Balance Studios

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Northeast Philadelphia)
4.9 (35 reviews)

What We Like

  • Experienced, certified instructors
  • Multiple locations available
  • Positive, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Level-specific courses offered
  • Welcoming to newcomers
  • Clean, organized studios

What to Consider

  • Saturday classes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it beginner friendly?
The atmosphere is welcoming to newcomers, whether they are new to the gym or Jiu Jitsu entirely, and the gym offers level-specific courses for beginners.
What training style does the gym focus on?
The gym specializes in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai Kickboxing, Kids Jiu-Jitsu, Women's Jiu-Jitsu, and Self Defense.
Who are the trainers?
Phil and Ricardo Migliarese are the owners, and Frank Ambrifi is also an instructor.
What types of classes do they offer?
They offer classes in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kids Martial Arts, Women's Self Defense, and MMA training.
Is the gym clean?
The facility is known for its clean and organized studios.
What's the vibe like?
The gym focuses on a positive, family-friendly atmosphere with a philosophy of humility, respect, and continuous learning.
Does this gym prepare boxers for competitions?
The team has produced world champion competitors and professional fighters in MMA and BJJ.
Do they offer programs for children or teenagers?
They offer Kids Jiu-Jitsu and Kids Martial Arts programs.
Is the gym welcoming to female boxers?
As a woman in the sport, people have always been made to feel very welcome, and women are an important part of this school.
What experience or certifications do the coaches have?
Phil and Ricardo Migliarese have over 30 years of experience in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing; they are certified black belts under Master Relson Gracie.

About Balance Studios

Balance Studios is a well-established martial arts gym located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with multiple locations serving the city and its surrounding areas. Founded in 2002, the gym provides training in a variety of disciplines, including Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai Kickboxing, Kids Jiu-Jitsu, Women's Jiu-Jitsu, and Self Defense. Balance Studios is dedicated to providing high-quality instruction and fostering a supportive training environment for students of all levels.

The flagship location of Balance Studios is based in Fishtown, with additional locations in Center City, Northeast Philadelphia, and Haddonfield, New Jersey. The Northeast Philadelphia branch is located at 7530 Frankford Ave, providing convenient access to residents in that part of the city. With multiple locations, Balance Studios makes martial arts training accessible to a wide range of individuals throughout the Philadelphia region and beyond.

Balance Studios holds the distinction of being the first official Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Philadelphia and the oldest Gracie-affiliated school in the nation. This recognition underscores the gym's commitment to upholding the traditions and teaching methods of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. In 2009, Balance Studios was awarded "Academy Status" by Master Relson Gracie, a testament to its dedication to preserving the legacy of Grandmaster Helio Gracie.

The facility is known for maintaining clean, well-organized studios that provide a safe and conducive environment for training. While specific details about the equipment available are not mentioned, the gym's focus on providing professional instruction suggests that it is adequately equipped to support its various training programs.

Balance Studios offers a comprehensive range of training programs designed to cater to students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. These programs include:

  • Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Students can learn the fundamentals and advanced techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, a grappling-based martial art known for its emphasis on leverage and technique.
  • Muay Thai Kickboxing: The gym offers instruction in Muay Thai, a striking-based martial art that utilizes punches, kicks, knees, and elbows.
  • Kids Jiu-Jitsu: Balance Studios provides specialized classes for children, teaching them the principles of Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging way. These classes focus on building self-confidence, discipline, and respect.
  • Women's Jiu-Jitsu: The gym offers classes specifically designed for women, providing a supportive and empowering environment for them to learn self-defense and develop their Jiu-Jitsu skills.
  • Self Defense: Balance Studios teaches practical self-defense techniques that can be used in real-world situations.
  • MMA Training: For those interested in mixed martial arts, the gym offers training that combines elements of Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and other martial arts disciplines.

Balance Studios offers level-specific courses for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. To give prospective students a taste of what the gym has to offer, Balance Studios provides a 7-day free trial for beginners to experience classes in Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai.

The gym is owned and operated by the Migliarese Brothers, Phil and Ricardo Migliarese, both of whom are certified black belts under Master Relson Gracie. They have over 30 years of combined experience in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing. The Migliarese Brothers are considered extended family of the Gracie family, further solidifying their connection to the origins of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The expertise of Frank Ambrifi also contributes to the quality of instruction. The instructors are known for their attention to detail and their ability to help students improve their skills.

Balance Studios cultivates a positive, family-friendly atmosphere where students feel supported and encouraged. The gym emphasizes a philosophy of humility, respect, and continuous learning. It welcomes newcomers of all backgrounds and experience levels, fostering a sense of camaraderie among its members. The gym's mission is to provide high-quality instruction in a safe and supportive environment, helping students achieve their martial arts goals.

Team Balance is the gym's international network that includes over 40 schools worldwide with 15,000 students. The team has produced world champion competitors and professional fighters in MMA and BJJ. This extensive network provides students with opportunities to connect with other martial artists from around the globe.

Balance Studios has a long-standing reputation as one of the top martial arts schools in the region, earning multiple "Best of Philly" awards. The gym has also trained law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and professional fighters, demonstrating its commitment to providing high-quality training for a wide range of individuals and organizations. The gym operates between 7 AM and 9 PM from Monday to Friday, and 7 AM to 9 PM on Sunday. It is closed on Saturday.

Balance Studios, under the leadership of the Migliarese Brothers, stands as a pillar of martial arts training in Philadelphia. With its focus on Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and other disciplines, the gym offers a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking to learn self-defense, improve their fitness, and develop their martial arts skills.

Contact Information

7530 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19136

Location

7530 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19136

Hours of Operation

Monday 7AM-9PM
Tuesday 7AM-9PM
Wednesday 7AM-9PM
Thursday 7AM-9PM
Friday 7AM-9PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday 7AM-9PM