Norfolk Karate Academy/Gracie Jiu Jitsu Norfolk

My 6 year old was going to summer camp with a boy with anger issues who kicked her, called her names, etc. We obviously worked with her and talked to the coach, but when I saw there was a trial of "Bullyproof" at the Jiu Jitsu studio, we decided it was a good opportunity! My 3 year old started mat munchkins, which is adorable. He loves it and "gets his wilds out." He's also around all these older kids and teens who are both really helpful to him and really respectful, so it's great modeling. I hope he'll be one of those kids in years to come. My daughter goes to Bullyproof and loves it too. She practices conflict de-escalation, using her voice, appropriate body language, and of course, jiu jitsu! The instructors are great and also really silly so it takes away any intensity from the subject. My husband wrestles with her and has already noticed that her body awareness is really changing. She keeps wanting me to look at her "strong muscles." 😀 It's a great thing to accompany her through her growth in childhood! I'm very grateful! When we have more time my husband and I want to take classes too! We're really enjoying everyone there and what they're offering our family!

This place started as a way to get the kids strength, motivation, accountability, discipline, self defense, etc and it’s become so much more. I’m grateful to have them involved in mine and my girls lives. They care beyond "teaching martial arts" and have become friends at least, maybe "extended family", to the point that I may buy a home in the area just to ensure the girls can keep going. I appreciate all that they do and the cost is absolutely justified for what you get in return.

I never imagined I would enjoy jiu jitsu this much. I first joined through a free women’s seminar, and I was surprised by how much I loved it. Even though I had never tried any type of martial art before, I felt comfortable and excited to learn. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in building confidence and learning how to defend themselves!

I absolutely love this place! It is fun for the whole family. I decided to sign my son up and then I ended up signing up and taking g the women’s empowerment class. The staff is warm, welcoming, and genuinely love sharing their passion of karate and Jiu-Jitsu with beginners.. I would absolutely recommend Norfolk Academy for children and adults.

My daughter has been going to it for 7 years she has become the best in her class she started when she was 3 and now she is 10 i love it

Instructors here are phenomenal. My eldest started a few years ago and now my youngest. A place that's very welcoming and friendly. Will work with students on technique over and over until they are comfortable. My kids will continue here and I highly recommend this place to others when they ask where my kids go for Karate.

I'm 61 with old injuries. Started training in chesapeake with coach Ian. He has been outstanding to train with. I've also had the pleasure to train briefly with coach Larry. Awesome experience. Everyone has been very helpful. If a broken old man can do it, so can you. Thanks for putting up with me. Nothing but love for these guys. Let's roll baby