Valente Brothers Jiu-Jitsu Coral Gables

I started bringing my 3-year-old son here in October. At first he was very hesitant, as he’s naturally quite shy. One of the senseis (the Turkish instructor) was incredibly patient and really helped him feel comfortable. Now he genuinely looks forward to going. There was a point last month when I almost stopped because leaving the house was always a struggle. That same sensei encouraged me to continue, and I’m very glad I did. My son now loves it and is doing so great. Highly recommend, especially for young kids.

We couldn't be happier with Coral Gables self Defense. The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and truly invested in each child’s growth, not only in their jiujitsu skills but also in their confidence, resilience, and character. We can tell the progress in our kids on and off the mats. The sense of community is amazing, and it’s clear that every child is encouraged to do their best while supporting their teammates. We are so grateful to have found this place and highly recommend it to any family looking for an outstanding self defense academy

Best decision I’ve made for my kids. The instructors are warm, patient, and genuinely invested in each child’s growth. The facility is beautiful and the atmosphere is welcoming from day one. My children have grown in confidence, focus, and discipline since joining. Gables Self Defense Academy is a gem in Coral Gables. I can’t recommend it enough.

I am 85 years old and have been learning self defense and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from professors James Robertson, Burak Eyilik, and Jorge Lugo at the Valente Brothers "dojo" in Coral Gables for the last 12 years. The quality of the instruction and the welcoming, safe, and disciplined atmosphere fostered by these Jiu Jitsu teachers are exceptional. They are patient mentors, expert technicians, and humble life long learners who prioritize students growth over their own ego. For those reasons, learning and practicing Jiu Jitsu has been one of the most positive and rewarding experience in my adult life. Guillermo F. Mascaro

I started as an adult with zero martial arts experience, honestly a little embarrassed to walk in at my age. That feeling disappeared within the first five minutes. The team at Gables Self Defense Academy is welcoming, professional, and incredibly skilled. The Valente Brothers curriculum is rooted in real self-defense — practical, effective, and taught with purpose. The facility in Coral Gables is stunning, and the atmosphere is unlike any gym I’ve been to. No ego, no intimidation — just serious instruction in a supportive environment. Six months in and I feel stronger, more aware, and genuinely more confident in my daily life. Worth every penny.

Our family has had an incredible experience with Valente Brothers. Both of my children have been members, and the impact it has had on them has been nothing short of amazing. From day one, the instructors have created a welcoming, disciplined, and respectful environment that truly feels like a community. The level of professionalism, patience, and attention given to each student is outstanding. My kids have not only grown in their jiu-jitsu skills, but also in confidence, focus, and character. The values taught on the mat clearly carry over into everyday life. It’s rare to find a place that balances tradition, structure, and genuine care for its students so well. We are beyond grateful for the positive influence Valente Brothers has had on our family and highly recommend it to anyone looking for top-tier instruction in a supportive environment

I was first recommended to this school about 10-11 years ago. The instructors here are excellent. The curriculum is based on self-defense and traces back to Grandmaster Helio Gracie. The school's new location on Aragon Ave features a larger training area with a spring base floor for better shock absorption. This is a family-friendly environment.

If you are looking for top-tier instruction in a safe and welcoming environment, this is the place. The coaches at Gables Self Defense/Valente Brothers are incredibly patient and have a gift for breaking down complex movements into things kids as well as adults can understand and execute. We look forward to every class. I highly recommend!

Both of my kids have been at Valente Brothers for a while now and I have seen a huge difference in their strength and discipline from when they started to today. Jiu-jitsu has taught them a lot of things that has helped to boost their confidence and most importantly Not to give up! Lessons that will benefit them for life.

Amaia started just a couple of weeks ago with her best friend Filippa, and they both absolutely love it! The instructors are patient, encouraging, and make every class fun while teaching discipline and respect. Everyone has been so welcoming, and we’re excited to see her continue learning and growing. Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐