Primal Training Center
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Primal Training Center
At Primal Training Center we strive to empower students to tackle challenges, and take on new experiences. Creating a community of friendships, strength, self-confidence, and awareness, we provide a wide range of classes to support students from all backgrounds and levels.

Conveniently located in Scripps Ranch, we are a family-owned business that offers Jiu Jitsu, Personal Training, and Self-Defense group classes and private lessons for men, women, children, and families.Classes are available Monday through Saturday. Please feel free to stop by today to check out our newly renovated facility, and enjoy our 30 DAY FREE TRIAL.
Reviews (20)
Brookie B.
Brookie B.
Jan 31, 2022
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Coach Dee and his wife Coach Chris are wonderful. We were looking for a place for my son to be challenged and have a good environment to grow his skills and confidence. Highly recommend this studio!

From the moment we walk through the door there was a fun and energetic vibe, that was exactly what we were looking for. Having been to another studio locally where the energy was low, this studio offered a lot of quality instruction, challenging opponents, and lots of attention. We will definitely be back!
Danielle Zrelak
Danielle Zrelak
Jan 22, 2022
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Critical: Professionalism
Please move your huge truck out of the street that's parked right at the stop sign blocking right turns. I get advertising but is it really necessary to park that huge truck right in the way all the time?? Its a hinderance!!!
Charlene N.
Charlene N.
Jan 21, 2022
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My kids have been training with Professor D and Coach Cris for the past 4 years. They always look forward to training everyday. Not only do we enjoy watching them roll, but we also appreciate the family environment and the fact that they teach the kids to respect each other.
Mason W.
Mason W.
Jul 21, 2021
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It's like watching a more pleasant version of myself teach at this studio!

A homie that I ride motorcycles with told me about primal. I decided to bring my 12 yr old nephew to try out a session. Prof. D, is VERY knowledgeable about jiujitsu. Watching the was interesting because he's teaching the kids moves that never crossed my mind (I.e. grabbing the knees while you're on the back). I always go for the seatbelt or chokes.

I didn't think anyone could fix my nephews attitude. Prof. D has a gift with people. Children and adults. He could probably teach in any industry that
Anna B.
Anna B.
Oct 30, 2020
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When i finally moved back to Mira Mesa, i was in need of a BJJ gym that was close to home, work and somewhere where i could call home. I had to leave the gym i was going to for about 2 years due to moving a few miles up north. The time for me to get to the gym from work was really difficult for me make it to class on time. So i had to search for gym that worked with my schedule and location.

I had a couple friends who went to this gym and told me to come try it out. I never did check it out until i moved back. I'm so thankful that my friends recommended me checking this place out ( also it
P. K.
P. K.
Dec 09, 2019
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As a first-timer it's ok. Expect favoritism, they're going through a remodel and want you to donate. I've seen their wall of progress and the kids who's parents donate get extra kudos and stripes...three stripes for not even know how to tie belt. The coach /co-owner is consistently late..to me jiujitsu means respect, be on-time and prepared. Not once have I seen this here. If you're just beginning, they offer 30 days for free so feel free to use it but there are so many better options out there.
Paul Sullivan
Paul Sullivan
Oct 11, 2019
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After training at several BJJ and MMA gyms, I can honestly say that Primal BJJ is the best school I have ever been to. Professor D. Davis is a master of his craft and a natural teacher and leader. From day one you will feel like family. Everyone is welcoming, everyone is helpful, everyone is nice.
Each class is taught by a black belt, and on a standard weekday class there may be 5 or more true black belts to roll with, each with a decade or more of experience. If you want to get good at Jiu Jitsu fast, this is the place to be.
I can't recommend this school enough.
Zack S.
Zack S.
Oct 02, 2019
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Visiting coach D's gym was a great experience. He promotes a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere at his gym. I recently visited his gym for the first time and felt right at home. I 10/10 would go back and highly recommend his gym to anyone in the San Diego area.
Luca
Luca
Sep 13, 2019
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From the moment I walked in I felt extremely welcomed. Never having trained in any type of grappling before I was unsure of what to expect and a bit nervous. As a result of the kindness of both the professor and his students these nerves were soon replaced by a desire to dive head long into the art. I strongly recommend this gym to anyone interested in Jiu-Jitsu!
Gregory K.
Gregory K.
Jun 14, 2017
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I had been training at Serao Academy in Mountain View for about a year and a half (See my reviews of that great place too should you live in or visit Silicon Valley). In Dec 2016 I moved to San Diego for a new job. BJJ/ Luta Livre has become my thing, I love it and even though I am the literal old man on the mat (I was alive when the Beatles were a thing) I will continue training until the wheels fall off. I tried several BJJ gyms in San Diego and chose Primal. I could not have chosen better. Thanks to D, Chris, J, Jeff, Ed, Joe, Rich, Scar, Craig, and Josh for the continued advice, rolls
Ernesto R.
Ernesto R.
May 13, 2017
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I started jiujitsu at this place 7 years ago. Thanks to the great experience I am still training today. I was in the Marine Corps when I started training at primal. D was a great instructor and everyone there made you feel welcomed. I got out of the Marine Corps in 2013 and moved back home but I always try to stop by every time I'm in the area. This is a great school and recommend everyone trying it out. Especially Marines because MCMAP doesn't compare to this type of training.
William S.
William S.
Sep 02, 2016
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My son is currently taking a class for kids his age. I am very impressed by Professor D and his resume. I especially like how he teaches the kids. He came highly recommended and has disappointed.
Jean L.
Jean L.
Apr 30, 2015
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Great place to train there is people in every class big smal the blk belt is really nice and nows what he's doing I like this place because I don't feal like any body is gonna hurt me is the other way around they r alwais checking making sure I'm okay
And every body treats me like family asome
Joseph Ninosky
Joseph Ninosky
Jan 19, 2015
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If you are even thinking about beginning Jiu Jitsu, then you owe it to yourself to visit Primal in Mira Mesa. D Davis is not only a highly-decorated black belt competitor, he is a gifted teacher and mentor. The atmosphere at this academy is one with no egos, no "I have something to prove" types, and one that fosters respect, honor, and heart. The people that train here truly want the best for each other, which is why Primal students "get it" so quickly and develop a strong basic BJJ game in roughly a year.
Those that choose to compete have performed admirably, and D leads from the front, always
Tricky Triangles
Tricky Triangles
Dec 28, 2014
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I've been at this school for five years now, and I am current assistant instructor at Primal BJJ. It's the best martial arts school I've ever attended. Students at Primal BJJ get personalized attention and everyone treats each other with respect. The competition team at Primal BJJ has done very well and encourages those who wish to compete to put it on the line. If you are interested in learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from an extremely knowledgeable blackbelt in a fun, respectful, and clean environment, then it's worth trying out the free trial. It's the safest fun you can have pushing the limits
Danielle Nuttall
Danielle Nuttall
Dec 24, 2014
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My friend has been training at Primal for a few years and suggested I give it a try. I have to admit I was hesitant at first. I am a shy person who has a hard time making friends. I was also worried as a twenty something girl with no martial arts experience that I would feel uncomfortable in a gym full of testosterone. This was definitely not the case! Everyone is really welcoming and I was not the only woman there. Everyone is respectful and I have never felt uncomfortable training with both the men and women. Professor Davis and all of the coaches are so knowledgeable and always make time for
Khoi Ly
Khoi Ly
Aug 26, 2014
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In 2011, I started to find a place to learn BJJ. I selected Primal just because it is close to my house and their professors are still pretty active and compete. I am glad that it turns out great.
Primal offers a competitive but friendly environment. Professor D, Jeff, and other assistant coaches are great and care for their students.
Ehren Headley
Ehren Headley
Aug 24, 2013
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Primal Training Center is one of the best places to train anywhere! Everyone who trains here is friendly and respectful. Professor D Davis is so knowledgeable and takes the time to help people individually. He knows that different people practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu differently and with different goals in mind. Whether you are looking to compete in tournaments or are mostly interested in self-defense, Professor Davis tailors his answers to your body type and style, so that you get the most out of training. This gym is a must-try for anyone who is looking for the genuine article. I feel so lucky
Shawn Carr
Shawn Carr
Jun 26, 2013
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I started training at Primal about 2.5 years ago and I have had a great experience - D is a true professional that truly cares about giving every one of his students the tools that they need to succeed at jiu jitsu. You won't find over sized egos at this gym, as everyone that trains is willing to help out their fellow student and promotes a great team atmosphere. I have never left a class without learning something new, and that speaks volumes about the level of personal instruction that you receive at Primal.
Michael Martinez
Michael Martinez
Jun 09, 2013
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After taking a long hiatus from Jiu Jitsu and moving to Los Angeles I returned to San Diego with an itch to start training. I looked at a couple of places around my community and even reached out and drove up to 20 miles to look for my next training facility. I did do a lot of searching I rolled with many people but never rolled with people like Primal people. It is a different atmosphere; egos are left at the door, and people are willing to help. I noticed the first day that this is the place that i wanted to train. Professor Davis is not only my professor but I am happy to say he is my friend