The Robert Lovi Academy opened its doors in November 2008 in San Diego’s Normal Heights neighborhood. The facility is not large and glamorous. It’s straight to the point, and offers students the opportunity to learn world-class level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a small classroom setting. Our blackbelt instructors actively participate with all of our students and give everyone personalized attention.
We are a Pedro Sauer affiliate school and follow the curriculum for the belt ranking program. This is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu direct from the source. We teach both self defense and sport Jiu-Jitsu, and emphasize gi training. The gi (the traditional kimono uniform) is not just about tradition. All of the top Jiu-Jitsu competitors come from gi backgrounds. The gi slows things down, forces proper technique, simulates clothing, and allows for a much wider range of techniques.
We are not a competition-focused school, so there’s no reason to be intimidated. Find out why Jiu-Jitsu is the most effective self defense system in the world. But more importantly, we urge you to take a few minutes to learn about the benefits and dimensions that extend beyond self defense. Jiu-Jitsu is a holistic system that will keep you sharp, in shape, active, mentally refreshed and recharged. Our classes will be the regular highlights of your week.
Head Instructor Robert Lovi has dedicated his life to the study and teaching of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He earned all of his belts from 7th degree Red-Black Belt Pedro Sauer, and is sought after by academies around the world. Robert is known for his highly technical Jiu-Jitsu that emphasizes proper technique over power, and for combining exceptional knowledge of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and the ability to break things down and teach it. His own instructor, Pedro Sauer, was voted best Jiu-Jitsu instructor in a worldwide poll by the Abu Dhabi Combat Club.
He has studied and trained with the biggest Jiu-Jitsu names in the world including Terere, Jacare, Andre Galvao, Ricardo & Leo Vieira, Telles, Rodrigo Comprido Medeiros, Jamalao, Shaolin, Wander Braga, Carlos Valente, Felipe Costa; Relson, Rorian, Rener and Ryron Gracie, and many others.
Our academy is known worldwide for its high level instruction and commitment to the personal growth of our students. Every one of our students is extended family, and we are dedicated to safety, personal development and building strong fundamentals. If you’ve never studied Jiu-Jitsu before, our academy offers a warm and inviting environment for beginners. We all have to start at some point. The academy is not competition focused, so our classes are more relaxed. Students choose their own pace.
Rob Lovi is the man. High level skills, great pedigree, smooth as silk, nicest guy in the world. Prof. Rob’s got a unique sense of humor and relaxed style of teaching. This is the best school I’ve ever trained at and would recommend it to anyone who wants to really sharpen their technical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the Jiu-Jitsu game. Classes are 99% BJJ — it’s not a crossfit gym. There are a couple guys there who compete, but they’re in the minority. It’s more oriented towards Jiu-jitsu “lifers”. Lot of top BJJ guys in San Diego to choose from, but Prof. Rob is my personal favorite to train under.