Reviews of Straight Blast Gym (Gym)

Stephen Whittier

This isn't just the original Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA school in Oregon, it's still the best by far (and I've seen many schools and instructors). There's a reason this is a destination location for martial artists all over the world. You'll get world class coaching in a welcoming, friendly environment. Can't recommend it highly enough!

Mark Ashbridge

We were lucky to be stopping by SBG Portland on the weekend when there was a Chris Hauter seminar on. Two days with Chris Hauter & Jack Taufer...followed by a Tuesday evening class with Coach Cane Prevost. A brilliant experience all round. Thank you SBG for making us feel at home!

James

It is not an understatement to say that this gym has exponentially improved my quality of life. As a newcomer to Portland, the SBG tribe took me in as one of their own and I have made powerful friendships that are surely built to last. I would best describe the teaching here as "functional fundamental martial science". The staff are awesome and free weights, locker rooms, bathrooms, and shower available.

Angela Hone

I just joined Straight Blast Gym. I am so impressed with their ability,service and welcoming attitude. I have never trained in Martial Arts, but look forward to learning. Scott made my intro session so awesome! My first class was incredible. I can't say enough how grateful I am to be part of this wonderful family! Thank you so much! Here ,

Michael Finlin

Excellent...More than just a gym! With a family like atmosphere SBGIi develops not only world class athletes but has a welcoming feel that wont leave you feeling intimidated at all. All the coaches are top of the line and always have time to answer any questions complete with demonstration till my problem is solved. on top of that i haven't met ANYONE there that wont do the same. SBGi has a saying "One Tribe One Vibe" it suits it well. i started my eight year old son there four months ago after having bullying problems at school the previous year. Not only did the management address our concerns but relayed them to the coaches. the out come was amazing, our son has become a very positive boy who now looks forward to going to school on a daily basis. Today my whole family is involved at the gym, all FIVE of us...THANKS SBGi

Chelsea Pierce

Love this place! I'm very new to Martial arts of any kind. At the time I was so scared and overwhelmed by all of the choices. I had my orientation with Zach, who helped me decide where to start. Zach was extremely personable, and knowledgeable. Coach Amanda has also been amazing what an inspiration! I can't say enough about the atmosphere. Such a vast group of people all striving to thrive not only physically but emotionally, spiritually and mentally. All helping lift each other up.

Matthew Brown

Very Impressed by the professional staff and friendly Vibe at this gym. It is a place I feel I can really grow as a Martial artist and have the chance to get world class instruction in a safe, professional environment. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be apart of this Awesome place.

William Davies

I had an intro session with Justin which was absolutely great, I'm a complete beginner so it was nice to hear they have a graduated program that helps you progress without having to get continuously pummeled for 3 months. If you wanna get into MMA this is a great place to start

Rambo Richardson

~ The Thornton Brothers Tend To Be Hypercritics, Particularly Zach ~ ~What the school lacks just like many Western Martial Arts Schools, is the spirtual aspects of the culture..the practice of Thai Chi would be laughed at here. Any type of "faith based thinking" is frowned upon, just Imagine Bruce Lee before fighting Wong Jack Man, they won't teach you how to fight from your soul! They seem to be more focused on mastering techniques for sport + money, exactly what Wong Jack Man warned about giving Kung Fu to the world. They also discriminate against spiritual + political beliefs despite saying they don't! ~The slogan stands true, One Tribe One Vibe, when you become an active member of SBG you will definitely feel like family, the members are inarguably amazing! However I sometimes feel like maybe it holds too true, like their rule "either your SBG or your not", I don't want to feel like I'm blindly following the leader of a cult, one that may or may not care more about brand recognition than the people. I feel as if maybe Many Tribes One Nation is a better fit for me, but I can't deny that SBG will always feel like family to me, after just 7 months of being there. ~They focus on fundamentals and do a great job of it, because that is the equivalent of building a solid foundation to a house. They also teach that it is because the simplest solution is the most efficient one. ~Matt Thornton is not super extroverted but is a nice guy who has no problem saying hello if you say hello 1st. He does make his presence known occasionally but honestly he is the owner & founder, not the manager & current head coach, so to expect a basically retired man to take too much deserved time from his family is selfish. He has seminars often enough that anyone in the community can spend time with him and even have a chance to be on camera, for a decent price. Do you expect to talk to the owner of your job every day? ~It sounds like Zach Thornton, the current manager & head coach has come a long way in 7 years. No he is not perfect, but he is human just like you + me, therefore he is entitled to make mistakes just like you & I. This is not coming from a fan boy either, I was actually told I can't train their anymore by Zach so I could easily be saying things like he kicked me out because the last few months I was barely making the payments as a houseless man. However being the mature & wise young man I am, what I'm instead saying is that Zach told me "in good conscience I can't let you train here anymore, maybe in another year", he then later told me on Facebook I needed to repriortize my goals and he was right. He then refunded me the last month's payment and cancelled any future payments. I am on year 3 of getting my Bachelor's in Psychology, and as an inspiring life coach I can honestly say that Zach is a great coach in more than one degree. Again, he is however human and has room for growth just as all of us do, and that doesn't change until you die. As a man that is under the age of 30 and managing a worldwide franchise that is almost as old as he is, I would say he is doing an excellent job thus far. ~ (Update) ~ A year later Zach banned me over a Facebook post I made, weeks prior to me returning, so somebody did some Facebook stalking to find something to kick me out on again, 3 days after I been training. The post was basically talking about the double standards women give men (political view), however what the post was really about, which was clearly stated, I was proud to ignore some women's antics of trying to get my attention, and thus sticking to my celibacy. So I believe the ultimate reason he banned me is because he's against God. Now after this update he replies to twist words in his favor, which is basically lying..not surprised Zach. I never said they were asking for anything but my attention, which they were, and anyone who saw agreed. My post was private btw, so a "friend" had to see it and "report" it to you, just like last time you found an excuse to kick me out.

Ryan

A great place to grow and learn, full of good people! This is my walled garden.

Jeff Burton

Great gym! Thank you for the hospitality!

Beth

3/14/19 UPDATE: A FEW WORDS TO THE OWNER Why do you respond to other reviewers' posts? Albeit, you are emotional, self-aggrandizing, and ripe with rancor. Yet with my review, your silence comes off as diminutive. My question is rhetorical. However these are statements of fact: 1. You owe me money. 2. I jumped through your hoops and produced all the required paperwork in order to cancel a membership on time. One, I never actual did start. 3. My proof included: a copy of my new, signed lease -- showing I moved 50 miles away from your gym, my landlord's phone number, a bill with my new address, a bank statement with the membership charge, and a freaking hand-written termination letter. 4. I even hand carried all of this nonsense to you in a folder, tucked securely in its pockets. Because, I figured you'd say it was never received. I was wrong; Instead, you say nothing. Integrity looks nothing like you act. You should eat crow and correct your wrong. We all make poor decisions and knee-jerk reactions. It's difficult to correct something when you've hunkered down in your wrong for years. But, so what. Life is annoying like that. ------------- INITIAL REVIEW I can't tell you if this place has merit for its actual program. Their management and policies are a farce. I signed my daughter and myself up for a year. Approximately $1,300. Only because I also signed a contract that stated that I could cancel and receive my money back should I move outside of their vicinity and with proof. My job, unplanned, moved my position over 50 miles away to another office. I provided a copy of my new lease, a bank statement with my new address, and a handwritten letter stating my circumstances. Oh, and we never did make it to a single class. I literally spent about $1,300 for nothing. They have refused to refund me. This has been going on since 4/17. Don't go. Seriously. That's such an unethical, disingenuous, ill spirited approach to people and your reputation.

Howdy Darrell

Dropped in to train here while on tour, everyone was nice, courteous and the facility was great! Amanda taught the morning class and was very welcoming, Id definitely stop by again.

Bob Smith

I have no idea how good the actual training is, because I've never been able to navigate the financial hoops you have to jump through to find out how much it actually costs to train here. Notice that they do not--and in my experience, will not--tell you how much your classes will actually cost on their website or on the phone--you HAVE to make an appointment first. Why not just tell us how much joining this gym will cost right up front? Yes I know there may be a range of options--just TELL us what those options are up front. Going to find a gym that is more open about how much I'm going to have to pay to join right off the bat.

Glyn Powditch

Matt Thorton is a world class coach. Accept no substitute

glen bruck

Great gym with plenty of room, access to free weights. All the coaches are personable and approachable. The classes have an emphasis on training smart and discourage " meat head" behavior. It's a very welcoming atmosphere and has plenty of storage for belonging

Hunter Ferreiro

Friendly to all kinds of people. A huge focus on positive epistemic strategies. SBG helps you in ways which transcend BJJ. Hope this helps!

Brad Mattan

As a visitor from out of town, SBG was a very welcoming crowd. They have plenty of space and a clean facility. I highly recommend training there if you have the chance.

Justin Abbott

SBG really is a great organization. I have been training there for a little less than 4 years and it has completely changed my life. The coaching and training at the gym is top notch, and it is just a great group of people. If you are thinking about training in the Portland area you owe it to yourself to check out SBG.

PlanetGuardians SwordLord

BE WARNED!!! Horrible experience in multiple ways. SBG Dishonest example #1. Fraudulent in taking money after One year contract is over. Shame on U Straight Blast Gym (SBG). P.S. Bad Contract word structure, totally favors SBG in locking U into payments. Be Warned! SBG Dishonest example #2. Before I signed the.contract we Discussed weapons training with emphasis on weapons take away & some boxing. but, what got was beginner, on the mat martial arts. I'm talking Beginner grade school instructions. SBG Dishonest example #3. Customer Service is so bad, it's so bad it's indescribable in its behavior when it comes to complaints. Take ur name & number & never call back.. These R My Top three Complaints 4 now

EditingLikely

do you guys now when its open

Tim Fitchett

Awesome gym with great coaches! These guys know their jiu-jitsu, and most importantly they know how to teach each individual to be their best. All of the other students are great to, there's a real social atmosphere in the gym. If you're looking to get into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Mixed Martial Arts, there's no better gym in Portland!

marshall gavros

Nice gym for beginners i learned alot in the short time i expeirenced the gym nice people good coaches very understanding i had to leave early due to not as much time on my hands as id like but ill be back in the future i recommend checking them out

Lukey C

I had the privilege of visiting SBG Portland when I was on vacation back in May 2019. Having trained Brazilian Jiu-jitsu since 2013, I have had opportunities to visit a good number of gyms during that time. The SBG Portland crew was very welcoming when I was visiting. I had the chance to attend a mix of classes over three days, and all the coaches from Mark, Amanda, John to Cane made the experience thoroughly enjoyable. The camaraderie between members and instructors was readily apparent- from a visitor’s perspective, it’s always nice to find a place where you can feel safe and comfortable training. For anyone looking to train BJJ, Muay Thai, or MMA, you should definitely pay SBG Portland a visit!

Ellen Champadeng

My husband is a former college wrestler and coach. He took me to SBG after I had a scary incident on transit. We started out at SBG so I could feel more secure out at night. What we got was something that built our marriage. No matter how busy we are, we now have this thing to do together. SBG is positive, kid-friendly, female-friendly, and couple-friendly. This is not the kind of gym that is going to treat you like less of a person if you aren't a perfect build/weight/height. They teach you to work with what you have. Recently, I started Primate Yoga because of tension in my hips and shoulders. Salome and Stephanie are great yoga instructors. SBG offers more than just jits. It gives members a chance to build on their training in different ways. As a teacher I can vouch for the skills and talents of the coaches. They can do and they do teach well. There is no such thing as a bad coach at SBG.

Dustin Lee

I trained at this gym for two years and enjoyed it greatly. One of the MMA industries true founders Matt Thornton still teaches and is highly involved in Portland as the home location and in his other worldwide SBG locations!! Thank You !!!! I wish I still had the time to train like I did 15 years ago.

Daniel Scott

I travel a lot, so I "drop in" to a fair amount of BJJ gyms. I've experienced all kinds of gyms, from the ones where tapping is viewed as "losing" and a last resort (I tend to avoid those), the ones where they are exceptionally military about the rules (you have to wear a gi with their patches, in the colors they want, and heaven forbid you are friends with anyone in a "rival" team) and a bunch more. While I love BJJ, it's strictly a hobby for me - I'm not interested in training 40 hours a week with the hope of beating up the biggest and baddest. I'm interested in a gym that has a welcoming and friendly environment, where people are willing to work on technique over just trying to out-muscle their partners, and where questions are encouraged and the instructors will take time to explain things and keep everyone safe. My experience with Straight Blast Portland is all of these things. For anyone who doesn't know (I certainly didn't!), while Straight Blast began here in Portland, Oregon, it now has over 50 locations and a lot of claims to fame. In fact, I believe Conor MacGregor trains regularly at a SB in Ireland and is trained by one of SB Portland's top students - but I could be wrong on the details here. Regardless, the gym sure has a lot of trophies on display, and the guys training here are no joke, that's for sure. But as I said, no one tried to rip my arm off - if anything the rolls were all very relaxed and playful, though if you want to take things up a notch these guys will match you without getting rough, which is a wonderful experience. And unlike many gyms, the founder is still heavily involved, teaching classes on a Friday night for example - which again, is something sadly missing in some gyms out there. The schedule was fantastic - there are classes seven days a week and lots of variety. They cover BJJ fundamentals, advanced classes, intermediate classes, striking classes, no-gi classes, competition classes... and that's just for the adults. On any given day they run 8+ hours of classes, so I'd be shocked if you didn't find a groove that worked for you. In addition, they have bags for striking practice and even a modest gym with barbells, dumbells, power racks, and a couple of machines - probably all anyone needs unless you're a pretty serious bodybuilder. My understanding is this is all part of the membership, but I would confirm that with staff to be sure. There are also change rooms and showers on site, which is nice if you have to get to work after a class or whatever. And the mats are kept clean (they had just finished mopping as I walked in at 5 pm, so they probably do multiple times a day) which is super important but sadly, often-ignored by many BJJ gyms out there. In terms of "cons", the space is a little dated but functional. I really dig that in a place - I think it shows a lot of character, but if you want a place where everything is shiny and unused, probably not the space for you. There's no parking lot, although street parking has been easy to find in a one-block radius every time I've been in. In conclusion, love the place, love the people, love the BJJ. If I lived in PDX full-time this would be my BJJ "home" for sure. Whether you're planning to compete or just like to train, I really think it's worth stopping by!

Skagit Samurai

Life changing experience. Amazing and friendly students from all walks of life, and a plethora of knowledgeable and capable coaches. Worth every penny.

Rex Payne

I really cant say enough about this team. Ive literally trained in gyms all over the country, Florida, Colorado, The NW and Cali and so forth. Never anywhere even in PDX have I found a more welcoming team, positive work environment and world class instruction. No drama, no bs, just perfect.

Ron Wilder

I visited SBG during a business trip to Portland. Instruction was awesome and the training environment is super friendly and supportive. If I lived in Portland I would totally train here.

Suicide Rose

Very comfortable environment. I never feel intimidated or judged. The coaches are fantastic at what they do! I've been going for about three months and have zero desire to stop any time soon!

Ryan Shaw

Welcoming gym to train at for a guy travelling around the world and still wanting to train.

Christopher Larson

Was in Portland for the day from San Diego. This academy was recommended and I’m glad I came here. Great atmosphere and the group was super inviting. Professor Chris was very thorough and practical. He had a great attitude and was easy to follow along with. I have been doing BJJ for 10+ years and I really appreciate a welcoming academy where there isn’t anyone who needs to prove themselves. A+ group here and will be back for certain.

Pirashanth Kesavan

Traveled from Toronto to visit at the headoffice of the world class SBG Team. Amazing team. Quality coaching. Clean mats.

Brian Heenan

The Straight Blast Gym International head quarters in Portland Oregon has quickly become than just a gym. Over the past 6 months I have had more fun than I have in the past decade. I have learned more about myself and my capabilities than ever before in my life. The quality of the coaches and training is top notch, so much so, that I have aspirations of taking their coaching program in the future. Everyone from the newest member to our head instructor Matt Thornton has been friendly and helpful. I can promise you SBGi has turned out to be more than just a gym for me, and it could easily be much more for you. See you on there.

Thomas Dolan

I'm an sbg Ireland member, and on hols in Portland I popped in to train, the coach, Amanda I think was amazing, very friendly. Very impressed. Thanks guys

Terry Haut

During a visit to Portland, I dropped in for a class and it couldn’t have been a better experience. The overall atmosphere was friendly and welcoming, and the instructor was super clear in breaking down the techniques and the reasons and concepts behind why they work. The other students during the open mat portion that I rolled with were all focused on sparring technically and the environment was very safe. After we all got to ask the instructor any questions about techniques which was really cool. Overall it was a great experience and highly recommended.

Anthony Bowen

Great people, great training and great atmosphere.

John Andrew Williams

A total scam. I signed up with their "Iron-Clad 60 day guarantee" and when I asked for my money back, they flat-out denied me. Zach Thornton acts like your best friend at first when you sign up, but when you realize that it's not for you, he turns a complete 180.

Jason Paran

follow @kutinian on IG McGregor's fan.

Dongho Lee

World best gym in the World!! ,Thanks for teaching me and rolling me out!!! Those super great coaches are so humble and powerful!!!!

G. Wade

Hands down best MMA gym in Portland... Family atmosphere and awesome coaches. Highly recommend for all ages.

Max Houston

There coaches are great. I really liked the classes. I have nothing bad to say about their training programs and coaches. As for their business model... very deceitful and unethical to say the least. I recently had a job change unexpectedly. I was told I could 1.)cancel within 60 days and receive money back. 2.) I could show proof of address change and receive a refund. I prepaid 6 months in advance and attended under 2 months of classes. I was really bummed I had to move because I enjoyed the training and the people, but when they wouldn't refund me I was like...? seriously...? That greedy? Pretty bummed out to say the least because I did like the atmosphere and the coaching. The front end guy Justin has some of the worst communication skills in history.(sorry dude) just a suggestion you need to work on that. I am typically an honest person when It comes to reviews. If for any reason you think you will move, or cancel within 60 days I would not waste your time and money and go to another gym. As for Matt Thornton, the guy is a world class coach and I am sure an incredible human being, but I can't say the same for his education on how to run a business. There are a few other areas if this gym that lack any sort of business education. I am sure he gets paid nicely and likely has the attitude of "idc what this guy would say because im getting paid" (im assuming). If thats the case just goes to show you how terrible you are at running a business. In my business I get negative reviews for things outside of my control, it happens to the best of us. In this case I can honestly say its just pure greed and selfishness. Never would recommend their services to anyone. Two reasons why. 1.) they have liars working for them 2.) the training is very slow pace and although the coach I had was awesome, the overall experience was too slow for my learning abilities and not a very good workout for the money. I am happy at a new gym and I can tell you the experience is 10000000X better. Very unnecessary they wouldn't let me out of the membership.

Luis Till

SBGi has friendly coaches and members who are all very accessible and knowledgeable. The classes for both children and adults are thought out and paced carefully to adjust and teach in a manner that really encourages exploration and learning. The schedule can accommodate most any parent or working professional. There's a great diversity of people and community/family feel to the gym that is warm and inviting. It's a place where you learn, work, and earn your stripes through trial and error in an environment where it's safe to learn through your mistakes and ask questions. The children's classes are well thought out and planned with time to learn and play games. My daughter has fun but she also learns a lot that she is happy to recount and show me at home after class time. It's also a boon for her that her head coach is female and is a great role model for her and the other kids in class. It's been one of the best decisions for my daughter and I to take classes here!

Carlos Cruz

I have just hit my 2 year anniversary and can say that this has become a second home. Bjj has become a staple of my self care in terms of what it brings to my mental sanity as well physical fitness. If you want to learn technique-oriented martial arts that focus on time tested fundamentals, this is your place. Whether ground grappliing or stand up striking there are many different to meet your needs. I would also highly recommend the kids program as my daughter gets to learn many life lessons that she would not get otherwise in a relaxed playful environment.

Cash Money

The worst sales people. Super pushy, very dishonest. Horrible business EDIT: That's cute you think you know anything about who this is. What language did the person use? I only speak English. And another EDIT: I did speak with someone in the sales staff. I have been in their business. And this business must piss off a lot of people since they can't even keep track of who all is upset with them. ROFL!!!!!!!!!

Mike Fabbri

Awesome gym, awesome coaches, awesome students, an all around great place to train.

Destiny Abbott

I love this gym! I have never been into sports or even a regular workout kind of person but SBGI changed that I"v been going to BJJ and yoga classes for almost two years and see no stopping in my future. I'm in the best shape of my life at almost 33 but that is the least of it.Its taught me about problem solving, self confidence and brought me closer to my husband as we train there together. recently I competed in my first tournament and and thanks to there world class coaches ended up with a medal.VIVA SBG!