Having trained at three different Jiu Jitsu gyms, I can confidently say that this one stands out as the best. The techniques taught here are consistently among the most current and effective. Professor Clay is dedicated to imparting practical skills that truly work, ensuring that no time is wasted on impractical methods.
I have been training at CPJJ for 4 years and some change after 2 years of training at other gyms. From the first day I walked in it has been nothing but quality instruction from Clay and sparring from him and his students. The environment fosters excellence for all levels of the art and imbues a love of learning. If you are an experienced practitioner you will find a combination of tested and innovate technique which is constantly improved upon. If you are brand new to grappling you will find a more than welcoming environment which simply wants you to learn and grow. If you have ever considered learning a martial art this is one of the best places to learn. Gi or no-gi. There is always someone willing to train.
Great atmosphere and an awesome professor. Ideal for people that want to take training seriously and advance as well as for new people that are just starting, they will take care of you.
It's been awhile since I felt this much joy on day one! I've been on many mats and of all of them there are few that on day one you just know this is a good space all around. Before I hit the mats the head coach was quick to call me back and answer all of my questions. He encouraged me to drop in and not to worry about mat fees. I was blown away at the level of instruction and the participation. I didnt feel weird hunting down a training partner or finding rolls during sparring. For me it was a different style and very humbling. They also have a womens only class on Saturdays which makes it nice for new ladies. If you're in need of a gi, they're ladies program also offers resources for gear. Definitely worth a drop in!
Such an amazing gym. My son (age 9) and I have trained here for about a year and a half now. We dropped in on five different gyms in the area and even trained at one of them for about three months prior to making the switch to CPJJ. In fact, my son was considering quitting prior to joining CPJJ. After the switch, he hasn’t looked back and loves training 3-4 times a week. As a person who didn’t grow up around martial arts the gym was very welcoming for a 40-year-old to join and learn. Everyone was/is very welcoming and willing to help, but most importantly they are patient. In this gym, there are no egos and everyone is conscientious of their training partners wanting to ensure everyone remains healthy and able to train. Professor Clay is a phenomenal teacher who truly understands how to engage with kids and adults of all skill-levels. He is a consummate professional providing lessons on new developments/techniques in the sport while maintaining a solid base in traditional grappling. Every lesson starts with a fundamental base and then builds in complexity. This approach ensures he’s able to engage and provide value for the basic white belt all the way to the brown belts we have in our gym. I hope to train as long as my body will allow (which, fingers crossed, should be well into my 50s) and I hope my son continues to train into adulthood. I can’t imagine training anywhere else as I feel very much part of a community. If you’re thinking about joining a gym, CPJJ is the best place to start – anything else would be a distant second.
The personal and emotional investment that Professor Phillips invested in myself has elevated me to perform at a new level in all areas of my life. I am a more successful person after training at this gym. I have learned that people tend to either rise or fall to level of their peer group. At Clayton Phillips Jiu Jitsu I have risen several levels. I can’t thank this gym and it’s members enough. Another thing that really stands out is Professor Phillips sense of community. Professor Phillips invests in the growth of members of the community to build confidence and help people become more productive.
This gym is like home! If you are looking for a place to train where the Professor has a never ending thirst to teach high quality Jiu Jitsu look no further. Outstanding atmosphere to train and push yourself in your journey. The members are welcoming and respectful of everyone. A great mixture of both GI and NO GI styles of training.
Clayton Phillips jiu jitsu is a great place to train. It has a great environment and very good team chemistry. If your looking to become very great at jiu jitsu this is the place to be and they have morning and evening classes so you will always be able to get work in!
I live in VB, and I drive to class in Norfolk for Professor Clay's tutelage. Professor Clay fosters a team-first gym and the atmosphere is welcoming to all. There is no one system fits all approach, and Professor Clay will adjust his coaching to your individual skill sets. That being said, if you join our gym you will definitely have a great time learning, but also be apart of a community that will push you to get the best out of you.