Been working out here since they opened in Nov. '11. Can't say enough. Great gym, great professors, excellent discipline, respect demanded, practical instruction, etc. etc. I have trained in other martial arts off/on over the years, and even in other BJJ schools. However, I have never really gotten everything out of a school that I wanted. Here, I get discipline, a regimented work out, my instructors are well respected black belts, and they really take the time to make sure you are doing the techniques correctly, and practically. For example, most all of our instruction starts from the standing position, and we work our way down to the ground (i.e. the way most fights start). Along the way the professors will point out the "self-defense" way to do things, but then also the "sport" way to do things - if that happens to be of interest to you. The bottom line is you get great instruction, from great instructors who are intent on making sure you learn things the right way. They don't tolerate a-holes, or mma pre-madonnas. It is a safe, well structured environment for learning solid BJJ, and what's more, the place is like one big family. read more

This is the most open, honest and well intentioned schools I have come across in St. Louis. After being out of the sport for more than 5 years, I was welcomed to my new home with a level of interest that I had never experienced. I knew from my first conversation with the owner that this was nothing like some of the ego/sweat driven MMA gyms in the area. The school is more interested in safety and establishing a healthy environment than putting bodies in classes. This is rare if not totally unique in St. Louis BJJ/MMA. If you want a pure and healthy learning experience, just try a class for free. With the great diversity this school has attracted, men, women and children of any athletic ability or fitness level will find a similar partner any day of the week. read more

This is a well-run place where kids can learn Jiu Jitsu at any age (I have only been to the kids classes). I highly recommend Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu - it has been an excellent choice for our son! He started when he was 4 and has been going for over 1 year now. He learns respect, self-control, interacting with other children in a competitive physical way that is fun and good for him, as well as getting all that healthy energy out learning Jiu Jitsu! It has been another teaching setting outside of school that I believe reinforces good behavior and respect towards teacher/adult. He has benefitted from the instructors and Professor Mike and we appreciate the care they take in making it the best experience for the children. We love GB JJ in St. Louis! read more

Gracie Barra St. Louis is truly a one of a kind school. The instructors and coaches have cultivated an environment where everyone, regardless of skill, is made to feel that they are a vital member of a team. The family like atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, and fosters an effective platform for training as your opponents quickly change from simple training partners, to close friends. If you are interested in training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you wont find a better place to do so. Do yourself a favor, and check it out! read more

No better place in Saint Louis to learn the art of Jiu-Jitsu. Totally professional and welcoming environment. I have been learning the art of jiu-jitsu and making some great friends along the way. If you are interested in learning Jiu-Jitsu you really should just drop in and meet the Professor, Coaches and people going to GB STL. I have no doubt you will be as impresssed as I am. read more

Gracie Barra has been nothing short of a great experience. Professor Mike Buckels and Coach Dominique are very professional and personable. Both my son and I have been enrolled for over a year and we both have enjoyed every class. It has been a place to learn high level Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, get a great workout, and build lasting relationships with other families. read more

The instructors are wonderful and incredibly patient with the kids. My son and daughter love coming here and they have both learned so much in such a short time. Gracie Barra does an amazing job of teaching the kids defensive techniques and building their self confidence. I would highly recommend this place for even the shyest child. read more

I can't say enough about Professor Mike Buckles and his staff here at Gracie Barra! Super hero family like atmosphere! The most humble people to learn with...no pressure to compete, great instruction, clean gym, and the kids to love this place! I'll be here until I can't do it any longer. Gracie had become family! Justin s read more

Everything you would expect from an academy with the Gracie Barra name outside of it! The staff at Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu are top notch when it comes to teaching students. The class sizes are growing but still small enough where if you need help, they are there to assist you and help you understand the move. read more

This is a great school with great instructors. My son loves it. He has learned more than juijitsu, he has learned about respect and a healthy diet as well. He really respects the Professor and listens to him. I would recommend this program to anyone! read more

Professor Buckles has a huge open facility with spring mats that promote safety. They answer the phone, and greet you at the door in a pleasant manner. The classmates are friendly and helpful. Great branch of the World Famous Gracie Barra team. read more

My daughter and I love going to this gym! She is learning self-defense and gaining more confidence. She learns something new in every class and the instructors are fantastic with the kids! I love the respect and discipline they teach, too! read more

This is a really nice facility with the greatest instructors around. They encourage my child to do his best in everything, not just BJJ. They take the time to get to know each child and their style of learning and help them excel. read more

It is a great place to learn BJJ! Great instructors with a very friendly environment! The mat is awesome and the place is clean. I would recommend Gracie Barra to anybody who is interested regardless of skill level! read more

Been training here for almost 3 years now and Everyone here is kind and there is no meat head atmosphere it's a friendly environment full of hard working and dedicated people that will help you reach your goals read more

New to the gym and sport but the staff and students make it an easy transition. Coaching and staff are very conscious of students skill level and always hold safety learning and respect in the highest regards. read more

Top level school! Great family atmosphere that truly facilitates learning BJJ for sport or self-defense. My wife and I love it here, and if we had kids they would be going here too! read more

Professor Mike and his coaches are excellent individuals on and off the mat. I strongly recommend Gracie Barra to anyone looking to positively change their life. read more

This is by far the best school I've been too! I love the teaching staff because they really love the art of bjj and it shows in their dedication to us students. read more