MMA which is obviously elite — thats where UFC fighters train — but its not really a hobbyist gym. if youre serious about competing or going pro, Fortis is the place. if you just want to learn jiu jitsu and have fun rolling, there are better fits.
Gracie Barra Dallas is very structured. the GB curriculum is standardized worldwide which some people love and some people hate. you wear the GB gi, you follow the GB program. the technique is solid but if you want freedom to explore your own game, it can feel limiting.
Alliance Dallas is strong. good comp team, legit lineage. Carlson Gracie has that old school energy that some people vibe with.
Lovato BJJ if youre on the south side — Rafael Lovato Jr is literally one of the greatest american BJJ competitors ever. the fact that you can learn from him in DFW is wild.
what gym are you at and why did you pick it? be honest — the good AND the bad. this thread could help someone whos been sitting in their car in the parking lot too scared to walk in.
Gracie Barra culture isnt for everyone. i trained there for a year and got tired of being told what gi to wear and which patches i needed to buy. the instruction was good but it felt like a franchise not a family