REVIEWS

        Posted on Google  
   
   Dana Weingartner 
 December 23, 2025
 
 
  My husband and I dropped in for a class while visiting family. Everyone was super friendly and we learned something new - thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Scott Siercks 
 July 16, 2025
 
 
  Both of my kids train in Judo and Jiu Jitsu here. This is one of the cleanest and most organized martial arts schools in Hampton Roads! Greg & Brandon are very supportive instructors with years of experience. Both are firm and patient with their students, no matter what the age.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   1776 Outdoors 
 July 7, 2025
 
 
  Clean facility, and very friendly and welcoming staff. The professor was very accommodating and knowledgeable. Thank you very much.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sean Kopack 
 June 15, 2025
 
 
  An amazing space with a team that really cares. Greg, his family, and staff are amazing to work with. Extremely professional and always willing to help with anything. If you come here you will be met with kindness, respect, and most of all a wealth of coaching/knowledge.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Russel Tofflemire 
 May 26, 2025
 
 
  Training at Gustavo Machado BJJ under Greg Walker has been an incredible experience. Greg is not only a highly skilled instructor but also a dedicated and supportive leader who truly cares about each student’s growth. The atmosphere he fosters is one of respect, discipline, and community. Whether you’re just starting out or have years on the mat, this school offers high-level instruction in a welcoming environment. The techniques are taught with clarity to all styles of learning and the training partners are respectful and motivated. I can’t recommend this place enough for anyone serious about learning the science of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and expressing it in their own artistic way.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   steve garrett 
 January 2, 2025
 
 
  Just moved here from Florida and took some time to check out a few schools. This one felt right as I walked through the door. Strong friendly culture of respect and focus. Greg is a great communicator and instructor. He does a great job getting around the room during instructional and drilling periods. The students all have an air of comfort and community. Looking forward to continuing my journey at Gustavo Machado Chesapeake
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bryan LaRussa 
 May 14, 2024
 
 
  I started training with Professor Greg in November 2022 and have learned more than I ever expected.  At 34 I was nervous to start training jiu jitsu with zero experience, but since day 1 Professor Greg has encouraged me and pushed me to become the best version of myself.  I never would have expected being in better shape and healthier mentally and physically in my 30s than I was in my 20s, but it's true.  Training jiu jitsu has been more than a physical challenge, it's helped me to develop more mental toughness, discipline, and overall mental health on and off the mat.  It's given me the confidence that I can go after my goals and face challenges head on.  Professor Greg is more than a jiu jitsu instructor, he's a life coach and a great one at that.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jim Norton 
 November 21, 2023
 
 
  There is a lot of good Ju Jitsu in South Hampton roads, and Greg Walker at Gustavo Machado Chesapeake is one of the best. I’ve been training here since late 2021 after training at other gyms in the area. Greg has built a great academy, clean, with a variety of well structured classes - fundamentals , intermediate, Gi and NoGi- even a women’s class. He teaches almost every class- he is “All in” . Running the academy is his main focus- not a part time job or side hustle. He is very patient and extremely knowledgeable with an excellent understanding of how to teach students of differing skills and physical abilities. One of the most rewarding aspects is how he takes a personal interest in each student and helps them achieve their individual goals . I feel very fortunate to train here and learn from Greg.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Arnold 
 November 5, 2023
 
 
  I started training at GMBJJ Chesapeake in 2021 as a 3 stripe white belt lost in the mix lacking solid fundamentals. I trained inconsistently at a few other academies and didn’t really know what the blueprint of a great BJJ family looked like. I was in rough shape mentally and was kind of moving without purpose in life. I would show about 30 minutes before class for the noon class to stretch my injury riddled body and Greg and I had some pretty in-depth conversations as he picked up on my struggle pretty quick. Those conversations got pretty deep and we shared things that are probably pretty hard conversations for a lot of people to hear. He held me accountable on the mat which is precisely what I needed at that point in his own special way. He’s just that kind of guy that dials in on his students intrinsic values and teaches thru those channels. Being honest, this academy was the last stop on my BJJ journey and I was going to quit if hadn’t worked out. Glad I made that choice. Now I’ve moved to South Carolina and am training under one of the best practitioners in the country and am sought out at the noon class, I believe, because of the foundation Greg built in me. I don’t look at Greg as my previous professor, but rather as a lifelong dear friend that I’d do anything for if he asked. I love each and every person I ever interacted with durning my time there. They were my family away from home. In terms of kids classes, I’d feel safe leaving my kids under his care for any period of time as I’ve seen him teach the kids class and he’s one of the best humans I’ve met in my life. Much love, Greg and thank you. I owe you my life.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sandra B. 
 October 13, 2023
 
 
  MOST impressive is the clear, consistent way professors lead each class. Students perform stretches, exercise drills and warm-ups all which reinforce the basic movements of more advanced jujistu techniques. Our family has been taking classes here for nearly two years; I wished we'd started sooner. In the children's classes, students are held to a high standard regarding proper form and technique, but MORE importantly, how to be a Good Training Partner and -frankly- how to be a better person in general. I've seen wild, rambunctious kids begin their training here and watched them develop into much calmer, happy disciplined kids, full of pride as they earn each "stripe" on their belt. The academy is clean, the staff is professional and knowledgeable. If you are looking for a LEGIT Brazilian Jujitsu academy led by a blackbelt professional~this is it! They offer classes from beginning 4 year olds through adults and even higher level advanced classes. There's a wide range of classes and payment options. They are upfront & there's never hidden fees. Come check it out for yourself!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Zachary Rittenberry 
 October 3, 2023
 
 
  100/10 would recommend. When I joined gmbjj Chesapeake in 2020 I was a purple belt coming from the affiliate school in Virginia Beach. Upon joining I realized this gym is one of a kind and on top of that it’s a family. Fast forward to 2023, I have so much more confidence in myself and my jiu jitsu and I love this gym with all my heart. Greg and Adrian pour so much effort and passion into every session, person and question people may have. The direct result of this being an amazing gym where you have a mix of competitors, hobbyists, friends and amazing people from all walks of life who are just excited to be on the mats. If you are looking for a new way to challenge yourself mentally and physically this is the place to be. Greg Walker will help push you to become a better version of yourself. You won’t regret it.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   TJ Thom 
 August 15, 2023
 
 
 recommends I came to the gym through the We Defy Foundation which helps disabled veterans train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and find ways to cope with physical and mental disabilities. Six weeks into my training and I’m glad I have access to such an amazing training facility and staff. Coach Greg creates an inclusive environment for all who are willing to check their egos at the door and strive for at least 1% improvement each class. My training partners teach me just as much as the instructor and you’re always guaranteed to have your instructor walk through techniques with you and your partner. Emphasis is placed on training at your own physical fitness level and pace finding where you can push your body a little further and when to step back. We also focus on the WHY and science behind techniques. I highly recommend training at this gym and look forward to training here as long as I’m able.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   David Calderwood 
 January 27, 2023
 
 
  I put my son in here about 18 months ago. The first day, I watched Prof Greg manage 20 kids with the help of Prof Chet. They have incredible patiences and communications skills. I've watched Prof Greg correct and enforce discipline when the kids are getting distracted.  He's an incredible communicator and knows how to reach them the way that works for them. There is an adult class that starts after my son's and I have talked to many of them. There are serious competitors driving 45 mins to an hour just to train under Prof Greg. The consensus is few are better at getting the most out of their students. He also has a staff of instructors who are on the same page. It's just impressive to witness and experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sergio Carvalho 
 January 14, 2023
 
 
  Great family environment! Structure, organized yet very fun! Great coaching from traditional to new school Jiu-Jitsu! YES Leg Locks! A good variety of different training partners sizes and skills levels! Great place to learn Jiu-Jitsu! Oss 🤙🏼
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   ricardo parizal 
 November 23, 2022
 
 
  Greg Walker is a great teacher. Positive vibes in the class which creates a good learning environment.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Brad Kealii 
 September 14, 2022
 
 
  This is my bjj home for the time being. Clean, Sanitary, great instruction, family friendly are just some of the things I can boast about. Proffesor Greg is a badass instructor and a great competitor. Come train you fakaz!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chris Simmons 
 July 15, 2022
 
 
  Great experience. Very structured environment. Well taking care of during my visit. The instructional was easy to follow. You can tell they took there time learning the curriculum before instructing. Paid attention to the detail of the passing drill. Very professional. Chester Wright, who was the instructor at the time was also a very impressive black belt to roll with 🤙🏼. Will definitely be returning on my visit to VA Beach again.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nina 
 June 25, 2022
 
 
  My son has been attending for about 2 years. The facility is nice and the instructors are great. The price we pay allows us to attend 3 times a week which is much more of what I get elsewhere for the same price
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Justin Poole 
 June 24, 2022
 
 
  Awesome place to train. Our 8 year old son trains here and we always have a good time. Very professional and respectful.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Dan Skidmore 
 June 12, 2022
 
 
  Legit instruction and ethics. Really hope to bring my son here soon to train with this crew.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kyle Lullo 
 January 19, 2022
 
 
  Fantastic Jiu Jitsu school(dojo? IDK) with a great teacher.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Nichole Coulard 
 January 15, 2022
 
 
 recommends My 6 year old son has been here for over a year and has learned so much! Great coaching- pushing them to do their best, overcome challenges and be disciplined. This was our best choice!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mike D 
 November 25, 2021
 
 
  Greg is a straight up amazing person, many people I look up to certain qualities in, but Greg is overall good person to model after.  This gym is large, has tons of changing rooms and is well organized and clean.  The instruction is top notch and personalities are all awesome here.  For anyone who is reading this and debating starting Jiu Jitsu, come here and you won't be disappointed, it isn't as intimidating as you would think and you'll have a blast.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   David Griffin 
 November 12, 2021
 
 
  Amazing place to learn Jiu Jitsu!! Professor Greg is a great teacher. All the coaches do a fantastic job of helping me understand what I need to do to keep getting better. Gustavo’s is a great family & gym!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Trey Baker 
 October 17, 2021
 
 
 recommends Shout out to @gustavo_machado_chesapeake  for teaching my niece the fundamentals of Brazilian jujitsu, while she was here on fall break! Professor Greg and his colleagues were passionate about instructing and instilling the basic principles of bjj and ensuring she had a blast doing so!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Carl Sanders 
 January 11, 2021
 
 
 recommends Level of instruction and attention to detail is second to none! The previous gym that I trained at produced multiple UFC fighters including one UFC champion; the training here at GMBJJ Chesapeake is simply…..better. Professor Greg’s passion for the art is evident from the moment you step through the doors and influences every part of the academy. No matter how many people are on the mat, he somehow has the time to help everyone improve and perfect their techniques. The welcoming culture and comradery is unparalleled creating the best atmosphere to train in with some of the most amazing people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. The academy feels like home and teammates are family!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Horacio Pino 
 September 25, 2020
 
 
 recommends Two great instructors. Greg ~ Chester.  Willing to share their knowledge and teach you the art , encouragement at all levels and very patience with every question .  Upper ranked classmates are also amazing. Willing to help you learn without making you feel lost ,  many classmates I now consider FRIENDS !  Roll on !
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Eric Tillman Jr 
 August 5, 2020
 
 
  Love the family atmosphere, instruction and overall experience. One of the  best instructors in Proffessor Walker, a well of knowledge to help further the journey known as BJJ.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Raymond Villanueva 
 February 7, 2020
 
 
 recommends My 4 yr old son and I train there and we absolutely love it. Family friendly with excellent instruction. The class structure and curriculum is well thought out and the students are courteous and very friendly. I would highly recommend trying it out.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Alan Merullo 
 January 24, 2020
 
 
 recommends Professor Greg is not only one of the top Jiu-Jitsu competitors in the area. He has an undeniable passion for teaching the gentle art , practicing and emulating a positive Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle in all aspects of his life.  Greg shares his academy to all practitioners regardless of where they train on Friday evenings for intense training sessions at no charge.  Myself and some of my students have benefited from these sessions.  I highly recommend this academy to anyone in the area who is looking for high level training with a cool family vibe.  5 stars!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chester Wright 
 November 19, 2019
 
 
  Professor Greg Walker is a world-class competitor and an amazing instructor! Gustavo Machado Chesapeake has a Jiu Jitsu program for the whole family. Such an awesome atmosphere and wonderful people. 5 stars simply isnt enough!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tuatha De danaan 
 October 4, 2019
 
 
  I have been training for over a decade as a fighter and a grappler all over the East Coast. Now I only do it for exercise and fun. Greg does a great job with all levels of students. Just a great environment for learning both BJJ and respect for others. I’ll definitely be coming back here. Greg is a great  ambassador of Gustavo Machado BJJ.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Ted Linn 
 September 20, 2019
 
 
 recommends Greg is a great instructor and wonderful  teacher to kids.  Every time we visit we are treated like family
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Chet Wright 
 September 5, 2019
 
 
 recommends Professor Greg Walker is a World Class Competitor and an amazing instructor! I cannot speak highly enough about him and  the crew at Gustavo Machado Chesapeake! Simply Amazing!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Carter Slawson 
 August 31, 2019
 
 
  I was only in town for the summer, but I can’t believe what I was able to learn in such a short time. Professor Greg Walker treated me like a regular student even though he knew I was only there for the summer. The fundamental classes were on point and definitely helped my game. My only regret was not being able to formally say goodbye due to flying back home early. I look forward to dropping in when I’m in town!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Stephen Helmer 
 July 10, 2019
 
 
 recommends Awesome place to learn the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu jitsu.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lauren Nonnenmacher 
 May 30, 2019
 
 
  With absolutely no knowledge of Jiu Jitsu, we brought our 6 year old son in less than a month after GMBJJ Chesapeake opened. We were welcomed with open arms and loved the clean, new facility. Professor Greg has an unmatched patience and enthusiasm to teach the Youth classes. Our daughter couldn’t wait for her dance recital to be over and her birthday, so that she was old enough to join her brother and learn Jiu Jitsu too. After a year and a half at this Academy, we have found that they have become family. Absolutely FIVE STARS!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Bernardo Pitel 
 May 18, 2019
 
 
 recommends Greg Walker is the best !!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Antonio Fernandez 
 May 18, 2019
 
 
  Highly recommend if you’re looking at getting into martial arts! I started training with Professor Walker when he was a trainer at UFC Gym. When he left, so did I. He is an amazing coach and has helped me progress immensely in Jiu Jitsu. He also offers kids classes and does excellent work with them!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Baron Huber 
 May 18, 2019
 
 
  If you are looking for a place to start a foundation of discipline and respect for your child from someone outside of your own home, then you have to look no further! Professor Greg Walker has spent years working with kids of all types, for the most rambunctious to the very timid. My own son trained their and has been diagnosed with ADHD so needless to say he has a hard time staying focused. Professor Greg was just the thing he needed. He worked with him to improve and stay on track. I saw another review that warned of listening to recommendations from customers, but who else would you rather listen too? Martial arts is tough for children and adults. The way Professor  Greg teaches to each individual learning style and is great with all kids. I can’t recommend this academy and it’s staff enough!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   R W 
 March 30, 2019
 
 
  Completely agree with all the other reviews. Great facilities and professor Greg Walker is awesome with both children and adults alike. We started with our two kids and then my wife and I decided to join. Along with great facilities and instruction, the people that train together here are an awesome group. My family started with zero formal experience and all felt welcome from day one. Stop by and check out the free week of classes; no pressure, no obligation, no uniform required. Young child intro (my 4 year old) Tuesday and Thursday 5-5:30pm Saturday 9-9:30am Youth fundamentals (my 6 year old) Tuesday and Thursday 5:30-6:30pm Saturday 9:30-10:30am Adult fundamentals class times: Tuesday and Thursday 6:30-7:30pm Saturday 11:30am-12:30
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Holly Waggoner 
 March 30, 2019
 
 
  Coming into any Jiu Jitsu gym without a background in this sport can be very intimidating. However, my family and I felt welcome the moment we came through the door. The youth program that my son (4) and daughter (6) attend focus on conditioning, technique and most importantly discipline. In the short amount of time we’ve been coming here (2 months) have made a world of difference in their confidence and self esteem. They made friends very quickly and look forward to every class. The adult fundamentals class is equally amazing. Professor Greg and his wife Adrian are passionate about Jiu Jitsu and this is evident in their dedication to maintaining a clean, family friendly academy that facilitates an optimal environment for learning this sport. You won’t regret coming here but on the off chance that you do, there’s no upfront obligation because they offer a week of free classes for youth and adults to insure that this investment of time and money is right for you or your kids.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jason Becker 
 March 26, 2019
 
 
  Awesome brand new facility and the best BJJ coaches! I have both my kids here and couldn’t be happier. Excellent coach to student ratio and they work great with the little ones.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Laura Dominguez 
 February 23, 2019
 
 
  Great experience...professor and all other instructors/coaches are great with kids as well as adults. Best academy we’ve ever experienced for both adults and children.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bobbie Clifton 
 February 22, 2019
 
 
  Great Academy! Professor Greg Walker is an outstanding instructor and encourages a family friendly atmosphere.  Best place to learn jiu jitsu in Chesapeake.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Betty Broadhurst 
 February 14, 2019
 
 
 recommends This academy offers excellent instruction , hospitality, and a family atmosphere . Professor Greg Walker demonstrates in every class, kids, beginners, adults - his expertise in helping each person as an individual, as well as teaching to the group, in details easy to understand. The environment is clean, safe, and respectful to anyone who enters. So thankful to be a member of this team! Come visit and see what great Jiu Jitsu is about!!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Paul Mitchell 
 January 10, 2019
 
 
 recommends Greg is an outstanding teacher, the kids class is even better than advertised!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Stephen 
 December 19, 2018
 
 
  An awesome place to learn the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu jitsu.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Sausser 
 July 30, 2018
 
 
  good Jiu jitsu !  taught by one of the best in the area !
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Gustavo Machado 
 April 27, 2018
 
 
 recommends The best Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Chesapeake VA!!!! Professor Greg Walker is one of the best in the world and i am extremely proud to be his teacher. The instructors from GMBJJ Family are not only teaching Jiu-Jitsu, we are changing lives using Jiu-Jitsu!� Highly recommend!�
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tayane Becker 
 April 3, 2018
 
 
  My daughter just now started sports and I choose jiu jitsu. We looked a few other gyms and we not only very happy with the instructor but also with the back ground of the people who work there and the filiation with Gustavo jui jitsu in hill top. I heard about Greg through another parent as well!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Charles Clifton 
 February 11, 2018
 
 
 recommends Greg is an excellent professor. He takes time with the youth to make sure they understand the moves being taught. He loves the sport and loves to teach.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Frankie Small 
 February 9, 2018
 
 
 recommends Greg is great at teaching. My son loved it and he’s been to a lot of gyms. The instructor is what made my son wanna sign up. Also the place is very clean and well kept.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Andy Ascencion 
 January 17, 2018
 
 
  Great facility with amazing instruction. This is the place to join if you are in Virginia! Professor Greg is phenomenal.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Melanie Grindstaff 
 January 16, 2018
 
 
 recommends Professor Greg is simply amazing!   He works well with both adults and children.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Mark Miller 
 December 9, 2017
 
 
 recommends World Class instruction for all levels of practitioner. From beginner to Expert you can’t go wrong here!
  
 
 
  Load more