Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in Glendale
Gracie Barra Glendale has been dedicated to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction since 2010, offering a transformative experience that extends beyond physical training. Our academy was founded by Professor Robert Hill, who began teaching at brown belt before earning his black belt from Master Carlos Gracie Jr. in 2011. We maintain direct lineage to Gracie Barra headquarters, with all instructors ICP-certified through the organization. Our programs cater to all ages and skill levels, from beginner GB1 classes to advanced GB3 No-Gi training, emphasizing practical self-defense techniques and character development.The academy fosters a family-oriented environment where students build confidence, discipline, and perseverance through traditional martial arts values. With over 1,000 students trained, we combine technical expertise with personalized instruction to help individuals unlock their full potential both on and off the mat. Our GBK youth programs and GBF women's curriculum demonstrate our commitment to making Jiu Jitsu accessible to everyone, while our competitive team embodies the spirit of growth through challenges.
Services
Adults Jiu Jitsu
Youth Programs
GBF Women's Program
GB1 Fundamentals
GB2 Advanced Gi
GB3 No-Gi
Little Champs
Juniors Program
Self-Defense Training
Competition Preparation
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer certified instructors with direct lineage to Master Carlos Gracie Jr.
- Our family-oriented environment welcomes all ages and skill levels
- We provide personalized instruction tailored to individual goals
- We maintain traditional martial arts discipline with modern teaching methods
- Our academy has trained over 1,000 students since 2010
Associations and certifications
- Gracie Barra
- ICP
What people say
Amazing instructors
Extremely knowledgeable teachers
Clean facility
Welcoming community
Great for families
Services
Adults Jiu Jitsu
Our Adults Jiu Jitsu program teaches practical self-defense techniques through Gracie Barra's structured curriculum. Students learn grappling, takedowns, and submission techniques in a supportive environment that emphasizes safety and technical proficiency. The program builds physical fitness while developing mental discipline and confidence applicable to real-world situations.
Youth Programs
Youth Jiu Jitsu programs develop physical coordination and mental focus in children aged 4-12. Our GBK curriculum teaches self-defense fundamentals while fostering discipline, respect, and perseverance through age-appropriate instruction that builds confidence and social skills in a safe environment.
GBF Women's Program
The GBF Program offers women a specialized curriculum designed to build physical strength and self-defense capabilities. This 8-week course creates a supportive community while teaching practical techniques that empower participants to transition into regular GB1 classes with confidence.
GB1 Fundamentals
GB1 Fundamentals provides foundational Jiu Jitsu training for all experience levels. The program focuses on core techniques including escapes, control positions, and basic submissions while emphasizing practical self-defense applications in a structured learning environment that builds technical proficiency.
Competition Preparation
Our competition preparation program develops advanced technical skills for sport Jiu Jitsu practitioners. Through specialized drills and sparring sessions, students refine their techniques, improve reaction times, and develop strategic approaches to competition while maintaining traditional martial arts principles.
People
Robert Hill
Lead Instructor & Academy Owner
Professor Robert Hill founded Gracie Barra Glendale in 2010 after teaching at Gracie Barra Headquarters in Irvine. He earned his black belt from Master Carlos Gracie Jr. in 2011 and has over a decade of experience developing martial artists in the Glendale community.
Marvin
Adults Instructor
Professor Marvin brings his expertise as a 2nd Degree Black Belt to our adult Jiu Jitsu classes, sharing years of competitive experience and technical knowledge with students at all levels of their martial arts journey.
Nick
Adults Instructor
Professor Nick, a 1st Degree Black Belt, contributes his specialized knowledge of advanced Jiu Jitsu techniques to our training programs, helping students develop their skills in both self-defense and competitive applications.
Fausto
Part-time Adults & GBK Instructor
Professor Fausto combines his experience in adult instruction with youth program expertise, bringing a comprehensive perspective to both our GBK children's classes and adult training sessions.
Jose
Lead GBK Instructor
Coach Jose, a Brown Belt, specializes in youth instruction as our Lead GBK Instructor, creating engaging and effective learning experiences for children while maintaining the highest standards of martial arts education.
Questions
What Jiu Jitsu programs do you offer for beginners?
We offer GB1 Fundamentals classes for complete beginners, focusing on core techniques and self-defense applications in a welcoming environment for all experience levels.
Are there Jiu Jitsu classes for children?
Yes, we provide GBK programs for children aged 4-12, including Little Champs (4-7) and Juniors (8-12) with age-appropriate instruction emphasizing safety and skill development.
What should I wear to my first Jiu Jitsu class?
For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gis and can help you with proper uniform requirements for ongoing training.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, we offer a free trial week for new students to experience our programs before committing to membership, with no obligation to continue.
What makes Gracie Barra Glendale different from other martial arts schools?
Our direct lineage to Master Carlos Gracie Jr., certified instructors, and family-oriented environment create a unique combination of technical excellence and community support.
Can I compete in Jiu Jitsu tournaments through your academy?
Yes, we prepare students for competition through specialized training programs while emphasizing that competition is optional and personal growth remains our primary focus.
