Raptor Academy of Martial Arts: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Submission Wrestling

“Started here as a chubby 37 year old with no martial arts experience or background in any form of grappling/wrestling. The instructors do a phenomenal job of explaining everything and the curriculum is thoughtfully structured to always be building on itself, for any level of experience. The fundamentals program is perfect for someone like me who walked through the door with no prior training but is equally useful for experienced grapplers who really want focus on the details. I’m now 41 years old (and still kinda chubby) but I have personally learned and progressed so much because of the amazingly thoughtful, encouraging and supportive instructors - and maybe more importantly, the incredible training partners you will share the mat with. Everyone is kind and genuine and respectful with a focus on learning. I have managed to avoid any injuries from training in large part because Raptor places a huge emphasis on being a good training partner. I can now tell everyone (and I do) that I train BJJ and they should too. Walking through the door for the first time is the hardest part and you won’t find a better environment to learn than Raptor.”

“I’ve been at Raptor for 8 months now and I’ve trained at other places as well - Raptor is by far my favorite place. The instructors at Raptor are very knowledgeable and attentive and the atmosphere is very fun and welcoming. Classes are held across a wide range of time slots from morning to afternoon to evening - so you can find something to fit your schedule. If you’re looking for a place to train I would highly encourage you to check out Raptor.”

“I visited Raptor last summer while I was in town for a training. Everyone was very welcoming. The instructors are great and I used a method I learned on my visit to win a match at the IBJJF Master Worlds. I can't wait to visit again!”

“I love this gym! I started my Jiu Jitsu journey here about seven months ago, and have learned so much in such a short period of time. The instructors are friendly and deeply knowledgeable about the art. The classes are accessible yet challenging. And the members of this gym are all willing to help out newcomers as they begin their journey. From my first class on, I always felt welcomed! Raptor is also an affiliate of the Jiu Jitsu Company, an elite gym in Philadelphia. As a result, we get to attend weekend-long seminars and train at the Jiu Jitsu Company for free. I plan to continue training here as long as I'm in State College. I initially tried trial classes at all the other gyms in the area, and found that Raptor is by far the best of the bunch.”

“My daughter and I joined the gym in early 2020 and it was incredible how well the Raptor team shifted and adapted during that time. We’ve continued to stay with the gym and we consider them family. The environment has always been friendly, open and welcoming.”