About Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts
Welcome to Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Garth Taylor Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors
John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.
Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.
David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Varun Rapaka
"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."
Willow Schmidt
"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 :)"
nick solano
"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."
Skye Folsom
"Everyone was super friendly and inviting for my first class + Garth is the man and lives up to his reputation 100%."
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
403 Swift St #D, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM