Gracie Martial Arts Tampa is the Go-To Martial Arts School For Kids & Adults

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Martial Arts School helps kids & adults in Tampa to stay fit, confident, and focused with Gracie Certified Training Center Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Programs. Download our starter kit today to get access to our EXCLUSIVE offer!

Your achievement is our mission.

87+ reviews

from families and students like you... and counting

4.9 out of 5

Average Customer Satisfaction Rating

Customers served! 400 Students Trained!

The experience here is first class! The teachers: Emiliano, James & Kyle took us through a lovely class on standing guillotine choke and punch block series 1-4. We train at a Gracie Certified Training Center in Orlando and this was a day visit to Tampa we are so glad we joined their welcoming community! 

Nelson M. | Mom

I had the pleasure of attending a women empowerment seminar and it was amazing!!! Such friendly and helpful teachers/staff! Props to Matt at the front desk for being such a welcoming person, and Saulo for creating such a fun environment.

Neese | Student

Awesome people and instructors who care about my kids. Very positive with my son in his self-defense training. My 7-Year-old son has needed "focus training" since his early childhood and Andres does an excellent job. I especially like the after-school program where they pick up my son from School

Boyd S. | Dad

Why Choose Gracie Martial Arts Tampa?

Did you know Gracie Family of Brazil started the UFC to show case the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? It was originally inspired by "Gracie's in Action", a series of videos featuring Gracie BJJ students using Gracie BJJ's core principles to defeat other forms of martial arts styles.

At Gracie Martial Arts Tampa our goal is to spread these core principles to the kids, adults, and families of the Tampa community looking to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.

  • High Quality Values - Through our martial arts program we help students acquire greater self-esteem, self-control, respect, and humility. 
  • Personal Development - You will be taught and encouraged by our professional trainers while moving at your own pace.
  • Fun & Enjoyable - Our programs are designed to be fun and enjoyable so kids can have fun learning new skills and adults can get fit without feeling like it's a workout.

Our Martial Arts & BJJ School for Kids & Adults in Tampa

We offer a wide variety of martial arts classes that focus on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

This program helps kids use words to handle bullies and gentle moves to stay safe if attacked. No punching or kicking—those can hurt. We'll teach safe ways to stop threats without fighting.

We teach strategies to deal with bullies using assertive communication and non-violent self-defense techniques. we focus on leverage-based control holds to neutralize threats without causing harm.

Gracie Combatives®, Adult Martial Arts in Tampa

Experience the unparalleled depth of our Jiu-Jitsu course, Adult Gracie Combatives®! Dive into fundamental techniques on the mat, mastering various submissions and defense strategies for comprehensive skill development.

Women Empowered® in Tampa

Empower women with essential self-defense skills. This class covers techniques to counter the 20 most common attacks, including being pinned by an assailant with a weapon and ensuring self-protection.

Gracie Master Cycle® in Tampa

Take your Jiu-Jitsu skills to new heights with the Gracie Master Cycle®. Designed for intermediate practitioners aiming for competition, it offers multiple challenges to progress and advance to the next level!

Private Lesson Gracie Jiu Jitsu in Tampa

Enroll in private Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tailored to your individual needs. Receive personalized instruction to enhance your skills, technique, and understanding of BJJ in a focused one-on-one setting.

How to get started

Here is how you can get more information about our programs, pricing, schedules, as well as how to get started.

Download our free starter kit

Download our starter kit for details on our programs, pricing, schedules, a tour of our campus, and special online promotions.

1

Join us for an assessment class

Come join us for an assessment class. Our instructor will work with you or your kids to figure out which program will help you reach your goals.

2

Sign up for one of our programs

If you love what we have to offer, and think we can help you or your child achieve your goals, let us know and we will enroll you into the program that fits you best.

3

Meet the Master Instructors Behind Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

They're not only an accomplished practitioners themselves, but they provide valuable insights into the techniques, strategies, and philosophy of Martial Arts.

At Gracie Martial Arts Tampa, we pride ourselves on the quality of our Classes. You can expect the following from your instructors:

  • Support and guidance both on an off the mats.
  • A commitment to creating a positive Martial arts experience for all students, no matter their skill level.
  • A love and passion for teaching and helping students grow and succeed.

Emiliano Cardona

Gracie Certified BJJ Black Belt

Saulo Cepeda

Gracie Certified  BJJ Black Belt

James Riggs

Gracie Certified  BJJ Purple Belt

Kyle Webb

Gracie Certified  BJJ Blue Belt

Andres Prada

Gracie Certified BJJ Blue Belt

Why Tampa Communities Love Gracie Martial Arts Tampa.

Jason Jeske recommends Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

via Google

Gracie Martial Arts Tampa, led by Emiliano, is an exceptional place to learn the original and modern forms of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Having had the opportunity to compare it with other noteworthy schools, I found that this one particularly appeals to me. The program is well-structured and easy to follow, and the membership includes access to the outstanding online resources of Gracie University, especially the Combatives 2.0. It boasts a great atmosphere, and the people there create an ideal environment for learning one of the most effective self-defense martial arts available to everyone

Chad Hengst recommends Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

via Google

Started at Gracie Jiu-jitsu a couple of months ago and love it. Carlos and all the coaches are great, friendly, extremely knowledgeable and recommend 110%.

Alyssa Sanchez recommends Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

via Google

The experience here is first class! The teachers: Emiliano, James & Kyle took us through a lovely class on standing guillotine choke and punch block series 1-4. We train at a Gracie Certified Training Center in Orlando and this was a day visit to Tampa we are so glad we joined their welcoming community! Definitely will be back to visit again next time we’re in Tampa!

Jana Pauls  recommends Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

via Google

I highly recommend Gracie! I've done different martial arts and was always reluctant to do Jiu-Jitsu because there are very few girls doing it, and let's be real, who wants to roll around on the floor with random guys? I am SO GLAD I checked out the Women Empowered program! And because the instructors are very professional and attentive I even enrolled in Combatives and I"M LOVING IT! Come check it out!

Daniel Cannon . recommends Gracie Martial Arts Tampa

via Google

I highly recommend GMAT to anyone interested in learning self-defense but intimidated by what they see on TV (UFC, MMA, etc.). The instructors are highly professional, know their stuff, and can explain each move with a level of detail that is highly beneficial for any beginner of the art or practitioners trying to improve their skills. All instructors make you feel welcome and encourage an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual learning that is hard to find in many schools. GMAT is certified by the Gracie family and follows their curriculum, which is easy to follow and allows you to build on each lesson, teaching moves that can be used in a street fight and not moves that can only be used in competitions. You get access to videos of each lesson so you can practice on your own and go over each move before and after class.
I am a Law Enforcement Officer; I trained in a different school for 6 months and was discouraged by the lack of a true curriculum I could follow, the fact that you start rolling with any belt after three classes, never having enough time with the basic moves to do anything other than get beat on every roll for six months and get injured often, and the total emphasis on competition versus real-life applications left me wondering why I was spending so much time and money doing this. This is how many schools operate, and there is nothing wrong with that; it is just not what I was looking for or needed. I drive 45 min each way to GMAT, I have already used many of the things I learned here in real life in law enforcement with real people, and I can tell you that this program works! Give it a shot. You won't regret it.

Program & Pricing FAQs

What makes Gracie Martial Arts Tampa stand out among other Bjj Schools in Tampa?

Gracie Martial Arts Tampa distinguishes itself through a unique blend of expert instruction, a welcoming community atmosphere, and a commitment to authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Our instructors are experienced and passionate, ensuring a safe and enriching learning environment.

Can your martial arts school help boost confidence and develop coordination?

Absolutely. Our programs are designed to enhance self-confidence, coordination, and overall physical fitness. Through regular practice, students develop not only martial arts skills but also important life skills like discipline, resilience, and focus.

Is there a trial period available for new students?

New students are welcome to a trial period where they can experience our classes first-hand. This allows them to gauge the fit of our programs with their personal goals and preferences.

Can your martial arts classes cause injury?

Like any physical activity, there's a risk of injury in martial arts. However, our trained instructors emphasize safety and proper technique to minimize this risk.

Is your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school violent?

Martial arts at our school is not about violence; it's about self-discipline, self-defense, and personal growth. We teach students to use martial arts responsibly.

What do I need to know before I start Classes at your Gracie Jiu-Jitsu School?

It's important to come with an open mind and willingness to learn. Familiarize yourself with the class schedule and arrive early to prepare.

What sets your Self-defense School Apart?

Our self-defense training focuses on real-world scenarios, emphasizing practical techniques and situational awareness. We prioritize teaching skills that are effective regardless of size or strength, making our training suitable for everyone.

Which programs does Gracie Martial Arts Tampa offer?

We offer a variety of programs for self defense: Combatives®, Women Empowered®, Bullyproof®, Master Cycle ® and Private Lessons. Each program is designed to cater to different interests and skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.

Are there different intensity levels for adults in your martial arts school?

Yes, we offer classes with varying intensity levels to accommodate different fitness levels and martial arts experience. From beginner to advanced classes, we ensure a challenging yet safe environment for all participants.

My child isn't athletic. Can he/she still participate in martial arts?

Certainly. Martial arts is about personal growth and development. We welcome students of all athletic abilities and focus on helping each individual achieve their best.

Is your martial arts school fun?

Yes, we prioritize making our classes engaging and enjoyable. While maintaining a focus on learning and discipline, we ensure that our classes are fun and inclusive for students of all ages.

Do you have to be in good shape to be a part of your martial arts school?

No, you don't need to be in peak physical condition to start martial arts. Our programs are designed to improve your fitness level, regardless of where you begin.

What do I wear to class?

For your first class, comfortable athletic clothing is recommended. Specific uniforms and gear can be discussed with the instructor based on the martial arts discipline you choose.

More Confidence. More Focus. Get Fit.

Download Our Free Starter Kit Today.

Download and get access to our starter kit which includes details on our programs, pricing, schedules, tour of our campus, and exclusive online promotions.