When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
Arise Martial Arts

Why Arise Martial Arts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Arise Martial Arts, established in July 2018 in Miami, Florida, stands out as a premier destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training accessible to students of all ages and skill levels. Founded by a passionate and dedicated team, including Professor Diesel - a 2nd Degree IBJJF Certified Black Belt, the academy prioritizes not only the sport aspect of BJJ but also practical self-defense techniques. This commitment fosters an environment where students develop strong technical skills alongside good moral character, reflecting the bushido code principles. The school is family-owned and operated, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages growth, respect, and community. With well-maintained, clean facilities, Arise Martial Arts provides children’s programs starting as early as age 3, continuing through teens and adults, ensuring a continuous martial arts journey supported by high-level instruction and exceptional customer service. Students often highlight the academy's commitment to both personal development and skill acquisition, making it a special place to meet friends and build both confidence and camaraderie.
Here's what people think of Arise Martial Arts
As of recent, Arise Martial Arts holds a 5-star rating based on 109 reviews.
User reviews of Arise Martial Arts consistently praise the academy for its positive, respectful atmosphere and the genuine care shown by Professor Danny and the coaching staff towards student progress and development. Many novice students report overcoming initial fears quickly due to the welcoming nature of the instructors and fellow members, fostering a strong sense of community. Positive reviews emphasize the professional, high-quality instruction, clean and well-kept facilities, and a supportive family-like environment that helps build confidence, discipline, and respect among students of all ages. On the negative side, there are very few, if any, prominent criticisms visible from public sources, reflecting a near-perfect 5.0-star rating across over 100 reviews, which speaks to the consistently excellent experiences members have. Overall, the reviews underscore Arise Martial Arts as a highly recommended academy for anyone interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense training, highlighting the school’s exceptional leadership, commitment to student growth, and strong community values.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Frankie4BJJ
So, as my many photos can attest. I like to train. I've been to many schools, and continue to visit friends at other schools. I'm not the best by far, I like to say I'm just really good at getting beat up, but I'm happy to report most of my partners say I'm good, good at getting smashed lol. I call Arise BJJ my home base. I was with a different school for years, but my job took me out of the country for a few years and I came back looking for a new BJJ home. My old school was still there, but as most of us know, if it's not convenient as far as distance to get there, price ranges, and a different feel for management, I had to look for a new school. I visited several, and stopped when I got to Arise. One of the main sell points for me was the blog Michelle posted on the website, go read it, she did a great job and it got me in the door. Professor Danny "Diesel" is a dad, and Michelle (Purple belt Co-owner) is a mom. I'm a dad, so they understand the needs of a family and Jiu jitsu is a family. They've really brought that feel of family and comraderie to this school. All levels, ages, and backgrounds walk though the door with a good attitude and the atmosphere here is always welcoming. BJJ has so many benefits, confidence, weight loss, stress management, just Google it and see for yourself. If you're on the fence, or even thinking about visiting, just come and see for yourself what Arise BJJ and the world of Jiu Jitsu has to offer you. See you on the mats readers, I look forward to getting smashed but always surviving 😉 Oh yes, forgot to mention, very clean, they do this foot cleaning thing you don't see at many places. They have two working bathrooms, good parking, and offer many different hours to train. They are very forgiving if you're trying to drop off your kids at school in the morning and make it to class late. Appreciate all you do guys!
Val Gonzalez
Best jiujitsu school in South Florida! If you want to develop your Gi or NoGi jiujitsu, this is the school to do it. Professor Diesel is a true Martial Artist who leads by example by constantly competing. They also have an amazing kids program as well.
Luis Estevez
Arise is not only my school but my family. The facility is modern, clean, the professor and coaches are welcoming and knowledgeable. You won't find a better academy here in SFL. They have classes for kids since 3 yrs old!
Alexander Vergara
Clean mats, great instruction and amazing personal development! I am thoroughly impressed with how much this dojo has developed my children. Within a few weeks I notice they have more confidence, discipline and focus. Sensei Diesel, Coach Engels and Coach Chico not only teach them sound jiujitsu technique but take time to develop them on a personal level. Highly recommend Arise
Marc P.
The best jiu jitsu school in Miami!! Professor Daniel “Diesel” Fundora is amazing along with the coaches Michelle, Mika, and Kat!! The gym is family owned and operated. My son is 7 years old and began going amid the pandemic, the school has been a blessing. He’s been going to the gym for close to 2 years and he has learned many valuable lessons on the mat as well as off the mat. They not only teach jiu jitsu, they teach kids many other life lessons from respect to responsibility and self confidence. They offer the full package when it comes to child development and jiu jitsu training. If your looking for an all around well rounded jiu jitsu school where your child will get the attention needed to succeed in the competition world, or just want your child to practice jiu jitsu and help your child with any behavioral or discipline issues, this is the place for you. We love “Professor Diesel” and the whole Arise family. #AriseFamilia is the place you can trust and be sure loyalty, respect and proper morals are instilled on the daily. 🙏 “ARISE”
How to reach Arise Martial Arts
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Why Arise Martial Arts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Arise Martial Arts with your friends? Because Arise Martial Arts offers not just a place to train, but a vibrant community environment that fosters growth, respect, and camaraderie. When gathering a group of friends or family, choosing a venue that encourages teamwork, personal development, and fun is essential—and Arise delivers precisely that. With a stellar rating of 5.0 from over 100 reviews, the reputation for excellence speaks volumes about the experience you and your group can expect. Arise Martial Arts is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere where instructors genuinely care about each individual's progress, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned martial artists. The dynamic setting invites group interaction, builds strong bonds, and creates unforgettable memories, whether you’re learning new skills or just sharing quality time. It’s a unique way to connect beyond the usual meetups, offering an engaging and healthful activity that’s both mentally and physically stimulating. Rallying at Arise means enjoying a supportive, high-energy environment ideal for social meetups rooted in self-improvement and collective encouragement.
What activities can you expect at Arise Martial Arts that make it ideal for group meetups? The core offering at Arise Martial Arts centers on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), a martial art focused on grappling techniques that empower individuals to control or submit opponents using leverage and technique rather than brute strength. This makes it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, perfect for a diverse group with varying degrees of athleticism. During classes, groups can engage in partner drills that encourage cooperation and communication, naturally enhancing the social aspect of training. Additionally, participants learn valuable self-defense skills that can boost confidence and practical readiness. Classes are meticulously structured to include warm-ups, technique instruction, and live rolling (sparring), so each session balances physical exertion with skill-building at a comfortable pace. The presence of experienced instructors who customize coaching for each student ensures that everyone in your group can progress together, making it a perfect bonding opportunity. Beyond BJJ, Arise promotes holistic martial arts training that includes conditioning and mindset development, enriching the overall experience for your meetup.
Why is the atmosphere at Arise Martial Arts so conducive to group gatherings? One of Arise’s standout qualities is its nurturing and respectful community environment. The instructors, led by individuals such as Professor Danny and Coach Marcus, are not only highly skilled but deeply invested in the growth of each member. This creates an atmosphere of encouragement where beginners aren’t intimidated and seasoned practitioners feel continually challenged. Reviews highlight how members treat each other with respect, fostering a sense of belonging and friendliness that naturally makes group meetups enjoyable and rewarding. For groups looking for a setting where safety, respect, and mutual support are prioritized, Arise hits the mark. The gym culture encourages participants to cheer each other on, share tips, and develop friendships that extend beyond the mats. This positive vibe makes any social gathering here feel inclusive and motivating, enhancing group cohesion and satisfaction. It’s a space where fun, discipline, and personal achievement come together effortlessly.
How does Arise Martial Arts accommodate different skill levels within a group? Whether your group is made up of novices or experienced martial artists, Arise Martial Arts is designed to support mixed skill sets seamlessly. The instructors provide detailed explanations and demonstrate techniques step-by-step, often breaking moves down so beginners can grasp the fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed. For those who are more advanced, the gym offers challenging drills and sparring sessions that push their limits and refine their skills. This tiered approach ensures everyone progresses at a comfortable and safe pace. Because classes include multiple belt levels training together, your group can enjoy training side by side while each person focuses on their personal goals. The emphasis on strategy and technique over brute physicality also means individuals can develop their own style and effectiveness. Such adaptability makes the school an excellent choice for groups wanting a shared experience that recognizes and respects their differences.
What kinds of benefits can your group expect from hosting a meetup at Arise Martial Arts? Beyond the obvious physical enhancements like improved strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination, training at Arise provides mental and social gains that make the experience especially valuable. Group members can expect increased confidence, better stress management, and a stronger sense of discipline. The social nature of training helps build communication skills and trust as partners rely on each other during techniques and live drills. Because classes are engaging and fun, they naturally help participants build a positive attitude toward fitness and wellness, which often translates to healthier lifestyles outside the gym. The community element also reduces feelings of isolation and promotes emotional well-being, making your meetup not only enjoyable but meaningful. Furthermore, after classes, the environment lends itself well to group discussions and planning future activities, reinforcing the social bond created through training. For groups seeking a combination of health, empowerment, and friendship-building, Arise Martial Arts delivers comprehensive benefits.
How does the facility and overall setup of Arise Martial Arts support group events? Arise Martial Arts boasts a clean, well-maintained, and spacious facility located conveniently in Miami, offering ample space for group activities. The training area is equipped with professional mats that provide a safe surface for practicing falls, submissions, and grappling moves. The environment is free from distractions, allowing groups to immerse themselves fully in the martial arts experience. The gym’s layout encourages interaction among participants while ensuring safety protocols such as wearing flip-flops off the mats to maintain cleanliness. Additionally, the friendly and attentive coaching staff are skilled at managing classes where multiple students practice simultaneously, which is advantageous for larger groups. Their ability to maintain a structured yet flexible class flow means your group can enjoy personalized instruction without feeling rushed or neglected. Arise also offers free trial sessions, making it simple to introduce a new group to martial arts without commitment, lowering barriers to organizing a meetup here.
What should you bring and expect during your first group visit to Arise Martial Arts? To ensure your group’s first session at Arise is smooth and enjoyable, it is recommended that everyone wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows free movement, avoiding zippers or buttons that could cause discomfort. Water bottles are essential to stay hydrated during training, and flip-flops or sandals are required for walking off the mats, helping keep the training area spotless. While the traditional gi uniform is optional for first-time visitors, those committed to martial arts training can invest in one later for a more authentic experience. The coaching team makes newcomers feel welcomed and comfortable, quickly alleviating any apprehensions. Expect a warm, friendly introduction where instructors assess different skill levels and tailor their teaching accordingly. Group members will engage in a mix of technique drills and light sparring, maintaining a balance of challenge and fun. Overall, your first visit will be an exciting introduction to a supportive community and a new way to bond with your friends or family.
Why do past visitors rate Arise Martial Arts so highly? The perfect 5.0 rating from more than 100 reviews reflects the consistently positive experiences of those who train at Arise Martial Arts. Reviewers praise the expertise, dedication, and approachability of the coaching staff, highlighting how instructors take a genuine interest in each student’s development. Many newcomers speak of initial fears being quickly replaced by excitement and confidence due to the welcoming atmosphere. Members appreciate the respectful and tight-knit community where everyone encourages each other, regardless of age or skill. The gym’s clean facilities, structured yet adaptable classes, and the overall sense of growth and achievement make it a stand-out choice. Whether it’s the friendly culture, the quality of instruction, or the physical and mental benefits gained, visitors gladly recommend Arise as a top venue for training and socializing. This level of satisfaction solidifies Arise Martial Arts as an excellent place for anyone’s next group meetup.
In summary, Arise Martial Arts combines expert coaching, a warm community, and a comprehensive range of activities that make it a prime location for meetups with friends or family. The engaging classes, supportive environment, and diverse skill accommodation ensure every group has a rewarding and fun experience. With welcoming coaches and a spotless facility, Arise invites you to rally here for an unforgettable martial arts adventure that strengthens bonds and fosters personal growth.