FAQ.
Every question we get at the door, answered once.
Do I need experience to start?
No. Most of the people you'll see on the mat on day one were beginners once. Our GB1 Fundamentals class is built for that first day, and our GBK kids classes are beginner-friendly across every age group too.
What should I wear for my first class?
Athletic clothes work fine. We'll hand you a loaner gi at the door — once you sign up, your Gracie Barra uniform is included in your membership.
How old do kids have to be to start?
Both Jacksonville and St Johns start at age 3 in our GBK0 program. Programs run up through age 14.
Is Jiu-Jitsu safe for kids?
Gracie Barra's kids curriculum is age-specific and coach-supervised at low ratios. There's no striking in kids BJJ — it's a grappling art built on control, not force. Every class is designed around building confidence, not collisions.
What's the difference between Jacksonville and St Johns?
Same curriculum, same head instructors, same standard. Jacksonville is our flagship and offers the full MMA program including Kickboxing and Wrestling. St Johns is our family-first mat near Nocatee with sauna and cold plunge for adult recovery. Members can train at either.
Can I try a class for free?
Yes. Book a free trial on the Membership page and walk in 15 minutes early. That first class is always on us.
Do you do private lessons?
Yes. Private lessons are available with our black belts and select coaches. Ask at the front desk — rate depends on instructor.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Roughly ten years of consistent training. That's the Gracie Barra standard and it's deliberate — the belt is a real milestone when you get there.
Is there a contract?
We offer both month-to-month and 6 month agreement options. You can cancel month-to-month with 30 days' notice. We'd rather you stay because you want to.
Do you offer a women's-only class?
Yes — our GBF (Gracie Barra Females) program runs at both locations and is led by either female coaches or head/senior instructors.
Can my kid compete?
Yes — six months of training is required to represent either location at competition. We participate in New Breed, IBJJF, Fuji, Jiu-Jitsu World League, and Gracie Barra Compnet tournaments held locally and regionally.
Do you accept Step Up For Students?
Yes. We're a direct provider for the Step Up For Students Program. Florida families can make membership payments directly through the Step Up portal.
Do you offer discounts for families or military?
Yes. For further questions, please reach out to us for more information.
Where are you located?
Jacksonville: 8210 Cypress Plaza Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32256.
St Johns: 10440 US-1 Unit 115-116, St Augustine, FL 32095 (near Nocatee).
How do I sign up?
Book a free trial class first. If the mat feels right, your coach will walk you through membership the same day.
Still got questions?
The door is open and Coach is usually at the front desk.