user
Gracie Barra Headquarters - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self Defense
14988 Sand Canyon Ave #1, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
Appearance

Comments
Je
Review №1

1st time training. I just went in to pick up my gi and a class was about to start. I found myself on the mat shortly after I arrived. Theyre very welcoming and the training was incredible. I cant wait to go back.

Pe
Review №2

We all expect Gracie Barra schools around the world to provide high quality customer-service, good professionalism and phenomenal teaching/coaching to their students. This school is the king of kings of Gracie Barras. They are extremely professional and they truly care about their students. If you ever even consider martial art, this school will change your life. Also, it is important to add something: During a pandemic, they made a way to bring value to their students by following COVID-19 procedures creating a safe environment for their students.

Co
Review №3

I am in my first year and a half into Jiu jitsu and based off the atmosphere at Gracie Barra it has caused me to fall in love with the sport. All of the professor make sure they get to know their students and make them feel welcome. My first day they treated me like I had known them for years. The culture that has been created here is something special, it is the most positive group of athletes I have ever spent time around not to mention the level of coaching you receive in any of the classes. This place is so great I got my little brother signed up and he loves it.

St
Review №4

Great place to learn jiu jitsu, for beginners or for advanced practitioners of the sport. My sons love it. Here they are hamming it up a bit. Hard for these two boys to stay serious for two minutes, but at Gracie Barra, they instantly transform into obedient students.

lu
Review №5

Amazing place to train !!!!!I’ve been training here for the past 8 years and this place it’s like home for me. All the professors and staff are amazing and it feels like a family. I’d suggest this place for any person that is looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Ni
Review №6

I moved from east coast after practicing 4 years in Brooklyn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school and I looked for a location that can answer my needs, from the first step in it felt almost like being in Brooklyn again, I signed after my first class and although its my second week I feel like I have been training there for a while, the crew is super nice, and everyone is willing to help

Ni
Review №7

This place is jaw dropping for being the HQ for Gracie Barra. I was a visiting from another school and was stoked on the welcoming students/ professors. When I walked in I was greeted graciously by both the ladies at the front desk, and also by the coaches/ professors. All in all a great experience I advise anyone who is in the Irvine area to drop in on a class if you already train or not. Do not be intimated that the head instructor teaches RDA, or by the overflow of trophies. Everyone there will welcome you with open arms, as if you were family. Thanks again to all the staff and students at GB Irvine I will be back to take some Sunday Morning classes with you all.

Ia
Review №8

Great facility, clean, friendly staff and lots of bjj

si
Review №9

Probably the best martial arts place in Irvine.Gracie Barra is a place where many people can learn self defense. The teachers are experts and have been doing this for many years. Class is accommodating, yet disciplined. A perfect place to learn good self defense.

Sk
Review №10

Not only a great place to learn for the kids and yourself. This place exudes a sense of community and family. highly recommended for anyone trying to learn Jiu Jutsu.

Ma
Review №11

One of the best experiences I have had. I have trained in martial arts systems all over the world. The instruction at Gracie Barra is top notch whether you are a professional fighter or just trying to get in shape. There is great camaraderie at the Irvine school and I would highly recommend this academy to martial artists of all levels.

Ma
Review №12

Many great instructors here, top notch training, my second favorite GB after Yorba Linda! 👊

Ja
Review №13

My two oldest boys and I have been training at Gracie Barra for the last three years and we absolutely love it. It has been an amazing, life changing experience for us and so I highly recommend this school. Professor Philipe genuinely cares about each of his students and inspires all of us to be the best we can be. The kids program is outstanding and my boys have received world class instruction in a safe environment.

Ke
Review №14

Gracie Barra Headquarters is a world class training facility. Philipe Della Monica is one of the best Professors I’ve had the honor of training under. He truly cares for all of his students and gives 100% in teaching them the gentle art. This facility is very clean and gives the students the opportunity to train seven days a week. Grand Master Carlos Gracie Sr. once said “ Think only about the best, work only for the best, and always expect the best”. If you want to be at your best then this is the place.

Ke
Review №15

Gracie Barra is the BEST!You get an opportunity to learn from some of the most prolific fighters in the world.Their class schedule is very accommodating and staff is friendly.

Ja
Review №16

I’ve been training at Gracie Barra in Irvine for approximately a year and a half. Before I started training here, I had never done any type of formal martial arts training so walking into the academy on the first day was very intimidating. On top of my lack of experience with martial arts, I was also in fairly bad shape from a few years in grad school and work.What I was hoping to get out of training at Gracie Barra was to find an activity that was physically and mentally challenging and something that I would stay with. I had started and stopped my membership at the gym numerous times and I just found it was too boring and I never pushed myself hard enough.So in January of 2016 I signed up for a free class and the process was very easy and the ladies at the counter were so friendly that it made it less intimidating. I signed up right after the intro class and it’s been everything I was looking for.What I love most about training at Gracie Barra are the world-class instructors (Professors) that truly care about their students and also a plethora of great training partners that make this sport so enjoyable. There’s truly a fellowship all the members of Gracie Barra and sense of caring for the people we are training with.I would recommend anyone looking to learn self-defense and stay in shape to first train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and second to train at Gracie Barra. The last year and a half have exceeded my expectations and I’ve even put my kids as well. (The kids classes are fantastic)Thanks to Professors and Staff at Gracie Barra for providing such an excellent school and life changing experience for my family and I.

Br
Review №17

I have been coming here for the very best in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction since 2007. They have the highest level of instruction with the best teachers! The family atmosphere is perfect for kids. I cant wait until my kids join. Seriously, they will make you feel very comfortable here. Its not a place where you go and rip each others heads off. Everyone is your friend here.

Mi
Review №18

Gracie Barra Headquarters is like home. I have been training at Gracie Barra Headquarters since moving down to Southern California in 2010. Coming to this school as a blue belt from a different school I was extremely nervous and anxious, but was welcomed with open arms as soon as I walked through the front doors. The family atmosphere is one of this school’s greatest characteristics along with the excellence of the instructors and staff.Classes are very well structured and are always filled with practitioners of all ranks and walks of life. Once on the mats everyone is family and looks to help each other progress and get better.If you are looking for a new place to train or are looking to being your jiu-jitsu journey, I highly encourage you to come by and try a class yourself.

Ma
Review №19

My home away from home!!! I love the feeling my 9 year old daughter and I get the moment we walk in, we are greeted with a friendly smile every time. I couldnt be happier !! the best martial arts school in Irvine!!

Ep
Review №20

BJJ Suits and Gear MMA Gloves MMA Shorts

Aa
Review №21

I walked through the door 2.5 years ago, signed up that night, and its one of the best decisions Ive made. If you train Jiu-Jitsu your life will change and for the better.The staff has unlimited amounts of positive energy and is nothing but supportive. The curriculum is well thought out and continually improved on. The guys (and girls) you’re rolling with are world class. It’s got a great culture: most the students are friendly and everybody seems good natured.The policies are very flexible. I wanted to take a month off for injury and it was no problem. The facilities aren’t as posh as an ultra-gym; but that’s not really what I’m there for and I’ve heard that that’s being addressed. I could not recommend this place more highly.

Ni
Review №22

Gracie Barra exceeds the expectations for any martial arts school out there!!! Walking into this facility is like walking into a second home for me, if the open mats dont do it the people sure will! The professors here are all well respected world wide with the technique and strategy equipped to help you master your personal goals with jiu jitsu. Be sure to check out this school! Youll be so happy you did ;)

Fa
Review №23

Gracie Barra Irvine is a great place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You will learn from the best of the best instructors from Gracie Barra and training with World Champions. I had the opportunity to teach, train and learn at this school with all the instructors and strong team that they have. All the staff are very welcoming and the students have hungry to learn and train. Good place to be =D

Kr
Review №24

Gracie Barra Headquarters is an incredible Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu academy. We learn world class martial arts techniques from some of the best black belt instructors in the world on a regular basis. The environment is warm and friendly and everyone is trying to help each other improve. The program is structured very well for all levels of learning. I have got in great shape, made lots of new friends, and am constantly improving as a martial artist at Gracie Barra. I would recommend this school for anyone at any age, physical shape, or skill level.

Gu
Review №25

Ive been Training at Gracie Barra Headquarters for 8 years and it has truly changed my life. Anyone considering Jiujitsu as a sport and a lifestyle should look no further. The Gracie Barra organization offers it all weather you are a kid or a competitor they offer something for everyone, when you see so many diverse students from so many backgrounds so focused on the same goals it really makes the expirence special! If you just want to loose weight or want to compete at a world class level they will get you there.Offering programs for anti bulling, womens classes, kids programs at all ages, to Competition training they can back up their slogan Jiujitsu is for everyone please come give it a try first class is always free 😀

Yo
Review №26

After a long search of different Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools and being disappointed, someone recommended Gracie Barra. The minute I walked in I was impressed how organized and friendly everyone was. At the time none of the academies I had visited had a curriculum. Gracie Barea was and is the pioneer of establishing structure that all other academies follow. They cater to all types of athletes. If you are looking to get in shape or learn self defense this is the place. Even if you are competitive and want to become world champion one day they will help you achieve it.

Ta
Review №27

Best choice for fitness and a must for women of all ages. I was never interested in sports (let alone martial arts). But I gave it a try (first lesson is free) and I loved it. After training for a year or so I was competing in various competitions, including American Open (bronze, gold), Pan Ams (bronze, silver) and World (bronze) and usually always placed in the top 3, which is the best evidence of the quality of this school. The instructors here are very encouraging, always helpful and genuinely interested in improving your skill. The curriculum is very well thought out, methodical and consistent. The schedule is very flexible and allows me to choose a class that is convenient since I am a working professional. I highly recommend this school to anyone who is interested in fitness, wants to relieve stress after a long day a work or compete at the high level. Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu is, indeed, for everyone.

Fe
Review №28

This academy is by far the best place to train Jiu Jitsu in the world! The level of instruction is absolutely amazing, everybody is friendly, and the variety of classes is perfect for everyone! Ive got really in love for BJJ and really fit since I started to train here, so I strongly recommend this place for everyone who is looking for a better and healthier lifestyle!

Ce
Review №29

Great training

Jo
Review №30

I am a Gracie Barra team member in Texas. I had an opportunity to train at the Gracie Barra Head Quarters in Irvine for 10 days during my trip to to watch the Jiu-Jitsu World Championships. The training there was very technical and classes were usually taught by a Black Belt Professor. One night Master Carlos Gracie jr. was there teaching a class and it was a threat to share the mats with such a legend of our sport. Everyone was friendly and helpful.

Ol
Review №31

What happens at GBHQ transcends world class Jiu-Jitsu instruction or training self defense. Its an extended family of friends, at every level, dedicated to helping each other reach our true potential, on and off the mats. It isnt just a state of the art academy, its a home away from home.

Wi
Review №32

I started learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2015 and I am very glad and fortunate that I am able to train at Gracie Barra Headquarters. It is led by head instructor, 3rd degree black belt Philipe Della Monica, and his knowledge, technical expertise, positive attitude, and encouragement have made training here a great experience. Learning from high level black belts, such as himself, Jesse, Marco, Rod, Les, and the many, many others that grace Gracie Barra HQ have made me confident in my own abilities to practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In less than a year of training at HQ I was able to compete and win gold in a regional Jiu Jitsu competition, and I have continued competing in high level Jiu Jitsu competitions, such as the Pans and Worlds tournaments.I highly recommend trying out Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra Headquarters. Those who train at HQ run the gamut, from UFC and World Jiu Jitsu Champions, to law enforcement, to the average 9-5 worker (there are classes throughout the day). HQ also offers classes for womans self defense, children/teens, competitors and beginners. Even if you never plan on competing ( although I recommend it) Gracie Barra Headquarters is a great place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Whether it be for recreation, for self defense, or for building ones confidence/self esteem you will definitely have a good time with good people at HQ, challenging yourself and each other in the practice of this great and highly effective martial art.

Mi
Review №33

I have been training at this location since 2011 and its truly a top notch school. All of the instructors are highly professional and the participants treat each other with the utmost respect. The robust training schedule allows a busy professional like myself to choose from classes at all times of the day. My absolute favorite are the noon classes where I take a lunch break from work to train. In addition, I train at other Gracie Barra location when I travel for work and meet amazing people I would otherwise never meet. Its such a great network of schools. If you are thinking of an exercise routine, getting in shape, or competing in a Jiu Jitsu tournament, theres no better place in OC than training at the US headquarters of one of the largest and most organized BJJ schools in the world.

St
Review №34

Amazing place, great instructors, awesome students, great location too. Coach Patrick is the best!

st
Review №35

Gracie Barra HQ in Irvine has a progressive kids and adult (men, women and mix) program. The culture of the school, for the most part, is welcoming to new students. Higher belts try to help the lower belts through the drills. In addition, the culture is very family-centric with many parents and kids that compete in local and world tournaments. The instructors are very technical and provide a pragmatic approach to sport, mma and self-defense. Any day of the week you will see a numerous higher level belts, including many black belts during the adult classes. The head instructor, Professor Philipe Della Monica, has an extensive list of fighters that he trains (present and past UFC champions). His expertise is apparent as he models basic and variations to techniques for different levels within the class. You will be hard pressed to find a well rounded BJJ school.

Pr
Review №36

Gracie Barra Irvine is an outstanding school! Ive been a student here for almost two years and it is safe to say that in my 15 years in Jiujitsu this is the best school ive ever attended or been to.The instructors are extremely attentive and friendly with an all time safety first approach.Professor Phillipe is very detailed an thorough with his classes.The highest level in Jiujitsu for adults and kids can be found here. In addition, the students and training partners are super nice, welcoming and carefull with each other. The school is extremely clean. And if you stick around after hours you get a peak of the UFC fighters training for their fights which makes it even cooler to be a part of this school! Highly recommend it!!!!

Mi
Review №37

Level of Instruction: A+Completeness of Curriculum: A+Class Structure and Consistency: A+Fun & Positive Learning Environment: A+Team Spirit: A+Safe for Working Professionals: A+Self-Defense Techniques: A+Competition Classes: A+Douchebag Filter: A+Cleanliness of Facility: A+Filtered Water Provided for Free: A+The most important testimony I can give about this school and what sets it apart from every other academy is its super-refined structure and consistency. The leadership and world-class instructors maintain an extremely positive and light-hearted attitude, which provides a fun & ideal learning environment.Grace Barra Headquarters, in my opinion, is the best place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the world. Ive trained here for just over 8 years now (white belt to black belt) and I cant say enough about my experience!I took my first intro class in April of 2008 and was instantly sold on the team spirit, positive attitudes, and clear/concise instruction. No lie.. I signed up and paid for an entire year in advance. I even told myself on that first day that I would become a black belt at this school. When its right, I guess you just know. Im now one of the dozens of black belts at the school attending classes regularly.If you are looking for world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction taught by world class black belts in a fun and safe environment.. this is the school for you. Come take a class and I promise youll be hooked.

St
Review №38

Gracie Barra Headquarters, Irvine, California is absolutely the best place to learn the martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, especially Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Led by world champion, Professor Philipe Della Monica, the Academy is open seven days a week offering classes for young children (boys and girls), ages 4 and up through adults (men and women).My son, Mason, who is 16, and I have been training there for over 6 years now (I am 64) and what we have both gained and learned over that time is not only the technical and fighting aspect of Jiu Jitsu but also lessons in perseverance, respect, putting in hard work to get better and being a better person in every aspect of life.The level of training and competition, led by the Professors and Coaches teaching the classes, is high and there are often three, four or more Black Belts training with you in an adult evening class. Many of them are also competitive Jiu Jitsu world champions and participants!If you want to participate in a sport that will test your mental and physical ability, your toughness and get you in the best shape and condition in your life and also build new, long lasting friendships, you might just want to come over and take a class and see for yourself. Get trained by the best! Gracie Barra Headquarters, Irvine is the place to be!!!

Ji
Review №39

Gracie Barra is more than an amazing martial arts academy. It’s a family. I have taken classes at Gracie Barra America in both a group setting and private instruction.All of the Professor, Coaches, and staff are professional, personable, and a positive role model for adults and children. The Head Professor Phillipe Della Monica is always in a friendly mood and sees good in every situation. It was my pleasure to introduce my own children to him. My youngest son has also become one of his students.My older son has Asperger’s Syndrome and is frightened of many close contact sports. Phillipe has taken an interest in my son and the special needs application of Jiu Jitsu.As a father, I very much appreciate Gracie Barra’s children’s program. It makes our community safer by teaching our young people to defend themselves, but more importantly it develops their character into young adults. With Schools expelling children involved in physical altercations on a “no tolerance” basis, Jiu Jitsu is a much safer alternative to the “striking” martial arts like Karate or Taekwondo. Jiu Jitsu’s grappling style appears less aggressive while still being effective.As a law enforcement professional with more than 23 years of experience, I believe Gracie Barra’s commitment to the community is building the ground work for a better tomorrow. I have certainly personally benefited in both better physical health and a more proficient hand to hand fighter.

Er
Review №40

Gracie Barra Headquarters is THE place to train in the Orange County area. This school is unique by offering world class instruction and a large affiliation of training partners but still maintaining an intimate and supportive learning environment that one would traditionally see in a smaller academy. The culture here is driven by instructors Philipe Della Monica and Mike Dykes who have helped me since 2008. Everyone here from high to low ranked belts is interested in helping you grow in your jiu-jitsu endeavors. Communicating your needs is encouraged from medal chasers to recreational players. The thoroughness of the school’s curriculum encompasses all areas of the sport including self-defense, sport jiu-jitsu, and MMA. Techniques are taught in continuation with variations and counters to enable your jiu-jitsu game to flow rather than one confusing mess. You will be hooked in the long run once you step on the mat here!

Au
Review №41

To anyone looking for a life changing experience and environment for themselves, their friends, family members or co workers:So much could be said for this extraordinary establishment. The high level of self defense, anti bullying and authentic Brasilian Jiu Jitsu, taught from master Carlos Gracie Jr himself is almost a perk to everything that goes on within those four walls. From toddlers of just 3 years of age to men 72 years young, active competitors and UFC fighters alike and it doesnt stop there.. your favorite soccer mom looking for a mid week work out or your busy business professional that has an hour a day at lunch and is looking to practice the gentle art..Gracie Barra HQ has it all.Never have I experienced a martial arts academy with such humble roots where everyone leaves their egos at the door and walks in with a smile. I am incredibly impressed with the facility, its instructors, the cleanliness and most importantly the consistency of passion and commitment for which the classes are taught. Its rare to find a martial arts school with such a large network of schools there is even curriculums that are available to reference that change based on belt level and programs.Thank you Gracie Barra and thank you to all the students turned friends and family for creating such an outstanding place where all are welcomed and appreciated for our contributions to community, each other and the art of Brasilian Jiu Jitsu . Its funny but sometimes I feel as if a day not spent training, is a day not maximized to its fullest potential.I highly encourage anyone that has never been to GBHQ before to go by, have a look or even watch/ try a class but most importantly notice the smile on the face of yourself or your loved one when you realized that you have just found your third place.

Wi
Review №42

This place is an absolute treasure! The instruction for kids and adults is outstanding for both self-defense and sport jiu-jitsu. My son has been training since he was four years old, I started shortly after him, and it was one of the best decisions of our lives. Gracie Barra Headquarters (Irvine) is special because you not only get the best instruction but you will also meet outstanding people. The head instructor is Professor Philippe Della Monica who’s an extremely accomplished BJJ athlete and instructor, but his accomplishments pale in comparison to his character and investment in his students. His personality and character set the tone for the entire academy, as you will find instructors that are very invested in the development of you and your children. It doesn’t matter if you are a UFC champion, Jiu-jitsu champion, or student who’s seeking a healthy lifestyle, Professor Philippe will be equally invested in you -- I’ve seen and personally experienced his devotion and investment for all his students regardless of expertise level.At GBHQ, you will find a training culture that doesn’t look to grind and beat you up but one that seeks to help you with a life long journey within the art leading to a healthy life. Because this GB location serves as the world headquarters for the GB organization you get the chance to meet and train with hall of fame BJJ athletes and legends within the art. I can’t say enough about this place but try it out yourself and you can experience a life changing art, academy, and culture.

Mi
Review №43

I have so many great things to say about Gracie Barra Irvine that I honestly dont know where to begin. I will start by saying that this is a world class facility with world class instructors in terms of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I have been practicing the gentle art on and off through out the past 16 years and have had the opportunity to view & participate at different gyms/facilities. I have yet to come across a BJJ academy that is as diverse and well rounded as Gracie Barra Irvine.Head instructor professor Philipe De La Monica has the academy running like a well oiled machine. The curriculum that he provides caters to many body types, level of athleticism, and age groups. The academy also caters to those that are interested in the sport for competition as well as those who are interested in the sport for other reasons (fitness, self defense, etc.). What I like most about Gracie Barra Irvine is the friendly atmosphere and lack of egos. I have been to gyms where the sole focus is sport jiu-jitsu and many sparing partners have malicious intent. It is rare that this happens at Gracie Barra Irvine, there is a certain level of respect for each other as well as consideration for the safety/well being of training partners.If you have been on the fence about trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I urge you to not waste another minute and come try a class at Gracie Barra Irvine. You wont be disappointed.

Tr
Review №44

After trying out a few BJJ schools in Orange County to find a school for my son in 2012, I was totally impressed with the Gracie Barra schools (visited GB Saddleback at the time). I specially noticed that there was a curriculum, format and a professional approach in the way it was taught. Since then, I also started to train, but now I am in GB Headquarters in Irvine. I am almost 48 years old, but training there makes me feel like I am in my 20s again. I also want to mention that I am really passionate about Gracie Barra because of the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and most of all the camaraderie everyone experiences there. I know that I can speak for everyone when I say that we have all gained an awesome “family” in Gracie Barra! Thank you professor Philipe for your Leadership, Passion, Inspiration and for “fanning the fire” for all of us to master the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Da
Review №45

Ive been training here since 2009 and have had a great experience. The Gracie Barra motto is Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone and there is something for everyone here. I strongly encourage you to come by the academy and see for yourself, but if you need the information:BEGINNERS / CASUAL BJJ PRACTITIONERS: If youre just starting, they always make you feel welcome here. Some of the best people Ive ever met are from here at Gracie Barra HQ.SERIOUS COMPETITORS: If youre a serious competitor, there is never a shortage of talent. In the advanced and black belt classes, there are so many tough training partners. Even during the lunch time classes, there are a lot of brown and purple belts to test yourself.KIDS: Brearin is one of the best in the business when it comes to teaching the kids. He has a lot of energy and knows how to have fun, but he is good at keeping he kids focused on learning. Coach Rod is also awesome with the kids too. The curriculum itself is not just BJJ centric and teaches kids different life lessons as well.WOMEN: Women are always welcome in the regular classes, but they also have a womens program that is geared towards different aspects of BJJ.TRAVELERS: When you sign up at one Gracie Barra, you can go to any of them worldwide. That way, you have no excuse not to train! There are a lot in the SoCal area alone and its also a good way to make sure you train with other people youre not familiar with and dont get too familiar with the same people.OTHER NOTES:Over the years, there have been so many great instructors. More recently, Professor Philipe Della Monica has taken over as the head instructor and has continued to grow ever since. He is very well respected in the BJJ and MMA community as a competitor and coach. He is super friendly, but what stands out is his passion for teaching and his professionalism. He runs the school meticulously and even when he travels to teach seminars or corner MMA fighters, he is always back as soon as possible to teach. We are lucky to have him.The point is that theyre always working to improve the BJJ experience for you and you cant ask for anything more out of a BJJ school or any organization for that matter.

E
Review №46

Youll see the phrase world class instruction in several of the reviews for Gracie Barra HQ. That is because you will literally receive instruction from Champion Brazillian Jiu Jitsu practitioners. From in-house instructors to visiting instructors, youll have access to the minds of some of the most prominent jiu jitsu players in the history of the sport. It is important to note that this is not only reserved for the hard-core competitor , but to women, children, and the most casual practitioner of the gentle art. Speaking of children, the Little Champs and Junior programs are the best out there. Ive seen a transformation in my own children that I can only attribute to jiu jitsu.

Jo
Review №47

My son and I joined Gracie Barra 3 years ago. I am 56 years old and my son just turned 16 years old. The Gracie Barra experience has been one of the best things I have done in my life. I am athletic and have done a lot of sports. Never have I found such nice and positive people. The whole experience is positive. It is very difficult to find anyone I dislike. Professor Philipe Della Monica leads by being a great instructor and a role model for kids, parents, students and peers. All the instructors are top notch with not only their Jui Jitsu knowledge, but also their positive attitude. Some of the best Jui Jitsu and UFC athletes come to the academy/studio. They are all very nice and treat everyone in the studio very respectfully and as equals. My son started in the kids program. About 5 months ago, he started doing the adult classes. It has been such an amazing experience for him. The adults and higher belts are extremely nice and serve as additional role models to my son. They come from all walks of life, yet have the same things in common: nice, positive, hardworking, family oriented. I cannot think of a better experience for young men and women to be surrounded by top notch adults. Finally, as a 56 year old man, it can be quite intimidating competing and wrestling against younger men and knowing that your best days physically are behind you. Thank you to my training partners and instructors for understanding the challenges faced by us older guys. Philipe and the other instructors do a great job in not letting my Ego get in the way of learning the Gentle Art. I feel I am in great mental, physical and spiritual health. My son and I are certainly better people by joining Gracie Barra Jui Jitsu.

Gr
Review №48

The best school in America, great place to learn Jiu-jitsu, self-defense and get in shape.Classes sometimes teach by Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and Professor Marcio Feitosa legend in the sport.I have opportunity to train learn and teach there.I recommend to everyone!!!

Ro
Review №49

Make Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu part of your life. All ages, programs for children, women, men, physical fitness and mobility, self defense, safety first, family culture, motivating training partners, self confidence, friendly staff, world class instruction.

Mr
Review №50

The place to be for the best BJJ instructions. Either for simply learning BJJ or planning to join the competition world of BJJ. I also noticed they have the best instructors for the children classes. Prof. Brearin and Coach Rod inspire the kids to be their best inside or outside the mats. Also now, Prof. Feitosa and Master Carlos Gracie Jr. (son of the founder of BJJ himself) are now in charge of managing the place who stresses major foundations for each students in the art and in the sport. You cant go wrong with that.

Ma
Review №51

World class instruction! You will be learning from the best ones in the industry like Master Carlos Gracie Jr himself (son of the creator of this art), Professor Marcio Feitosa (BJJ legend!), and many others! This is a place where kids, women, teens, adults, and seniors are learning the best BJJ techniques in a daily basis under the supervision of the best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu professors on earth!

Gr
Review №52

This school is an amazing beacon for all of the Gracie Barra schools all over the U.S. and the world! It is the academy where I started my instruction to teach in the U.S. The program was tough and disciplined. The people were also. It helped make me stronger and better in my game and in my technique as well as perfect my ability to deliver our messages to my students. Jiu-Jitsu is not just a sport or hobby. It is life changing. It is life altering. If you let it take over you will go places you always dreamed and always hoped you would be. This is what I learned and what I cherish from my time at GB Irvine. The bond of a family forever united by the incredible teachings of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, from Professors such as: our Master Carlos Gracie Jr., Professor Marcio Feitosa, Professor Flavio Almeida, Professor Marco Joca, Professor Kayron Gracie and much more.Tough guys full of heart and passion for a sport they know could change the world.“Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone”Professor Ricardo Franco Moraes - GBNA

Br
Review №53

Ill start by admitting that Ive only started training here very recently, so these are more of my initial impressions. Ill probably provide an updated review in a few months.The tagline for the GB franchise is Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone, and that describes the atmosphere at GB Headquarters perfectly in that it is excellent at accommodating people with different goals for learning BJJ. Some people are doing it for fitness, others for self defense (like me), others for competition and MMA training, and so on. The students are also of all different shapes, sizes, and levels of athleticism as well. Regardless of those factors, all of them are meeting their goals through learning the art of BJJ. The instructors have a base of expertise that is diverse enough to answer questions and tailor their teaching to accommodate these different perspectives and aims.Everyone Ive come across is friendly and willing to help, and I have not encountered any egos in the other students as of this writing. The instructors are also patient at breaking down moves and principles, answering questions, and teaching at a pace where beginners like myself can pick it up. Great atmosphere for a beginner like me - who is small, not very flexible, fairly uncoordinated, and pretty out of shape.Ive had classes with about 5 different instructors so far. The curriculum each week is standardized, so the techniques/principles that are taught are the same but each instructor has a slightly different teaching style where they emphasize different points about the same set of moves. I personally like this, as it allows a student to learn a technique not only by its steps, but by its principles and options for when and when not to apply them.A final positive is that they dont have long-term contracts like other gyms, so if something happens such that youre unable to train, you wont be locked in. That was a deciding factor for me signing up here, since Im a student.In short, I highly recommend it so far, especially to beginners regardless of their goals or level of athleticism.Check back in a few months for an update.

Le
Review №54

Instructors are knowledgeable and it is a great place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts in Irvine.LOVED IT!!!!!

Ce
Review №55

This place is horrible!!!! They lock you in with a fraudulent contract, keep charging you even when you cancel. They upgrade your membership to up to 200 dollars a month without telling you. And they lie to you saying that they can cancel the membership. They tell you its not them its their billing company, well, comes to find out after month of research, the billing company is them. Its actually ran by one of their black belt, a guy named Derrek Nakagawa, and they have a small office right here in Irvine.A bunch of liars and crooks. I wouldnt recommend this place to my worst enemy.

Gy
Review №56

Fantastic place to learn the sport!

Bl
Review №57

Great guys

Ro
Review №58

Base

Je
Review №59

On

Information
77 Photos
59 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:14988 Sand Canyon Ave #1, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
  • Site:http://www.graciebarra.com/Irvine-CA
  • Phone:+1 949-551-6582
Categories
  • Martial arts school
Working hours
  • Monday:11AM–8PM
  • Tuesday:9AM–12:30PM
  • Wednesday:9–10:30AM
  • Thursday:11AM–8PM
  • Friday:11AM–9PM
  • Saturday:11AM–8PM
  • Sunday:11AM–9PM
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
Similar organizations