ADULT CLASSES

Gracie Barra Adult Programs: Transform Your Life with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

At Gracie Barra Jefferson City, our adult programs are designed to meet the diverse goals and needs of our students, whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or looking to take your training to the next level. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is more than a martial art—it’s a journey of self-improvement, resilience, and empowerment. With structured classes and a supportive community, Gracie Barra provides the perfect environment to build your skills, fitness, and confidence.

Beginner Fundamentals

If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, our Fundamentals program is the perfect place to start. You’ll learn essential movements, self-defense strategies, and foundational techniques in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. This class builds the skills and confidence you need to progress on your BJJ journey.

Focus Areas: Basic self-defense, positional control, and core techniques. For newcomers to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or those seeking a refresher.

Advanced Program

Ready to take your training to the next level? Our Advanced Program introduces sophisticated techniques, detailed transitions, and live sparring. This class is designed to help you fine-tune your skills, develop strategies, and challenge yourself to grow as a practitioner.

Focus Areas: Advanced techniques, submissions, and situational strategy. For intermediate and experienced students ready to deepen their practice.

Expert Program

Our Expert Program is tailored for dedicated practitioners seeking to refine their skills at the highest level. This advanced class focuses on competitive techniques, strategy, and situational sparring to prepare you for tournaments or high-level training scenarios.

Focus Areas: Advanced submissions, competition strategies, and tactical problem-solving. For experienced practitioners with a deep understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals.

See Pictures of Our SchoolRead About Our Instructors

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What age is too young to start?

The best time will always be as soon as you can. With that said, we have found throughout the years that 4 years old and up seems to be where kids thrive. However, some 3 year olds have been able to do well in our classes. We do not take kids younger than three.

Question 2: What age is too old to start?

There's no such thing as too old. We have had several members train up into their 70's and 80's.

Question 3: How is Jiu Jitsu different from Tae Kwon Do, Karate, etc.

Jiu-Jitsu is different from Taekwondo, Karate, and similar martial arts because it focuses on grappling and ground fighting rather than strikes like punches and kicks. While Taekwondo and Karate emphasize standing techniques, speed, and power, Jiu-Jitsu teaches how to control and neutralize opponents using leverage, submissions, and strategic positioning, especially in situations where a fight may go to the ground.Another key difference is the approach to training and problem-solving. Jiu-Jitsu is often described as a "physical chess match," requiring students to think critically and adapt to their opponent's movements. This makes it not only effective for real-world self-defense but also a mental and physical challenge. At Gracie Barra Jefferson City, Jiu-Jitsu is taught in a supportive, team-focused environment, helping students build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community.

Question 4: What do I need to do to get ready for Jiu Jitsu training?

Nothing! Just like any other sport or self defense, you need to do Jiu Jitsu to get better at Jiu Jitsu. That means you don't need to get in better shape to do Jiu Jitsu, you just need to start.

Question 5: What happens in a normal class at Gracie Barra Jefferson City?

In an intro class, you will be greeted at the front desk. You will sign a waiver and be fitted for a uniform. We will show you around the school and likely even introduce you to a few people. After this we will show you to the changing rooms, allow you to change and show you to the mat. You will be introduced to the instructor and join the class. We will then do a seven minute warm-up exercise regime. If it's a kids class we will continue with a few exercises which teach mobility and body movement. We will practice several techniques and even do some light sparring. After this we will meet you back on the mats to show you where to put the used uniform and meet you at the desk for any questions. You'll get in a great workout and have a lot of fun doing it!