
Phil Migliarese and Grand Master Helio Gracie after teacher traning
Torrance, California, 1996
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At Balance Studios, we specialize in teaching Beginners. Phil Migliarese, Owner and Gracie Black Belt, is dedicated to sharing the authentic Gracie System that Grand Master Helio Gracie has been using for nearly a century.
Our Gracie Basics Program is safe, energetic and, by far, the best way to get started in the most effective martial art in the world: Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.
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Benefits of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
According to Our Students |
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Feel Healthy, Strong, and Flexible
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Realistic Self Defense that just works!
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A Curriculum that is easy to understand
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For a hobbyists or future black belt competitors
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Anyone Can Do It!
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Humane alternative to Striking
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Lose weight and build core strength
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Reduce Daily Stresses with Jiu-Jitsu/ Yoga
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Instills a Positive Attitude
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Develops Self-Confidence and Emotion Intelligence
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Overcome Panic with breathing control
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Anyone of any size can learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
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Specifically designed for the needs of a First Timers!
Why Choose Balance Studios? |
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20 years in the Business of serving Student's needs
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We offer a new student conference, a private and a Group class before you choose to enroll
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Oldest Gracie Affiliation in Philadelphia
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Recognized as one of the top Jiu-Jitsu Schools in the world
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Migliarese Brothers are Certified Gracie Black Belts who lived and trained with the Gracie Brothers in Brazil, California, and Hawaii
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Friendly Family Atmosphere
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We believe that "Balance" is the key to success
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We integrate Yoga positions and Philosophy into our curriculum
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The Quality of instruction is Professional, Positive, and goal oriented
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Instructors are Attentive to Detail and Personal needs
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Team Balance is one of the Top Teams in the World
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We use a Formula for Success:
"The Balance Teaching Method"
Gracie Basics Program Features
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- Stand up Self Defense, Striking, and Takedowns
- Ground Defense and Ground Submissions
- Learn how to overcome Panic with breathing control
- Simple Techniques that do not require strength
- Step by Step instruction at your own pace
Begin Your Free 30 Day Trial !!!!
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At Balance Studios, we've made it simple to get started in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts: (Muay Thai Boxing, American Boxing, Wrestling and Submission Grappling, all in one)
Our, NO OBLIGATION VIP Introductory Program Includes:
A New Student Conference, a FREE Private Lesson, and a FREE Group Class.
That is $200 worth of services for FREE. Why wait?
New Student Conference
During your New Student Conference, a certified instructor will sit with you and discuss your future Martial Arts goals and specific needs.
Our New Student Package Includes:
-A Tour of the Facility
-Up to Date Prices for all of our programs
-Martial Arts Level Assesment
-Set Specific Goals for Fitness and Self Defense
-Answers to all of your questions regarding Balance
-Suggestions for your personal training schedule
-Full Balance Studios Class Schedule
-Complete Layout of our Curriculum
1 FREE PRIVATE LESSON
($150.00 value)
Private Lesson Breakdown :
-History of BJJ and Balance Studios Philosophy
-Learn
about Team Balance
and The Migliarese Brothers
-Get a detailed breakdown of our Gracie Jiu-jitsu Introductory Techniques
1 FREE GRACIE JIU-JITSU CLASS ($25.00 value)
Experience what it will be like to train at Balance Studios on a daliy basis.
BENEFITS OF A GROUP CLASS:
-Meet Our Full Time Instructors and Proffesional Staff
-Experience our unique teaching methods
-Apply Techniques from your INTRO CLASS
-Interact with our Students (White through Black Belts)
-Learn first hand what makes Balance Studios stand out from the rest
Two Ways to Register for our introductory program:
1) Call a Member Specialist at 215 636 9661
2) CLICK BELOW!
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Success Stories & Testimonials
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Phil,
I have always wanted to write this to you!!! I cannot begin to thank you enough!!! We cannot believe what a life changing experience it has been working out at your studio. It has given us a father/ son experience that many families can not relate with. We talk about Jiu-Jitsu all the time and just love the sport. We enjoy training with you, and your brother Rick, and all the people that are on your mat...... You are all part of this Gracie triangle of fun. Thank you for providing us with such a positive exposure to this GREAT WORLD OF JIU JITSU and the Balance that life needs.
Thank you,
-Johnny Keevill
46
Construction Manager for Lockheed Martin
"Lil John" Keevill
18
College Student
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Coming from a creative background and upbringing my mind and body had become sharply tuned for intellectual activity. Since I have started training at Balance Studios I have encountered many different physical and mental challenges that have forced me to think differently (a change that I was desperately in need of). I can safely say that the challenges that I encounter in my day to day life along with challenges at the gym appear to me; less as roadblocks and more as quells and rises in the path of life. As my training progresses, I am beginning to see the reflection of my physical activity in my creative production, a truly exiting discovery. It makes me realize that balance (no pun intended) is a very valuable asset in life!
-Marshal Linton
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I've always been a fan of boxing, jiu jitsu, and mma and finally signed up for classes. Jiu jitsu seemed the best choice due to its focus on technique over size and strength--I chose Balance because they teach the Gracie method. From the first day, it was obvious that the staff at Balance have a dedication to both the art of jiu jitsu and the students.
The most important aspect of any learning experience is the climate. Balance Studio has created a positive teaching environment through the approachability of the instructors and it is reflected in the students. It is common to hear students advising or instructing one another while drilling or sparring.
Phil's Gracie Basics curriculum is well planned and clearly articulated. It's encouraging to me to see how much I've learned in just a few months. There is a good mix of new material and review in each session and the progress of the students is noticeable week-to-week and class-to-class. It is easy to see the value of having instructors in the Gracie lineage.
The benefits to the art of jiu jitsu are clear; it's a superior approach to practical fighting and self-defense. The Balance Studio experience speaks for itself. This is a true learning studio that respects the art and the students. For any of those reasons, I would recommend Balance to anyone. Of the studios I've visited, Balance has been the one with the best attitude and clearest plan for the success of the students and sustainability of the art.
I intend to continue training and improving my skills in jiu jitsu. Earning a new belt and competing on the team are goals that I would love to see fulfilled; I can't wait to step up to the next level.
Loosing weight….talk about that a little
When I decided to sign up for classes at Balance it was just one part in a lifestyle change to improve my health.
I cut back on junk food, increased my intake of healthy foods (more salads &vegetables), and joined Balance. In just over two months, I've lost 20 pounds--the encouragement of Phil and the other instructors has been awesome. The genuine concern that Phil and the guys have for me (and all the students) is obvious and admirable. I almost laugh when I look back a few months to when i walked in at 5'7", 215 lbs--Phil looked at me and said, "Yeah, we need to get you going right away." I haven't regretted it since. The process has really snowballed: the better I feel, the more I want to improve my health and fitness. Big thanks to Phil, Jazz, and James for all their help.
Thanks,
-David Timony
Chair, Fine Arts Department
Girard College
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Is Jiu-Jitsu Right for You ? |

Rick Migliarese, Grand Master Helio Gracie, and Phil Migliarese
Torrance, California, 1995
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Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
is for everyone!
The Gracie Basics curriculum was designed with the Beginner in mind!
Owner of Balance Studios, Phil Migliarese. Phil began training Jiu-Jitsu at the age of twelve and has been teaching beginners for nearly twenty years. |
Our Basics Program is easy to learn and perfect for anyone of any size, no matter if s/he is “in shape” or “out of shape." Gracie Basics is the best presentation of fundamental Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, whether your goal is to be a hobbyist or a Gracie Black Belt. Gracie Basics will get you in shape through consistent training, and practicing the techniques.
Gracie Basics is a motivational program, geared toward teaching leadership skills in addition to the Jiu-Jitsu curriculum. Phil emphasizes safety, optimism, humility, respect and an open dialogue between student and instructor.
What Happens After Basics ? |
Graduates of this course will be equipped with the techniques required to qualify for our Level 2 Programs:
1) Gracie Black Belt Jiu-Jitsu Program
2) Balance Mixed Martial Arts Program.
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RELSON GRACIE |
"The Migliarese Family is an extension of my family, the Gracie Family. Phil has been my student since he was a child - he grew up with us. Phil follows the teaching method created by my father, Grand Master Helio Gracie, designed so that anyone of any size or strength could learn
Jiu-Jitsu. "
-Relson Gracie
Red/Black Belt
Son of Helio Gracie
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Balance Studios
Student Testimonials 
-Willy Adler
63 Years old
Fine Artist and
Star of the Movie,
"Willy's Blessings"
“I chose Balance because it was geared towards beginners of any age. Everyone can practice! As an older person, this has been huge boost to my self- esteem....I feel like young man again!
Everyone at balance is so congenial, and really just down to earth.
Don't be afraid, you can do it too!
Balance welcomes everyone!"
Tom
"This school is known to be the best in the country"
Chris M.
Balance Studios is one of the best schools I have every practiced at in my 15 years of training in martial arts.
Rick and Phil are the "real deal". On top of that all of the assistant instructors are top notch and very talented teachers in their own right. Most importantly there is a "family atmosphere" that Phil and Rick have created at the academy. This in my opinion is a true reflection of their great skill and dedication to the art on and off the training mat.
Matt Bonsall
"I have been affiliated with Balance Studios for approximately five years; it is by far the best Jiu Jitsu school around!! "
Dan Shelley
"Phil is the best teacher I've ever met. He is a certified Gracie Black Belt.
Joe B
"Balance Studio is the best around for jiu jitsu hands down. You won't find anyone around here that knows more about the art than these 2. They are great teachers. Whether you are a black belt or a first timer, these guys know how to get their point across to you. It is a fine martial arts institute and I'm proud to learn from the best."
Rusty Wright
"Ricky and Phil have been very high impact people in my life. Not just physical, but mental, which has given me an awesome outlook on my life. I have only been in 4 unavoidable confrontations in 10 years and through them, I was very successful. I want to thank you, Ricky and Phil, for offering me the experience and your commitment at Team Balance"
Cortney Wright
"After taking the women's self-defense class, I felt empowered, engaged and connected with the instructors and myself."
Gary B.
"I train at a Balance affiliate in NJ, and after checking out a few other schools first, I could not have picked a better place to train. Phil and Rick along with all Balance instructors are amazing teachers "
Bob Reichanek
"Having the most skilled instructors makes for the most skilled students."
Brian R. Marsh
"Team Balance is a great organization with some of the best instructors I have ever seen. "
Rich Komar
"Phil and Ricky are the best instructors I have ever taken a class from. I've trained with many Brazilian Black Belts and the Migliareses are far more technical."
Joe Brusco
"Balance Studios has the best martial in Philly. No question."
Nick Meitzler
"The best at what they do...."
Jazz Hoxha
"Regardless of your age, jui jitsu is a good workout, also the instructors are very helpful."
Matt Hamilton
"Balance Studios has show me something I couldn't fine anywhere else. From training in the gym to daily life they have helped with Martial Arts."
Dan H.
"Every time I walk out of the place, I feel like I can take on a little bit more of the world. Great instructors, reasonable pricing."
Drew Vogel
"Rick and Phil have designed an efficient and systematic method of developing the skills necessary to perform the techniques and strategies of Gracie Jiu Jitsu in any arena, be it competition, nhb, or the street. "
Tim C.
"The best people you want to train you! "
Marco
"Ricky is the best, he is an excellent teacher and he really knows what he is talking about. "
Trish
"They are the absolute best. Everyone should go to them. "
Christine
"Ricky is awesome at what he does, a great place!"
Fred Mancuso
"Great place to sharpen those jiu-jitsu skills by highly trained and skilled instructors. I recommend this place to all interested in learning about this popular and upcoming sport. "
Chris
"Just Great place to train!"
Heather M.
"Highly recommended...elite instructors...top-notch school!"
Monica Seabridge
"Balance Studios demonstrates the highest level of professional training I have seen!!"
Chris H.
"I train in NYC. Made some visits to Balance, top notch instructors and good people."
Timmy G
"This place is the Harvard of jiu jitsu studios."
Marine man
"Thank you guys for the support"
Frank Rey
"The guys at Balance are by far the most professional staff I have ever trained with. They quickly assess your skill level and know exactly what type of training will best suit you. They are a dynamic group and push you just past your normal quitting point. I can't spend enough time training here, they are the best!"
RIZZO
"Cant get any better than this place."
Jennie
"I feel like I'm at home at Balance."
Ralph
"Awesome instructors and awesome guys."
Billy Howarth
"Dedication, commitment, pride, and strength- what more could you ask for? You'll find all of this plus more at Balance Studio."
Jimmy Rubino
"My experience at Balance Studios has changed my life. Jiu Jitsu is not only a martial art, its a way of life! Rick, Phil, Timmy and the gang at balance are not only my instructors, they have also become my friends. Their knowledge of Jiu Jitsu is unsurpassed, and their ability to teach it amazing. By far they are the best. No one even comes close!!!......Thanks guys"
Guy
"I am continually impressed by the level of instruction at Balance. It is a great place to learn and train. "
Marty
"Hands Down The BEST!"
Tiffany
"Phil is an amazing yoga instructor! He makes you feel comfortable in class and his knowledge of yoga is outstanding. Balance Studios is run by the best and that's what makes them the best! "
Isela
"Philip combines an easy going manner and expertise in his field to give his students consistently master level instruction."
Michael Pritzker
"Great instructors who give you a lot of individual attention."
john mercurio
"Ricky took the time out of his personal schedule to help me get ready for my fight. "
Dina Perillo
"They are absolutely the best!!!!!"
RG
"Great instructors"
Emmitt B.Whitfield
"Phil and Rick Migliarese are the best because they are good at what they teach(jiu jitsu) and they are good human beings. I have known them for over seven years and they've shown me nothing but love and respect. They've made me feel like their studio is open to me as a second home to be the best student in jiu jitsu I can be. They believe in me. Because of them I am a lot stronger person and less timid person than I used to be. They've changed my life and for that I owe them nothing but the best. "
Douglas J Shaffer Jr
"Phil and Rick are true masters! They are two of the best teachers I have ever had"
Mike Marioni
"great instructors and a variety of class to fit your life "
Dalila
"Balance Studio is a one of a kind martial art gym. If you want to get a true jiu-jitsu workout, balance studio is the place to go. You won't get nothing less that expertise one-on-one training from the best of the best in jiu-jitsu from trainers Rick and Phil. They are unbelievable in their works."
Lance
"There is only one way to judge a martial arts school by the quality of it's instructor's not by how many students. After being affiliated with various schools, and if you do any research it is clear there is none better in the area than Rick and Phil @ Balance Studios."
Eugene
"No better place to train in Philly than Balance."
Nick Johnson
"The instructor and their experience in this training is the best instruction to reach Balance in one's body. "
Greg
" Phil and Ricky were the best years ago while instructors at another school. Now they're just sick! Wish I still lived in Philly so I could train with them."
Bob Herrmann
"You will never find better instructors anywhere else. "
M. Neumaier
"The training technique that Balance Studios offers is tremendous. They also display a very patient training approach."
Lori & Mauro
"Rick & Phil are the best of the best! Besides being great trainers, they are great, down-to-earth people. There is nothing like Balance Studios....Go and check them out!"
TMG
"Phil and Rick are fantastic. They push you to achieve your best, and recognize the importance of building and supporting the individual. Their passion and belief in the impact martial arts can have on people is contagious and is reflected in their students and other Balance instructors. "
Dominic Cosenza
"It's the best training in the city and I have trained a lot of places."
JGK
"Phil was my first yoga instructor and he was truly the best! He has patience, knowledge and clarity on what he's teaching. His passion shows! BALANCE STUDIOS ROCKS!"
Anna Marie
"Rick & Phil and what they've created are the best because they completely believe in what they do and dedicate themselves in a truly inspiring way! "
Jenn
"Ricky and Phil are bodyguards!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE U BOTH!!"
Bianca
"They kick butt."
Eli
"Excellent instruction and atmosphere with accommodation for all levels of experience. The Migliarese brothers and everyone at Balance Studios are truly a great organization of dedicated, knowledgeable, and friendly people. "
Lea
"Because Phil and Ricky are no joke and they have been doing this thing forever! They are the best at what they do! "
Luis
"Amazing techniques and great teachers... "
Brian DeMuro
"They have something for everyone. If you're a pro MMA fighter, a jiu jitsu tournament competitor, or just someone that wants to get in shape or learn how to defend themselves, Balance has something for your needs."
JC
"Thank you Phil and Rick for all the help!!! this place is the place to be"
THE "ANIMAL"
"It's the only place in Philly where Champions are made. Balance Studios is the HARVARD of Martial Arts academies. "
Derek Leyrer
"Phil and Ricardo Migliarese have done an amazing job. they built a top competitive BJJ school from scratch and continue to provide excellent guidance for all levels of jiu-jitsu enthusiasts."
Lou Cammisa
"Awesome teacher, great person to learn from! Great friend!"
Ricardo Migliarese
"Thanx Phil For Making Me What I Am Today!!! If It Wasn't For You Id Be Lost. Go Balance!!!"
Duane Weikum
"Phil M. is extremely talented on the mat, a great teacher, and an over all nice guy. What more can you ask for? "
Francisco Ambrifi
" Phil Thanks for all the privates in yoga I went from incredible lower back pain I was not able to walk and in two years training yoga and your style of jiu-jitsu I have not had a lower back problem in two years. Rick Thanks for preparing me for my MMA fight and staying on top of me every day and keeping me motivated you are the best.. The angry Tech...."
Brian Wood
"In Phil, you can sense a genuine passion to search for perfection in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - for himself and his students. Not only does he belong to a select few to have been designated as Master Instructor by the Gracie Family, but his seemingly effortless execution of technique demonstrates a clear example of the essence behind Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Students are supremely confident that they are getting jiu-jitsu instruction that is true and consistent with the principles of the Gracie Family. "
Ken Archbold
"Great training, great atmosphere, great people."
Anthony Coco
"The milagrese brothers are amazing. Great instructors."
Tim smalldog
"Balance is one of the few schools that really teach the good stuff. And they share with everyone."
Michael Mcgrath
"magic phil is one of the best instructors i have ever had , he makes BJJ addictive.!!!!"
David
"Best training videos.. dedicated instructors. "
Tito
( team balance aruba)
"Cause they came all the way to aruba to teach some guys they never met BJJ and they are talented people with great personalities"
Phil D.
"I have gone to every Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School in Philadelphia, Balance is the Best and Least Expensive of them all/ (I am a student, so I have to be a little cheap) Thanks, Phil, Rick, Tim, Josh, Drew, James, Jazz, Ken, and everyone else at Balance..."
Pat Vacanti
"Phil and Rick Migliarese are two of the best sources of Jiu Jitsu information and skill this side of the Gracie family. Balance studios is the top of the food chain when it comes to Martial Arts, period."
Hector Diaz
"i attended for a short period but enjoyed the patients of the since on his teachings and that was very important for me , i'm considering to join again when i can get a break in my busy schedule. thank you"
Dan Vause
"All around great group of guys!"
Ray Butcher
"I travel all the way from Ireland not just for the best instruction but for the best hospitality and friendly atmosphere that Phil, Rick and all the people at Balance Studios create."
Ernie Gresco
"You can look long & hard for class operations in the Martial Arts world & you will not find such genuine artists & teachers!"
Jeanine Iannelli
"Best trainers & a can do atmosphere!"
Jeff Robinson
"Relaxed yet disciplined training, knowledgeable and passionate instructors, an environment made for learning-what's not to love?"
Joseph Tarsia
"Balance Studios is the best because the owners are committed to perfection of their art and settle for nothing less."
Aaron Salisbury
"I've trained at other facilities, but Balance has more to offer. It has everything from Ju-Jitsu to yoga to MMA and more. It also has some of the best competition around."
George Garbin
"Everyone in the school is there to help you get better. Everyone! For me, this has translated into better health both physically and mentally. That is why Balance Studios is the best martial arts school in Philly!!! I suppose anywhere."
Robert Herman
"Balance Studios have by far the best trainers in Philly. They also have complete programs from yoga to MMA to allow you to be any level of fighter that you choose to be. The atmosphere is very friendly. I have been with Balance since they opened and to this day I enjoy it every time I go in."
Jason
"World class martial artists willing to take the time to really help both beginners and advanced students achieve new levels of proficiency. Great school. Better Guys. "
Michael Thiel
"Thanks to meeting Rick Migliarese, he introduced me to one of the best experiences of my life. Taking Jiu-Jitsu is something I wish I would have known about ten years ago. Phil and Rick are two of the most gracious people I have ever met and as far as instruction goes, you couldn't find two better people to have. Thanks to both of you."
Phil
"Their quest for world domination in the jiu jitsu world is overwhelming! No, seriously it's a great place to train and the instruction is top notch."
Bill Thanel
"Phil and Rick Migliarese are the best instructors a student can ask for. It does not matter if you are a professional fighter preparing for a fight in the UFC or if you are a new student looking to get into shape, they offer a superior level of teaching and service to all of their students! I can honestly say they create a training environment that is comfortable for all without egos or arrogance! If you are looking for a school and you cant decide where to go then choose balance studios! You will not be disappointed!"
Ray
"Great trainers, no pressure, world class fighters. "
Japheth Brubaker
"Best teachers and talent proven in competition and reputation"
Ron Jones
"I've been training martial arts for many years and currently run a school in Ewing NJ. During this time I've been affiliated with Balance Studios. They absolutely know what they're doing and the instruction is first class. They are caring and supportive with their students. I'm glad to be part of their team."
Jon Reeb
"Hands down, best Jiu-Jitsu in Philly"
Mara
"Phil and Rick are the best!"
Kevin Scott
"As someone who has trained in martial arts in numerous countries and competed on three continents, I can attest that Balance Studios is not merely the best jiu jitsu school in Philly. It is one of the very best martial arts training facilities anywhere in the world. Those of us who live in this area are extremely fortunate that Balance is located in Philadephia."
John Keevill
"The environment that Phil and Rick have created offers a family-like atmosphere that a is shared on the mat. A respectful diverse group of individuals coming together to enjoy the sport together. The training there feels tailor made to a group of people that are happy to be learning from such experienced and wonderful representatives of the sport. My son (18) and I (46) have enjoyed our time training together and with others. Balance offers instruction from many talented teachers from the kids classes up to the NHB fighters. I am proud to wear the colors of this school"

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