Business Details
22 Years
experience
Gracie Barra Clearwater | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training in Clearwater, FL
At Gracie Barra Clearwater, we believe martial arts are a powerful tool for discovering inner strength. Founded in 2004, our academy provides a clean, safe, and mutually supportive environment where students of all ages develop proficiency in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, recognized as one of the most effective martial arts globally. Our team of experienced instructors, including 3rd-degree black belt John Keller, combines decades of expertise in grappling, self-defense, and competition training to deliver structured programs tailored to beginners, kids, law enforcement, and competitive athletes.We emphasize discipline, confidence, and character development through techniques that leverage technique over brute strength, making martial arts accessible to everyone. Our commitment to quality instruction, community building, and practical self-defense applications has established us as Clearwater's premier destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Self-Defense Training
Kids Martial Arts
No Gi Classes
Competition Preparation
Wrestling Instruction
Women's Self-Defense
Open Mat Sessions
Character Development
Fitness Programs
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience with certified instructors.
- Our curriculum combines self-defense, fitness, and competition training.
- Safe, structured programs for kids, adults, and law enforcement professionals.
- Proven methodology emphasizing technique over physical strength.
- Active competition team with tournament preparation expertise.
What people say
Expert instructors
Family-friendly atmosphere
Practical self-defense skills
Positive confidence growth
Structured curriculum
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program teaches practical self-defense techniques through grappling and ground fighting. Students learn to control opponents using leverage and technique rather than strength. The curriculum develops physical fitness, mental discipline, and real-world defensive capabilities for practitioners aged 4 to adult.
Self-Defense Training
Self-defense classes focus on practical techniques for real-life scenarios. Students master escapes from headlocks, chokes, and pins while learning takedown defense and ground control. Programs include specialized training for women and law enforcement professionals, emphasizing situational awareness and de-escalation strategies.
Kids Martial Arts
Our kids' martial arts program builds confidence, discipline, and physical fitness for children aged 4-12. Through age-appropriate instruction, children learn self-defense fundamentals, conflict resolution, and bully-proofing techniques in a safe, engaging environment that promotes character development and lifelong healthy habits.
No Gi Classes
No Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on submission grappling without traditional uniforms. These fast-paced classes emphasize takedowns, leg locks, and positional control. Students develop athleticism and adaptability through drills and sparring that complement traditional Gi training, preparing practitioners for competitive and real-world scenarios.
Competition Preparation
Our competition program prepares athletes for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments through specialized drilling and sparring sessions. Students refine techniques under expert coaching, develop strategic mindset, and build physical conditioning. The program accommodates all experience levels, from first-time competitors to seasoned athletes seeking world championship titles.
People
John Keller
Head Instructor
3rd-degree black belt with 20+ years of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. Trained under Eduardo De Lima and Roger Patrizzi, John has taught all-ages classes since 2004. Specializes in law enforcement training and competitive development while maintaining a safe, inclusive learning environment.
Benjamin Castellano
Instructor
4th-degree purple belt with 30+ years martial arts experience. Teaches self-defense and kids' classes while co-leading women's programs. Combines 20+ years teaching experience with ballroom dance instruction to enhance movement and coordination in martial arts training.
Dryden Dennis
Wrestling Instructor
Former Division 1 wrestler with Olympic-level coaching experience. Brings 20+ years competitive wrestling expertise to Gracie Barra Clearwater, focusing on takedowns and mat control techniques that complement Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.
Beatrice Lopez
Instructor
Certified women's self-defense specialist with 15+ years teaching experience. Combines martial arts expertise with award-winning dance background to improve body mechanics. Also contributes dental health knowledge to support student wellness.
Questions
What should I wear to my first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing without zippers or buttons. A rash guard and grappling shorts are ideal, but regular workout clothes work for your first session.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our fundamentals classes welcome complete beginners and provide structured progression for all skill levels.
Are kids' classes available?
Yes, we offer age-specific programs for children aged 4-12 with separate classes for different skill levels and physical abilities.
What are the benefits of No Gi training?
No Gi classes improve grip strength, body control, and adaptability by focusing on natural movement without uniform grips, complementing traditional Gi training.
Can I compete in tournaments through this academy?
Yes, our competition program prepares students for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments with specialized coaching and sparring sessions for all experience levels.
Is self-defense training effective for real-world situations?
Our self-defense curriculum teaches practical techniques for real-life scenarios, including escapes from chokes, takedowns, and ground control strategies.
