Connection Rio Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy

9.2
1620A NE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97701
Perfect for:
Serious martial arts enthusiastsFamilies with children
Opens tomorrow at 9AM
Connection Rio Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy interior

About

Connection Rio Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Bend, Oregon provides high-quality instruction under the leadership of Professor Dennis Asche, a 4th Degree Black Belt who spent over a decade training and teaching in Brazil. The academy offers a welcoming, family-like atmosphere where students of all ages and skill levels can learn authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques while building lasting friendships. With locations in both Bend and Redmond, the academy has established itself as a premier martial arts training center in Central Oregon.

Jiu Jitsu Near Me VerifiedJiu Jitsu Verified
9.22/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Overall Vibe imageOverall Vibe
9.5582 reviews
Instructor imageInstructors Quality
9.9499 reviews
Class Structure imageClasses
9.4551 reviews
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.5951 reviews
Value for Money imagePricing
9.333 reviews
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
8.4613 reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 159 Google Reviews
Connection Rio BJJ Academy has overwhelmingly positive reviews, with students consistently praising Professor Dennis Asche's technical knowledge, teaching ability, and the supportive community he has built. Many reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere for beginners while noting the high skill level of training partners and the authentic Brazilian techniques taught. Visitors from other academies frequently comment on the exceptional hospitality they experienced when dropping in for classes.
Last Updated 15 Apr 2025

Instructors

The instructors at Connection Rio are highly experienced, with Professor Dennis Asche leading the team with his extensive training background in Brazil. The teaching staff includes multiple black belts who are consistently described as patient, knowledgeable, and attentive to students of all skill levels. Reviewers frequently mention the instructors' ability to break down complex techniques into understandable components while maintaining a positive and encouraging training environment.

Facility

Connection Rio maintains a clean, well-organized facility with regular mat sanitization after each class. The academy features a foot washing station that students must use before stepping onto the mats, demonstrating their commitment to hygiene. While specific details about amenities are limited in reviews, students consistently mention the cleanliness and professional maintenance of the training space.

Pricing

While specific pricing details aren't prominently featured in reviews or on the website, students generally indicate that Connection Rio offers good value for the quality of instruction received. The academy reportedly offers discounts for military, first responders, and veterans. Several reviewers mention that the membership fees are reasonable considering the high level of instruction and frequency of classes available.

Facility

Spotless and PristineEnough spaceFoot washing stationLoaner gis for trial classesClean matsMultiple training areasLocations in both Bend and Redmond

Gym

Mixed AtmosphereSupportive VibeExcellent Safety

Instructors

TechnicalPatientExperiencedMotivatingAttentiveKnowledgeable

Classes

GiNo-GiCompetitionAdvancedOpen matKids ClassesAdult friendlyWomen only

Pricing

Good ValueFree trial

Connection Rio offers a free trial period for prospective students, allowing them to experience classes before committing to membership. Reviewers mention being welcomed warmly during their trial period and receiving attentive instruction from both the professors and fellow students.

Location

Limited ParkingGood Accessibility

Opening Hours

Opens tomorrow at 9AM
Monday 6AM - 7:15AM
Tuesday 12PM - 1:30PM
Wednesday 6AM - 7:15AM
Thursday 12PM - 1:30PM
Friday 6AM - 7:15AM
Saturday (Today)9AM - 11:45AM
Sunday 9AM - 10:30AM

Location

Connection Rio has locations in both Bend and Redmond, Oregon, making it accessible to residents throughout Central Oregon. The Redmond location is relatively new, providing additional training opportunities for students in the area. While specific details about parking and public transportation access are limited in reviews, the academy appears to be conveniently located for most students.

Address

1620A NE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97701

Website

https://www.connectionriobjj.com/

Phone

+1541-797-8762

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/connectionriobjjbend/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/connectionriobjj/

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/ConnectionRio

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience to start training at Connection Rio?

No prior experience is necessary. Connection Rio welcomes beginners and has a structured fundamentals program to help new students learn the basics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a supportive environment.

What should I wear to my first class?

For your first class, athletic clothing like shorts and a t-shirt is fine. The academy has loaner gis (uniforms) available for trial classes. If you decide to continue training, you'll need to purchase a gi for gi classes.

Does Connection Rio offer classes for children?

Yes, Connection Rio offers kids' classes for different age groups, including 4-7 years and 6-14 years. The kids' program focuses on building confidence, discipline, and fundamental martial arts skills in a safe, fun environment.

How often should I train as a beginner?

Most beginners start with 2-3 classes per week, which allows for learning progression while giving your body time to adjust to the new physical demands. As you become more comfortable, you can increase your training frequency.

Is Connection Rio focused on competition or self-defense?

Connection Rio offers training for both competition and self-defense. The academy emphasizes practical, real-life applicable techniques while also providing specific competition training for those interested in competing.

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