Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Pasadena, CA
Roger Machado Jiu-Jitsu Pasadena welcomes individuals of all experience levels, ages, and fitness backgrounds to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through a dynamic, self-defense-focused approach. Founded by the Machado Brothers in the early 2000s, we are Pasadena's original Jiu-Jitsu school, rooted in a legacy dating back to the art's founders, Carlos and Helio Gracie. Our programs emphasize practical self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and mental well-being, fostering a supportive community where students experience growth both on and off the mats.Master Roger Machado, a 7th Degree Coral Belt with over 55 years of experience, leads our academy, offering personalized instruction shaped by decades of expertise. We prioritize accessibility, ensuring our welcoming environment caters to beginners while challenging advanced practitioners, with specialized classes for children, adults, and private lessons. Our commitment to quality education, combined with a focus on real-world applications of Jiu-Jitsu, has made us a trusted institution for personal development and martial arts excellence.
Services
Beginners BJJ
Advanced BJJ
No Gi BJJ
Kid's BJJ
Private Lessons
Seminars
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer over 55 years of combined experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction.
- Our curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense techniques for real-world scenarios.
- We provide personalized attention in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.
- Our instructors include a 7th Degree Coral Belt directly descended from Jiu-Jitsu's founders.
- We serve students of all ages, from children as young as 5 to senior practitioners.
What people say
Patient instructors
Welcoming environment
Life-changing experience
Expertise in self-defense
Positive community
Services
Beginners BJJ
Structured classes for newcomers to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on foundational techniques and safety. Our program builds confidence through progressive skill development, ensuring a smooth transition from basic movements to practical self-defense applications. Designed for adults and teens with no prior experience.
Kid's BJJ
Age-appropriate Jiu-Jitsu training for children aged 5 and older. Emphasizes bully prevention, discipline, and physical coordination while teaching essential self-defense skills. Classes foster respect, social skills, and healthy lifestyle habits in a supportive environment.
Private Lessons
Customized instruction tailored to individual goals, whether for competition preparation, specific technique refinement, or accelerated learning. Sessions with Master Roger Machado provide personalized feedback and focused attention to address unique needs.
No Gi BJJ
Technique-focused training without traditional uniforms, emphasizing close-quarters control and submission techniques. Ideal for practitioners seeking to improve grappling skills applicable to both sport and real-world self-defense scenarios.
Seminars
Intensive training sessions led by Master Roger Machado covering advanced techniques and strategic concepts. Designed for practitioners of all levels to deepen their understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through concentrated, theme-based instruction.
People
Roger Machado
Head Instructor
7th Degree Coral Belt with over 55 years of experience, nephew to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu founders Carlos and Helio Gracie. Pioneered modern Jiu-Jitsu in the US and established Pasadena's first academy in 2000.
Questions
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art focusing on ground fighting and submission holds, emphasizing technique over strength to enable smaller individuals to defend against larger opponents.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our classes welcome absolute beginners with structured programs designed to build skills progressively from fundamental techniques.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gis for beginners, or you can train in rash guards and shorts for No Gi sessions.
Is there a free introductory class available?
Yes, we offer a complimentary introductory class for Southern California residents. Schedule your free session through our website or by calling (626) 792-5050.
What are the benefits of training at your academy?
Students gain practical self-defense skills, improved physical fitness, stress relief, and access to a supportive community under the guidance of a legendary instructor.
Do you offer children's programs?
Yes, we provide specialized Jiu-Jitsu classes for children aged 5 and older, focusing on discipline, confidence-building, and age-appropriate self-defense techniques.
Reviews (7)
Christian Kelly
Dec 30, 2021
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Amazing instructor with a long family history in BJJ. With such deep knowledge and patience, Master Machado takes his time teaching students the techniques and focuses on making sure everyone is safe. Definitely a great place to learn from a master.
Anthony Ng
Dec 27, 2021
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Not only is this a Roger Machdo school, but it's a school where Roger Machdo is actually teaching the classes. It's amazing to actually learn directly from a Brazilian jiu jitsu legend and coral belt. Master Machado's teaching style is very detailed oriented, and he really pays close attention to everyone's safety, as well. Everyone at the school is friendly and helpful, and it's been the best learning experience I've had.
Cinefabio
Dec 26, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Master Machado has been a great and ideal instructor. He teaches well and encourages a solid learning for JiuJitsu. In my time going there I want to keep going, learning and wanting to improve, and I now know I will make JiuJitsu a life long commitment. Thank you, Master Machado.
Master Machado has been a great and ideal instructor. He teaches well and encourages a solid learning for JiuJitsu. In my time going there I want to keep going, learning and wanting to improve, and I now know I will make JiuJitsu a life long commitment. Thank you, Master Machado.
Matthew Cargal
Dec 24, 2021
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I highly recommend Master Roger Machado and Machado Jiu Jitsu! I am new to Brazilian jiu jitsu and Master Machado has made the experience challenging but very fun and non-intimidating! He is very patient and clearly loves teaching. I am confident that Master Machado is among the best jiu jitsu teachers for every level of practitioner. I look forward to continue training with him.
James M.
Dec 20, 2021
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When in the Pasadena area Roger Machado Bij is a vibe ! Originally my intentions were to train for the summer and that was over 6 years ago. Since then my health has improved and I've made several friends to whom I look forward to training with every week ! 6pm Squad #OSS
Peter Zarcone
Dec 10, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Master Roger Machado is among the best Jiu Jitsu instructors in the world. I have known him for more than 25 years and you will not find a more honorable and dedicated teacher. Highly recommended!
Master Roger Machado is among the best Jiu Jitsu instructors in the world. I have known him for more than 25 years and you will not find a more honorable and dedicated teacher. Highly recommended!
Mark Garcia
Dec 03, 2021
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I have been training brazillian jui jitsu for 10 years and I must say that Master Roger Machado is not only a excellent instructor but also an amazing person. His students are super friendly and very dedicated to learning the art of jiu-jitsu. If you want to train with a great friendly instructor and training partners, then this is the place!!!
