Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu

It makes sense that this place doesn’t have any reviews on Unilocal yet. I just joined this school couple of weeks ago and having been a member of various martial arts gym previously, Damon’s Philadelphia Jiu Jitsu is top notch and an absolute hidden gem. I have visited 3 Jiu Jitsu schools in Philadelphia and this place trumps them all in several categories.
First, there is zero hard sell. Other places were really trying to get me to commit for long term upwards of 2 years! Damon runs this place out of love of the art and his students and you can really feel that rather than being a business itself. There is absolutely no requirement that you sign up longterm. I know most schools require you to sign up longterm these days, but it should really be a red flag. They should win you over with the quality of instruction and experience rather than a contract. It is also about 33% cheaper per month without contract… no brainer really.
Second, Facility is the best I saw in Philly. It is not fancy. But the mats are top quality and very clean. No smell what so ever. There is not a single rip or tear on the mats. Go visit each school. You will see what I am talking about.
Third, there is strong emphasis on starting everything standing up. I visited many schools and there really isn’t enough of this. Damon has excellent judo and half the class is focused on standing up. All the schools I been to will start sparring positional or on the knees. They will say it is for safety, but is it safe to not have a ton of experience standing? I think most school do this, because they don’t have the space. Damon’s place does. You can just as easily get hurt rolling in to another group in a crowded mat. It doesn’t really happen here. Just a lot of space. Think about it, do you want to be the guy who is really good on the ground, but can’t take anyone down? That won’t happen here.
There are other points to consider. Classes are long and only available in the evening. They can easily run 2.5 hours, broken down to 1 hour bits. But you can leave early as well, but if you want to spar, it happens at the end. There is a very good sunday class but it basically eats up all your afternoon and I am usually a zombie afterwards. The classes sizes are very small and there isn’t a big roster of students so you will basically see the same faces every day. Some will like that and some won’t.
In conclusion, I am extremely happy to have found this place. If you are interested in learning from a great teacher in a great environment, I suggest you contact Damon and check out a class.

Philadelphia jiu jitsu is a top notch dojo run by Damon Umholtz. In the two years that i have trained with Damon I have learned countless things about jiu jitsu and myself. I highly recommend PJJ to anyone interested in the martial arts. Damon is not just a great martial artist but he has become a great friend.

Awesome school for anyone looking to start or continue their training. Relaxed atmosphere and top notch instruction,.can’t ask for anything more!