Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

“If you're looking for a gym that offers more than just world-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, Waza is the place for you. From high-level upper belts to competitors and world champions, the talent here is unmatched. But what truly sets Waza apart is the inclusive environment they've created for everyone--from kids just starting out to adults looking to challenge themselves. For me, Waza is so much more than a gym. It's my home. It's the keystone habit that has helped me build a healthier lifestyle and focus on longevity. Eight years ago, at the age of 31, I entered a 13-16 month long-term residential program to address life-controlling issues. Since then, Waza has been instrumental in helping me stay on track. Through the discipline I've learned here, I've been able to handle challenging situations at work while building my own company, approach my days with clarity, and finish them with a sense of accomplishment. The friendships and teammates I've gained here have been invaluable--they constantly push me to grow, both on and off the mats. What stands out the most is how much they support people like me, without judgment, and with a sense of community that's hard to find anywhere else. Thank you, Waza, for all the support and for giving me a place to thrive. If you're considering joining, don't hesitate. This is more than just a gym--it's a family.”

“My daughters and I have been training at waza for a year and a half and we love this gym. Waza has become our home away from home. Coach Chris runs an incredible kids program that my kids absolutely love. All of the instructors are awesome well rounded people as well as the students. There are no egos whatsoever. Everyone wants to see their training partners get better and I genuinely believe we all have everyone’s best interest when rolling. Waza truly is one big team. If you are considering taking the leap into BJJ, you don’t want to be anywhere else. Derek has built an incredible culture and facility. This is due to his great leadership. Very proud and honored to say I come from Waza. FORÇA E HONRA”

“I came to Waza to learn Jiu Jitsu, but I received more than I could have ever imagined. I was 37 years old when I walked into Waza and I had zero grappling experience. I’ve been wanting to learn BJJ for many years, but always felt so inadequate when watching the sport online or during MMA events. The last straw for me was my son being born. I knew I wanted him to train BJJ and I wanted to be the example and show him that if Dad can do it, he could too. My baby boy was my “why”. I am forever grateful for how welcoming Waza was to me. I used to think if I walked into a Jiu Jitsu school without any knowledge of how to “fight”, I’d just get beaten up and bullied until I either quit or became a bully myself. I have never been so wrong in my life. I remember in the early days I would constantly hear my training partners talking to each other saying things like, “hey, it’s his first week, go light, no subs, just show him how to move”. I quickly learned two things, first, I wasn’t made of glass, and second, no one made fun of me and no one took advantage of me for not knowing how to roll. In fact, everyone took time and made it a point to help make me a better grappler. It’s not just a few good people and some bad apples, everyone has the utmost respect for each other and we all want each other to improve. The culture that Waza has built is unbelievable and I am proud to be a part of it. My journey has been nothing short of incredible. I came in with no grappling experience and a long history of back pain. With amazing instruction and great training partners, my back is stronger than ever and pain free. I never thought in a million years I’d be competing in anything at my age, let alone a combat sport, but the skills and confidence I’ve obtained from training here at Waza pushed me to compete and I’ve never been more proud of myself. I’m now two years in and achieved a Bronze Medal in competition and my Blue Belt. Great new habits, self confidence, and getting in the best shape of my life are some of the byproducts of learning Jiu Jitsu that I’ve received. I had no idea that by training BJJ I’d end up making new lifelong friends. Again, something I was not expecting to do as I get ready to turn 40. As I mentioned before, the community and the environment at Waza is amazing, but I now have friends that I talk to on a daily basis. I have been helped and I have given help in almost all areas of life, not just on the mats. I haven’t really ever experienced this type of bond and friendship anywhere else. I can honestly say my life is better because of Waza and my training partners who are now my friends. If you are looking for a school with a strong pedigree, high level competitors and historical lineage, Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is that as well. Derek DiManno is the head instructor and owner and was the first American to receive a Black Belt from World Champion Cassio Werneck, the man who is responsible for bringing Jiu Jitsu to the Sacramento Area. When it comes to learning the art of Jiu Jitsu, we have the most incredible instructors and we are SPOILED because we get access to them on a daily basis. Athletes at Waza range from the everyday person looking to learn a new skill and get exercise, to high level competitors, all the way to IBJJF World Champions. Whether you want to simply learn a new skill or take your jiu jitsu to the next level, you can do so here at Waza. I can’t wait for my son to start training here at Waza. They also happen to have an amazing kids program with great instructors as well. If it isn’t obvious by now, I highly recommend Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I hope to see you on the mats soon!”

“Waza is the best place to train jiu jitsu in Elk Grove for adults, teens and kids. Waza offers gi and no-gi classes at a wide variety of times including 530am during the week for the hitters! Waza also offers speciality training for self defense and law enforcement as well as women’s only classes. Waza is great place for someone new to the sport or a seasoned competitor and everyone in between. I’ve been training at Waza since 2012 and love the culture and training environment. I consider everyone at Waza family. Jiu jitsu has made a profound impact in my life in many areas including my physical and mental health. The owner Derek DiManno is one of the most stand up and trustworthy people I know on top of being a great jiu jitsu practitioner. I look forward to training in the new building. See you on the mats!”

“I have been going here for 5+ years and love every minute of it. All of the adult class coaches are EXCELLENT teachers. They create an environment where everyone is willing and wanting to help each other learn. The kids program is phenomenal and very well put together. The coaches are excellent and also teach useful life skills to the children. I have two daughters and they LOVE going here! I enjoy everything about this place! Derek has created something very special in the Elk Grove area and continues to create a welcoming environment to all who are wanting to learn.”