Checkmat Brentwood
About Checkmat Brentwood
At Checkmat Brentwood, we are passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and dedicated to helping students of all experience levels discover the transformative power of this martial art. Located in California, California affiliated with Checkmat, our academy welcomes everyone from complete beginners to experienced grapplers.
Our experienced instructors bring years of dedicated training and a genuine love for the art to every class. We emphasize strong fundamentals, technical precision, and a supportive training culture where every student is encouraged to grow at their own pace.
We offer Adult programs designed to serve our diverse student body. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, competition, or simply the challenge of learning a complex martial art, Checkmat Brentwood has a class for you.
Come experience the Checkmat Brentwood community for yourself. Your first class is on us — we look forward to welcoming you to the mat.
Reviews
I have been training at Checkmat Brentwood for a little over 2 years and I got nothing but great things to say about this gym! From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with a welcoming community that supports growth, respect and keeping one another safe. Our Coaches Thiago, Steve and Derrick are exceptional and demonstrate a deep understanding of the art, and they’re not only excellent practitioners of the sport but also passionate about teaching. I see my self training here for a long time to come
Checkmat Brentwood is an outstanding jiu-jitsu academy with a welcoming and professional environment. All coachs are top-level, with a strong focus on technique, discipline, and respect for everyone on the mats—from complete beginners to experienced competitors. Coach Thiago is extremely dedicated, patient, and passionate about teaching, always making sure students understand the details and improve safely. The team atmosphere is supportive and motivating, making it a great place to train, grow, and build confidence. I may be the coach’s brother, but I can honestly say the quality of training, organization, and community here speaks for itself. If you’re looking for high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Brentwood, Checkmat is the place to be.
I’ve been training with Coach Thiago Gaia for years, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve learned from him. As a professional MMA fighter, I’m always looking to improve, and training with him has truly taken my jiu-jitsu to the next level. He’s an outstanding instructor with deep knowledge, sharp attention to detail, and a genuine passion for teaching. Checkmat Brentwood is the kind of gym that welcomes everyone, from complete beginners to high-level athletes. Whenever I get the chance, I go to Brentwood to keep learning and evolving with him. I couldn’t recommend Checkmat Brentwood more!
We absolutely love Checkmat! Coach Thiago and Gabi are the best. they’re super friendly and treat all the kids like their own. There’s such a great family vibe here, and our kids have learned so much, not just in self-defense, but also in confidence and discipline. It’s been awesome watching them grow and have fun at the same time. Couldn’t ask for a better place to train!
We started our daughter at the CheckMatJJ in Brentwood when she was two years old, and her developments, both physically and mentally, improved her overall discipline. Today, she loves participating in the fun moments of class and has also learned a lot about focus and respect for others. I want her to know how to defend herself, of course, but she's learned much more than I thought. Balance, physical skills like somersaults, jumps, fighting technique, and improved attention and focus on what she's doing. The gym is the most qualified in this area, with the best Jiu-Jitsu masters. Thank you!!!👊🏻
Frequently Asked Questions
IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?
Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at Checkmat Brentwood. It's the best way to experience our training environment, meet our coaches, and see if BJJ is right for you. No experience or equipment needed — comfortable athletic clothing is fine.
DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO START?
No experience necessary! Checkmat Brentwood welcomes complete beginners. Our instructors break down every technique step by step, and our community is known for being welcoming and patient with new students. Everyone starts as a white belt, and that's exactly where you should start too.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?
For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing works perfectly — a t-shirt and shorts or athletic pants. Once you commit to training regularly, you'll want to invest in a gi (kimono). Our coaches can recommend quality options at a range of price points.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?
Most students at Checkmat Brentwood train 2 to 3 times per week and see consistent progress. Showing up regularly matters far more than training intensely once in a while. We offer multiple class times throughout the week so you can find a schedule that fits your life.
DO YOU OFFER CLASSES FOR KIDS?
Yes! We offer dedicated programs for children and teens at Checkmat Brentwood. Our youth classes focus on discipline, respect, confidence-building, and the fundamentals of BJJ in a safe, fun environment.
Programs
Weekly Schedule
| Time | Class | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00am | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 12:00pm | Noon BJJ | All Levels |
| 5:30pm | Kids BJJ | Youth |
| 6:30pm | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 7:30pm | Advanced BJJ | Blue Belt+ |
| 6:00am | No-Gi Grappling | All Levels |
| 6:30pm | No-Gi Submission | Intermediate |
| 7:30pm | Competition Training | Advanced |
| 9:00am | All Levels BJJ | All Levels |
| 11:00am | Open Mat | All Levels |
Check the gym's website for current schedule and any changes. Visit website
Instructors
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Student Stories
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