Coming from a creative background and upbringing my mind and body had become sharply tuned for intellectual activity. Since I have started training at Balance Studios I have encountered many different physical and mental challenges that have forced me to think differently (a change that I was desperately in need of). I can safely say that the challenges that I encounter in my day to day life along with challenges at the gym appear to me; less as roadblocks and more as quells and rises in the path of life. As my training progresses, I am beginning to see the reflection of my physical activity in my creative production, a truly exiting discovery. It makes me realize that balance (no pun intended) is a very valuable asset in life!

-Marshal Linton

I've always been a fan of boxing, jiu jitsu, and mma and finally signed up for classes. Jiu jitsu seemed the best choice due to its focus on technique over size and strength--I chose Balance because they teach the Gracie method. From the first day, it was obvious that the staff at Balance have a dedication to both the art of jiu jitsu and the students.

The most important aspect of any learning experience is the climate. Balance Studio has created a positive teaching environment through the approachability of the instructors and it is reflected in the students. It is common to hear students advising or instructing one another while drilling or sparring.

Phil's Gracie Basics curriculum is well planned and clearly articulated. It's encouraging to me to see how much I've learned in just a few months. There is a good mix of new material and review in each session and the progress of the students is noticeable week-to-week and class-to-class. It is easy to see the value of having instructors in the Gracie lineage.

The benefits to the art of jiu jitsu are clear; it's a superior approach to practical fighting and self-defense. The Balance Studio experience speaks for itself. This is a true learning studio that respects the art and the students. For any of those reasons, I would recommend Balance to anyone. Of the studios I've visited, Balance has been the one with the best attitude and clearest plan for the success of the students and sustainability of the art.

I intend to continue training and improving my skills in jiu jitsu. Earning a new belt and competing on the team are goals that I would love to see fulfilled; I can't wait to step up to the next level.

Loosing weight….talk about that a little

“The Migliarese family is an extension of the Gracie family.” “Phil is like a brother, like blood, he would die for us. “ - Relson Gracie Red/Black Black Belt Son of Grand Master Helio Gracie

Phil has been my student since he was 12 years old, nearly twenty years; His Jiu-jitsu is Gracie Jiu-jitsu. When Phil was a boy, he swept mats, cleaned the academy, all to learn Gracie jiu jitsu. I saw his dedication and passion for Jiu-jitsu. I knew that he wanted to learn. From day one, I had big plans for him.

Phil received his Black Belt from me for three reasons: first, he proved himself to be a champion in competition, second, because he's a qualified teacher, and third, because he is a good person and well liked. Phil lives his Jiu-jitsu. He knows how to teach the Gracie Self-defense to Kids, Women and Law enforcement, as well as create champions of his own.

The Miglilarese family is like an extension of the Gracie Family. Phil is like a brother, like blood, he would die for us. He represents the Gracie family very well in Philadelphia.

- Relson Gracie
Red/Black Black Belt
Son of Grand Master Helio Gracie