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12 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Strength Training in Anniston
Gracie Barra Anniston/Evolution Strength and Conditioning has been dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, fitness, and wellness in Anniston, Alabama, for over a decade. Founded by Professor Lance Hagan, a black belt with 25 years of Jiu-Jitsu experience and a background in Special Operations, our team combines military precision with expert training methodologies. We offer personalized programs in Jiu-Jitsu, strength conditioning, and recovery, supported by partnerships with institutions like Jacksonville State University. Our facility features cutting-edge resources, including a recovery room with cold plunge therapy, and our instructors are certified under industry leaders in martial arts and fitness.

We prioritize injury prevention, nutritional guidance, and community-building, ensuring every member trains smarter and lives healthier. With classes for all ages and skill levels, from kids' BJJ to advanced competition training, we foster a welcoming environment where discipline and personal growth thrive. Our testimonials highlight our knowledgeable staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and the transformative impact of our programs on both physical and mental well-being. This commitment to excellence has established us as a trusted leader in Anniston's wellness community.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Personal Training Recovery Room Pilates Classes Kids BJJ Womens Self-Defense
Details
  • Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
  • We offer 25 years of Jiu-Jitsu and strength training expertise under Professor Lance Hagan.
  • Our facility includes the area's only cold plunge recovery therapy and NormaTec compression technology.
  • We provide personalized training programs tailored to individual goals and physical limitations.
  • Our instructors are certified under industry leaders like Kaliffa Oliveira and EXOS.
  • We partner with Jacksonville State University for specialized law enforcement training programs.
What people say
Friendly and welcoming environment Coaches are the best in the business Dedicated to your personal growth Community like no other gym Awesome equipment and staff
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program builds strength, confidence, and self-defense skills through expert instruction. Classes focus on proper technique, injury prevention, and real-world applications for all experience levels. Led by Professor Lance Hagan, a black belt with 25 years of experience, our curriculum prepares students for competition or personal growth in a supportive community.
Personal Training
Customized strength and conditioning programs address individual goals and physical limitations. Our certified trainers use evidence-based methods to improve performance, mobility, and injury prevention. Sessions integrate nutritional guidance and recovery tools like cold plunge therapy to optimize results for athletes and general fitness enthusiasts alike.
Recovery Room
The recovery room features cold plunge therapy, sauna sessions, and NormaTec compression leg sleeves to enhance recovery. Designed to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate muscle repair, this resource supports athletes and active individuals in maintaining peak physical condition through science-backed recovery techniques.
Kids BJJ
Our kids' BJJ program (ages 3-13) develops motor skills, discipline, and confidence through age-appropriate instruction. Instructors focus on foundational techniques, safety, and fun engagement while fostering respect and perseverance. Parents report significant improvements in children's physical development and self-esteem through regular participation.
Pilates Classes
Reformer bed Pilates classes enhance mobility, core strength, and flexibility for all fitness levels. These sessions serve as active recovery or standalone strength training, incorporating controlled movements to improve posture and body awareness. The program complements martial arts training and general fitness goals through low-impact, high-effectiveness exercises.
People
Lance Hagan
Owner/Professor/Personal Trainer
Professor Lance Hagan, a black belt under Kaliffa Oliveira, has trained Jiu-Jitsu since 2001. A former Green Beret with 20+ years of deployment experience, he founded Evolution Strength & Conditioning in 2014. Certified under Precision Nutrition and mentored by EXOS and Gym Jones, he specializes in combat sports and functional fitness.
Daniel Paul
Assistant Instructor
Daniel Paul, a brown belt since 2024, teaches technical BJJ with emphasis on discipline and community. Training since 2017, he focuses on accessible instruction that builds physical and mental resilience, believing Jiu-Jitsu transforms both body and character through structured mentorship.
Beau Hamlin
Assistant Instructor
Beau Hamlin, a purple belt with a wrestling background, brings competitive discipline to BJJ instruction. A 16-year Army veteran, he emphasizes practical self-defense applications and accessible training for military, law enforcement, and civilians seeking real-world combat effectiveness.
Stephen Garmon
Assistant Instructor
Stephen Garmon, a purple belt and SWAT team commander, integrates tactical awareness into BJJ instruction. With 7 years of wrestling experience, he teaches morning classes that combine physical conditioning with law enforcement readiness, demonstrating how martial arts enhance professional performance and personal safety.
Conner Owen
Kids Instructor
Conner Owen, a competitive wrestler turned BJJ specialist, teaches kids' classes with energy and technical precision. A two-time IBJJF champion, he focuses on making grappling fun while developing coordination and confidence in young students through engaging, age-appropriate drills and games.
Questions
What martial arts and fitness programs do you offer?
We provide Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for all ages, personal strength training, recovery therapy, and Reformer Pilates. Specialized programs include law enforcement tactical training and women's self-defense seminars.
Can beginners join your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes?
Absolutely. Our BJJ classes accommodate all skill levels, with personalized instruction to correct movement patterns and prevent injuries. Instructors work with new students to build foundational skills at their own pace.
Do you offer trial classes for new members?
Yes, we provide a free trial class to experience our facility, instructors, and community. Participants can also receive a waived first payment when purchasing a uniform.
What recovery resources are available?
Our recovery room features cold plunge therapy, sauna sessions, and NormaTec compression leg sleeves to enhance muscle recovery and reduce inflammation for athletes and active individuals.
Are there youth martial arts programs?
We offer kids' BJJ (ages 3-6) and youth BJJ (ages 7-13) programs that develop motor skills, discipline, and confidence through age-appropriate instruction in a safe, engaging environment.
What makes your facility unique?
We combine martial arts expertise with cutting-edge fitness technology, including personalized nutrition coaching and recovery resources unavailable elsewhere in the region, creating a comprehensive wellness experience.