Jason Hollowell2024-03-05I train at another gym nearby in Durham. I messaged the owner Sean Spangler to say I’d like to drop in last Friday. He and the students were welcoming and friendly - they didn’t try to rough me up, although the rounds were tough. I learned several good details, both from the instructional portion and later while sparring with more experienced partners. Sean ended up flow rolling with me for two rounds (some gym owners don’t or won’t roll with visitors). They also strive to keep the mats clean , which is a good sign for any gym. It was a good experience, and I hope to return in the future.
Haile DeBass2023-11-04Awesome spot and jiu jitsu.
Gio V2023-10-21Coach Sean is excellent! He helps all the kids learn and pushes them to be the best version they can be. My 6yo has been in this academy for 6 months and he loves it. Can’t wait for my 2yo to grow up to put her in 😂.
Deborah Fredrick2023-09-08My son has been training here since last December; he began at a particularly challenging time with his ADHD. When I first shared that information with Sean he shared a similar personal experience. Then after reading his blog, I was confident this was the place for my son. I didn’t look for other gyms. My first impression was that this is unlike any other martial arts gym I have experienced. It felt clean! The kids are not waiting around for their turn. There are not big kids teaching younger kids. All of the coaches are adults skilled with compassion, engagement and discipline. Over the last 8 months, I have seen my son grow muscles, confidence and determination. Sean and his team of coaches are committed to the personal development of each of these kids that goes far beyond the physical skills and demands of jiu jitsu. I now know that there are what seem to be a million jiu jitsu gyms between JJPA and my house, but I won’t give them another thought because my son has a home. When you join JJPA you become family.
Swanand Vaze2023-08-31This is the best place to learn Jiu Jitsu. Prof Sean is really dedicated teacher who makes learning very interesting and exciting. My 7 year old is now a student for over an year and he loves it. Highly recommended!!
Brian McCuiston2023-08-30My daughter has been attending for 4 months... and she loves it. She has confidence in her abilities... and looks forward to new sessions and challenges. Would reccomend this school to any parent.
Josh Kinlaw2023-08-30Professor Sean provides a welcoming, instructive, active, and enjoyable program for kids and adults. My 5 and 7-year-old have both enjoyed learning BJJ and making friends. I love how active the class is and how they focus on a particular move for several lessons to give the kids time to learn it. They spend at least half of the class rolling with a partner. It’s great for practicing the move or position they are leaning, and for getting their energy out.
Patrick Dmytriw2023-08-28My son, 8, has been going there for almost 2 years and it’s been a great experience for him. The teachers care about their students and put in the time and energy to help them better themselves. Truly a quality school.
Rosalie2023-08-28We have been coming here since December 2022 and my son has really enjoyed the program. The academy really feels like a close community where everyone cares to help and support each other.
Tim Gregory2023-08-23My only regret is not joining Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy sooner. As a 39 year old beginner I quickly became addicted to this sport and that is in large part due to this gym. Sean and every other instructor there are amazing teachers and they also set the tone for what is an awesome community and environment. Everyone there, instructors and students, has such a positive attitude. I have felt welcomed since day one. There are opportunities to train everyday of the week, morning or night, no matter your skill level. Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy really is a great place to train.