Why Generic Gym Software Doesn’t Work for BJJ Academies

Key Takeaways

• Generic fitness software is bloated and expensive.
• Cheap software lacks critical tools for student growth.
• BJJ-specific software like MAAT meets real BJJ academy needs.

Introduction

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies face a unique set of challenges when it comes to running smooth operations, retaining students, and tracking progress.

Unlike traditional fitness centers, these gyms rely heavily on structure, personal progression, and community engagement.

Despite this, many academies turn to generic gym software, either high-end fitness platforms or low-cost tools, only to discover that these systems fail to address the core needs of martial arts operations.

Here’s why most generic solutions fall short, and what a BJJ-focused system like MAAT does differently.

1. Expensive Fitness Software: Powerful, But Misaligned

Many popular gym management systems like Mindbody and Glofox are built for fitness studios, health clubs, or personal training businesses.

While they offer robust features and polished interfaces, they are often overkill for BJJ academies.

Why It Doesn't Fit:

• Overbuilt with unnecessary tools (e.g. nutrition tracking, spa scheduling, POS for supplements): These features clutter the experience and provide no value for BJJ academies.
• No martial arts-specific features like belt/stripe progression or class-based rank tracking. Without this, instructors must track promotions manually, increasing admin time and errors.
• High cost structures with monthly plans over 100€/200€ and added fees for branded apps or reporting. Many core functions come at a premium, making it unsustainable for medium-size gyms.
• Lock-in contracts or limited support for European payments (like SEPA). These restrictions limit flexibility and regional compliance, especially for EU-based academies.

These systems work well for large fitness facilities but are simply too complex and too expensive for a BJJ academy’s specific needs.

👉 Check this article to see what to look for in a Gym Management Software for a BJJ Academy!

2. Low-Cost Software: Affordable, But Outdated

On the other side are budget tools like ClubManager or WodBuster, which offer basic functionality at a low price.

These platforms can cover some essentials like class booking or payment processing, but they fall short when it comes to running a martial arts academy efficiently.

Why It Doesn't Fit:

• Outdated design that frustrates coaches, admins, and students. Poor UX lowers staff efficiency and student satisfaction.
• Missing core tools like attendance tracking by class type, automated rank progression, or instructor notes. These are essential for tracking student progress and keeping them engaged.
• Unreliable payment handling, sometimes lacking integration with Stripe, SEPA, or local gateways. Payment issues risk delayed revenue and poor member experience.
• Little to no product updates or support. You’re stuck with a stagnant product that won’t adapt to your gym’s growth or changing needs.
• Needs to be paired with other tools. These platforms often require external spreadsheets or communication apps to manage promotions or student engagement, leading to fragmented workflows.

This was exactly the case with The Fighting Arts Academy, which switched from ClubManager to MAAT to eliminate inefficiencies and consolidate their tools into a single platform.

3. The Right Fit: Software Built for BJJ Gyms

Combat sports gyms have distinct needs that require purpose-built software.

That’s where tools like MAAT come in.

Why BJJ-Specific Platforms Like MAAT Work:

• Belt and stripe tracking by attendance or manual promotion. Helps instructors track student progress efficiently, ensuring timely promotions and motivating students.
• Attendance logs by activity (Gi, No-Gi, Open Mat). Gives coaches detailed insight into training habits, making it easier to personalize feedback and track commitment.
• Student engagement through leaderboards and progression milestones. Keeps students motivated and coming back, reinforcing long-term retention.
• Kids accounts. Simplifies management for families training together and improves their overall experience.
• Localized payment systems (SEPA/BACS, iDEAL, etc.) for EU-based academies. Ensures seamless, reliable payment collection tailored to regional banking systems.
• Mobile-first UX for both coaches and students. Makes day-to-day use easy and intuitive, reducing onboarding time and user frustration.
• Fast support from martial artists. Access to responsive, knowledgeable support from people who understand how a BJJ gym operates.

MAAT was built specifically for BJJ and MMA gyms, which means every feature was designed to reduce admin work, improve student retention, and support growth.

Conclusion

If your gym is using a generic platform, you may be working harder than necessary and still missing out on key insights and engagement opportunities.

Software should simplify your academy, not complicate it.

Book a free demo today and see why more BJJ gyms are switching to MAAT!

‍