Business Details
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Bradenton, FL
Gracie Bradenton is a premier martial arts academy in Bradenton, Florida, offering authentic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and kickboxing instruction rooted in Gracie lineage under Royce Gracie. We provide structured programs for all ages, from youth to adults, emphasizing self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. Our team of 12 expert coaches brings nearly a century of combined experience, fostering a supportive, inclusive community where students develop technical proficiency, confidence, and personal growth.We prioritize no-gi training while maintaining strict adherence to safety standards and ethical instruction, ensuring accessible, high-quality martial arts education for both casual learners and competitive athletes.
Services
Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Adult Kickboxing
Women's Jiu Jitsu
Kids Jiu Jitsu
Teens Kickboxing
Highlights and features
- We offer authentic Gracie Jiu Jitsu lineage directly connected to Royce Gracie
- Our 12 expert coaches provide 100+ years combined teaching experience
- Free trial classes available Monday-Friday for all age groups
- No-gi focus with optional gi practice during open mat sessions
- Dedicated womens and kids programs with specialized instructors
What people say
Absolute toughest jiu jitsu people
Dedicated to what they do
Son loves it there
Great support system
Premier academy in area
Services
Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Learn practical self-defense techniques while improving physical fitness. This martial art teaches leverage-based combat against larger opponents. Classes include live grappling drills to develop real-world skills. Programs accommodate all skill levels with personalized progression tracking and flexible scheduling.
Adult Kickboxing
High-intensity striking workouts combining cardio and self-defense. Sessions improve coordination, build muscle tone, and reduce stress. Instructors guide beginners through proper form while challenging experienced participants. Combines effective combat techniques with functional fitness training for all ability levels.
Women's Jiu Jitsu
Specialized programs focusing on women's self-defense scenarios. Tailored instruction addresses situational awareness and escape techniques. Women-only classes led by experienced head coach. Develops confidence through practical grappling skills applicable to real-life safety situations.
Kids Jiu Jitsu
Structured programs for ages 4-15 building discipline and problem-solving skills. Focus on character development through technical training. Classes improve focus, respect, and physical coordination while teaching safe self-defense methods in age-appropriate formats.
Teens Kickboxing
Muay Thai classes for ages 7-15 developing physical strength and mental resilience. Curriculum emphasizes goal-setting, accountability, and stress relief. Combines technical striking instruction with confidence-building exercises in a supportive, supervised environment.
People
Sonny Parlin
Black Belt Owner & Head Coach
Sonny Parlin, head instructor with black belt under Rob Kahn (trained with Royce Gracie). Focuses on accessible, practical jiu jitsu instruction while maintaining traditional standards. Former law enforcement trainer specializing in defensive techniques.
Kate Young
Brown Belt Owner, Head Kids & Women's Coach
Kate Young, head women's and youth instructor with 15 years teaching experience. Combines martial arts expertise with educational background to create structured, confidence-building programs for female students and children.
Travis Prentice
Black Belt Adult Coach
Travis Prentice, experienced black belt instructor specializing in technique refinement and competition preparation. Provides personalized feedback during live sparring sessions while maintaining a supportive learning environment for new students.
Christian Chang
Black Belt Adult Coach
Christian Chang, black belt instructor with expertise in foundational jiu jitsu principles. Focuses on technical proficiency and progressive skill development, balancing intensity with accessibility for all participants.
Dylan Cameron
Black Belt Adult Coach
Dylan Cameron, black belt instructor emphasizing practical self-defense applications. Specializes in wrestling integration and physical conditioning while maintaining safety-focused training methods for mixed-skill groups.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai kickboxing, both focusing on practical self-defense applications and physical conditioning.
Are classes available for complete beginners?
All programs welcome beginners with structured curriculum, personalized instruction, and flexible progression timelines for all age groups.
How does the belt promotion system work?
Students earn ranks through consistent attendance, technical proficiency demonstrated during live rolling, and twice-yearly formal ceremonies without additional fees.
Do you offer law enforcement discounts?
Yes, we provide special pricing for law enforcement officers and incorporate scenario-specific defensive training into our curriculum.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes - we train no-gi format without specific uniform requirements for adult programs.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, we offer free trial classes Monday-Friday with no obligation. Simply sign up online or visit prior to any scheduled session.
