Empire Jiu Jitsu
About
Empire Jiu Jitsu in San Francisco offers comprehensive training across multiple martial arts disciplines, including MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, wrestling, and judo. The gym is led by world champion Kurt Osiander and experienced instructor Jake Scovel, who provide detailed, step by step instruction suitable for all skill levels. Members consistently praise the excellent coaching that breaks down complex moves into understandable components, creating an environment where both beginners and experienced practitioners can thrive.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the excellent instruction, particularly noting how coaches Jake and John break down moves step by step in ways that help beginners understand complex techniques. Reviewers highlight the welcoming environment that balances pushing students to improve while making newcomers feel comfortable from their first class. Many mention the strong community atmosphere where training partners are described as nice, helpful, and encouraging, creating what multiple reviewers call a family vibe. Complete beginners specifically recommend the basics class as an ideal starting point for those new to martial arts.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Tyler
4 months ago
Started by going to a trial basics class a few months ago and I’ve continued going ever since. It’s a super welcoming environment especially never having done anything like it. Instruction is amazing, you will be pushed and be better. You come to know people and be part of the community!
Alan Yao
a month ago
I couldn't say more great things about Empire and their Basics class! I was a complete beginner to martial arts, nervous to start and I felt the perfect balance of being pushed and welcomed on the very first day. John is an extremely attentive and detailed instructor and I was hooked right away. I attended the weekly basics class after the first class and have been feeling a lot of growth. The community is great, have made wonderful friends, and am excited to now have jiu jitsu as part of my life. Highly recommend for everyone – especially complete beginners!
Alex
2 months ago
Empire Jiu Jitsu is such a great spot to train jiu jitsu in the Bay Area. I trained there for six months and loved it. Such a great atmosphere with both coaches and partners. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to start jiu jitsu or keep practicing if coming from another city. I’ll definitely be back if I’m in the area again !
sean murphy
8 months ago
This place rules. I could not be happier with the decision I made to start training here. Jake and John are excellent instructors, and really know how to break the moves down and explain them to you step by step. My experience with all my classmates has been unbelievable. Literally every person I’ve interacted with on the mat has been nice, helpful and encouraging. There’s a real family vibe to the place. So if you’re looking for a really intense workout or you just wanna learn to kick some ass, I can’t recommend Empire enough.
Guy Z
5 months ago
I came to one of their trial classes. I really enjoyed it. It's a laid back environment. You have many people to grapple with. The instructor seems to be very knowledgeable so I definitely plan on returning.
Contact
2356 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Kurt Osiander
Head Instructor
World Champion
Philosophy driven by persistence; real jiu jitsu is never watered down. Has taught seminars worldwide and welcomes all levels.
Jake Scovel
Head Instructor
Approach founded on economy of motion, using the body's natural structure for efficiency and offense. Passionate about teaching.