Team Santos Jiu Jitsu

Team Santos Jiu Jitsu offers Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, BJJ for Kids, Adult Jiu-Jitsu, and self defense classes. BJJ for Kids and Adult Jiu-Jitsu are listed as separate programs, and self defense elements are incorporated into every class.

• Ages: 7–17 years old
• Schedule: Classes offered on weekday evenings and Sunday mornings

Team Santos Jiu Jitsu lists a mission of focusing on the foundations of real Jiu Jitsu for self-defense and fighting, with an emphasis on authentic martial arts and respect. The program states that training aims to build confidence and strength in mind, body, and spirit. BJJ for Kids is specifically for ages 7–17, and Adult Jiu-Jitsu is for ages 18 and up. Kickboxing is described as a standing combat sport that comes from karate and is influenced by Muay Thai and boxing.

Owner and coach Jon Santos is described as one of the last original Cesar Gracie members still rolling and teaching old-school Jiu Jitsu. Since 1995, he has trained alongside David Terrell, Nick Diaz, Nate Diaz, Kurt Osiander, and Gilbert Melendez, and he is described as a multi-gold medalist and elite coach who produces top Bay Area fighters and BJJ competitors, including Joe Kropschot, Michael Bueno, Temuujin Ulzii-Orshikh, and Sal Osorio. Coach Joe Kropschot, who coaches Muay Thai and Kickboxing, is described as an ADCC-ranked Black Belt and LFA Middleweight Champion.

Parent and student reviews on Google describe Team Santos Jiu Jitsu as the “best place to train” with hard work and visible results, note major improvement in BJJ after six months of training, and recommend the gym to people in the East Bay area. Other reviews mention a “true sense of community,” a culture “second to none” led by the owner, and a “family atmosphere” with many close friendships and a high level of respect among members.

Last updated May 18, 2026.