Women welcome

Women’s Jiu Jitsu in Santa Monica

Women train jiu jitsu at CJJF Santa Monica with other women when they’re on the mat, size-matched partners otherwise, and clear boundaries in every class. Start from zero in Fundamentals, learn self-defense that works whatever your size, and train in a respectful, ego-free room.

  • 5.0 on Google · 81 reviews
  • Beginners welcome
  • First class free
Women and men of CJJF Santa Monica after a no-gi class
WhoEvery levelComplete beginners welcome
WhenEvery adult classMixed classes, women welcome
CoachOur three professorsMaycon, Kevin and Jacob
PriceCall or emailFor current rates · first class free
Where320 Wilshire Blvd #101, Santa MonicaBetween the Third Street Promenade and 4th Street · $1 parking for 90 minutes right behind the building · Get directions

How we train

BJJ for Women: A Room Where You Feel at Home

Training partners

When other women are on the mat, you train with them. Otherwise you partner with an instructor or with a man close to your height and weight, whatever his age.

Clear boundaries

Clear rules on contact and tapping in every class, with the coach watching the room.

Patient coaching

Fundamentals start with posture, distance, escapes and control, step by step.

Clean, safe mats

Mats cleaned daily, coach supervision and optional light rounds.

Self-defense

Self-Defense for Women

Jiu jitsu teaches you to escape grabs and holds, get back to your feet and control someone using leverage and timing instead of strength. You practice it with a partner who resists at a safe pace, so it works under stress. The academy has also hosted free women’s self-defense seminars. Here’s what works in women’s self-defense, from awareness to escapes.

Self-defense classes

What students say

What Women Training Here Say

“Best gym ever. The three professors (Maycon, Kevin, and Jacob) are very knowledgeable teachers with many years of experience under their belts. All classes from the kids to adults are professionally handled. It’s so great seeing people of all ages come here and train hard.”
Ana A.Google review
“I attended a women’s self defense seminar with instructor Maycon. I was very nervous as I had never stepped foot into a Jiu Jitsu gym, but it was a FREE class so why not?”
Sadie O.Google review
“The gym has a great pool of males and females of different sizes and everybody is friendly, respectful and generous.”
Rodrigo B.Google review

FAQ

Women’s BJJ Classes: Questions From Beginners

Still unsure? Call (714) 872-1604.

Is there a women-only class?

No. Women train in every adult class, with clear boundaries, and pair up with other women whenever they’re on the mat.

Do I need experience?

No. Fundamentals classes are designed for beginners, and you’ll learn step by step in a safe, patient environment.

Will I train with men?

Sometimes. When other women are on the mat, you train with them. Otherwise you partner with an instructor or with a man close to your height and weight, whatever his age.

What should I wear?

A comfortable T-shirt and athletic pants with no zippers, or borrow one of our gis. For no-gi, a rashguard and shorts. We’ll help you choose your own gi for later classes.

Is jiu jitsu good for self-defense?

Yes. It teaches you to escape, get up and control someone using leverage rather than strength, and you practice against real resistance.

How much does it cost?

Call (714) 872-1604 or email us for current rates. Your first class is free. See membership options.

Your First Class Is Free

Come try a class and train at your own pace.