Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu Ocotillo is truly something special…read more From the moment we walked in, we could tell this wasn't just another martial arts gym it was a family. The coaches genuinely care about every student who walks through the door, and you can feel that every single class. Coach Lucas, in particular, goes above and beyond. He doesn't just teach Jiu-Jitsu; he builds confidence, discipline, and respect in his students. He takes the time to connect with the kids on a personal level, and it's clear he's passionate about helping them grow both on and off the mat. Our daughter absolutely loves going, she looks forward to every class and is always excited to show us what she's learned. The positive, encouraging environment has helped her blossom. We're already planning for our youngest to join soon too! If you're looking for a place that combines world-class Jiu-Jitsu instruction with a truly caring, family-friendly atmosphere, Gracie Barra Ocotillo is the place. Couldn't recommend it more highly!

I decided in the new year to sign up for a trial class and check out BJJ. I've always wanted to…read morelearn but thought I was too old, and haven't literally never played any sports, ever, I assumed I wouldn't have any skills to compete and learn. But what the heck, let's give it a try. What I found was a really cool group of welcoming individuals that were helpful, gave tips, included me, and helped me along. Day one I was able to spar with blue belts & much more experienced men at BJJ, but it wasn't as intimidating as I imagined. No one was trying it hurt anyone, no obvious egos at play, just guys trying to get better and help others get better at the art. My take on BJJ: it's a self defense martial art, yes, but in practice it felt much much much more like a dance than a fight. It felt much more like a chess match vs at battle. You do not have to be the strongest person to compete and win at BJJ, but you have to be the smartest. You do have to have superior knowledge. Once you start to learn the way the body works, tricks to maximize your position and take away someone else's power or advantage, it's really a cool thing. Literally, a 125lb female can easily beat a 225lb male in this sport, if she has the knowledge. It's not all power or size, while that helps, it can be stripped from an opponent when you have superior training and knowledge of the sport. That was the coolest part for me to see. A huge confidence builder knowing you have the ability to defend yourself or others, if necessary, against odds you may have once thought not possible. Anyway, I enjoyed my training there and would recommend it to virtually anyone that has been considering learning BJJ. It's a good place with good people teaching a great skill. Just do it.

We LOVE this school! My seven year old has ADHD and experiencing some issues at school. We thought…read moreexploring Jiu Jitsu would teach him respect, discipline, and determination. Professor Luke is amazing with the kids. He makes them feel independent and empowered! My son is thriving in school and loves Jiu Jitsu. He shares his moves with me at home and I often have to tap out. He's improved so much both academically and in sparring!

Gracie Barra Chandler is simply world-class. The quality of the jiu jitsu instruction is unmatched,…read moreand every single professor and coach serves as a phenomenal example for my kids--both on and off the mats. My wife, four of our five kids, and I all train here (our youngest is only two, but she'll be on the mats soon enough!). Professor Piu has built something truly special: a high-performance, positive, and family-friendly culture that turns hard training into a joy. He's transformed what started as a small Arizona gym into one of the top jiu jitsu academies in the country. If you're looking for elite-level training, role model coaches, and a place where the whole family can thrive, this is the place.

I've been going here for 2 years. Great group of people to roll with. The instructors really care…read moreabout your progression and are always willing to help.

The instructors are well trained, patient, provide a fun environment, all in a disciplined…read moreenvironment. Your family will get every penny worth of the cost. We couldn't be happier with it!

At 63 years old (just hit 64- at the time of this review) and powering through the ups and downs of…read moreCerebral Ataxia- shrinkage of the brain stem, causing balance issues- I have learned to persevere through virtually any challenge that comes my way. (Carlson Gracie) Jiu Jitsu has been my strength and inspiration for many years now. It's what keeps me happy, reasonably healthy, humble and grounded.

Here you'll find competition training and a family atmosphere combined. Who could ask for a better…read moreoutcome? My kids and husband have been training here for six years. We love it. The coaches are invested in each individual person's well-being. This is competition type training, though. Not a daycare. Not a place to get New belt every month and go home with a trophy. It's for serious kids and adults only. When you join this team, you also join the family.

Midlife, needed a productive hobby to do with my son's. After one session, the traditional feel of…read morethe class quickly peaked my interest. My eldest son (18) quickly ascended to competitive tournaments, while my younger son (12) and myself are slowly are progressing as a hobby. The endorphins & self confidence are evident, and the camaraderie Claudio has built is undeniable. There are several whole families that train here, and now mine. Its a small intimate place, and true to its name as jiu-jitsu had provided SOILD GROUND for our community to stand up on. Thank you Professor Claudio.

This is a great gym for all ages. My 8 year old has become much more confident and has learned so…read moremany different skills and techniques just in the last 6 months. My 4 year old comes along and can't wait to join next year for the younger class. My friend's husband goes there as well and really enjoys it. Professor Claudio is patient and fun, but also challenges the group every session.

I was looking for an outlet for my 4-year-old son since he has so much energy, and I really wanted…read morehim to get involved in something positive. After visiting a few other jiu-jitsu clubs, Gracie Barra in Avondale was everything we were hoping for. We're so grateful for the opportunity for our son to attend classes, stay active, and start building important life skills at such a young age.

Listen, a fear of mine is putting children in an environment that isn't fit for them to grow and…read moredevelop... especially in their confidence. BUT this location, here... has completely met all of my expectations. They're incredible. The entire community, coaches and professors. I'm so happy I was referred to this location because WOW. My son has excelled with their help and is so happy here. My baby found his community and that makes me a happy mom. Shoutout to the Gracie Barra family. You truly are the best!!!!

My grandson loves ATA, he's learning a lot! The owner and instructors are great! I recommend going…read morehere, great for many age groups!

Excellent instruction+ Positive energy…read more Follows rules for COVID! Each individual get's one on one time with the instructors! Great workout! Friendly staff!