I've been a student at the Silva Academy for over three years, and it's been an incredible journey. Not only have I mastered new techniques in jiu jitsu, but I've also found a second family. The thrill of traveling the world to compete, the excitement of attending team events like the movie premiere for The Karate Kid, and the joy of bonding over team BBQs have all been unforgettable experiences. Each moment has been a testament to the camaraderie and spirit of the Silva Academy. I'm truly grateful to have found such a supportive and inspiring community.
Joao and Summer are the best coaches! I was one of their first students and eventually my daughter and my wife also joined the academy. The dojo is a place where our community comes together as a family. I highly recommend this place to everyone (all levels and all ages) who wants to get into martial arts.
I stopped training FOR 9 YEARS and this gym let me step right back into the grind. John and Summer are amazing teachers. if you are looking for a gym as a beginner or as a seasoned vet, check them out.
Finding the right Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym changed everything for me. When I first started training, I tried another gym where I never truly fit in. As a woman in a male-dominated sport, feeling excluded—and frankly, unsafe—was disheartening. I kept trying to make it work, assuming I just wasn’t cut out for Jiu-Jitsu. But after visiting five or six other gyms and not getting the right vibe from any of them, I happened to drive past the Silva’s Academy, and something told me to stop in. That decision changed my life. From the moment I walked through the doors, I knew this was where I belonged. Now, five years later, I’m beyond grateful for the coaches, teammates, and community that welcomed me with open arms. They’ve become more than training partners—they’re family. Professors John and Summer are exceptional. They lead with passion, knowledge, and unwavering respect. They’ve cultivated a space where people of all backgrounds feel supported and seen, and where women can train confidently, safely, and without hesitation. Even after moving away, I continue to drive past several other gyms just to train at the Silva’s. That’s how special this place is. If you’re struggling to find your place in Jiu-Jitsu, trust me: the problem isn’t you. You just haven’t found the right gym yet. Silva’s BJJ was that place for me, and I’m endlessly thankful I found it.
I have been in BJJ for several years. I took some time off after moving to Texas. I decided to restart BJJ. I visited several academies in the area looking for one that fit what I needed. Silva Jiu Jitsu was my 3rd choice but i immediately knew this was the place for me. Top level instruction from a highly respected and experienced instructor from Brazil! Despite Joao’s success in tournaments the academy has a true family feel with terrific competition. I am truly grateful I have found this place. I highly recommend for men, women and children. You won’t be disappointed!
I’ve been training at this academy for over 3 years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The technique and instruction are top-notch, but what truly sets this place apart is the community. From day one, I felt welcomed and supported—everyone here is respectful, humble, and eager to help each other grow. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll find a great environment to train, learn, and improve. This place is more than just a gym—it’s a second home.
Silva Academy is on the short list of “best things that ever happened to me.” The academy and community there changed my mind, body and heart. Come grow with us.
Coach João is awesome, his technique and knowledge of jiu jitsu is top notch. The people at this gym are very welcoming and love to train hard. This gym also offers Judo, Aikido, Sambo, and Wrestling.
I got gifted a month worth of classes by my family. Day 1 I had everyone from white to black belt coaching me up. It's been 6 months now and I feel stronger and more mobile than I have in a decade. The Silva family has welcomed me with open arms and I am better for it.
I’ve been going here for over 4 years and it is such an amazing experience! Instructors are encouraging, technical and kind. Teammates are motivated and always willing to help anyone!
Great coaching staff and training atmosphere! Recommend for all skill levels and ages!
I have learned so much and continue to learn. Try it out, I promise you will love it.
Super cool place, everyone is nice and welcoming. If you want to start training jiu jitsu I would highly recommend.
This is a great place to train. It is a family oriented environment with two amazing black belts leading the way. I am so happy to have a BJJ home again.
My son and I both train here, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. The instructors are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, but more importantly, they take the time to teach in a way that’s easy to understand and apply—whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your game. The atmosphere is positive, respectful, and welcoming. It’s clear that the culture here is built on support, discipline, and growth. The community is amazing—everyone is friendly and encouraging, which makes a big difference, especially for kids and families. Classes are well-organized with a great balance of technique, drilling, and live rolling. They also offer specialized programs for kids, women, and competitors, so there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re looking for a clean, safe, and high-quality place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, this is it. Highly recommended!
I personally could not give a stronger review. I came here to learn the art, and left with a family instead. Professor Joao and Summer are not only phenomenal coaches for all ages, but are even better human beings. They work well with ALL (and I mean all) levels of people who practice. They have a very traditional approach to Jiu jitsu, but stay very updated with the times and new techniques. I have traveled all over now looking for a gym that is similar, but NOTHING has come close. Not only do they teach Jiu jitsu, but they have other arts as well to learn. From a pay perspective, they are very reasonable, and I haven’t found another program yet that can compare with the amount of expertise that they offer. If you are between gyms or looking to start your journey, look no further than here. You will not regret it. I promise.
Amazing place amazing technique have instructors who truly care about your growth.
Best gym of all time, jiu-jitsu family.
The absolute gold standard, excellent instruction by the best people. Family focused
If your looking for a top tier Brazilian jiu-jitsu training wrapped with camaraderie, this gym absolutely delivers. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned grappler, the instructors meet you where you are- with patience, expertise, and genuine enthusiasm for your growth.
Amazing experience. Changed my life. Lost 60 pounds +. John and Summer (and their daughter s) have become like family
You will not find a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy that is more qualified and an environment that is more welcoming than Silva Academy. It's run by a family that has a lineage that directly ties to the original Gracie's, and that is family oriented, faith welcoming, and a safe place for all ages and bodies to participate. The Silva family has personally taken me under their wing multiple times and helped me overcome injuries and life's trials, and I cannot thank them enough for their support in the community!
The best place ever ! Summer and Joao are amazing !!! First time trying BJJ and they make me love it so much . Everyone here are nice and helpful .Everyone needs to come and try it!
I’ve trained martial arts before, but no place compares with Silva Academy. The dedication and patience Professor Silva puts into his students it’s amazing. Family oriented and high value Dojo for training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. 5 stars 100% recommended.
Best instructor ever! And I first trained and competed in Brazil, then with Fabiano Iha and Tito Ortiz and Chuck Ladell in Huntington Beach California, and also a different master in Newport Beach, CA. Then I met and began training with and competing under Joao Silva and his Dad, who are by far the best instructors I have ever met. Most real professional fighters that I have met and trained with are not particularly amazing instructors because they are really into themselves over the students but Joao is all about teaching the students while also being an amazing fighter. He makes it easy and fun to learn. If your like me you’ll grow more in one year with Joao and Summer than three years anywhere else. I only stopped training due to medical issues that I already had from the Marines before BJJ and time constraints. If circumstances were different I’d be training w Joao still.
I started BJJ at 54. I made a list of gyms in the area that I wanted to visit and this was the first on the list. I never made it to number two! It starts with Jon and Summer's warmth; they pulled me in and made me feel right at home. The instruction is top notch, the environment is welcoming and the whole experience is super fun! I'm coming up on three years and it's definitely been a great decision. There's a tremendous sense of community with Jon and Summer or other members organizing pot luck dinners, outings at the park or a night at Sneaky Pete's! So whether you want to get in shape, learn self-defense or plug into a great community, this is the place!
I’ve been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Silva Academy for a year now, and it has been one of the best decisions of my life. Profesor Joao is super dedicated with his students and he takes the time to help you understand what this beautiful martial art is about. Great environment, great people, you’ll love it. 5/5 starts 100% recommend.
Thankful for this Place , great environment and wonderful people , Professor Joao Silva and his Family. For Sure it’s one of the best Martial Arts and Fitness business in Lewisville Texas
I have had 10+ years of martial arts experience and I’ve been from instructor to instructor and I can definitely say that joao is the best Bjj instructor I have ever had , the dojo and the people around make me feel at home.
Best BJJ instructors around. I've looked all over the area and this place is by far the best in terms of coaching And pedigree. I have found a real home here. John and Summer are phenomenal at teaching the art with kids and adults. Me and my son love it here.
Walking into Silva BJJ, I never imagined the impact it would have on me. Struggling with confidence and feeling isolated, I found more than just a martial arts gym – I found a community that welcomed me with open arms. The journey started with learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but it became a journey of self-discovery. As I grappled on the mats, I grappled with my own insecurities. Thanks to the patient instructors and supportive peers, I gained not only skills but also a newfound confidence that extends far beyond the gym. Silva BJJ isn't just a gym; it's a place where you belong. If you're seeking more than workouts and want to be part of something meaningful, this is it. My review is simply an honest account of how Silva BJJ turned my isolation into a sense of belonging. I'd sign up for a free class now.
The instructors do an amazing job ensuring everyone is able to learn jiu jitsu in a fun friendly and safe environment. The class times work great for us allowing the kids to train and then the parents to train in back to back classes. Our family has improved in confidence, overall health, and submission skills after joining the academy.
I like how Joāo & Summer are so patient with the children while instructing them on what to do. I definitely recommend adults and children to come.
I have never been particularly athletic or coordinated, so I speak for those who may be hesitant! I absolutely love everything about this gym. John and Summer work tirelessly to make you a part of the family. It’s a safe place to challenge yourself and push yourself to grow past mistakes! I have learned a tremendous amount that has improved my self esteem and confidence. We moved up to every day of the week because we missed it on the off days. Come check it out!!!
I was visiting my son in Texas and wanted to get some work in. Stopped by and they treated me great. Jon is an excellent instructor and is building a great culture at his gym. I highly recommend it. Looking forward to my next trip to Texas.
Best instructor ever! And I first trained and competed in Brazil, then with Fabiano Iha and Tito Ortiz and Chuck Ladell in Huntington Beach California, and also a different master in Newport Beach, CA. Then I met and began training with and competing under Joao Silva and his Dad, who are by far the best instructors I have ever met. Most real professional fighters that I have met and trained with are not particularly amazing instructors because they are really into themselves over the students but Joao is all about teaching the students while also being an amazing fighter. He makes it easy and fun to learn. If your like me you’ll grow more in one year with Joao and Summer than three years anywhere else. I only stopped training due to medical issues that I already had from the Marines before BJJ and time constraints. If circumstances were different I’d be training w Joao still.