TRA - Jiu Jitsu - Jersey City, New Jersey

Christopher Linares

Joined in August of 2022 @ 326 lbs, severely unmotivated & never having participated in combat sports/training prior.

Before agreeing to commit to TRA BJJ I was fortunate enough to take intro classes at two other local BJJ establishments and felt very comfortable ultimately choosing Thiago Rela and family…

Thiago and this club has been a breath of fresh air and a blessing since my first class. TRA BJJ has a healthy mix of beginners and experienced players, with a focus on proper technique and safety while also catering to competition BJJ folks.

As of today I’m weighing in at 298 lbs and training between 3-4 times weekly depending on work & physical limitations. I’ve achieved 1 stripe on my white belt and feel proud to say that I’ve earned it through a bit of grinding, this gym is not promoting people based on politics or tenure.

The space we get to train in is on the larger side based on other local spots I visited and thoroughly disinfected and swept between classes. There are two restrooms (one has a small shower) and a fair sized changing room.
Recently they built out a cubby/seating area facing the mats and storage is no longer an issue here.

OSS & hope to see you soon,

Chris Linares

Mark Robinson

Many schools may teach good solid jiujtsu. Few can give you a family full of diverse and interesting people. Since my first trial class I’ve felt completely at home here at TRA. I have definitely found my “tribe”. On top of that you’ll find great training from beginners to high level competitors. The saying that , “Whatever you give to jiujitsu , jiujitsu will give you back ten times over “ definitely holds true here.

Nick Russo

I've trained at various martial arts schools for over a decade now and can say that none have compared to the overall quality of this academy. Thiago is the head professor and is both an incredibly skilled fighter and effective teacher of what he has learned. He has several other loyal black belts and experienced fighters that back him up and teach various classes at the school, all bringing a unique take and help build the overall game of the students.

The atmosphere is great and there is a strong community feel at the school. The manager is always on top of making sure everyone feels at home, keeping the place clean and considering any recommendations of the students.

If you're looking to study BJJ, Muay Thai, MMA or wrestling, you're going to be hard pressed to find a better spot. The skill level on the mats here are top notch, while still being safe for beginners to roll with and absorb from the experienced members, without fear of getting hurt. Hope to see you on the matts, ossss!

Rachel Grundy

TRA is an exceptional gym. The space is spotlessly clean and organized, the instruction is thoughtful, personal and warmly encouraging, and the philosophy is one of inclusion - BJJ is for everybody. The women's class is a true highlight and demonstrates how Thiago wants to make everyone feel safe to train and learn jiu jitsu. Allie does an outstanding job as instructor and it keeps growing! Always felt comfortable and able to train with anyone. There's no bro culture and no pushing people to compete, but just learn and challenge themselves in the best way for their own path. Can't say enough great things about TRA and how truly special it is.

Jersey City Muay thai

I’m actually an owner of a Muay Thai gym in Jersey city the last 20 years. Thiago was my neighbor for years. He runs a great program and whenever people come to my gym and ask about jiu jitsu i send to this gym. He is legit in the sport and a great human being. —
Coach Paul

Joemy Fernandez

This is a great school with a welcoming atmosphere. Thiago, Alex, Sam, Ariel, Allison and the other instructors are great. The students are welcoming to newcomers. Joining TRA is like joining a family.

They have a great program for kids and multiple classes a day which makes it possible for me to attend with my rotating shifts at work. I HIGHLY recommend TRA if you want to learn self defense and get a good workout. You won’t be disappointed!

Juan Salcedo

I had to find a new gym that would accommodate my commute to work and I bounced around a few gyms in the area. I can finally say I found my new home after joining TRA. Everyone was very welcoming and friendly from the second I stepped foot in the door & continue provide a great environment to train Jiu Jitsu.

Chris Kiszka

Great Martial Arts School for anyone looking to learn self defense , brazilian jiujitsu, muay thai, or even anyone with work out / weight loss goals. Professor Thiago and every instructor makes every new member feel welcomed and like family every time you walk into the door for a class. Highly Recommend