Building a Gym That Changes Lives, On and Off the Mats

Takeover Jiu Jitsu in Buffalo, NY, is more than just a place to train—it's a community-focused academy dedicated to changing lives both on and off the mats. Offering Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for kids and adults, Takeover emphasizes equitable access by providing affordable or free programs for Puerto Rican and Black youth in the area. The gym’s approach includes building deep relationships among members, fostering leadership skills, and integrating cultural education through its partnership with a Puerto Rican cultural center. Whether you're looking to gain self-defense skills, find a supportive community, or help your kids grow in confidence and character, you'll find a welcoming, inclusive environment at Takeover Jiu Jitsu where everyone’s voice matters and personal growth is at the heart of every class.

📍175 Rano St, Buffalo, NY 14207
📞 716 228 3996

In this episode, Gymdesk CEO Alex Cuevas visits Takeover Jiu-Jitsu in Buffalo, New York, to explore the inspiring story behind the gym's founding and growth. Professor Jose shares how the gym was born out of personal tragedy and a desire to serve the local Puerto Rican community, especially following the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. What started in a tiny, renovated apartment space as a way to cope with depression and help children facing bullying quickly evolved into a vibrant community hub. Today, Takeover Jiu-Jitsu occupies a 10,000 square-foot facility, offering equity-based youth programs, summer camps, and strong cultural ties through Puerto Rican bomba dance and education.

In this episode, you’ll learn about Takeover Jiu-Jitsu’s unique approach to community building and martial arts education. Professor Jose discusses his journey from teaching in schools to developing a martial arts program that prioritizes leadership, equity, and self-expression over traditional discipline and punishment. The gym seamlessly blends martial arts with cultural programming, fostering an inclusive, uplifting environment for both kids and adults. You'll also hear remarkable stories of personal transformation—like students overcoming panic attacks to become confident leaders and competitors—and how the gym’s culture extends well beyond the mats, creating supportive, lasting relationships.

This episode also highlights how Takeover Jiu-Jitsu uses Gymdesk software to streamline its operations and enhance the member experience. Professor Jose explains that he chose Gymdesk for its affordability, user-friendliness, and crucial automation features like online booking, waiver management, and communication workflows. These tools help the gym focus on growth, member retention, and maximizing community impact, while reducing administrative overhead. The partnership between Takeover Jiu-Jitsu and Gymdesk demonstrates how the right technology can help mission-driven gyms scale their outreach and sustain vibrant, service-oriented communities.