Browse BJJ Gyms

Adam Bordeaux

L'école ADAM (Auto Défense et Arts Martiaux) has been a premier combat sports academy in Bordeaux since 2009, founded by Sébastien Vicentini, a state-certified instructor who serves as the technical director. The school operates across five dojos throughout the Bordeaux metropolitan area, with BJJ specifically offered at the Fight'n'Fit Bastide location (92 Cours le Rouzic) and the Brulatour dojo (10 Cité Brulatour). ADAM Bordeaux is officially recognized and affiliated with major international federations: the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) and CFJJB (Confédération Française de Jiu Jitsu Brésilien) for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling, the FEKM (Fédération Européenne de Krav Maga) for Krav Maga, the FFKMDA for boxing disciplines, the FMMAF for MMA, and both FSGT and FFJDA for judo. This makes it the only school in Bordeaux with these prestigious affiliations. Sébastien Vicentini, the founder and head instructor, is a state-certified professor (diplômé d'état) with extensive experience across multiple martial arts disciplines. The school features a team of qualified instructors including François for BJJ, Jonathan and Benoit for MMA, Salomon for BJJ/Grappling, Tony for Boxing, and Stéphane for Judo. ADAM Bordeaux is also one of the few schools in Bordeaux to own a professional VENUM brand MMA cage, the largest in the Gironde region with a 6-meter circumference. The academy emphasizes technical excellence, physical conditioning, mental discipline, and creating a respectful and dynamic training environment for students of all levels and ages.

Adam Gomez Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Georgetown Mixed Martial Arts, also known as the Georgetown Killer Bees, is a comprehensive martial arts academy offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi Grappling, MMA, and Kickboxing/Boxing training in Georgetown, Kentucky. The academy is part of the American Killer Bee Association network, a respected organization known for producing high-level competitors and technical practitioners. The gym is led by head instructor Adam Gomez, a black belt under Professor Israel Gomes of the American Killer Bee Association. Adam brings extensive experience in both gi and no-gi grappling, with a strong focus on fundamental technique development and competition preparation. The instructors include multiple black belts (Adam Gomez and Jake Childress), a brown belt (Allen Brooks), a purple belt (Jacob LeMaster), and a blue belt (Isaiah Gomez), providing students with instruction across all skill levels. Georgetown Mixed Martial Arts offers a comprehensive schedule with classes seven days a week, including specialized programs for children (ages 4-7 and 8+), fundamentals classes for beginners, advanced BJJ training, no-gi grappling, MMA, competition training, ladies cardio kickboxing, and open mat sessions. The academy emphasizes a welcoming environment for students of all ages and experience levels, from complete beginners to competitive athletes.

Adapt Jiu-Jitsu

Adapt Jiu-Jitsu was founded on the belief that world-class training and real-world impact can, and should, go hand in hand. Founded by Professor Bruno Lopes, a Brazilian-born, IBJJF-certified black belt with over 15 years of experience, Adapt brings elite instruction to Herriman, Utah. Bruno earned his black belt under Pedro Sauer black belts Thiago Bertoni and John McKean and has trained with top practitioners like Richie Martinez. The gym's instructors bring backgrounds in MMA, collegiate wrestling, and competition at the highest levels of grappling. Adapt's curriculum follows the "Adapt 4 Pillars" methodology—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi), No-Gi grappling, self-defense, and anti-bullying programs. The gym blends IBJJF fundamentals with modern sport techniques while honoring the original 36 Gracie self-defense moves taught in Brazil in the 1950s. Programs are designed to be accessible to everyone, whether students are training for competition, personal growth, or practical self-defense skills. The gym's teaching staff includes Bruno Lopes (Head Professor), TJ Mitchell (No-Gi Coach), Klay Browning (Wrestling Coach), Samson Phommabout (No-Gi Head Professor), Jestin Icasiano (BJJ Professor), and Cody Bunderson (Affiliate Professor). Through The Adapt Foundation, a nonprofit initiative, the gym provides free training to underprivileged youth, military members, veterans, law enforcement, and Section 8 housing residents.

Adilson Team Caio Terra Barra Do Garças

Caio Terra Association Barra do Garças is a traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school that has been serving the Vale do Araguaia region since 1995. As part of the prestigious Caio Terra Association, founded by 12-time world champion Caio Terra, the academy delivers world-class instruction designed personally by one of BJJ's most decorated competitors. The academy operates from Academia Moviment in the heart of Barra do Garças, offering both gi and no-gi training programs. Classes are held Monday through Friday at 8:00 PM, providing a convenient schedule for students looking to train in the evening. The school is committed to not just developing skilled athletes, but also better humans who are capable of fighting without giving up and making quick and accurate decisions. As an affiliate of the Caio Terra Association, students benefit from a detailed curriculum path that emphasizes fundamentals and team philosophy. The association has more than 50 schools nationally and internationally, from Brazil to countries around the world, creating a global community of practitioners. The school's philosophy centers on working together to improve students and their communities through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, maintaining the high standards that have made Caio Terra one of the most respected names in the sport.

Adrian Vasquez BJJ

Balance Mixed Martial Arts is a premier martial arts academy located in Duarte, California, offering comprehensive training programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Judo, and Boxing. The academy is led by Professor Adrian Vasquez, a highly accomplished third-degree black belt who received his black belt in December 2013 under Freddy Sabbatini and Team Cia Paulista. In September 2018, Adrian joined Team Alliance under Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles, bringing world-class training standards to the Balance MMA community. The academy's coaching staff includes an impressive roster of experienced instructors. Professor Gilbert Ramirez, a fourth-degree black belt with over two decades of dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, trained under renowned figures including the Machado Brothers, Wander Braga, and Rodrigo Medeiros. He also holds a brown belt in Judo and has earned silver medals at major IBJJF competitions. Diana Rogel, a brown belt, specializes in coaching the kids and toddler BJJ programs. The team also includes Coach Steven Hoang (purple belt) for kids BJJ, Micah Giron (brown belt under Craig Turner) for No-Gi, Spencer Augustine (black belt in Judo who competed internationally and at the U.S. National Championships), Malik Cano (youth yellow belt and accomplished competitor), and Andy Bocanegra (2023 Southern California State Champion Boxer) for kickboxing instruction. Balance MMA offers a structured progression system for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students, taking practitioners from white belt through black belt with a focus on action/reaction principles and maximum efficiency. The academy provides specialized programs for all ages and skill levels, including Toddler BJJ (ages 3-5), Kids BJJ (ages 6-14), Kids Kickboxing (ages 5-14), adult Gi and No-Gi classes, Muay Thai/Kickboxing, and Judo. With over 1200 square feet of mat space, five heavy bags, and plenty of free parking, Balance MMA provides a professional training environment for students pursuing fitness, competition, or personal development goals.

AEJJ - ACADEMIA DE JIU JITSU

A história da AEJJ - Academia e Escola de Jiu-Jitsu começa no ano de 2017, fundada pelos professores Guilherme Nazareth "Jabá" e Igor Gatto, com o objetivo em comum de propagar com qualidade o ensino e prática do Jiu Jitsu na região de Coronel Fabriciano, Minas Gerais. Guilherme Nazareth começou a praticar Jiu Jitsu no início de 2009 na academia Gracie Barra Pitbull Vale do Aço, sob a tutela do Professor Phelippe Lira, oriundo de Teresópolis - RJ. Foi graduado desde a faixa branca até a preta em dezembro de 2016, demonstrando dedicação e evolução técnica ao longo dos anos. Igor Gatto iniciou sua jornada no Jiu Jitsu em 2010, aos 16 anos, também na academia Gracie Barra PitBull Vale do Aço em Coronel Fabriciano. Sob orientação do Professor Phelippe Lira, foi graduado desde a faixa branca até a preta em dezembro de 2018. É registrado como atleta e diplomado como Faixa Preta pela Confederação Brasileira de Jiu Jitsu (CBJJ) e International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), trazendo credenciais internacionalmente reconhecidas para a academia.

Aftermath BJJ

Aftermath Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a premier martial arts academy in Poway, California, dedicated to empowering the community through quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction. Led by Professor Jason Cook, a black belt who earned his rank in August 2020 from his instructor Michael Cusi, the gym has been providing expert instruction since 2015. Professor Jason serves as the Head Instructor and continues to train under Professor Mike, bringing his passion for Jiu Jitsu to students of all ages and skill levels. The academy offers comprehensive BJJ programs for the entire family, including specialized classes for Mighty Mites (ages 3-5), Kids programs (ages 6-13), and Adult/Teen classes in both Gi and No-Gi formats. Training focuses on building confidence while learning effective self-defense techniques. Professor Jason's favorite submissions are the Guillotine and D'arce chokes, and he brings hands-on coaching, inspirational mentorship, and earnest accountability to help students achieve their goals. Aftermath BJJ also participates in the Adopt A Cop BJJ program, a nonprofit initiative that provides free training for active duty police officers until they reach blue belt. With a supportive community atmosphere and classes running from early morning through evening on weekdays, Aftermath BJJ welcomes practitioners from novices to experienced belt holders in their journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

AG Jiu-Jitsu Academy

AG Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school located in Fayetteville, Georgia, at the Trilith community. Founded by Adam Gordinier, a 3rd degree black belt with over 20 years of experience, the academy offers a holistic approach to health and fitness, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Adam received his black belt from world-class martial artist Renato Magno and his brown belt from renowned practitioner Eddie Bravo. Training under such acclaimed yet stylistically different masters has helped him develop a highly technical and accessible brand of jiu-jitsu, combining modern techniques with solid fundamentals and a strong emphasis on wrestling. An active competitor, Adam also works with actors and stunt-performers, having choreographed fight scenes for Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. One of his proudest accomplishments is developing a program with Sea Change Recovery, using jiu-jitsu as a tool for addiction recovery. The academy provides a warm and welcoming environment where jiu-jitsu serves not just as a sport, but as a community. With programs for kids (ages 4-14), adults, and women's-only classes, AG Jiu-Jitsu Academy creates a safe space for people to learn martial arts, build confidence, and develop problem-solving skills under pressure.

AJJ - Kings MMA

Kings MMA is a premier mixed martial arts gym in Ringwood East, Victoria, founded in 2015 by professional fighter and coach Hoshi Friedrich. The gym was established with a vision of creating well-rounded athletes skilled in all elements of MMA, offering comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, wrestling, and mixed martial arts. The gym's philosophy focuses on skill development over fitness, with the belief that conditioning is a natural side effect of proper training. Kings MMA provides a quality-over-quantity training environment that is welcoming to both beginners and experienced fighters. The team emphasizes building connections, confidence, and helping members exceed their own expectations through dedicated coaching and a supportive community atmosphere. Head coach Hoshi Friedrich brings over 10 years of professional fighting experience to his teaching. A lifelong martial artist who started Karate at age three, Hoshi earned his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt from Professor Thiago Stefanutti at Onya Academia in São Paulo, Brazil. He also holds a black belt in Karate (Go Hean Ju Ryu, Shotokan) and is a registered professional trainer, matchmaker, and promoter with the Boxing and Combat Sports Board Victoria. Coach Amy Friedrich, an active competitor since 2014, brings extensive competition experience including Pan Pacific and Australian championship titles, along with her qualifications in health and fitness training.

AJJ Apex Jiu-Jitsu

APEX Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Sterling, Virginia, is a premier martial arts training facility offering elite instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, wrestling, kickboxing, boxing, and MMA. The academy provides comprehensive training for all ages and skill levels, from preschoolers (ages 3-6) to adults, with specialized programs designed to develop technical proficiency, physical fitness, and mental discipline. APEX emphasizes both traditional Gi training and modern No-Gi techniques, giving students a well-rounded grappling foundation suitable for competition, self-defense, or personal development. The academy is led by an elite coaching team with world-class credentials. Head instructor Shane Jamil Hill-Taylor is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 20 years of experience, multiple IBJJF world titles, and competed in the prestigious 2019 ADCC tournament. Coach John Brattelli holds the #1 global ranking in No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu through the IBJJF with over 10 International Open titles, and brings 26 years of Boxing and Kickboxing experience including a 2015 world championship. Coach Dan Scanlan is an NCAA National Champion wrestler (2012) with 17 years of coaching experience, having trained over 20 Virginia State Champions and multiple national titleholders. APEX offers a diverse program structure including fundamentals and advanced Jiu-Jitsu classes, competition training, marathon rolling sessions, youth and adult kickboxing, and an introductory MMA program. Classes run 6 days per week with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to accommodate various schedules. The academy emphasizes a supportive, safe training environment where students develop practical self-defense skills, improve fitness, and build confidence. New students can start with a free trial class, and kickboxing students receive complimentary boxing gloves and shin pads upon enrollment.

AJJMT

Alpha Jiu-Jitsu & Muay Thai (AJJMT) was founded in 2017 by professors Antônio Neto, Alex William, and Ricardo Costa, emerging from the solid foundation of Gracie Barra Paraíba. The gym's roots trace back to the pioneering work of professor Luis Barbosa, who brought jiu-jitsu to Paraíba in 1990 from Rio de Janeiro. The lineage flows through the Gracie family legacy (Carlos Gracie → Hélio Gracie → Carlson Gracie → Gutenberg Melo → Mário Sukata → Key Pessoa), representing decades of dedication to preserving the art's essence and technical excellence. The academy employs a proprietary methodology designed to facilitate learning for both adults and children across all martial arts disciplines. Alpha's training philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, personal development, and preserving the legacy built over decades in the Paraíba jiu-jitsu community. The team is committed to contributing to the evolution and personal well-being of students, strengthening both spirit and body through martial arts. The instruction team is led by founder Antônio Neto (3rd degree black belt) and co-founder Ricardo Costa (2nd degree black belt, specialist in self-defense). Additional instructors include Jordaneis Júnior (black belt, kids jiu-jitsu specialist), Fabrício Marinho (brown belt, no-gi specialist), Pedro Henrique (purple belt, physical conditioning specialist), and Maria Rafaela (purple belt, women's jiu-jitsu instructor). The academy maintains strong connections to its Gracie Barra heritage and the broader development of martial arts in northeastern Brazil.

AKVA Jiu-Jitsu

AKVA Academia de Jiu-Jitsu is a traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the Hauer neighborhood of Curitiba, Paraná. The academy follows the rich lineage of Jiu-Jitsu from its origins in India and Japan, through the Gracie family in Brazil, to the present day. AKVA emphasizes the historical and philosophical foundations of Jiu-Jitsu, tracing its development from ancient combat techniques to the modern sport practiced worldwide. The academy offers comprehensive training programs for both adults and children. The adult program (Jiu-Jitsu Misto) provides one-hour classes with flexible scheduling Monday through Friday, accommodating various skill levels. The children's program (Jiu-Jitsu Infantil) offers 50-minute classes designed to develop motor coordination, reflexes, reasoning, character, moral values, self-confidence, respect for peers, and a sense of discipline and hierarchy. AKVA Jiu-Jitsu maintains an active community with regular publications of their AKVA Magazine, keeping students informed about academy news, events, and Jiu-Jitsu developments. The academy emphasizes the many benefits of Jiu-Jitsu training including weight loss, character development, improved reflexes, body definition, stress reduction, increased well-being, and self-defense skills.

AKXE BJJ USA Academy is a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy located in the heart of Agoura Hills, California. Founded by Professor Rodrigo Carvalho, a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 30 years of experience, AKXE carries forward the prestigious "Ratinho" lineage through an authentic and technical approach to the gentle art. The academy represents the highest standards of BJJ instruction, blending traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals with modern, life-transforming methodology. Professor Rodrigo Carvalho began his journey at age 11 in Rio de Janeiro under the legendary Octavio Couto ("Ratinho") and Vinicius Campelo, training at the world-famous Alliance Gym (now AKXE BJJ). His illustrious lineage traces through Carlos Gracie > Hélio Gracie > Rickson Gracie > Marcelo Behring > Vinicius Campelo > Octavio Couto > Rodrigo Carvalho. As a 3-time Brazilian State Champion and NAGA Black Belt Champion, Professor Carvalho has built a global reputation, having brought Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Slovenia and surrounding countries in 2007 before being hand-picked by UFC Heavyweight Champion Bas Rutten in 2011 to head the BJJ program in Southern California. Joining him are Professor Zachary Kraschinsky, a dedicated black belt and MMA professional who leads the academy's Muay Thai and MMA programs, and Professor Kameron Fardad, the academy's first black belt under Professor Carvalho who competes in MMA and is deeply involved in the Fight For A Kid charity. AKXE Academy offers comprehensive programs for all ages and skill levels, from Little Jiu-Jitsu for ages 3-7 and Youth programs for ages 8-14, to Fundamentals and Advanced classes for adults and teens. The academy emphasizes anti-bullying education, self-defense, character development, and competition training. Beyond martial arts instruction, AKXE is committed to social impact through the Fight For A Kid charity, a 501(c)(3) non-profit providing underprivileged youth in Brazil with international competition opportunities, professional instruction pathways, and life-changing mobility. The academy features a privileged location close to the highway, private parking, monitored security, and a huge mat area, creating a family-oriented environment where students develop not just martial arts skills, but respect, discipline, courage, and lifelong friendships.

Alameda Jiu-Jitsu

House of Alameda Jiu Jitsu, located in Keaau, Hawaii, is an ATOS-affiliated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy led by Professor Jordan Alameda. Professor Jordan's journey in jiu jitsu began in 2009 when he started training under Nova Uniao Black Belts Renato "Charuto" Verissimo and Kaynan Kaku at Nova Uniao Puna Academy on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. In 2013, as a purple belt, Professor Jordan moved to San Diego to train under Andre Galvao, 6X ADCC Champion and Head Professor at ATOS HQ. During his time at ATOS headquarters, Professor Jordan won multiple gold medals along the west coast. He earned his black belt in 2017 and had the opportunity to teach at ATOS HQ before returning home to Hawaiʻi. Professor Jordan Alameda is the only ATOS HQ black belt in Hawaiʻi, bringing world-class instruction to the Big Island. His lineage traces through some of the most legendary names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Mitsuyo "Count Koma" Maeda → Carlos Gracie, Sr. → Helio Gracie → Rolls Gracie → Romero "Jacaré" Cavalcanti → Alexandre Paiva → Fernando "Tererê" Augusto → André Galvao → Jordan Alameda. The academy offers programs for all ages and skill levels, from keiki (children) ages 5 and up to adult classes, including both gi and no-gi training.

Alamo Ranch Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Sajj

San Antonio Jiu-Jitsu Academy (SAJJ) is a family owned and operated jiu-jitsu gym based in the Alamo Ranch area of San Antonio. The academy warmly welcomes enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels to experience the versatile and practical martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With comprehensive training in both Gi and No-Gi disciplines, SAJJ provides high-level instruction in a positive and challenging environment dedicated to helping students develop their skills and reach their full potential. The academy is led by Head Coach Carl Cline, a 2nd degree black belt under the lineage of Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Carlson Gracie > Sérgio Bolão > Ricardo Marques > Diego Gamonal. Carl is a former mixed martial arts champion with over 20 years of BJJ experience who regularly competes in IBJJF tournaments, earning gold medals at the 2024 Houston Open and Austin Open as a black belt master. The coaching staff also includes world-class competitors: Igor Schneider (black belt under Cicero Costha, 6x Brazilian Nationals and World Championship winner), Samanta Fonseca (black belt and founder of BJJ Girls Mag), Brittany Cline (black belt and 2025 IBJJF World Master Champion), Jarrod Thoma (brown belt with wrestling background since 1995), and Kenji Sato (brown belt and multiple-time IBJJF No-Gi champion). SAJJ believes that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art - it's a way of life. Through training, students develop discipline, confidence, and resilience that extends beyond the mat. The academy emphasizes community, family, and developing meaningful relationships, with Jiu-Jitsu serving as the vehicle for these connections. Classes are offered for kids (ages 4-12) and adults (ages 13+), with specialized programs including competition training and a women's only class.

Alaska Legacy Jiu-Jitsu

Established in 2016, Legacy Jiu Jitsu has been serving the Anchorage community for over 8 years. As a proud affiliate of the ARES BJJ Association, Legacy strives to provide a comprehensive martial arts experience with programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, Muay Thai, Judo, Wrestling, and MMA. The gym fosters an environment that promotes personal growth and confidence in all members, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Led by a diverse team of experienced instructors including Niko Novelli (Muay Thai/BJJ/MMA), Danny Chong (BJJ), and Jose Nicazio (Kids & Adult BJJ), Legacy Jiu Jitsu offers specialized programs for adults, youth, and women. The academy's motto 'The Family We Choose' reflects their commitment to building a supportive martial arts community in Alaska.

Nova União Grajaú is an affiliated academy of the legendary Nova União team, one of the most prestigious Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teams in the world. Founded by André Pederneiras and Wendell Alexander in Rio de Janeiro in 1995, Nova União has produced numerous world champions in both BJJ and MMA, including legendary fighters like José Aldo and Renan Barão. Located in the Grajaú neighborhood at Rua Duquesa de Bragança, 15, this academy offers a comprehensive martial arts program including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (gi and no-gi), Muay Thai, and specialized programs for all ages and skill levels. The academy features modern facilities designed to maintain fitness and wellness for the local community. Led by Professor Alex Barros de Oliveira, a Nova União black belt, the academy provides expert instruction across multiple disciplines. The training environment emphasizes the Nova União philosophy of technical excellence, competition preparation, and building champions both on and off the mats. With programs ranging from kids classes to advanced adult training, Nova União Grajaú continues the team's tradition of producing high-level practitioners and fostering a strong martial arts community in Rio de Janeiro.

Alicerce Jiu-Jitsu was founded in 2020 by the Neoral family: Iaroslav Neoral, Iaroslav Filho, and Iranslav Neoral. The school was born with the mission to be the solid foundation in each student's life, transmitting a fusion of tradition and innovation, combining knowledge and experience in an exclusive methodology. Located in Franca, São Paulo, Alicerce is a 100% dedicated Jiu-Jitsu school with climate-controlled facilities. The school's training philosophy focuses on Jiu-Jitsu as a tool for personal development and transformation. Their approach emphasizes that Jiu-Jitsu is a complete sports tool that works both body and mind, always channeling towards balance. They work to extract the best from each student through passion and commitment to what they do, treating this as a family mission. The methodologies are specifically designed for different age groups and skill levels, ensuring appropriate pedagogy for children and proper progression for adults from fundamentals through advanced training. The school is led by three black belt instructors from the Neoral family. Iaroslav Neoral (5th degree black belt) is the patriarch who introduced Jiu-Jitsu to Franca. He started training in 1993 in Rio de Janeiro and earned his black belt in 2000. Iaroslav Filho (1st degree black belt) is a multi-champion competitor who began training at age 8 in 2007 under his father, earning his black belt in 2019 and becoming the idealist behind Alicerce. Iranslav Neoral (black belt) is also a multi-champion and currently the school's #1 competitor, who started training at age 6 in 2007 and earned his black belt in 2021.

Allegiance Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Allegiance Jiu-Jitsu Academy Derby is one of the UK's most experienced and respected martial arts schools, with over 40 years of martial arts expertise and 29 years of trusted instruction in Derby. After nearly 20 years operating as Gracie Barra Derby, the academy rebranded to Allegiance Jiu-Jitsu Academy — a name that reflects its independence, legacy, and long-standing values while continuing the same high standards of coaching and community. Led by head coach Professor Patrick Martin, a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and 6th degree Japanese Jujitsu black belt with 40 years of martial arts experience, the academy offers a comprehensive range of martial arts disciplines including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (gi and no-gi), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and traditional Japanese Jujitsu. The academy follows a holistic approach, promoting both physical and mental wellness through structured training and mindful practice. The academy operates as a family-run, Premium Certified school with modern facilities and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. All instructors teach using principles developed through years of experience, growth, and dedication to the art, with values rooted in family, community, and inclusivity. Professor Patrick Martin's unique background includes qualifications as a fully qualified Hypnotherapist and fluency in British Sign Language (Level 6), bringing a distinctive perspective to martial arts instruction. The academy has proven success with students of all levels — from complete beginners to competitors — and maintains an excellent safety and injury record through disciplined, focused training methods.

Allegiant Jiu-Jitsu

Allegiant Jiu-Jitsu is a modern, comprehensive martial arts and fitness facility located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Founded by Professor Jason Elliott, a lifelong resident and black belt with training since 2007, the academy is dedicated to delivering world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu using modern, science-based training methodologies. Unlike traditional "1995 BJJ" gyms, Allegiant employs Ecological Dynamics and the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA), focusing on adaptability over memorization through dynamic, task-focused games and live problem-solving rather than static drilling. The academy offers comprehensive programs for all ages: Little Cubs (ages 5-7), Juniors & Teens (ages 8-13), and Adult Jiu-Jitsu, with both gi and no-gi training available throughout the week. Tuesday and Thursday classes are dedicated no-gi days, and the academy also offers Striking/MMA classes. Beyond the mats, Allegiant features a dedicated on-site fitness center for strength training and conditioning, providing a complete athlete development experience under one roof. Professor Jason Elliott, the owner and head instructor, brings extensive experience from his background in Judo and Wrestling since 2007. His mission is to mentor and inspire others, creating a supportive community built on discipline, respect, and growth. Coach Kat Elliott, a Self Defense Instructor since 2017, serves as Owner and Head Instructor for women's self-defense programs and also coaches youth and adult classes. The academy emphasizes zero ego training, maximum efficiency, and building instincts through modern training methods that respect students' time and accelerate skill development.