Checkmat BJJ Murrieta

I’ve been training jiu jitsu at Checkmat Murrieta since June of 2024, and while I initially came for the quality of the training, I stayed for the community. Before moving to Menifee, I trained at a family-owned gym in Costa Mesa, and finding a new home gym with a similar vibe and sense of belonging was important to me. Checkmat Murrieta delivered on that and more. From day one, the environment felt welcoming, grounded, and genuinely supportive. As a dad, schedule flexibility matters—a lot. Checkmat Murrieta was the only gym I found in the area that offers both gi and no-gi classes at 6am, Monday through Friday. That early-morning schedule has been a game-changer, allowing me to stay consistent with training while still showing up for my family and work. The 6am class itself is outstanding. You get a great mix of training partners—from highly technical lighter weights to bigger, stronger opponents—which makes every session well-rounded and challenging. Even better, the room is full of down-to-earth competitors who understand and respect the “dad grind.” It’s a group that pushes each other while keeping the ego in check. If you’re looking for high-level jiu jitsu, a strong sense of community, and a gym that truly understands real-life schedules, Checkmat Murrieta is something special. This is a place that feels like home.

Im a double amputee injured in combat, since finding Checkmat Murrieta, I’ve found confidence in myself I’ve thought I lost and growth in my life I’m proud of. This isn’t just a martial arts gym, it’s so much more. Checkmat Murrieta is a place where goals are chased, friendships are forged and skills are honed. This is a top notch gym lead by top tier coaching, producing some of the best mat space to fulfill your journey. Extremely handicap friendly space, accommodating parking & conveniently placed in a big shopping center near the freeway exit. Roll thru & get what you’ve been missing in your life, you’re worth it!

We’re honestly so Blessed we found Checkmat Murrieta. From the very beginning in March 2024 when we moved out from OC everyone made us feel welcome, which meant a lot to us. Professor Pancho, Phil,Kuhio & the rest, and believe me I can speak for every instructor here ! They are aok Amazing !!!! super patient and kind with my son,they do an amazing job pushing him to be strong while also helping him stay calm and work through tough moments. Our son is only 5, but he’s learned way more than just jiu-jitsu. He’s learning how to manage his emotions, control his energy, and understand his body better. We’ve seen a huge positive change in him, both on and off the mats. The community here is awesome. All the parents are friendly, supportive, and encouraging — it really feels like one big family. We’re really grateful for this gym and the people in it. Couldn’t ask for a better place for our son to learn and grow. Every parent should sign their children up it makes such a difference in Life’s Building Blocks !

I’ve been training here for almost two years now, and I usually don’t like to leave reviews until I’ve truly had time to understand a place. After all this time, I can confidently say this is by far one of the best gyms I’ve ever trained at. I started my journey here on my own, and now both of my kids train alongside me—and they absolutely love it. That alone says a lot. What really sets this place apart is the culture. It doesn’t matter if you’re a doctor, lawyer, cop, a mom or dad, or someone just trying to better themselves—once you walk through the doors, everyone is equal. We’re all one big family, regardless of background. The professors are incredible. They genuinely take the time to teach jiu-jitsu the way it should be taught, with patience, detail, and purpose. On top of that, it’s pretty amazing to be able to train alongside some of the best of the best while still feeling welcomed and supported. To me, Checkmat isn’t just a gym—it’s a family. I’ve built real friendships with brothers and sisters on the mat that I never would have made if it weren’t for training here. I’m beyond grateful for this place and the people in it. Highly recommend to anyone looking for top-tier jiu-jitsu and an even better community. 🥋

Checkmat Murrieta – 5 Years of Growth, Community, and Jiu-Jitsu Excellence I’m 63 years old now, and I’ve been training at Checkmat Murrieta for 5 years. When I started at age 58, I had no idea what an incredible journey I was about to begin—not just in learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but in becoming part of a truly special community. What makes Checkmat Murrieta stand out isn’t just the world-class instruction (which is phenomenal), but the people. This is a place where everyone—from beginners to seasoned competitors—comes together with one shared goal: to learn, improve, and support each other. You’ll meet people from all walks of life, and what’s amazing is that none of the outside noise matters here. Nobody cares about your religion, politics, or background. All egos are left at the door. There’s simply no time for anything else because you’re focused on drilling technique, rolling, and trying not to get submitted! The coaches are exceptional. They break down complex techniques in a way that’s easy to understand, and they genuinely care about your progress. Whether you’re training for competition or just looking to get in shape and learn self-defense, they’ll meet you where you are and help you grow. The environment is welcoming and respectful. Every class feels like a mix of hard work and fun—you’ll sweat, you’ll struggle, and you’ll laugh. Over the years, I’ve built friendships that go beyond the mats. This isn’t just a gym; it’s a family. If you’re thinking about starting Jiu-Jitsu, or if you’re looking for a new academy, I can’t recommend Checkmat Murrieta enough. It’s a place where you’ll challenge yourself, learn from the best, and become part of a community that truly cares. And if you’re wondering whether age is a barrier—trust me, it’s not. I started at 58, and it’s been life-changing. If you’re older and thinking, “Maybe it’s too late for me,” let me tell you—it’s never too late. Jiu-Jitsu will challenge you, strengthen you, and give you a sense of accomplishment you didn’t think possible. The hardest part is walking through the door for the first time. After that, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. Honest Review ⤵️ -Italo Dresda IG: OGjiujitsu2022 IG: Caliketofamilia