Testimonials
“Todd is a powerhouse instructor! He has over 26 years experience and he himself still trains. He shows the kids how to do what he asks. He explains it, does an example and explains again. He speaks to the kids in a slow and simple instruction. I appreciate the time he spends in showing the technique the correct way and helps the kids learn it. Learning the technique, in the beginning, is a huge result of their success. My 7-year-old son has never been so excited about a sport! He comes home and explains everything he did! He loves going to class and loves me to video him. When he comes home he watches the video and understands corrections and what to do at the next practice. I would recommend Evolve, plus the first class is complimentary!”
— Katrina R. (Ladera Ranch)
“This has honestly been one of the best things we ever did for our twin 5yr old boys, especially during a crazy year like 2020. The coaches are phenomenal. My boys are fast learners, super competitive and full of boundless energy so they are chomping at the bit for each and every class. In just a couple months we’ve seen a huge improvement in their strength, coordination, and confidence. Both my wife and I love to watch the practices and my 3yr old boy is dying to join when he’s old enough. As a family, we are hooked and the boys can’t wait for their first tournament! Highly recommended!”
— Jimmy W. (Mission Viejo)
“It has been a month since my 13-year-old son and I have joined Evolve with Coach Todd and I have nothing but good things to say about the experience. We do both Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu. Neither of us are afraid of hard work, but we were a bit nervous about entering a new school for the first time as total noobs. Evolve first if all is a welcoming place. Everyone present recognized us as fresh faces and welcomed us to the family as they introduced themselves. Coach Aimer and his staff have created a culture at Evolve that is free of meatheads. Only good vibes, encouragement and a common interest in learning and getting better exist within its walls. When sparring with classmates in the upper ranks, they instruct and guide white belts like ourselves and help them to get better rather than smashing them and moving on. If you want to put a smile on your face, stop by and check out the kids Jiu Jitsu classes. I have never seen a group of kids having so much fun while working so hard. All the while displaying discipline and respect for one another and their coach. Over the last several years, exercise has not been a top priority for me. I knew I was out of shape and needed to make a change. The workouts are tough, but they are getting easier little by little. I also enjoy how it is something my son and I can do together. It’s another thing we can do to keep our relationship close in a real way without it being a text message. After four weeks I have dropped a legit 10lbs and can feel a true change starting to emerge mentally and physically. The day of my first class a month ago, I bought a pair of jeans one size smaller as a small token of motivation. I wore them today to work and they fit nicely. I wear the same thick leather belt every day to work and could go to the next notch in it while continuing to breathe normally! It feels good. Things are trending the right way for me thanks to the coaches. All of these guys are great and live to teach you what they know about training and accomplishing your goals no matter who you are or what your goals may be. If you are thinking about it, do it. If your kids are between sports or are still looking for “their thing”, sign them up. It can’t hurt. Thanks, coaches! Respect.”
— Mike A. (Ladera Ranch)
“I found this place through a friend about two years ago and had no idea how hooked I would become. This is my first martial art ever and I cannot get enough. The people at Evolve are amazing and have become family. No matter your skill level the classes are beneficial to all. There are a few instructors allowing a variety of teaching methods and all of them are good at tailoring the class to ensure everyone is growing on their Jiu Jitsu journey.”
— Courtney S. (Rancho Mission Viejo)
“I’ve been coming to Evolve for 3 weeks now and I’m already in love with this place! Everything from the classes/instructors to the people and even the cleanliness of this gym is top-notch. I feel like with MMA gyms, you’re either stuck going to a grimy, dirty place where they teach you well, or a super commercialized gym where you’re basically learning taebo but Evolve has managed to carve out a niche of its own where you get world-class instruction in a close-knit, safe, and CLEAN setting. Coach Todd is super passionate about his craft and is personally invested in the students that go to the gym, whether it’s those who are trying to go pro or others like myself who just want to learn a new sport. I highly recommend coming to Evolve if you’re serious about training BJJ/Muy Thai and want to do it in a gym that’s reputable, safe, and fun!”
— Tina Y. (Aliso Viejo)
“I joined a year ago with my 5 and 7-year-old boys. My oldest boy was scared to get in the middle of the soccer scrum before joining and now he’s throwing arm bars and competing. He’s confidence and strength are through the roof, but importantly so are his respect and kindness. My youngest was always rough and tumble, but now he’s focused and disciplined without losing any joy. Both getting good grades and self-motivated.
I myself am in better shape than since before we had our kids. I am so far ahead of my 1 year ago self in so many ways. I’m not a long time athlete. Just a dad who works in an office. Now I share this great gentle art with my kids. And the guys (and gals) at the gym are the kindest most humble badasses you’ll ever meet. You feel welcomed and like you fit in from day 1. Coach Todd is the man. Fun, tough, goofy, approachable and a great human. He takes a lot of pride in what he has built. Lastly – He’s great with the kids. GREAT. Probably his strongest attribute.
This is not a fringe club, this is a member club of one of the most esteemed international teams “CheckMat” and coach Todd passes down this legacy well…but more importantly, it’s just a bunch of great people enjoying each other and being better than they were the day before. So yea, 5 stars. Perfect well-rounded approaches for kids. Perfect culture for me.”
— Ryan O. (Coto de Caza)
“I’m honored to be in this community of caring, supportive, badass people! Evolve is a fantastic place to be, whether you’re brand new to martial arts or continuing a journey that began somewhere else. My husband has been training and competing since he was young, but I had very little exposure/knowledge before I signed up. I was terrified to be a beginner and embarrass myself, but Professor Todd really took me under his wing and has made sure that I’m comfortable and confident on (and off) the mats. He gives so much care and attention to each student and is always cognizant of other priorities in our lives. His energy and attitude inspire every student to train hard and have a great time doing it! This wonderful example of leadership and friendship has created a tight-knit community, and I’m happy to say that we’ve already found a lot of friends through Evolve. I can’t recommend this gym enough!”