10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Van Nuys

I was brand new to the world of jiu jujitsu with no prior experience but I was welcomed to the 10^th planet family with open arms. The instructors are great and so helpful! The atmosphere here is perfect for a great learning environment containing knowledgeable instructors and students alike.
But what I liked most about 10p is the strong girl community at the gym. Being a newcomer to the gym I was slightly worried that I would be the only girl but I definitely was not. All the girls support each other and that’s what I love about this gym.
Also, Jean is awesome. Due to some circumstances, I moved and needed to cancel my membership. Jean made it so that it was hassle free and quick. I plan on moving back to the valley, so when I do, 10^th planet Van Nuys will be the gym that I’ll be returning to!

Coach Alder is an exceptional teacher. He works very hard and sacrificed a lot to ensure his students and team performs well in competition. I did Jiu Jitsu mainly to compete and he has helped me change my competing style to be more submission based. My tournament results switched from winning by points to winning by submission. It’s a good feeling knowing the team and coach alder are there when you’re competing.
Competition might not be everyone’s goals but in my experience, having experienced different schools, the quality of teaching is that much greater when there is a presence of a really strong competition team.

This is place is absolutely amazing and the staff is really great with the kids. We signed up our five year old here after being disappointed by his last martial arts class. We found this place through a close friend and decided to give it a try. Our son loved his first free trial class and now goes 3 times a week. I’ve always wanted my kids to be active and my five year old really likes this form of martial arts. It makes me happy as a parent to know that my son is learning so much and enjoying it at the same time. This place is really great and I would recommend all parents to give it a try.

10^th Planet Van Nuys is the best place I’ve ever trained – I had tried multiple gyms and disciplines before starting Jiu-​Jitsu here, and all of them had multiple problems: too crowded, no concern for safety, impersonal coaching, lack of attention to students, and a preference for the athletic students.
Thankfully, 10^th Planet Van Nuys had none of these issues. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed into a genuine family-​atmosphere. Everyone, from the students to the coaching staff, was incredibly nice and helpful with every aspect of training. Never once in my year of training here did I ever feel excluded or ignored.
When someone begins training at 10VN, they are thrown into the Fundamentals Program, which was an incredibly beneficial way to being my Jiu-​Jitsu journey. Fundamentals teaches students the basic movement patterns and skills necessary to proceed into more advanced Jiu-​Jitsu. Each month has a specific theme, and students will learn and drill techniques that fit that particular theme of the month, giving them a solid understanding of that concept.
I personally really enjoyed studying a set of techniques over the course of the month, rather than just studying them for a day, or a week– a month is enough time to drill the moves being taught, and students are taught variations of the techniques during that time as well, so you’re always learning something new, while sticking to the concept for that month.
Fundamentals also gets you in incredible physical shape– i was 135 pounds when I started, and by about 3 months in, I was 130 with actual definition in my arms and back for the first time in my life, and my cardio drastically improved, and I was able to do push-​ups for the first time ever.
After students pass Fundamentals, they move onto Advanced Class with Coach Alder. Having built upon the skills learned in Fundamentals, students are well-​prepared for tackling the advanced concepts taught.
Coach Alder is able to explain Jiu-​Jitsu concepts and ideas in a way that everyone can understand. He knows, and teaches, minute details that make your techniques be as efficient and effective as they can be; it’s truly a fantastic teaching skill, and something I hadn’t encountered before in a gym. Above all else, you can see he truly cares about his students and their progress. There were plenty of times I didn’t grasp a technique or concept right away, and when I asked for help, he explained the move in that I could understand, and that’s really helpful, especially if you’re not inherently athletic, or a grappling prodigy, like myself.
What I’m most grateful for from 10^th Planet Van Nuys is that they truly care for the people who attend; they are family first, business second, and I can personally attest to this – in May of 2014, I became ill and had to move away. When I contacted Jean so that I may pay off the rest of my one year contract, she waived my fees, saving me around $ 1,000 in fees, and I am so grateful for that. This is the perfect group of people to be around, and train with. The family-​first mentality is very prevalent in every aspect of 10^th Planet Van Nuys.
The only bad part of training here is that every other Jiu-​Jitsu or MMA gym I train at from here on out has the absolute HIGHEST standards to live up to. From the environment, to the quality of instruction, to the incredibly high progress rate in your skills, 10^th Planet Van Nuys is the absolute best place to train.

My life has really changed for the better since I first reviewed 10^th Planet Van Nuys in 2012. Back then, I trained only on a drop-​in basis, although I did enjoy the classes I attended and the friends I met through the gym. In 2014, I decided to commit myself to a year of consistent training. I began in January with the Fundamentals program, attending classes twice a week and testing at the end of each month. Going through Fundamentals was essential for laying a strong foundation in the basics of grappling, and learning to train and spar SAFELY before going to the advanced classes. Fundamentals was definitely not a waste of time or money! After graduating from Fundamentals, I started training during the morning classes (perfect for my schedule) and Gi classes. Morning classes are taught by the head coach, Coach Alder, and Gi classes are taught by Coach Tim, a black belt under Jean Jacques Machado. Having such high-​caliber instruction makes a huge difference. My coaches encourage me to push myself, to compete, and to keep moving forward toward my goals.
I also learned a lot from my teammates. 10^th Planet Van Nuys has a diverse student population from all walks of life: MMA fighters, teachers, moms, artists, and everything in between. I also appreciate the many women who train at this gym, as that made me feel more comfortable and welcome. Having a great group of people to train with definitely motivates me to come to class and work harder.
My results after one solid year of training? I certainly learned a LOT about jiu jitsu, but I also gained a great deal of strength, discipline, and confidence. I’m in the best shape of my life! Big thanks to Coach Alder, Coach Jean, and the 10PVN family for a great year. I’m excited to see how far I can go in 2015!

I didn’t have a Unilocal account before this, but the experience i had at this place forced me to make one. Although I did enjoy the very basic instruction I received, and there was no doubt some great people I trained with, this was overshadowed by the overbearing owner, manager, or whatever she was. Whoever she was to the running of the gym, I’ll refer to her as the manager from here on out. The overbearing manager, placed limiting factors on nearly every aspect of the gym, everything was behind a pay wall, which required a 1 year commitment to the gym. At the time of my first time arriving at the gym, I was introduced to a fundamentals program, which is really a way to milk the months on whatever length contract you got, as everybody, was subject to a mandatory 4 months, but at the time of my departure became 6 months at the request of the manager. once the fundamentals program has been completed, you are required to speak to the manager and commit to another contract of a year (the pay wall I was previously talking about) which grants access to ONE advanced class a week, which includes MMA class, Wrestling Class, Open Mat (which was anything but open), and saturday morning classes. In addition to having only one advanced class per week included, this class must be scheduled, which means that if something comes up on the day you have your class, you are plain out of luck. However, the manager decided to give people the opportunity to attend more classes, for twenty dollars per class, added to your monthly fee. A fee which had been raised significantly since my sign up, 4 months ago. if one decided to not be preyed upon by these business practices, they were stuck in the fundamentals program, learning only basic movements with little to no live or even controlled sparring. It is a shame considering the real beauty of grappling is the practical application of it against someone with the same or even better skill set than your own. It doesn’t stop there though, for example, if one has a desire to test their abilities in a competition, even a small in house gym tournament, the participant is required to have a one year contract with the gym. But I left the gym after six months, at the end of my contract, without a fuss, just leaving and being glad that it was over. However, the manager has structured the contract in a way that has you committed INDEFINITELY for a month to month membership, which requires you to fill out forms and mailing them to god knows who, or filling out a form in the gym, which no doubt is another attempt to get you to continue attending the gym. I truly feel bad for the new members having the wool pulled over their eyes by the manager (who coincidentally has reviewed the gym herself) and been made to believe that the manager cares about anything more than their money. It is ironic to see the business become the very thing the head trainer sought out to avoid, as his biography states that all of the gyms in his area were too expensive and forced him to learn through other avenues. I believe that this gym has become that to an even greater degree. I have visited other gyms in the area and have found a new one, not only that but it is only a few blocks away from 10^th planet, which will definitely not be missed.

When I first started at 10P, I was a nervous wreck. I feel myself slowly but surely improving because of all the help, support, and patience every single person at the gym has shown me. Every coach at 10P, from fundamentals to advanced are very skilled and very helpful with newcomers. If you’re looking to join a jiujitsu gym… trust me, this is the one. You’ll get ahead of your game much quicker than anywhere else. We believe in being a team here. We constantly have group events, parties, go to our team mates fights as a team, watch fights together, etc.
I’ve made so many friends here. Looking forward to meet more, so join … or atleast come check out the first free class!

Coach Alder is a top notch NoGi instructor with a solid team to back him up… Alder has a great understanding of NoGi Jiu Jitsu he runs a great program that’s friendly to all levels so even if your experience or not they have something for everyone.

There’s one thing that sticks in out in pretty much everyone of these reviews: TEAM. That is undoubtedly what takes 10^th Planet Van Nuys to the next level. Coach Alder has trained UFC fighters in championship bouts & is himself a black belt so we already know he’s well qualified. The biggest difference between 10^th Planet VN and other gyms I’ve checked out/​trained at is the team atmosphere. Everyone is friendly and willing to go the distance to ensure that you reach the goals you want to reach.
But looking at the nitty-​gritty, Coach Alder has put together a phenomenal program to train his students. The schedule is pretty wide so no matter what your work/​school/​family schedule, chances are there are still a bunch of classes for you. One of the other big factors in choosing a gym is cost: I can guarantee you that you will not find a better priced gym in the valley for the level of teaching that is done here. I don’t think that’s emphasized enough in these reviews, 10^th Planet Van Nuys is quite honestly a steal. Walk down Ventura blvd. or check out any of the other Gracie Barra gyms across the valley & your wallet will want to tap before even signing up.
I’ve had experience in grappling before, I’ve actually trained under Coach Alder when he used to teach at 10^th Planet Burbank and I’m amazed at how radically different Van Nuys is from Burbank. I love the atmosphere, I love the training, I love the program and I love the people here. Keep doing what you’re doing Coach Alder, Jean and all the other coaches!

It’s been a while since I updated this review, just recently I won Bronze at the 2014 Grapplers Quest in July. We went as a team and had support from the instructors and team mates. There were 13 competitors who when and we won 10 medals! It was great!!! There was 28 of us who went to Las Vegas we trained hard and after our hard work we hung out like family! It was the best Vegas experience I had in a long time. I love being apart of a team, they pushed me on the mats to prepare for the match. I don’t think I would of done this alone.

I stopped through LA and this gym was awesome. The group was very laid back and dedicated. I would recommend training there if you’re in the local area.

These guys are the real deal. MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu whatever your choice pick your poison. Alder and the gang have it covered. Alder is an OG and has so many great options to take your game to the next level. Why would Dan Hardy and Mac Danzig bother training there? Cos it rocks!!! 10P4L

I have been training for 8 months and 10^th Planet-​Van Nuys has become my therapist, gym and second home. I am a girl that likes to keep her nails painted pink and her hair done and was terrified to begin a sport that is heavily male dominated. Everyone was so welcoming, supportive and I genuinely feel they care about my growth. I couldn’t ask for anything more in a gym. Thank you so much for changing my life for the better! Anybody that has a desire to train, whether it is for competition or just for fun, give 10^th Planet Van Nuys a try. What do you have to lose? The first class is free. :)

Starting Jiu Jitsu was one of the best decisions I ever made. In fact if Dr. Brown would let me borrow his Delorian, the first thing I would do is go back and start training even earlier. Since I started I have earned my blue and purple belt, competed several times, become an instructor at 10^th Planet Van Nuys, and had the pleasure of meeting several awesome people.
I have been training with Alder since before he started this gym. Prior to 10^th Planet Van Nuys I would follow him around the Valley because of his passion for the sport, attention to detail, and his desire to help everyone achieve their ultimate goal of earning a black belt. I have seen Alder take unathletic people (Yes people. There are both male and female students!) and in the span of a few months turn them into beasts on the mat. As head coach Alder has also built a fun environment to train in. Every single member of this gym is super friendly and always willing to help out other students. Taking a class at 10^th Planet Van Nuys guarantees that you are going to sweat, learn awesome techniques, and laugh.
I have had the pleasure of training with several famous instructors and non of them have matched Coach Alder and his coaching staff. Alder’s passion for Jiu Jitsu and attention to detail can be seen in all of his coaches. I have learned so much from Coach Tipz, Coach Lobes, Coach Tim (a Jean Jacques Machado black belt), and Coach Gabe.
No matter what your goal or skill level is, I recommend checking this place out. Whether you are looking to loose weight (I lost 60 pounds by training Jiu Jitsu), want to learn some self defense, or want to one day compete in grappling or mma stop by and check out a class!

Great place to train.
Always clean.
Amazing coaches.
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A 10^th Planet Wife’s Take On BJJ:
10^th PLANET VAN NUYS IS AN AWESOME TEAM TO BE A PART OF! My husband has been a part of Team Alder for over 3 years now, which means so have I. Lol This gym is different, its a family. They have get togethers and outings outside of just class that such as beach days, parties, watching fights, ugly Christmas sweater contests, team tournaments etc. that really build team spirit and it allows the guys to share their jujitsu life with their family or significant other. I haven’t seen that in any other gym. It really feels like a family, thats why I love going to their events.
Jean (the manager) is cute as a button, has a great personality and has a wealth of information about jujitsu. She answers a lot of my questions about the sport and never fails to make me feel welcome.
The guys there are really cool, they are perhaps some of the calmest, most positive and most down to earth bunch I’ve met. Alder (the head coach) is the coolest guy you’ll ever meet. (There’s no meathead syndrome here haha;). All the guys are very cool and relaxed, and I have a theory about that, I think its because men are genetically built to be aggressive and when guys don’t have an outlet, such as jujitsu, that aggression comes to life in other unhealthy ways. I am a BIG supporter in my man’s need to be a man and get it out of his system at the gym in a fun, safe and educational environment. He comes home to me happy and feeling good about himself.
This is so much better than just joining any health club to get a good workout because there is FUNCTION INVOLVED, a USEFULNESS IN the STRENGTH you work so hard to build! Why just lift weights just for vanity reasons? I think we need something more (guys especially) a way to make all that strength training a practical and useful part of life.
If you’re looking to be a part of something great, fun and want to make some lifelong friends 10^th PLANET VAN NUYS is the OBVIOUS CHOICE! :) :)

This is an absolutely amazing gym! Very professional and friendly instructors, great team environment, and the gym is kept very clean.

This is a fantastic place to train. The staff are freindly, welcoming and genuine. It has top class fighters and competitors, all willing to help new members along. No bad attitudes, just hard work and comradery with some fun thrown in. Only been a few weeks in and I cant get enough. Coach Alder has built a real team here. Highly recommended to all.

I’ve lived up the street from the 10^th Planet Van Nuys for years yet only recently did i discover it through word of mouth.
How much time i’ve wasted… ever since day 1 i’ve felt welcome and like part of a team. Not only is it a challenging workout, but it teaches invaluable disciplines. The instructors are great role models and explain things very thoroughly. In addition I also get to see different styles and approaches to similar techniques giving me a broader understanding and adaptive style. Their experience is evident in their skill and ability to break down each move into the most minor details that make such a big difference.
I’ve always watched MMA fighters on TV and have respected the ground game without knowing much about it. Since meeting Coach Alder and his team and training with them for a few months I now have even more respect for the sport and its competitors. I highly recommend that if you were like me, a couch MMA fan, you get off your butt and come check out this respected gym and Jiu Jitsu philosophy.

Joining Alder’s team at 10^th Planet Jiu Jitsu Van Nuys has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. In just over 5 months attending just twice per week, I have seen an incredible improvement in my stamina, flexibility and overall physique. The techniques I have acquired in just such a short time have enabled me to dismantle an untrained adult person in less than 30 seconds. I know this because several of my friends have challenged this claim, and to their surprise felt helpless and powerless when sparring against me, despite their weight or height advantage. Even intermediate jj practitioners find it difficult to submit me, taking up to 4 – 5 minutes to do so or not able to do so at all. I imagine at this rate, in 5 more months my progress will have advanced exponentially.
The more I learn the 10^th planet system, the more I realize its superiority to any other no-​gi jiu-​jitsu system. Whether you’re a MMA fighter looking to improve your game or are just looking to get fit while learning self defense techniques look no further than 10thplanetvannuys.
When I first signed up, Coach Alder said that this team is the most important thing in his life comparing it to a trophy wife or a prized car collection. I didn’t believe it initially, but now I am sold. Coach Alder puts 100% of his time and effort into his team and it shows from his color belts down to the white belts. He doesn’t hold back, revealing the most devastating techniques and secrets that have enabled him to be such a deadly practitioner and one of the most sought-​after 10P instructors. I feel like he gives me the keys to the nuclear arsenal when I see him spar and effectively put to use exactly what he has taught us. Alder has no ego and this attitude is pervasive throughout the gym. Everyone helps everyone progress their game and motivate each other to become better not just at jiu-​jitsu, but at any challenge we seek to tackle in life.
Come take a free class and find out what the hype is all about.