Channel Islands BJJ

“Channel Islands Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Ventura has been absolutely amazing for our family. Our whole family takes classes with Professor Jonatas and it’s been great exercise and self defense training. Our daughters are more confident and we’ve seen such a transformation since joining the academy. We’ve enjoyed competing in BJJ tournaments and the supportive family environment this academy provides. 10/10 highly recommend!”

“Channel Islands BJJ is phenomenal. Jonatas is a master teacher, mentor and leader. He attracts and maintains a wonderful community of people from all ages and backgrounds. It is a welcoming, family-oriented, supportive and positive community. His technical training is outstanding. My son is 14 and has been training at CI BJJ for 3 years. He is developing excellent bjj skills and more importantly is doing so with maturity and confidence. Can’t say enough about Jonatas and Channel Islands BJJ. We are so lucky to have this studio in Ventura!”

“A True Gem in Ventura – Channel Islands BJJ. Channel Islands Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, led by Professor Jonatas Novaes, is nothing short of a treasure for the Ventura community. Professor Jonatas brings world-class experience and elite-level competition pedigree to every class—he’s not only an incredible coach but an active champion who still competes and wins at the highest levels. His passion and dedication are unmatched, and the fact that he personally coaches every student is rare and invaluable, especially in a martial arts world where many gyms become watered down with too many assistants. My son has been training here since the academy opened, and the transformation has been incredible—not just in his jiu-jitsu skills, but in his confidence, discipline, and overall character. The growth I’ve seen in him is directly thanks to the environment Professor Jonatas has created: technical, focused, and full of integrity. The atmosphere at Channel Islands BJJ is truly special. It’s not just a place to train—it’s a family. Everyone supports each other, from white belts to advanced students, and the family-friendly vibe makes it welcoming for kids, adults, and parents alike. It’s a place where people genuinely care about each other and want to see everyone succeed. If you’re looking for real, high-level jiu-jitsu taught by one of the best in the world, but in a setting that still feels personal and supportive, this is the place. We feel lucky every day to be part of the Channel Islands BJJ family ❤️”

“I’m really glad that I signed up to channel islands bjj… Coach Jonatas Is super knowledgeable, makes things easy to understand and is a super Cool guy. If you come into this gym, I guarantee you will feel at ease right away because everyone there is super friendly. They greet you every day with a smile and are there to help you get better. I’ve been to a few BJ schools in my day, but this is the first time I can say I feel like i’m done searching for the right gym because here is where I wanna stay… I could say so much more, but I already feel like it’s way too long of a read. I just wanna leave you with sign up and you won’t regret it…oops one more thing, though I’d like to give a special shout out to Two of his students, Juan and Alex, who hold it down when jonatas Is away at a competition. They Have helped my game improve just in the few classes they’ve run since I’ve been there. It’s good that our coach has these guys that are willing to help out when he has other things going on. anyways, I love you goodbye”

“My nearly 18 year old son has been training with Jonatas for nearly five years - years that are so formative and it has had such a tremendous impact on him. I joined 9 months ago and as an older female I feel completely safe in this academy and would highly recommend it for anyone - any age - any fitness level. The great encouragement of Professor Jonatas is matched by the warm community there. We are fortunate to have such direct access to such an amazing instructor who fosters the safe family environment.”