Reviews of The Komodo Academy (School)

LISA STEINBRU

This is the best martial arts academy in town. All of the instructors are awesome and genuinely care about their students growth. I have seen such a difference with my son since he started over a year ago...

marina villeneuve

Awesome place!! I always feels welcome and never judge for working out they always help us do our best and give our 100%!! The trainers are amazing and everyone is awesome

Katherine Roy

If you want to be a part of a positive BJJ community in Grande Prairie, this is definitely the place to go! Stephan, who is the owner and head instructor, has such a passion for jiu-jitsu and martial arts that really shines through in every class. While quality is of upmost importance, he also cares about each students' personal growth. Being an affiliate of RCJ Machado has allowed him to make connections with some of the best BJJ practitioners, and he is excited to share that knowledge with the students, or has directly brought these people to the school (e.g. Carlos Machado, Jean-Jacques Machado, Chris Hauter, Kurt Osiander, Alain Moussi, Jay Zebellos, and is planning for many more!). I'm a part of the women's BJJ class, and co-ed adult BJJ classes, and although it was initially totally out of my comfort zone, I am enjoying the physical and mental challenge that jiu-jitsu offers, and highly recommend this school.

Malorie Petersen

The Komodo Academy has been life changing for me! Not only have I found a FUN and CHALLENGING way to improve my health and fitness, I’ve also formed some amazing friendships with other attendees and the leaders. There’s an incredible environment of kindness, support, and humor. I would recommend this academy to anyone. I particularly love the Women’s Brazilians Jiu-Jitsu program, but they have SO many program options for everyone- men, women, and kids 5+!

Jennifer Lauren

I had a two week free trial that was fun. However, when I couldn’t make one of the classes, the lady in charge of “customer service” said “oh well, I mean this was free” rather than let me take one more class that I was entitled too. Then I discovered they have been charging my credit card $32 a WEEK since then, after I had told them I don’t plan to continue with them. Fortunately, they were able to make things right. I will consider attending more classes in the future as the instructors were amazing & the space is great too.

Melissa P

Komodo academy goes above and beyond for their students. Their training is well rounded, training both the body and mind.

Kristina Davis

Amazing group to be apart of.. all the instructors are amazing. The Fight Fit Club is the best program I have been apart of. I highly recommend checking this place out!

Cameron Bégin

I was visiting from out of town and was looking for a class to drop into for the day. The schedule was not posted in their website (I tried from multiple devices) and they never answered their phone when I called 3 times over different times of the day. Was disappointed by the lack of service and I hope they make efforts to correct this to make it easier for people like myself to come by the gym

Dean Cox

I thoroughly enjoy coming 3-5 times a week. As an older member, I know I will get the training I need without the fear of getting hurt... I cant miss work!

Nicole Kovac

Absolutely one of the best martial arts academys around. The owner creates such a dynamic but fun atmosphere for all ages. Your not only gaining new skills and technique in martial arts but life skills as well. Friends become family and I would highly recommend checking them out because you won’t regret it.

Kristy Peterson

We love Komodo Academy. We've been part of the basic and black belt club programs as well as the women's bjj program. They teach more than just self defense and Martial arts skills. Confidence, courage, respect and more. Don't go anywhere else in gp for your Martial arts training.

Michelle Wieler

I've been going to the academy for a year and a half now and I love it! I've learned so much and am constantly challenged. I would definitely recommend the academy and Sensi Steph to anyone!

Jenny Si

I came to Grande Prairie for a work term and decided to try something I haven’t done before: kickboxing. I chose this academy at first because it was close to where I live, but over time I became so glad I went with this choice. Coach Steph is very accommodating and motivating, and creates classes where there’s always laughter, thumping heart rates, and groans of pain, sometimes all at the same time x) I’ve made some very good friends. And btw, the adult class has ranged from 14 to 60 year olds! When I go back to university I’ll wish I could just pick up the academy and take it with me. Anyone wanting to do Brazilian jiu-jutsu, kickboxing, or fitness classes should check out this academy without worry! :)

Jeff Burgess

Signed my shy 5 year old up for the class, with bribery. He is developing his confidence and out in front of the class wanting to participate first. This is such a great program for kids and the club is so great.

Laura McLeod

Komodo has been a great place to start back into exercising! From class one I felt welcomed and encouraged! Always have a laugh and A good sweat! They show you what to do and keep you motivated for the whole class! Very helpful for a beginner. I have tried other programs and joining gyms but I always give up not really knowing “how” to do it. Steph (and all the couches) will pick you up and keep you moving!!

Mathew Grzybowski

A professional, caring team dedicated to improve your quality of life. Komodo provides a clean space and positive community to learn and practice Jiu Jitsu.

Joy Dunn

Learning so much from the fabulous instructors!! The fight for program has been such a great and safe place to learn healthy and safe exercise with positive reinforcement!! Thanks Stephan, Deb, Jen and Jody!!

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Kim Vetter

I've been doing the Fight Fit class for a month now and I'm very impressed. All of the instructors are very knowledgeable, encouraging and engaging. I would recommend this program to anyone of any fitness level :)

Remo Heugh

After moving countries, my wife and I were anxious about where we would continue our training in BJJ. Would they be any good? Would the community be welcoming? Would they have a sense of humor? What we found was an amazing jiu jitsu family and team. Warm, friendly, people from different walks of life, eager to welcome us into their clan. The head instructor is awesome and seems as fanatical as I am. Definitely a place we would recommend to anyone wanting to learn the art.

Ayala Matza- Reardon

Great place for children great staff

Tyler Wold

I wish there was a 10 star option. Training at Komodo has been very positive. Stephan is an enthusiastic instructor and has created a positive environment that is very welcoming, educational and challenging. The group is outgoing and fun to train with. I highly recommend training at Komodo Academy.

Cindy Clarkson

It has been a great experience starting at this new martial arts academy. The fitness classes have been fantastic and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Karla Weiss

Komodo Academy is a top notch academy with top notch instructors, they are not only there teaching a skill or technique but genuinely care about you in a personal way. I have truly enjoyed coming each and every time although I detest #burpees. I would never have joined a group class but the classes are fun, and a great commodere of like minded people who care about each other. It definitely was the best decision to join.

Cortney Warr

Komodo Academy has a wonderful team of dedicated instructors. They are amazing with kids and you can tell they are passionate about that they do. Their school is clean, friendly and very well equipped.

Renee Martin

I am so appreciative of the support we have recieved throughout the Pandemic! They have kept us active physically and in our community through Zoom classes and motivated and continue with a "normal routine". Thank you so much for always being there!!

Trevor Boychuk

Komodo Academy has provided a fantastic environment for our son providing world class marital arts training and more importantly, lessons in self-awareness and personal development. They train hard and do the same with their fun-filled events. Sensei Steph has brought in some of the finest jiu jitsu practitioners in the world for the kids to train with. I highly recommend Komodo Academy.

Dawn Evaskevich

I love it!! Always encouraging! Everyone is excepted! Best workout I've had in a long time! I was going to another gym for years but I guess I was bored and needed to be challenged!! Thank you!!

Colby Holmes

A great gym for anyone looking to start martial arts

Miranda Butler-Jenkins

After recently posting a negative review about this academy, I was contacted and the academy completely rectified the situation and after having a very good conversation with them, I feel a lot different about the professionalism and views of the company. Although I wish that I was contacted before writing a review, I am completely understanding that times are busy and sometimes addressing issues in a timely manor just isn’t possible, I just appreciate that one way or another, I’m not left hanging in suspense. I hope to hopefully get to the academy post baby, to get back in shape and now would definitely consider sending my kids as they each have a friend that goes and loves it. Thank you.

Chrissy Shaw

My son started at the Komodo Academy last October. At the time, we were looking for an activity to keep him physically active over the winter. (Because he attends a small rural school, there aren’t always enough students for the school to have teams in volleyball and basketball.) We were impressed with the coaches and programming right from the start. My son has always been quite shy, and we’ve noticed a huge improvement since he started at Komodo. He is just far more outgoing and confident now. The staff have been amazing at keeping the kids engaged during this pandemic by shifting to an online platform. The physicality of the classes have helped my son stay fit; the classes have also helped him burn off excess energy, AND have been a powerful way for him to let go of the stress, uncertainty, and frustration that comes from having to change the way the world is working. But, as much as we love the dedication of the staff and their hard work involved in moving the classes online, we are very much looking forward to when Komodo can reopen. The greatest benefits my son receive are from an in-person class. Online classes have been a great temporary substitute to keep people working on their skills, and as I said has been a huge benefit mentally during these turbulent times, but it isn’t nearly as positive, powerful, or effective as learning in-person. I truly believe the coaches and classes at Komodo will be instrumental in helping the kids to process everything that’s happening in the world right now, and my husband and I are hopeful Komodo is able to reopen their doors to students soon. My son is looking forward to advancing his skills, and I know he will also gain the immensely beneficial mental and emotional strength/coping techniques that are part of any true martial arts education.

Anna G

The Komodo Academy is the best team of individuals you could ever find. Over the last few months I have been attending classes regularly, until COVID-19 shut us down. But Komodo continued on! They have worked tirelessly to do zoom classes tailored to every class they offer, including even more special ones! They have connected students to even other instructors of Martial Arts AROUND THE GLOBE! Their kindness during this time is outstanding, they motivate everyone to continue their fitness goals. And they have given myself, a healthcare professional during this pandemic, a glimpse of normality in this stressful. They are truly essential to me and my well being.

James Haberman

Great place! My 7 year old son has been with Komodo for a year now. He loves it. I just finished my first class. Aside from a GREAT work, the instructors are very detailed and informative in showing technics. The rest of the students are very friendly and welcoming to new students. Customer service is great! Highly recommend!

Kristy Prystupa

The fightfit class has been amazing. Very encouraging to push yourself. Well worth it.

Olivia Savard

They are good with children I will give them that. Their customer service was very poor. Had to pay for 2 months of classes that I did not attend due to health problems. Even after I explained why I could not respond to the texts and emails he insisted I still pay for the classes that I did not attend. The lack of sympathy towards me, showed me that they did not care and the main focus was on a "outstanding balance" for a service I did not use. Unforseen obstacles occur in life and priorities change. They were more concerned of receiving their money rather then the health and well being of a Person. Will not recommend them to anyone, left a sour taste in my mouth. The response from him "to my lack of ignorance" as not to respond to them goes to show you he does not care for my customer service. Clearly my opinion on his company has left him feeling aggravated to defend himself. This is my review, may you all have a better experience then I did and he has many 5 star ratings.

Courtney Dalziel

I absolutely loved the kickboxing. I enjoyed the atmosphere and never felt out of place when arriving or leaving. The instructors have fantastic energy that keep each classmate motivated plus kept up with the one on one training which was incredible. The mats and punching bags were always cleaned and sanitized before each class. It was fun but challenging at the same time and if your the kind of person to challenge yourself this is definitely something to try out to have them guide you through it.

Kara Witow

My son has been with the Komodo Academy for 2 1/2 years and his growth in that time has been amazing. Even on days when he is tired or has had a hard time at school, he still looks forward to going to class. Seeing his love for jiu jitsu inspired me to push past my comfort zone, "get comfortable being uncomfortable," and start training in jiu jitsu myself. Stephan and Debbie are amazing instructors who are concerned with the personal and physical development of all of their students both on and off the mat. Steph has worked hard to build a strong, positive, and supportive Komodo family which is what sets this academy apart from all others. These guys truly are the best!

Teresa Grezel

I have joined many fitness challenges in the past and this is the first one I have wanted to stick with. The staff at the Komodo academy are fantastic. I look forward to continuing on this journey with them and achieving the results I have always wanted thank you komodK academy......teresa

M Petersen

Komodo Academy is awesome. A friendly, fun atmosphere. The owner/head instructor, Stephan, is a great teacher. He keeps things light hearted but educational. A great place to practice martial arts or enroll your child in a martial art.

Tanya Dunn

Absolutely love the personal growth in both my children since starting here at the Academy!

Rich Browne

Great school for whole family. Great kids programs and very family friendly. I’d highly Recommend this school for family looking a a martial arts or kids program in GP

Megan Ziniuk

My favourite place to work out so far!! You guys are amazing!

Keith Payne

Komodo academy does a great job of inspiring the kids and holding them accountable to train hard. Great staff, great environment!!

Amber Howse

I love coming into Komodo Academy. We started going in just for my boys to do the kids classes, we are now there 5 days a week. I am part of the kickboxing class, I have seen a change in the way my body moves, (not always smoothly after all my workouts) but it's all for the best. I am going to continue with as many classes as I can

jay dowdle

Steve is a great teacher , the team is great , everyone helps everyone get better . Come in and get in the best shape of your life !

Kari Provencher

Komodo Academy has been such a wonderful experience for our whole family! My children are learning and growing with confidence! Such a great place to train for jiu jitsu and kickboxing!

kayo zukowski

BJJ program is amazing. Awesome group of people challenging themselves weekly. The level of knowledge and instruction by sensei Steph is priceless. If your thinking of training or are just curious about bjj. Just Go! The academy will change your life.

Landen HouseHartery

I enjoy learning from Sensei Steph and his team.

TheBaruckus

Great atmosphere and wonderful trainers. Steph, Catherine, Deb and Jen do an awesome job, would recommend for fitness, self defense or if you're just looking for an active hobby.

chadwick north

The Komodo Academy has been an amazing place to train. I been there for 3 years and completed a blue ranking in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at the Komodo Academy in Grande Prairie. This Dojo has taught me so many skills such as disciple, team work, confidence building, and so much more. This second family is one where we all partake by working together and teaching one another martial arts while helping, laughing and smiling. This place really help me get though the challenges of life. Once enter the matts, my stress melted away. Even through the pandemic, they provided amazing online classes. This really helped our household learn jiu jutsu. Really hope to see the Dojo open soon Thank you so much for all the time you put into training, helping or just being there for us.

Aysha-Rae Bozarth

The classes at Komodo are fun and an amazing work out!

Cindy Morrison

I am doing the fight fit challenge and it's amazing! Every workout is challenging and it's always different. I've never seen results as good as I am seeing now. The staff is extremely friendly and I felt right at home the moment of walked in the door.

Rob Martin

Komodo Academy, has been amazing during these very uncertain times. With covid 19 shutting down access to schools, gyms and pretty much everything else. Komodo Academy stepped up their game and immediately provided access to online live classes. My kids have really needed and enjoyed this opportunity. The ability to interact with instructors and students has really helped them still feel connected to our martial arts family and community as a whole. We eagerly await the opportunity to train together in person at the Komodo Academy and continue to watch them help shape our children into confident, disciplined, caring and physically active members of our community. Thank you Komodo Academy for being there for my family during these unprecedented times.

Josh Mcgrath

Amazing place to train! Very friendly welcoming!

April Hibbs

Great experience supportive staff. Wonderful experience.

Serena Linthorne

My daughters and I have been going to Komodo Academy for almost 2 years now. During the Covid pandemic Komodo has really stepped up offering "zoom" class the week after the mandatory closures. I love how they went to work for their students right away. I desperately miss my Komodo "family" and cannot wait until we are able to all train together again.

porter Martin

We have been attending the Komodo Academy for over a year and it has been a great experience. It has provided our family with a place to exercise, be more active and learn new skills together. While also providing the convenience of a great schedule to allow us to access everything they have to offer.

Patricia Storle

It has a good atmosphere for kids and adults alike. I would definitely recommend this academy.

Danielle Eggers

January 2018 Strongly recommend Komodo They have such a positive vibe and are very welcoming to all people Never felt like I was an outsider as I’d never done any martial arts before My son loves the tiny dragons program And I love kickboxing there Update: June 2018- still love this place. Both my kids are in the basic program for jujitsu and they love it. The coaches are amazing and keep pouching the kids to do their best. I still do kickboxing and I still love it. Plus Ive added on the fight fit 27 week challenge. Great group of people in every class I do whether its kickboxing or fitness. my 2nd home... I'm there 5 days a week, multiple times a day between my kids and I. Highly recromend Update: June 2020 This is home! With Covid 19, our home closed! Komodo stepped up the day after non essential services were closed and started Zoom classes for students Students have belt tested, stripe tested and learned via zoom from day 1! My children have progressed more with jujitsu than they have with their school education ! I have been soo impressed with the whole team at Komodo since the beginning ESP with Covid but always! We can’t wait to get back on the mat! We can’t wait to return to our second home!!❤️❤️❤️

Dawn Allen

My son who is autistic was being bullied a lot at school and as parents we were getting pretty fed up with the treatment. I sought out information from Komodo Academy on how I could go about just teaching him how to defend himself on such an occasion if it ever arose. Talking with the coaches they made me feel so at ease with the curriculum and ensured us not only would he learn skills to defend himself but he would acquire confidence enough to stand up for himself. Today my son is a well rounded member of the Komodo Academy family and even considers it as his second home. He just this past month received his white/yellow belt with a black stripe with another one on its way soon. We have been diligent in our virtual classes two times a week plus doing extra physical challenges towards our success trackers for the month. My son misses being on the mats with all his team mates and coaches but he happily loves being apart of such a wonderful sport. The Allen Family

Matthew Kuehl

Yea, it can be nerve-racking trying something new. Martial arts is no exception. Into my 30’s and wanted to experience something new that could challenge me and hopefully be more social than just going to the gym and hitting weights or walking on a treadmill. The Komodo Academy far exceeded expectations. The atmosphere is fun and engaging without being too loose or relaxed. Perfect blend of family banter and self development. It is something you can only experience for yourself. If you want to do something new that will challenge not only your body but your mind as well, Komodo is the place to start.

Smilingblue70_creates G

Never a dull moment! The atmosphere is amazing and very encouraging! I can't imagine not having Komodo as a part of my day!

Wendy Jones

I can’t rave enough about Komodo Academy and the instructors. For anyone thinking about joining, do it! Best decision I made to help me get back in shape.

DriedPancakes

Amazing place to train, Stephan is full of knowledge and unbelievable skill so training with him is nothing shy of perfect. Everyone is welcoming and always friendly. Wouldn't want too train anywhere else.

Kolbi Thompson

Amazing facility, amazing staff, and a true blessing being able to learn such a beautiful art from such a sharp mind. If you’re looking to lose a little weight and get active, the kickboxing programs are great. If you’ve ever considered trying bjj, or are looking for a place to better yourself as a whole, this is definitely the place to be.

Hailey Richardson

I go to the fight for club here, and I love it! Not only are the classes great exercise, but the coaches are hilarious and make working out a blast! I also have my kids enrolled in martial arts here and they are loving it as well! Would highly recommend to anyone !

Christina Lieske

My boys started when they were 4 and 5. I had looked into many programs before choosing Komodo Academy. The strength of the coaching staff is evident from the first class you take. Sensei Steph, coach Shane, and Coach Debbie along with their younger helpers are all determined and committed to teaching not only martial arts, but confidence, determination, respect and responsibility to their students. I am constantly impressed by the coaching staffs level of understanding of developmentally appropriate practices and their patience they display with the students. The Academy has also done many things within the community, they donated boxes of schools supplies to 4 different schools within Grande Prairie, and have come into the schools during Literacy week to read to the students in their classrooms. Building stronger people and stronger communities. I have been so impressed with them that recently I myself made the decision to do something to better myself and joined their kickboxing class. I am surprised by how much I enjoy the classes; I find myself eagerly waiting each class. Thank you sensei Steph for everything you have; and are currently building at Komodo Academy.

Katelynn Strong

the Komodo Academy has been a great place for my 5 year old to focus his ninja energy in a positive way. He learns self defence in a safe positive environment with awesome encouraging teachers. I can see my sons self esteem and personal awareness growing everyday. the staff are super friendly and always make you feel welcome. the Komodo Academy has been a great place for my 5 year old to focus his ninja energy in a positive way. He learns self defence in a safe positive environment with awesome encouraging teachers. I can see my sons self esteem and personal awareness growing everyday.

Dana Dawl

Great place to work out and learn about martial arts! Love being apart of the Komodo family.

Jennifer Villeneuve

If you are looking for a place to have fun while getting a good workout and learning a lot. Komodo is the place. Not only that, but you will become part of a big family.

Nic Wright

Komodo is a family oriented business. Not only in that the coaches invest their love and time into children, but also in creating a second family for so many of us. As a parent, husband, and full time student, my time is at a premium. I don't waste time, I invest it. I spend 6 hours a week doing Jiu Jitsu at Komodo; this is not a waste of time, but an investment. I am a better student, father, and husband because of my family at Komodo. Coach Steph is one of the most talented and humble human beings you will ever meet. If you are debating starting a martial art, or becoming active for life, check these folks out! No matter your body type or background, there is a place for you at Komodo!

Keenan Herlocker

Had a chance to roll with them during their bjj open mat on my way through town; Coach Steph was incredibly welcoming and I found myself scrambling to keep up with his team's exceptional skills. I'd recommend this gym to anyone: friendly, skilled, and clean!