How do I choose a martial arts gym in Somerville or Boston?
Choose the style first, then check the instructors' ranks, whether beginners join regular classes, the schedule, a free trial and parking. Brazilian Martial Arts Center (BMAC), at 700 Mystic Avenue in Somerville, is a useful example: five BJJ black belts, classes every day and a free first class.
Questions worth asking any gym, with BMAC's answers as an example:
- Which styles do they teach? BMAC teaches Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai and karate, and MMA through its jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai classes.
- Who teaches? Five BJJ black belts, led by 5th-degree black belt and 1994 world champion Marcelo Siqueira, plus three black prajioud Muay Thai instructors.
- Can beginners join regular classes? Yes. Adult classes are all levels and partners are matched by experience.
- Does the schedule fit your week? BMAC has classes every day, including 7am, 11am and lunchtime options.
- Is there a kids program? Yes, from age 3.
- Can you try before you join? Yes, the first class is free.
- What do other students say? BMAC has 4.8 stars from 128 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and Jiu Jitsu Authority ranks it the #1 BJJ gym in Somerville for 2026.
- Can you get there? BMAC is right off I-93 at Exit 21 with free parking.
See the full class schedule.
BMAC is at 700 Mystic Avenue in Somerville, right off I-93 at Exit 21, with free parking. Outside rush hour it's about 5 minutes by car from Union Square, 6 from Davis Square, Charlestown and Medford Square, 8 from Everett, 10 from downtown Boston, 12 from Harvard Square and Arlington Center, and 15 from Belmont Center. There's no T station nearby. MBTA bus 95, which connects to the Orange Line at Sullivan Square, stops at Mystic Ave @ Moreland St, a short walk from the door.
Your first class is free. Book it with the form on the BJJ page or call Marcelo at (617) 628-3800.
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