Birdman BJJ

I saw this school while driving by and stopped in to speak with the instructor who invited me to take a free class. I had been googling BJJ for months and had I not happened across this school I probably would never have started BJJ. So I signed up to become a member on the same day of my free class and it’s been almost a month since I started which I feel is an adequate amount of time to post a review. John (Birdman) starts the classes off with a warm-​up and proceeds with drills that are common but important BJJ techniques which are repeated on successive classes with the goal of allowing students to practice and master them. After drills Birdman goes over a new technique, he does so 3 or 4 times so we get a clear understanding of how it is performed. His ability to clearly demonstrate and explain the technique has really helped me and it’s one of the things I really like about him. We then pair off and practice the technique with a partner to try to get better at it. While we’re practicing, John walks around the gym and points out things we could be doing better or lets us know that we performed the technique particularly well. The next part of the class is «live rounds» where we get to spar and try to apply what we learned. This is different from practice because your partner is now trying to hold you down and pretty much anything goes. This is one of my favorite parts of the class because I feel it helps me to learn about my weaknesses and improve upon them. Again, Birdman is there watching and helping us to recognize things we can improve. The final thing I would like to mention in this review is the supportive culture at this school. Birdman and the other students are genuinely nice, sort of like an extended family. Everyone encourages and supports each other in a positive manner which as a new member has really helped me. I would not hesitate to recommend this school to anyone interested in BJJ.

Awesome classes taught by a very effective instructor in the Birdman. Just started a week or so ago and am enjoying myself thoroughly. Class availability works perfect for my schedule and so far can’t be any happier with the service and instruction provided. Great add to the Gowanus/​Park slope area.

Honestly, any review I draft won’t do any service to what Birdman brings to the Park Slope/​Gowanus area.
If you’re new to the area, new to BJJ, or just need something new — drop in. You’ll be glad you did; I’m proud to call it home. Plus (amazingly enough for BJJ in NYC) its actually affordable! Go figure…
Classes are MWF 7−9pm, but there will soon be morning classes T/​Th. But, you can certainly look into personal instruction if you prefer.