UCS - University of Combat Sports, Carlson Gracie Claremont

"Started my Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu journey in Feb of 2025. I did not know what to expect at all and where to begin. I typed mma gym into google map and UCS popped up. I emailed Jamar for a trial run and he set up an appointment for me. I will break this review down into a few sections. Head Instructor: Jamar adapts to each individual and motivates them according to their personality. He is one of the finest and most professional individuals I have ever had the pleasure to work with. He takes MMA very seriously and passionately. He cares about his students on and off the mat has made positive impacts on many people's lives, me included. He runs his business with integrity and honesty even if it means not making as much money as he could. He is upfront and honest with his students whether it's promotion or not being a good fit for the gym. He puts his students first and truly believes that his team is his family. Parking and facility: There are plenty of parking spaces. Facility is spacious with two restrooms. Got a few changing rooms to change in between classes from Muay Thai to Jiu Jitsu. Got a staging area for your gear and cameras all over the gym so you do not have to worry about your stuff going missing. Jamar offers refrigeration in case you have protein or drinks you want to keep chilled. Plenty of weights and workout equipment in case you are injured and cannot participate in sparring or rolling.I recently tweaked my ribs and while others rolled after lessons I just worked out at the side. Jamar cleans the gym after each use after the morning session as well as the night session. Environment/hours/schedule: UCS is one of the friendliest places I have ever been to. Unlike some of the other gyms out there, the students and instructors are not out to impress anyone. What I mean by that is no one is going to beat you up just to show you how cool they are. In fact Jamar is very big on being respectful and frowns upon being a mat bully. Hours of the gym are very accommodating. However accommodating Jamar is he does not tolerate being late, it's part of being respectful to other students! Muay Thai/Jiu Jitsu: As far as I know, this gym is one of the only gyms that still offers Muay Thai around the area. There is no "beginner's class" as everyone learns in a big group setting. This goes for both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu as well. Jamar has a keen eye for each individual's skill level and pairs you up with people that can teach and guide you. Each session starts with warm up following up with a lesson plan for the week and ends with light contact sparring. Safety is very important at UCS as it should be at any MMA gym. Jamar has a no nonsense policy when it comes to the hygiene and safety of his students. With that being said you will get punched/kicked in the face and body, but it's something you will be able to tolerate. I mean after all you are coming to learn a combat sport. This is a Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu and they teach both Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu. One of the reasons why I love this gym is because it is a very balanced gym. Jamar encourages his students to learn both and be well versed in both. At first I was super lost as to what I'm supposed to do but from the short months I have been here I feel like I have improved significantly. Everyone here is very patient and welcoming and I never felt pressured to practice any moves I'm not comfortable with. One of the earliest lessons I have learned from Jamar is tapping early and not pushing myself because I do not know what I am doing yet. As far as promotions, go there isn't a test so you do not have to worry about paying extra to advance. Overall, I cannot recommend this place enough. I have made many valuable friendships that I know will last a lifetime. you will just have to come and check it out. Reach out to Jamar about trial class and begin your journey, you will not regret it, OSS!!!"

"I’ve been training here at UCS for the past year now. Jamar (our instructor) pays great attention to detail and makes sure we understand what we’re doing and when to apply it. I train BJJ and Muay Thai here and not only have I gained new skills but have also become part of the Carlson Gracie family. Everyone here are amazing training partners. We look out for each other and compete at the highest level. Jamar is not only an incredible instructor, but also a great mentor and friend. This is the gym to be at if you’re looking to improve or learn BJJ, Muay Thai, wrestling and MMA."

"I highly recommend this Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Judo Academy to anyone seeking a challenging yet rewarding martial arts experience. The professors are not only demanding but also fair and hardworking, pushing students to give their all in every session, nothing less. The atmosphere is one of dedication and camaraderie, making it a difficult but immensely enjoyable place to train. There is also a variety of amazing kids programs for any age at any level. If you’re ready to commit and push yourself to new heights, this academy is the perfect fit for you."

"I initially moved to this area in October ‘22 and did a couple trial runs at a few of the surrounding schools before settling on the UCS academy in March ‘23. This academy is a rare gem for a few reasons, 1. There’s an equal balance of Gi & Nogi BJJ. 2. The school also offers Muay Thai, Judo, Strength & Conditioning, and MMA classes. (Rare combo to find) 3. The academy has a great class schedule ranging from AM to PM classes. (Also hard to find) 4. The level of detailed coaching literally from any of the instructors is second to none. 5. Above all, the community is one of the most welcoming and family oriented which is a core value that trickles down from the owner - something I personally look for in a school. Whether you are starting your martial art journey or continuing it, this is a top notch place to do it at."