Empire Jiu Jitsu

Empire Jiu Jitsu in San Francisco is known for its unapologetically old-school Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, led by head instructors Kurt Osiander and Jake Scovel. Kurt’s approach is rooted in a philosophy that values persistence, technical detail, and authenticity—he’s spent years competing, teaching seminars worldwide, and building a reputation for keeping jiu-jitsu direct and unfiltered. Jake brings a focus on efficiency and body mechanics, helping students refine their game with a sharp eye for detail. Both instructors are committed to making the academy a place where everyone steps on the mat to learn, improve, and have fun—without any shortcuts. Training at Empire centers around a structured gi program, with classes ranging from basics recommended for beginners to advanced sessions for experienced practitioners. The fundamentals classes emphasize core techniques and solid foundations, while advanced and general gi classes allow students to develop their skills further. No-gi sessions are also offered, giving students the chance to round out their grappling in a different format. Kids have a dedicated gi class as well, providing younger students with a starting point to learn discipline and technique from an early age. Drop-ins are welcome for all adult classes, and the academy offers flexible options—monthly memberships, 10-class passes, and private lessons with either of the head instructors. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and the schedule is designed to accommodate a variety of training needs. Empire Jiu Jitsu is a place where learning and hard work go hand in hand, grounded in the experience and hands-on teaching of instructors who have spent decades on the mats.

Amenities