Z Martial Arts Training Academy - Castro Valley, California

Josh

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Z Mata Grappling Gym is an extraordinary place for both kids and adults! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that truly feels like family. The coaches are not only skilled grapplers but also incredible mentors who instill the values of hard work and discipline in every student.

For the kids, the training is structured in a way that promotes growth, teaching them not just the techniques of grappling but also the importance of perseverance and teamwork. I've seen my children develop not only as a grappler but also as a disciplined individual, thanks to the supportive coaching staff who genuinely care about each student's progress.

The adult classes are equally impressive. Everyone trains hard, pushing each other to improve, but there's always a sense of fun and camaraderie. It's a perfect balance that keeps the training engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grappler, Z Mata Grappling Gym is the ideal place to hone your skills while being part of an amazing community. Highly recommend!

Gabriela Cimpoaie

My daughter Vanessa loves ZMATA !!
She is enjoying every class and she made a lot of friends!
The discipline and life lessons they are learning are life changing!
Thank you ZMATA for the safe awesome and wonderful environment!

Jennifer Garcia

ZMATA has become a really special place to me. Over the years the people who I’ve trained with have become my family. Coach Aaron and Stevie have created a supportive environment where everyone feels safe, cared for and gets the push they need to become successful as martial artists and people in general. This is a great place to destress, meet new people and to become a better person. I am truly thankful for the tools that these coaches have given me and the life long friendships I have created at ZMATA.

Steve Poon

ZMATA is something truly special.

The academy offers world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling, with from Owners and Head instructors (Aaron and Stevie) who are not only highly skilled but also passionate about teaching the art. I can’t say enough good things about how much this place has had a positive impact on my life.

What sets ZMATA apart is their commitment to building a strong community. They make an incredible impact on the youth of Castro Valley, helping them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals. The academy has fostered an environment where everyone, from kids to adults, can feel welcome and supported.

ZMATA also has a wonderful family-oriented atmosphere. They meet you where you are, regardless of your goals. Whether you’re a casual hobbyist looking for a great way to stay in shape or someone training for competition, they’ve created a space where everyone can thrive.

Beyond the training, ZMATA is simply a great place to meet good people. The academy brings together a diverse group of individuals, all with great energy and positivity. It’s a place where you can grow as an athlete and as a person and form lasting friendships, and feel part of a truly special community.

I can’t recommend ZMATA Grappling Academy enough!

Elaine Dessus

ZMATA has been a source of inspiration, confidence, camaraderie through hard work, and discipline for both of my children. My daughter, 14, has grown to be a young teen who carries herself with respect for others and confidence. My son, 8, pushes his boundaries and works through hard moments. I cannot thank ZMATA enough for their guidance and care for their students. They deserve more recognition than this testimony can give because as parents, we have reassurance that our children are learning critical life skills beyond the mat. We are beyond grateful for being a part of this community.

Greg Harman

I started training here a year ago thinking it'd be a more interesting way to get a little cardio than a treadmill and to scope the place out for my daughters for someday. Fast forward to today and we're all hooked! I have never once had to "make" my daughters go - I use it as a reward, and they ask every morning if they get to go to ZMATA today. As for me, I'm now obsessed with a sport that I barely knew existed. It's not easy (for the kids or me), but it's satisfying.

The positive community at ZMATA is also worth shouting out in this review. It's a wonderful family environment when the kids are in, but also a great place to socialize and meet some new friends as an adult. Aaron and Stevie lead by example, and set the tone to make this a special place.

Megan Perry

Zmata has been an amazing experience for our kids! Our kids have learned so much in class and also life skills that apply outside of the academy. Coach Steve and Coach Aaron have and continue to instill respect, self motivation, hard work, integrity and coachable students that want to do well both in life and the academy. My husband and I have seen our kids gain confidence and grow in maturity throughout the years since they have been part of Zmata academy. I would highly recommend Zmata!!

Steven Land

I've been training with Aaron Zaballos and Stevie Martin for nearly 10 years, and I can confidently say their level of technique is top-notch. They create a welcoming environment, and the amazing people who train there make the gym a safe haven where you can focus on training and enjoy it. If you're looking for a family-oriented atmosphere that also excels in competition preparation and competing, I highly recommend coming here.thanks for everything you guys do!