Checkmat Exeter
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Exeter – Consistent, Committed, Connected
Welcome To Our
BJJ Academy
Welcome to Checkmat Exeter, a traditional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in Exeter, CA! Here, students learn the art of Jiu Jitsu based on the early teachings from Brazil. Our academy is kept clean every day and we cut out any unnecessary drama. This is a place to learn and become a part of a supportive community—not somewhere to cause problems. Students can come in to work on weight loss, fitness, personal challenges, and child development. We are a place for the top Jiu Jitsu competitors in the Central Valley to train at and succeed! Students gain the confidence and discipline they need to grow. Start your personal journey in Jiu Jitsu today with us at Checkmat Exeter!
Start with an intro Jiu Jitsu class!
Make sure to start your journey with us on a great deal. We have a FREE 1-on-1 BJJ class for all students 18+ to sign up for. Join us today to start your journey!
Who We Are at
Checkmat Exeter
Our School
The work we put in for students allows us to help them progress each day toward their full potential. This is done through BJJ classes that are structured but also playful. Students can come into classes knowing they’ll be pushed to work hard but still have fun. Everything is designed to provide the best experience possible, from the personalized training students receive to our flexible schedule. Every day we work to be the best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy possible for our students!
History
It was always Fabricio Machado’s dream to lead his own Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy. After learning Jiu Jitsu in Brazil and working as a lead instructor at many other academies, he wanted a place to follow his vision. After his time in Brazil and New York the 2nd Degree Black Belt finally achieved his dream when he opened Checkmat Exeter in November, 2022. Fabricio helped create a strong Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community in Exeter, providing traditional training to kids, and adults. In a few years, the efforts we put in required a move. In May 2025, Checkmat Exeter transitioned from an 800-square-foot facility to our current 3,500 square foot academy. Everything we have done has been to enhance the student experience and change lives for the better through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
What Sets Us Apart
Checkmat Exeter offers students a special BJJ experience. Along with our traditional training, we have designed our academy to be a home for everyone looking to use Jiu Jitsu to better themselves. Our culture and detailed instruction can help anyone thrive!
No one is left alone or set aside at our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy. We make sure to provide students with the individualized attention they need, even in a group class. Everyone is different and has their own path to follow.
We truly love Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! When you sign up with us, you’ll know that we care for all aspects of the art and emphasize students’ personal growth. The benefits Jiu Jitsu has to offer make the experience one of one.
Owner Fabricio Machado brings Brazilian Jiu Jitsu knowledge straight from Brazil. Fabricio trained under Grand Master Julio Secco, a red belt under Relio Gracie – learning from the best.
We don’t accept any drama in our academy. If you come in making trouble, messing with others, or causing problems, it won’t be tolerated. Everyone is here to learn and have fun!
Our kids Jiu Jitsu classes emphasize values and lessons that will help your child grow. They’ll learn how to handle challenges physically, mentally, and emotionally to set them up as they get older. These skills play a significant role in interacting with others and supporting their mental health.
Our Academy Schedule!
Go take a look at our academy schedule. We have Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes in Exeter Monday-Friday for our kids, adults, and women’s training!
Words from Our Community
This isn’t an academy where you are just another number. We make sure to provide each student with the individualized attention they deserve and need to succeed. Our commitment to every student’s growth makes us a great place to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Exeter. And don’t just listen to us. Check out the student testimonials to see what they have to say about Checkmat Exeter!
“We love this gym!!! They teach good sportsmanship and respect for others as well as respecting yourself.”
“Discipline tenacity and work ethic are just a few traits developed at Checkmat. Highly recommend.”
“The confidence and strength our daughter has built is incredible. She went to her first tournament recently and the coaches were so supportive.”
“The coaches are great with the kids and they really help the kids learn and grow! I recommend this place 100 percent!”
“The instructors are the perfect mix of warm and friendly, but firm. Would highly recommend Checkmat Exeter to anyone!”
Start with an intro Jiu Jitsu class!
Make sure to start your journey with us on a great deal. We have a FREE 1-on-1 BJJ class for all students 18+ to sign up for. Join us today to start your journey!
Contact Us!
We are proud to provide Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Exeter and welcome our neighbors in Visalia and Porterville to join us. You can find our BJJ academy in the heart of Exeter right next to downtown!