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October 2023 by Dylan Featherly
I'm 17 and tried the place out, nice facility and even nicer people. Went there a few times after the small gym I went to move 40 miles away from my house. While not for me due to how big it is, I highly recommend going to this place, might try it out again when I'm older and don't have school.
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September 2023 by Elle Waldron
I took private lessons with Chad at Black Lion twice a week for four weeks to gain some self defense skills for an international trip. I did not have any Jiu Jitsu experience and he explained and demonstrated concepts in a way I could understand and made me excited about learning! I also always felt very safe and comfortable taking lessons with Chad because he always explained what and why we were practicing a particular technique and consistently checked in to make sure I felt comfortable. He also brought in other staff or gym members to help me practice, and encouraged practicing at home by writing down moves to remember. Chad’s techniques for teaching were fantastic and I felt well prepared leaving his lessons. Definitely check out Black Lion!
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September 2023 by Gregory Stacey
Brand new to BJJ. Been training there for 4 weeks now, 2 days weekly AND did 1 seminar. The patrons are great and the staff I have met (Chad, Justin, Robert, Ben, Bryce) are all fantastic. Looking forward to training and growing there!
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August 2023 by Vlad The Impaler
This is the best place to train in Grand Rapids. I have tried other gyms and settled on Black Lion. Chad and Justin are stellar coaches. The mat space is big and always clean. Best of all, all of the members who roll at BL are fantastic training partners and good good people. I highly recommend anyone who is considering BJJ train at BL.
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August 2023 by Mike Peterson
Coaches are amazing and really go out of their way to help you. The people I’ve met here are helpful and amazing. Family friendly as well, so great place to have your kids train and make new friends.
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August 2023 by Jason Cripe (3JM Adventures)
My son and I both train here! Can't recommend black lion enough. Chad and all the instructors are top notch. If you're looking for a welcoming place to train then this is it!
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August 2023 by Jared Bengston
With me being a college student, Black Lion provides me with an amazing place to clear my head before/after classes. Mats are clean, people are great, highly recommend.
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August 2023 by Brandon M.
The instruction, facility, and community are amazing. Black Lion it a great place to learn and progress. You won’t be disappointed.
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August 2023 by scott williamson
Amazing gym with exceptional instructors. This is a great place to learn and excel for all levels.
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July 2023 by Ben Bisson
The best place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu around Grand Rapids. Great instructors, friendly crowd and clean facilities.
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June 2023 by Jim Owens
I cannot say enough great things about Chad and the Black Lion family. I took my son to the gym a few years ago and was amazed at how well the instruction was, that I wanted to try myself. Neither my son or myself had ever participated in a martial art. Chad and the rest of the instructors made the process comfortable, encouraging, and always positive. There is very few things that I have ever done that were so physically and mentally challenging. It has helped boost both the confidence of my son as well as myself. I have found the reward in the challenge of constantly learning and pushing myself to be better. The gym is clean and well kept and I couldn't be happier with the decision to walk through the doors and take the first steps. If you are looking for great instruction and a supportive atmosphere, look no further. The Black Lion is the place for you!
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May 2023 by Douglas Sweat
Great environment, very friendly and helpful staff and members. Would highly recommend for kids to gain self-confidence and respect for others, all while learning to defend themselves with a great martial art. Great environment for adults to learn without a lot of pressure on newbies. They take the time to explain not only moves, but the reasons behind them, and are more than willing to answer any questions. They have made me and my family feel very welcome. Very highly recommended.
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May 2023 by Sarah Cooke
After a horrible experience at a different gym I was scared to try jiujitsu again. My first day at Black Lion I sat in my car and thought of all the reasons why I should just quit. I'm glad I didn't. From the second I walked in I felt welcome. I'm a smaller sized white belt female and I feel safe here. All of the coaches are professional, caring, patient, and excellent teachers. Every single person makes you feel like you belong and there is no ego at all. The mats are mopped after every class and the gym itself is very clean. I've only been here a few months and love it here, I feel like I have learned so much already! If you're on the fence about jiujitsu or nervous to try it out, this is the place to be ❤️
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May 2023 by Frank Taylor
Great place to train and learn. Instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful. Its a fun group of people to train with.
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May 2023 by Jeff Frary
Great place to train and learn BJJ. Instructors are great and very knowledgeable.
