Meet Kru Rob
I’m Kru Rob, the owner of Square Circle® New York. When I started my martial arts journey nearly 30 years ago, my life was changed for the better. I started Square Circle® New York as a place for students to not only get in shape but also build confidence and self-empowerment – and to let martial arts change lives the way it changed mine. Join us today by redeeming one of our web specials to become a part of the Square Circle® New York family!
When I started, I was unconfident and unsure. I did not think that I had what was needed to succeed – I was far from either athletic or confident. Starting my martial arts career was the best decision of my life!
Meet Kru Beatrice
Meet Coach Charles
Coach Charles began his Muay Thai journey in 2015 in his North Carolina hometown, where he was inspired to begin when he saw his brother train. He debuted his first fight in 2021. When he moved to New York City, he found Square Circle® New York, where he discovered that the head trainer was a friend and teammate of his own trainer back home, back in the 90s. The stars aligned, and he was a seasoned fighter at the gym before he became a coach.
Off the mats, he has been a group fitness instructor since 2020, and a Certified Personal Trainer since 2021. In his personal time, he likes to read and watch anime with his cat, Boba. He is also passionate about tarot and astrology.
Meet Coach Aldrin
Coach Aldrin began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2003 under the legendary Renzo Gracie and has been hooked on the art ever since. What started as a challenge quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit—one that took him from blue belt all the way to black belt on the competition circuit. He has competed extensively across a variety of promotions, with a strong presence at International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Opens and the World Championships (Mundial’s) at every belt level. In 2008, while still a purple belt, he began teaching at the Renzo Gracie Academy, laying the foundation for a long-standing commitment to coaching and mentorship.
Since joining Square Circle® New York in 2013, he brings that same passion to the mat every day. He is dedicated to creating a welcoming, structured, and supportive training environment where beginners feel comfortable, hobbyists stay motivated, and competitors are pushed to sharpen their game. Known for his attention to detail and down-to-earth attitude, he emphasizes technical growth, confidence, and a genuine love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—whether students are training for fitness or striving for high-level competition.
Meet Coach Danny
Coach Danny’s interest in martial arts began at just five years old, training in Kukkido and Taekwondo. His passion deepened in middle school after watching Ong Bak, which introduced him to Muay Thai and sparked a lasting dedication to the sport. He later trained for several years in Illinois, where he built a strong striking foundation. After relocating to Los Angeles and eventually New York, Danny reconnected with martial arts by joining Square Circle® New York, where he now coaches while continuing to sharpen his skills.
Although he didn’t originally plan to fight, training alongside high-level athletes—including a seminar with multi-time world champion Petchtanong—motivated him to step into the ring. Since 2022, he has been a Muay Thai competitor, while also helping guide new athletes through their first competitive experiences. Outside the gym, Danny has been a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach since 2021, supporting clients in building confidence and sustainable, healthy lifestyles. In his free time, he enjoys dance parties with his son, relaxing with friends, and watching anime.
Meet Coach Gil
Coach Gil is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt from the Renzo Gracie Academy, with over a decade of teaching experience and training in BJJ since 2005. Born and raised in New York City, his passion for martial arts began in childhood, inspired by Kung Fu movies. This led him to train in Karate and Judo as a youth, laying the foundation for his lifelong dedication to martial arts.
As an adult, Gil expanded his training to include Muay Thai while living in California, and later returned to New York to continue his BJJ journey, ultimately earning his black belt. His passion has taken him across the globe, including extended stays in Thailand and Brazil. Despite all the years of training and mastery, Gil is no closer to achieving his childhood dream of being a Kung Fu master. But he is happy to share his knowledge of BJJ with students of all ages.
Meet Coach Ray
Raymond has been training in Muay Thai since 2018, combining firsthand competition experience with a genuine passion for coaching. He has supported fighters in preparing for smoker bouts and has served as a corner for official fights, helping athletes stay composed, confident, and ready to perform at their best.
As a coach, Raymond is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment where students of all skill levels can grow, build confidence, and enjoy their training journey. Outside the gym, he works as a professor of anthropology and a grants writer. In his free time, he enjoys discovering new cuisines and searching for his next favorite meal.
Meet Coach Chris
Chris began training in Muay Thai in 2013 after searching for a more engaging alternative to traditional fitness routines. Drawn to both the physical intensity and mental challenge, he quickly immersed himself in the sport and went on to gain competition experience. Over the past decade, he has also built a strong coaching background, teaching Muay Thai and working alongside both amateur and professional fighters as a trainer and cornerman.
His teaching philosophy emphasizes a balance of technique, theory, and application—focusing on how movements are performed, why they work, and when to use them. Known for his detailed and thoughtful instruction, Chris brings both depth and personality to his classes. His love for late 90’s and early 2000’s hip-hop reflects in his instruction, bringing an environment that is equal parts education, discipline, and fun.
Meet Coach Max
Max has been training in martial arts since the age of sixteen, with experience in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. He earned his blue belt in BJJ at the Renzo Gracie Academy at just seventeen and has recently begun training in boxing. His passion for martial arts began while watching MMA fights with his brother, which sparked his interest in the discipline.
At eighteen, Max started teaching at Square Circle® New York, where he has spent the last four years instructing Youth BJJ and Youth Muay Thai. Outside of martial arts, he enjoys music and playing the drums.
What Makes Us Stand Out
Our goal at Square Circle® New York is not just physical fitness – it’s personal growth.
We strive to help students become their best selves, both physically and mentally.
Why you should train with us:
WE SWEAR TO:
TEACH
The best martial arts classes available
FOCUS
On individual growth in a supportive space
PROVIDE
Accessible and quality programs to all ages