About Rio Jitsu
Welcome to Rio Jitsu, 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 Rio Jitsu, 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.
Hayley Roche
"My 6 yo son has been going for almost a year now. He is a timid shy natured boy and we started going to build confidence. Boy did they deliver! All of the instructors are SO GOOD with kids! They learn their names right away. My son cried the first few times and they made a point to get on his level and make him feel so welcome. His confidence throughout life has increased and his gross motor development has significantly improved. We travel 45 min one way to come and it’s well worth it! I recommend to everyone with kids! The only bit of feedback I could offer is I wish they gave a “getting started” handout of info for parents that don’t know anything about jujitsu 😅. I’ve had to do a lot of googling to learn about how it’s formatted. The belts, stripes, how often they get them, requirements, skills and so on. I’m learning along the way! But this is so minor and is available on Google."
William Edmondson
"Visited this great gym while traveling on business. Professor Joao was extremely welcoming. Very friendly and family friendly atmosphere and top notch technique paired with great training partners. Would recommend to anyone."
Taylor Callais
"Rio Jiu Jitsu is without question the best jiu jitsu gym going. My two sons have been attending for almost a year now and the owners and coaches are exceptional. They are kind, patient, and highly skilled. I cannot recommend them enough."
Jeff Mason
"EDIT RIO RESPONDED DO NOT GO HERE They don’t check if you have the right mechanics. I have continued bjj. Don’t make it seem like I have not. I have lowered the rating because of this lying. Somewhat unsafe, they don’t explain well the mechanics of forward or backward rolling. They don’t wait long to teach landing mechanics before judo as well. I hurt my neck rolling. My shoulder got aggravated from landing as well. Impossible to retain information if you learn slower. They go over many positions fast and they don’t focus on them. The people who did it correctly have been going for years. It feels like there is no curriculum. Training partners also don’t understand a lot of the time what to do. You have to advocate for yourself."
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
6950 146th St W #118, Apple Valley, MN 55124, 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