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Dallas, TX

The Grappling Institute

4.9 (29 Reviews)

Thinking about training at The Grappling Institute? Browse recent photos, read what students say, and jump straight to the official site or directions before you visit.

Editorial profile for Dallas, TX
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The Academy

Academy Overview

Trying to decide if The Grappling Institute 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.

4.9 stars from 29 reviews suggest a strong local reputation. Use the contact card for directions, training hours, and the best next step in Dallas, TX.

Student Testimonials

Elite Reviews

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Lili Banta

Jun 3, 2025

Really great space and community. The coaches are world class and the training area is kept clean. The people who come here are dedicated to being the best version of themselves. The training is hard and they push you to fight better. I also really appreciate that the owners are watchful — they make sure weirdos etc. aren’t training there. The building itself is also secure; you have to be buzzed in. Overall, it feels safe and clean. Knowing you’re working with top class fighters is really cool. I’d recommend it to anyone, tbh. 10/10!!!

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Frankie Avantino

Apr 21, 2025

I had such an amazing experience here. As someone that is brand new to the sport I made sure to vet and research the instructors at multiple gyms in the area to pick someone I felt would help me achieve my eventual goals in jiu jitsu. I chose to go here with an open mind as both Loronz and Steffen seemed like they have a passion for the sport and care about their students. I can safely say I made the right choice and am here for the long haul. I encourage anyone who is looking to join a welcoming and knowledgeable gym to look no further and try this place out!!!

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Maksym Rusakov

Apr 10, 2025

Easily the best BJJ school around. Coaches Steffen and Loranz are on another level — super technical, great communicators, and genuinely care about helping you improve. Whether you're training for competition or just getting started, this place delivers. High-level instruction, great vibes, no egos. 100% recommend.

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Randy Rozzell

Apr 13, 2025

First of all I noticed that the Grappling Institute is located in a part of Dallas that feels safe and that my car is not going to get broken into when I go to train. It is co-located with the Bank of America in the Fess building on the 15th floor. There was ample parking in the parking structure and across the street in the parking lot. I noticed security personnel in the building and no homeless individuals outside of the building. Again I just think about vehicle security. Additionally, I'm a blackbelt in BJJ and have trained at a lot of gyms. What I first noticed upon entering the Grappling Institute was how modern and frankly "upper class" the entrance felt. It had the entrance of a luxury fitness gym. Next was the cleanliness and how it smells clean. This is not true for a lot of gyms. Some smell like foot lockers but you can tell the Grappling Institute is well maintained and cleaned at least daily if not multiple times a day. The mat space was huge with plenty of room to train and Steffen said they are going to increase it which is even a bigger plus since I hate running into other pairs on cramped mat space. That won't happen here. Additionally, the amenities that come along with the BJJ is extraordinary. I've never seen a gym like it. They have an indoor track, modern weight machines, free weights, and cardio equipment. Along with racket ball courts, a basketball court, very clean bathrooms and lots of showers. The place is really one of kind in the BJJ studio realm. Now the most important part, the coaches. Steffen is a world class BJJ athlete with more accolades than I can list. What's even more impressive is his ability to teach and his passion to share his BJJ knowledge. He is mature beyond his years and his love for BJJ and sharing his love for the sport is apparent to his students. I'm currently taking private lessons from him as a Blackbelt to make my BJJ game better. I can't think of a better compliment than that. His partner Lorenz is another high level blackbelt that has the ability to breakdown moves and strategy like a John Danaher but is charismatic, friendly, easy to talk with, and has a caring personality. The culture that these two bring together is truly remarkable and I think that anyone would be hard pressed to find another gym like it in the DFW area. The welcoming feel, no pressure to join, clean environment, amazing amenities combined with such high level BJJ instructors that care about their students really separates the Grappling Institute from other gyms. You will not only not regret joining, you're going to love it here.

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Michael Dowd

Apr 10, 2025

The location and quality of facility is straight out of a movie. Everything is very clearly maintained for not only cleanliness but effective use. The bathrooms and locker rooms are that of a professional sports team. The instruction is from truly experienced champions and coaches who advocate for the success of their students. If you live in the Dallas area and truly want to elevate your game this is the place to be. In writing this I realize it looks like some form of promotion but I challenge you to go see it and say/ show otherwise. This is simply a hidden gem in the middle of Dallas.

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