AB Mixed Martial Arts Academy

Ten stars? Can I give it ten stars?
Really, there aren’t enough superlatives in the english language to describe how amazing AB MMA is. The instructors, the staff, the gym itself, the classes offered, and the vibe of the entire place is off the charts.
Initially, a friend of mine talked me into coming here and I was pleasantly surprised (all out shocked?) by how much I actually loved it. The coolest, kindest ever people work here. Ester, Andino, Niko, and even the people I’ve met in passing all go out of their way to make sure people feel comfortable and supported from the second they walk through the door until the time they leave.
Bazilio, the owner, gave me ample time to feel out if AB was right for me. When that was decided on, he presented me with a small range of options for membership. At no point did I feel pressured. He seems to have as much interest in members achieving their goals as they do in attaining them. This is clearly his passion and it shows in every aspect of the gym.
The gym itself is meticulously clean, well thought out, well put together, and spacious. All of the equipment appears to be new and is very well taken care of.
The level of skill seen in the instructors here is *extraordinary* and it’s uncommonly matched with modesty, acceptance, and selfless and focused instruction. Robert and Anjinho are enthusiastic, patient, knowledgable, and serious about helping members achieve their self-​identified goals. As with any kind of information sharing, an ability to explain things in a multitude of ways can make all the difference. I have both witnessed and experienced instructors here patiently working to identify what teaching style works with an individual, and then explaining from there.
Whether you are like some of the folks here who are literally just made of muscles and have been training since before they were an embryo (not me) or brand new with no real concept of how to do a push-​up (me), you’ll likely be warmly welcomed and challenged in a way that works for you. This is a phenomenal gym with authentic people who are here to help you achieve whatever it is your looking for. I cannot recommend it enough.

Intimidation Factor — 0
First thing I think of when I walk into a martial arts gym/​facility: Am I gonna get my @$$ kicked by these guys?
I was expecting to see a bunch of tough guys mean mugging, but no. As soon as I walked in, one of my Muay Thai instructors greeted me with a smile. He (Victor) was very friendly, and proceeded to ask me what my experience, goals and expectations were.
Whew! I thought I was going to have to tell this guy what a wimp I was and that I get winded just running up a flight of stairs! He said «let’s start from the bottom. I’ll give you a physical assessment, let’s see where you’re at».
Instead of throwing me in to a class of experienced students, he gave me a personal, physical assessment to see where my physical stamina was, as to not overwork me. He also patiently taught me the some of the basics: stance, guard, punching and kicking techniques.
I appreciate this VERY much as previous instructors have thrown we to the wolves right off the bat, making me look like I have 2 left feet.
Embarrassment Factor — 0
The Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu classes are taught by world class instructors that have ACTUALLY compete at very high levels. If you wanna learn, learn from the best.
Awesomeness Factor — 10
One of my pet peeves is going to a clean gym. I mean CLEAN. I’ve heard countless horror stories about people getting staph infection from unsanitary gyms.
AB has just that, great ventilation and ample space to move around. They have simultaneous Muay Thai (Thai boxing) and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes, with at least 15 students in each discipline. There was still plenty if room.
Cleanliness Factor — 10
They also have great Cardio classes. I can see everyone getting on a good sweat and pumping adrenaline with smiling faces.
Lastly, they have classes for kids. When I’m headed into class, the kids are ending their class. They all look like they’re having such a blast and are thoroughly enjoying themselves! And there’s plenty seats in the waiting are for parents!
I’ve finally found a gym I can call home!!!

I just started taking the Muay Thai, Cardio conditioning, and Pilates classes a few months ago and I am hooked! I just had a baby and all the teachers are sensitive to the fact that I just got back from a work out hiatus but continue to push me to just the right amount
Here are some of my thoughts on each class that I take:
Muay Thai:
The instructors (Michael, Victor & Cristo) clearly cover all the basics in class so that newcomers and regular students are always on the same page. They sometimes have different levels within the classes to challenge those who have been coming consistently with more advanced techniques. The class always begins with warm ups and stretching which I am soo thankful for because I know I wouldn’t do it on my own and would probably hurt myself if I just jumped in. With Muay Thai, I always leave with a drenched shirt and new combos up my sleeve. I love how the classes are so technical while I still get a great workout. I’ve also noticed that I make a new friend each time I come in!
Cardio conditioning:
This class is no joke! The instructor (Ronal) warms up the class then explains all the circuits to us before we begin. We sometimes work through them on our own or with a partner. I love the fact that they mix up the work outs, I’ll never get bored with this fitness class because they change it up so much! The other members are really encouraging throughout the class as well. This class will definitely tone me up and improve my cardio if I come consistently!
Pilates:
This class is exactly what I need and more! After being pregnant for nine months, Pilates challenges me to use and strengthen my core with almost each exercise. I love how the instructor (Jackson) explains each movement and emphasizes how important our breathing methods are. Throughout the class, I’m using muscles I didn’t even know I had! I learn more about my body movements and strength each time I take this class and I love how Jackson is so patient and encouraging with each student.
I really do enjoy being at this gym. It’s always really clean and full of positive energy. In the future I’d also like to try the BJJ classes, there are some tough looking guys and girls in that class! That class has a great mix of competitors, upper, and lower belts too.
I also can’t wait until my kids get a little older so they can join the kids BJJ and Muay Thai. I watch the classes all the time and the instructors are great with kids. They keep them active, attentive and excited for each class! I think it’s really important to give your child the confidence and knowledge to defend themselves.
Bottom line is. AB-​MMA knows what they’re doing and are very professional about it!

You won’t find a better community than this. Everyone is so warm, even the owner, Basilio is hands on and is extremely welcoming. I don’t train in MMA and was just looking for a gym to workout in for the Spartan race. He let’s me workout and hangout even after their training and during the weekends. The gym has a lot of equipment that you won’t see in regular gyms like tractor tires, climbing ropes, sledgehammers and battle ropes. I got my medal because of this gym. Thanks Basilio and everyone at AB!

It’s only been five months since my family joined and already it seems like we’ve been adopted into the AB MMA family! The conditioning and Muay Thai classes are intense yet the coaches make it a point to challenge and help you grow at your pace. Come check it out! Great place for a date night and/​or family play night !!!

I love the gym. Everyone is great and so good at what they do! It’s also squeaky clean in here which I appreciate! Best rates in the city too!

It is rare for a gym here in San Francisco to have the following: Big clean space. Clean equipment. Top of the line mats. Adequate lighting. Air ventilation. Heating. Hydration station. Clean restrooms and changing room. Cool class gis and uniforms
What really attracted me the most is the feel of the gym. Im talking about the non intimidating feeling i received from the staff. Front desk personnel is friendly, clear and concise. Instructors that are World champions in BJJ and Muay Thai kickboxing remain humble and considerate toward their students. Their teaching style is so technical yet are able to communicate clearly to us. I see both young and old students enjoying their time learning and making new friends. Their cardio class is phenomenal.
Yes. This gym is for me.

This gym is family friendly, affordable and an excellent way to begin one’s journey into martial arts or to get in better shape through group fitness, yoga and Pilates.
The instructors all have top level competition experience and the owners of the gym are always investing in improving the facility.
Whether you have experience or are looking to get started in BJJ, Muay Thai or Capoiera, ABMMA is an excellent, affordable option in SF.

I never thought I’d be good at Brazilian jiu-​jitsu, but the instructors at AB-​MMA taught me that I’m a natural at wrestling. Even though I don’t have time to train anymore because of my kids, I still practice some of the moves with my friends and can make them tap out. Their Muay Thai classes are great, too! Plus, they play good music that gets you in the groove when your doing cardio.

This was my first time here and already loving it. My son loved it too its great for kids only have to look for street parking they do have parking but it’s limited.

This was a great find for my son. It did a lot for his self confidence and he has another activity he can do that he really likes. Plus he’s made good friends already.
After the trial class he took, I was afraid he never wanted to go back since it took him awhile to think about signing up for regular classes. He felt welcomed and everyone was nice. Now he takes regular classes here.
There’s a sitting area and a bunch of establishments around that can entertain you while you wait.
Parking can be a challenge.

After doing a review of the plumbing company I saw there was a mma academy with the same name. I was intrigued, so I went over to check it out.
Ive never done martial arts until now. The minute I walked in I was greeted warmly and offered a free class. I took it and it was good enough that I go there regularly now. Friendly people, fun classes and an overall great community.

The cardio conditioning class is amazing. Way better than a traditional gym, you get all the motivation you can get from working out with people instead of machines. I’ve been attending for about 3 months and I can clearly see the changes in my body and health.
I’ll never work out on a traditional gym again.

For the longest time, I didn’t know this place existed. It’s right next to the gas station I gas up at frequently (I live nearby). I always thought it was part of the gas station for whatever reason. ANYWAY! I’m glad my brother introduced me to this place last month because I have nothing but good things to say.
One Tuesday night, my brother asked me to go check AB MMA with him to see the inside of the place & inquire about rates & schedules. We were pleasantly surprised by the space & cleanliness. From the outside, I would have never guessed how nice it’d be in the inside. Don’t judge a book by its cover, right? Right! :)
After speaking to a few of the staff & observing the current classes going on, my brother & I decided to give it a shot. We were offered a discounted deal for our first month, which was inclusive of a family discount if we signed up together ($ 49 each). With this deal, we were free to take whatever classes we wanted with no additional charges. Because of our work schedule, my brother decided to take the evening BJJ class & I signed up for Cardio Conditioning (MWF 6PM) & Muay Thai (MWF 7:15PM).
During the cardio conditioning class, some of my «veteran» classmates would partner up with me to do the 5 – 6 rounds of 6 different exercises. Each session would have different exercises, which keeps the class exciting & dynamic. I’m also super grateful for my instructor, Ronald, who always tries to correct my form & pushes me to keep going.
With Muay Thai, I’m definitely learning & improving each class. I’ve never done any martial arts in my life (I’m 23-​years-​old), so I felt a bit behind/​intimidated in a way since I discovered people have been training for a year or more. But despite that, each person I partnered up with including my instructors Victor & Nico, were very patient & great at helping me learn the basics. They’d point out what I’m doing wrong & how I could improve.
I definitely got comfortable & felt at home quickly at AB MMA. Everyone is just amazing & awesome. You wouldn’t feel like an outsider here no matter your skill/​experience/​fitness level.
It’s been almost a month since I started, & at this point, I don’t see myself stopping. Going to THIS gym makes me excited to workout & sweat.

Best gym for whatever fitness level! Very supportive and encouraging teachers and trainers! The cardio conditioning coach Ronald has been my support and has helped me lose 65 pounds so far!!! Everyone here is awesome!

I spontaneously bought a Groupon for the AB MMA not knowing much about it. I came in with low expectations but after the first class, my experience completely surpassed any expectation I held. The gym is spacious, clean and modern. The instructors are the ones that really make AB MMA unique. Most of the instructors hold impressive metals and have been practicing for years however they are very humble. Jujitsu can get very complicated and technical but the instructors are very patient and break down the steps very well so students can understand. I never felt uncomfortable asking questions or asking the instructors to repeat the demo.
I have joined other MMA/​Boxing Gyms in the past, but I never continued my membership for long because I felt that the instructors were judgmental or did not equally distribute their attention to all the students. AB MMA was the only gym where I felt that the instructors genuinely want students to feel comfortable and push themselves to try new moves.
The classes are well constructed to not only develop and refine the various techniques in jujitsu but also to make sure you break a sweet, work out those abs and tone your legs. The warm-​ups really get your heart racing and the instructor’s demos really get your mind going. The Jujitsu class starts with a cardio warm up then the instructors demo the selected technique for the day. After, all the students pair up to practice the move. The last 20 min of the class is dedicated to training, so students have time to be creative and integrate everything they have learned! The hour and half flashes by because the instructors really keep you busy!
AB is not like other gyms! It’s not just about working out nor is it just about MMA. It’s about creating a community, a community that motivates and encourages each other to keep on practicing and trying new things. AB’s spontaneous BBQ really solidifies the community to come together develop friendships beyond the mat and training.
I would highly recommend this gym for people that want to explore the art of jujitsu or who want to get back into shape and lose weight. At AB you forget that you are working out because it feels like you are just hanging out with great people.

My son Jordan has been taking Jiu jitsu and Saturday classes for about 6 months now, he loves it! Nico (I hope I spelled his name correctly) is a wonderful instructor. He motivates the kids while building their self-​esteem.
AB MMA is a great place!!! It has a great family feel and the staff members are wonderful.

AB MMA is the real deal.
One part focus, one part get shit done, equal parts family. I started here last week and let me say — I have never been more motivated and inspired to just be great in life. The people at AB MMA are serious and its incredible to be apart of gym which emphasizes in learning and becoming better not just a fighter but as an individual.
I take the BJJ and each class I take i want to become better. The professors are incredible (Anjinho, Jackson, Nico, Augusto, Robert) — you can see they care about your performance and really want to you to go the next level. Everyone takes the extra steps to help in building you as an individual. They take their personal time to answer questions and be there for you. Even when I came in the first day, I was welcomed in — felt really at home.
The greatest part is that you learn so much not just in terms of fighting but in real life. You learn about focus, motivation, competition, team work, the list goes on. The classes are intense and you can expect to be beaten and torn down but you can always expect to be one day better. The team pushes you to your limit because they expect the best from you.
I am truly honored they have allowed me to train with them.

Great place to train jiu-​jitsu and get an overall work out. Have been a member and instructor for 2 years now and couldn’t ask for a better place to train!

I’ve been coming to this gym since December 2011. Granted my visits have been on and off, I have seen the transformation of the people that I started with and who have been going to this gym since then. The cardio conditioning, muay thai, and jiu jitsu classes have definitely helped them reach their goals. Makes me feel bad for not going as often.
A lot of gyms tell you to leave your ego out the door before entering. I love this place because it’s really an ego-​free gym. Whatever skill-​level you’re at, this is a great place to train and to learn jiu jitsu or muay thai. I hear there are other classes like capoeira and yoga, too but I have yet to try them. Do you have kids and would like them to learn jiu jitsu and muay thai? Professor Nico’s classes will help your kids get fit, gain confidence, and learn the skills all while having fun. The muay thai and jiu jitsu instructors are also well-​respected in the business so you know you are in good hands.
The place is huge, with a big area for mats, and an mma cage in the corner. It’s very clean too. Unlike some mma gyms that have really high prices, AB MMA is pretty affordable. This place really treats you like family.