A woman training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the instructor at Snyder Dojo

Women and beginners welcome

Jiu-Jitsu & Judo for Women in Kalamazoo

"As a woman, I feel very comfortable training here." That's how one student describes training at Snyder Dojo. Co-ed classes, no egos, and a coach who gives beginners real one-on-one attention.

What You'll Learn

Technique Over Strength

Jiu-jitsu and judo were built so a smaller person can control a larger one. You'll learn leverage, timing, and escapes that work.

Comfortable From Day One

A smaller, laid-back dojo with partners who match your pace. You can tap, pause, or sit out a round any time.

Confidence That Carries Over

Knowing you can get out of a bad position changes how you walk into a parking lot — and how you handle stress.

What Women Train at Snyder Dojo

Every program is open to women. Most start with Wednesday Beginner BJJ or a judo class, and many add Monday no-gi grappling once they're hooked.

  • Beginner BJJ — Wednesday 6:35 PM
  • No-gi grappling — Monday 6:35 PM
  • Adult judo — Tuesday & Thursday 6:35 PM
  • Private lessons — $50, a great way to start one-on-one
Female student working a jiu-jitsu position at Snyder Dojo in Kalamazoo

Class Times

DayTimeClassAges
Monday6:35–7:30 PMAdult Grappling (No-Gi)Adults 13+
Monday7:30–8:30 PMGrappling WorkoutAdults 13+
Tuesday6:35–7:30 PMAdult JudoAdults 13+
Tuesday7:30–8:30 PMJudo WorkoutAdults 13+
Wednesday6:35–7:30 PMBeginner BJJAdults 13+
Wednesday7:30–8:30 PMAdvanced BJJAdults 13+
Thursday6:35–7:30 PMAdult JudoAdults 13+
Thursday7:30–8:30 PMJudo WorkoutAdults 13+
Saturday4:00 PMBJJAdults 13+

Every class on the schedule is included in one $60/month membership. See the full schedule & pricing.

Common Questions

Are there women-only classes?

Classes at Snyder Dojo are co-ed. Women train in every class on the schedule, and students have noted a good ratio of women to men. If you'd feel more comfortable starting one-on-one, a $50 private lesson with Chris is a great first step.

I'm nervous about grappling with men. What's it like?

That's one of the most common worries, and it's why the culture here matters. Safety and comfort come first, you choose your partners, and you can tap or pause at any time. Partners are expected to match your pace — not prove a point.

Is jiu-jitsu good self-defense for women?

Yes. BJJ and judo are built around leverage and technique, not size and strength, which is exactly what a smaller person needs. You'll learn how to escape being held down, get back to your feet, and control someone bigger than you.

What should I wear to my first class?

Comfortable athletic clothes — leggings or shorts without zippers and a fitted shirt. Tie back long hair and remove jewelry. You don't need a gi to try a class.

Can I train with my kids?

Kids classes run right before the adult classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, so many parents train while their kids do — or right after. Family memberships are $105 for two and $140 for three or more.

What Students & Parents Say

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars across 21 Google reviews.

★★★★★
Smaller, laid-back & friendly dojo. As a woman, I feel very comfortable training here, and there's been a pretty good ratio of women to men whenever I've been there. The kids classes are great, and Chris is great with helping beginners and giving them personal one-on-one attention in their first judo class. The prices are insanely reasonable, and the grappling class is practically like having a 2nd BJJ class during the week.
— T. W., via Google
★★★★★
A friendly and welcoming dojo to people of all skill levels with no pressure to compete. Making sure people are safe and comfortable is a top priority. The instructor, Chris Snyder, has decades of experience with both kids and adults. There is no better dojo to bring your kids to and/or take classes yourself.
— Ben M., via Google
★★★★★
He is a great teacher He know how to teach a beginner from basics very knowledgeable very patient with both kids and adults
— Reeja R., via Google

Bring a Friend — Your First Class Is Free

Your first class is free. Come try it — no contract, no pressure, no egos on the mat.

Call