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Santa Cruz, CA

Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts

5.0 (41 Reviews)

Thinking about training at Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts? Browse recent photos, read what students say, and jump straight to the official site or directions before you visit.

Editorial profile for Santa Cruz, CA
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The Academy

Academy Overview

Trying to decide if Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts is the right fit? This profile puts the essentials in one place: recent photos, student feedback, the official website, and the key details you need before you visit.

5.0 stars from 41 reviews suggest a strong local reputation. Use the contact card for directions, training hours, and the best next step in Santa Cruz, CA.

Student Testimonials

Elite Reviews

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Varun Rapaka

Jun 3, 2025

Trained at gtjj for 2-3 years starting off in Aaron’s (Stout’s) beginner program. Can’t put into words what a great instructor he is. Really makes it fun to learn and build your fundamentals. Garth’s gym is the best, I’d recommend it to anyone from beginner to advanced.

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Willow Schmidt

Jun 29, 2025

I started coming here about 3 months ago and the impact this gym has made on my life has truly been transformative. I have never been been able to stay consistent with working out, never did any sports growing up, and had no clue where to start, but knew I needed some kind of healthy outlet, plus wanted to learn self-defense. One of my friends recommended I check out Garth Taylor’s gym and once I finally mustered up the courage to actually show up, I have never looked back. The people here are just phenomenal and so welcoming and supportive. The teachers are incredible, even for someone like myself with absolutely zero background in martial arts or training otherwise. I already feel like I am part of a family here and am always excited to show up to class. It can feel really scary to try new things alone, especially being a young woman with social anxiety, not knowing anyone, and entering a pretty male-dominated space, but I am so glad I did. I was welcomed and felt comfortable right away, and was happily surprised to see more women than I expected to see. I love the variety in classes and do JiuJitsu & kickboxing/boxing with different coaches who all have been amazing at helping me improve. Training at Garth’s is pretty much the only thing I have been able to stay consistent with, and it feels so rewarding to see how much progress I have made since starting. The membership is worth every single penny especially since you can go to as many classes as you want! But to anyone who is on the fence, just try the week-long free trial and you won’t regret it :)

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nick solano

Apr 7, 2025

I’ve been training at GTJJ since 2019. Garth Taylor is a kind, knowledgeable and professional instructor. He creates the best gym culture I can’t imagine training somewhere else. I love showing up to train. Great support staff and group of instructors. Massive mat space and clean facilities. Recommend to the fullest.

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Skye Folsom

Jul 1, 2025

Everyone was super friendly and inviting for my first class + Garth is the man and lives up to his reputation 100%.

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Amber Yale

Jul 2, 2019

Such a great and wonderful place for children and parents to join! The classes and coaches are top notch. A real gift from Garth and his entire crew of teamwork, caring and expertise guiding my 6 year old girl. Above 5 stars for sure!

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