Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Trusted Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Columbus
Gracie Ohio has been dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 1992, rooted in the Gracie family tradition. Our mission is to teach effective self-defense to students of all ages through structured programs. We offer fundamentals courses, kids' classes, advanced training, open mat sessions, and personalized private lessons. With over 30 years of continuous operation, our academy has produced numerous champions in Pan-Am, Jiu-Jitsu Worlds, and other prestigious competitions. Our community fosters lifelong friendships and mutual support, emphasizing discipline, respect, and physical fitness.Instructors with decades of experience, including direct training under the Gracies, guide students in mastering technique and strategy. The academy also hosts events and competitions, creating opportunities for engagement beyond regular training. Our store provides specialized gear and apparel for practitioners. We welcome beginners and experienced martial artists alike, ensuring an inclusive environment for personal growth. Our legacy and commitment to quality instruction make Gracie Ohio a trusted institution in Columbus, Ohio.
Services
Fundamentals Program
Kids Jiu-Jitsu
Advanced Training
Open Mat Sessions
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu expertise with direct lineage to the Gracie family.
- Our academy has produced multiple international competition champions.
- Comprehensive programs available for all ages and skill levels.
- Community-driven environment with supportive instructors and students.
- Focus on practical self-defense techniques and real-world application.
What people say
Top-notch coaches
Welcoming community
Family-friendly environment
Technical growth
Competition success
Services
Fundamentals Program
Our Fundamentals Program teaches essential self-defense techniques for real-world scenarios. White to blue belt curriculum focuses on strategy, timing, and leverage for street readiness. Instructors emphasize proper technique over brute strength, making it accessible to all fitness levels.
Kids Jiu-Jitsu
Structured classes for children aged 3-16 develop discipline, confidence, and non-violent conflict resolution. Age-specific programs include Little Champs (3-5), Juniors 1-3, with emphasis on anti-bullying skills and physical development.
Advanced Training
High-level students refine skills through advanced techniques and strategic sparring. Sessions include Gi and No-Gi formats, focusing on competition preparation and complex grappling scenarios under experienced instructors.
Open Mat Sessions
Unstructured training periods allow students to test skills with peers of all levels. Sessions feature partner drills, rolling, and technique refinement in a social environment with instructor guidance available.
Private Lessons
One-on-one instruction tailors learning to individual goals. Instructors provide detailed feedback on specific techniques, competition strategies, or self-defense scenarios chosen by the student during dedicated sessions.
People
Dr. Jeffrey Hudson
Founder
Dr. Jeffrey Hudson studied directly under the Gracie family since 1990, accumulating extensive private training hours with Relson Gracie. As founder of Gracie Ohio, he combines medical expertise with martial arts instruction to develop effective training methodologies.
Relson Gracie
Instructor
Relson Gracie, son of Helio Gracie, has taught martial arts globally for decades. His 22-year undefeated Brazilian national championship record and family legacy make him a key figure in Gracie Ohio's instructional approach.
Jerry Caylor
Student
Three-year member and experienced practitioner emphasizes technical growth and community support. Jerry highlights Gracie Ohio's balanced focus on self-defense fundamentals and competitive success in his testimonial.
Questions
Do I need prior fitness experience to start?
No. Our program adapts to all fitness levels, with gradual improvement through regular training sessions.
How does the belt ranking system work?
Progression follows white, blue, purple, brown, and black belt based strictly on technical proficiency demonstrated during sparring.
What should I expect in a typical class?
Classes include technique demonstrations, cooperative drills, structured sparring (rolling), and instructor feedback tailored to skill levels.
Why focus on ground fighting?
Real-world fights often transition to ground combat, where leverage-based grappling neutralizes size/strength advantages effectively.
What if I feel nervous as a beginner?
Our welcoming culture ensures new students receive patient guidance, with no pressure or intimidation from instructors or peers.
