Preta Academy - Kelowna, British Columbia

matt N.

It's truly hard to say enough good things about Preta. Hayden and Kirman are kind, passionate, talented and deliberate in both their instruction and how they run the academy. The kids classes are excellent, and our son looks forward to them every week. The adult classes are excellent also, with very good coaching, regardless of your level. The space is clean, bright and minimal, with ample free parking. There is a wide range of classes available, from beginner to advanced and the vibe is friendly, collaborative and competitive without being overly aggressive. Highly recommended...

Andy

A very friendly and welcoming club! I have been going here just over 6 months and Hayden and Kirman do a great job making classes safe and welcoming for beginners but also pushing those who wish to compete. Its also been a great place to meet people since I am new to Kelowna 🙂

Mike E.

I have been to a lot of Jiujitsu and Martial Arts clubs and by far Preta is the premiere Jiujitsu club in Kelowna. They are teaching the most up to date and new age techniques and styles. The instructors are passionate and well versed in all aspects of Jiujitsu for beginners and more advanced athletes. You can really feel that they take pride and care in every lesson. The Preta team is truly invested in your success and their attention to detail is game changing. If you are looking at improving your Jiujitsu game and taking it to the next level, then this is the club for you. Not only can they teach beginners, but I believe they are the best in Kelowna to take your tournament game to the next level. The Preta instructors are great with kids, teens, adults and women’s only classes. I know this as my whole family enjoys and takes part in their programs. It’s an amazing club with extremely talented instructors.

Carolyn K.

I started as a complete newbie but Hayden, Kirman, and the members of Preta have made me feel so welcome. I’m learning a lot and being pushed out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. The structure of classes is really great, this is obviously a gym of high integrity. I’d highly recommend to anyone, whether you’re new to BJJ or a veteran.

Vandy L.

absolutely phenomenal gym

all the instructors are world class and super kind

sensei serguei teaches fantastic judo classes
professors hayden and kirman teach some of the best fundamental and modern bjj

great training partners of all skill levels
great gym for hobbyists and beginners
and a great gym if you’re looking to do competitions
hayden and kirman coached me to win gold 🥇 at the local tournament after moving to the gym two months in

highly highly recommend 🙌

Eugenia J.

Our daughters have been training with Professor Hayden in Vancouver since they were five years old, and even after he moved to Kelowna, they continue to eagerly look forward to training with him whenever we visit. Now 12 years old, they’re excited to attend classes at Preta Academy, which is fortunate to have one of the few female BJJ black belts in BC, Professor Kirman.

During our most recent visit, we were once again reminded of Professor Hayden's exceptional teaching skills. His ability to introduce complex technical routines to kids of all levels is remarkable. He builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment in his students by making even the most challenging techniques accessible. His attentiveness ensures that every student receives timely, constructive feedback, allowing them to continuously improve. In fact, it’s impressive that, with just one class, our daughters are still applying a technique he taught them the last time we visited.

The classes are structured with a great pace—there’s no downtime, and the routine keeps the kids fully engaged from start to finish. Professor Hayden’s presence on the mat is both commanding and approachable, and his demeanor creates an encouraging environment for learning and growth.

Both Professor Hayden and Professor Kirman are incredibly supportive and vocal during tournaments, offering invaluable guidance and motivation to their students. They take the time to reflect on the competition afterward, emphasizing the importance of hard work and growth, regardless of the outcome. The sense of community they foster extends far beyond the mats—it’s clear they genuinely care about their students’ progress and well-being.

As we headed back to Vancouver, the girls couldn’t help but wish Preta Academy was closer to home. They learned their first Jiu Jitsu moves from Professor Hayden, and their progress has been incredible thanks to his dedicated mentorship. Both Professor Hayden and Professor Kirman are exceptional in their dedication, technical expertise, and passion for teaching, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking to improve their Jiu Jitsu skills.

Bradley G.

As a newcomer to martial arts I was apprehensive to start jiu jitsu. However, I felt comfortable very quickly at PRETA. Hayden and Karmin create a unique training environment that feels both competitive and safe. Whether you are a beginner or have been training for a while I would recommend going to PRETA.

J B.

Popped in for a class earlier today while In town for work. I've trained with Hayden & Kirman back in Vancouver and knew just how talented they both are at jiu-jitsu. But this was my first visit to their club. They might be a young club, but they're doing better than many clubs that have been around much, much longer. Quality of instruction, mat space, student safety, cleanliness, solid schedule, and the fostering of team spirit. Can't say enough good things about these guys. If you're in Kelowna, do yourself a favour and drop in. You won't regret it.