Business Details
16 Years
experience
Gilroy's Premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training Center
Founded in 2010, Gilroy BJJ has established itself as South Santa Clara County's premier destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction. Our academy, led by World Champion Carlos Melo, offers comprehensive training programs for adults and children, combining self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and competitive skill development. With over 1400 square feet of mat space and state-of-the-art facilities, we provide a structured environment where students of all skill levels can build confidence, discipline, and practical martial arts expertise. Our affiliation with the Caio Terra Association connects students to global resources and world-class instruction.Through daily classes, specialized training sessions, and competition preparation, we cultivate a community focused on personal growth, technical mastery, and mental resilience. Our certified instructors bring decades of combined experience, ensuring students receive expert guidance in both traditional techniques and modern applications. We maintain strong partnerships with local law enforcement for specialized training while welcoming recreational practitioners seeking fitness and self-improvement. The academy's proven track record of producing world champions demonstrates our commitment to excellence in martial arts education.
Services
Fundamental Jiu-Jitsu
Advanced Jiu-Jitsu
Kids Program
Competition Training
Self-Defense Instruction
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- World Champion instruction from IBJJF Certified Black Belts
- Over 1400 sq ft facility with professional training equipment
- Proven track record producing international competition champions
- Structured programs for both recreational and competitive practitioners
- Specialized law enforcement self-defense training expertise
Associations and certifications
- IBJJF Certified
What people say
World Champion coaching
Proven competition success
Structured training programs
Family-friendly environment
Expert instructors
Services
Fundamental Jiu-Jitsu
Structured instruction for new practitioners focusing on core techniques and foundational principles. Our program develops essential skills through repetitive drilling and controlled practice sessions. Students build technical proficiency while learning proper form and safety protocols that support long-term progression in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Advanced Jiu-Jitsu
High-level technical development for experienced practitioners emphasizing complex techniques and competition strategies. This program includes advanced concept exploration, live training scenarios, and personalized feedback to refine competitive performance and deepen martial arts understanding.
Kids Program
Age-appropriate martial arts instruction fostering physical development and character growth. Our curriculum teaches self-defense fundamentals while emphasizing respect, discipline, and problem-solving skills in a safe, engaging environment for children.
Competition Training
Specialized preparation for competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments focusing on match strategy and pressure management. Athletes receive tailored instruction to enhance competitive performance through scenario-based training and technical refinement for competition success.
Self-Defense Instruction
Real-world self-defense techniques applicable to various threat scenarios. This program teaches situational awareness and practical defense strategies while building confidence through realistic training scenarios and physical conditioning.
People
Carlos Melo
Founder & Head Instructor
IBJJF Certified 4th Degree Black Belt and World Champion with over 15 years teaching experience. Former police officer who established Gilroy BJJ in 2010, developing it into a premier martial arts academy.
Anthony Rutherford
Midday & Kids Class Instructor
IBJJF Certified Black Belt specializing in youth instruction and adult fundamentals. Brings extensive competitive experience and teaching expertise to both beginner and intermediate students.
Kyle Hand
Weekend Class Instructor
1st Degree Black Belt with specialization in foundational techniques and beginner instruction. Focuses on creating welcoming learning environments for new students during weekend training sessions.
Art Palacios
Takedown Class Instructor
Black Belt expert in grappling techniques and takedown defense. Provides specialized instruction focusing on ground control and transitional movements during dedicated technique classes.
Andy Lagunes
Evening Class Instructor
Black Belt instructor with emphasis on practical application and live training scenarios. Leads evening sessions that combine technical instruction with physical conditioning for working professionals.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training?
We offer programs for children as young as 5 years old through adult classes for all experience levels.
Do I need prior martial arts experience to start training?
No prior experience is required. Our fundamental classes are designed for complete beginners with no martial arts background.
What should I wear for my first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gis for first-time students before purchasing official gear.
Are there competitive opportunities for students?
Yes, we offer competition preparation programs and regularly participate in local and national Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments.
What safety measures are in place during training sessions?
Our structured classes emphasize proper technique over intensity, with certified instructors monitoring all training to ensure safe practice environments.
How often should I attend classes for optimal progress?
We recommend attending 2-3 times weekly for consistent skill development while allowing proper recovery between sessions.
