Unfortunately our experience was not so good. Too much money for the experience both Grandkids experienced. Teenager pulled out! With Good reason The! The younger is on the spectrum, Twice the child was either bullied or not included. I tries to ask why the child could not be included, was told up to the coach Livid!
I’ve known several students of Master Luiz Palhares and his son, Pedro, for a number of years. Each spoke about them with admiration and the utmost respect. When my family and I relocated near Jacksonville earlier this year, there was no question as to where I would continue my Jiu Jitsu journey. I have not been disappointed in my decision. The school’s atmosphere has been welcoming and friendly from day one. The classes are organized and expertly taught with a curriculum that is broad in scope to include both the self defense and sportive aspects of the art. With a little research you will find that the instructors here are the closest to the roots and origins of Gracie Jiu Jitsu as you can get. It has my highest recommendation if you are looking to join the team or just stop in and visit while traveling.
If you have ever considered training Gracie Jiu Jitsu, this is the place to start! Professor Luiz and Pedro have created an environment that has a community that is welcoming and allows for learning on all levels. From the minute you first contact them, the accept you with open arms, and not just to tap you out, lol.The systematic way that they teach provides progression and allows you to build your Jiu Jitsu skill set at your pace. The classes are easy to follow and time is always taken to make sure you understand the movements and are safe while training. The multiple applications that you learn always have you leaving with more knowledge and confidence.If you want the opportunity to learn from Generations of Jiu Jitsu professors that started in Brazil with the Gracies and have a track record of success, please call and take advantage of their free classes. You will be hooked and become a part of a family that will always have your back.A personal thanks to Professor Luiz, Pedro, and all of the members of Jacksonville Gracie Jiu Jitsu for helping me start down a path that I have aspired to be on for years. See you on the mat!
Learning from Luiz Palhares is an honor. He has a lifetime of jiu jitsu knowledge that he breaks down into clear, easy to follow steps when he teaches. He explains why a technique works so you will understand it rather than just memorize it. **I especially like the morning classes!** It’s a great group, lots of focused attention from Luiz, great way to start the day, and there are showers so you can clean up and go right to work after class!
A genuinely friendly and professional environment. There’s absolutely no discrimination, judging, or criticism. Everybody is treated equally and makes learning BJJ much more exciting for anybody who’s ever been curious about trying it out.
Great instruction and attention to detail. They cover everything from self defense to competition. Very clean and professional. I train with the adults and my son rolls with kids class. They have a great 7AM class two days a week that fits my schedule and there are showers so you can go to work after.
First, Luiz and Pedro are GREAT instructors. They teach in a way that’s easy to grasp and have a lot of positive reinforcement. Secondly, regardless of a first day white belt (like how I was) or a black belt there are great students of theirs to learn from/with. Overall, a great place to train and build the community of BJJ.
Luiz and Pedro are great guys that welcome anyone to train at there gym. They understand that some people need more 1 on 1 training then others and really breaks down the how and why of the technics that they are teaching. Highly recommend training here.
As another owner of a local Martial Arts Academy, I can say this is best Jiu-Jitsu school in the area. It is hard to find high ranking Jiu-Jitsu instructors, and a place that is welcoming to everyone. This instructors provide for those looking for self-defense, competition, or just personal growth through martial arts.Classes have clear instruction, and it is not a survival of the fittest environment. There is a great focus on white belts separately from the higher belts, and a methodical transition into safe sparring.
A Jiu Jitsu gym that is a family friendly environment. Really enjoy my time training there.
I have been a student there for almost a year now and have thoroughly enjoyed my BJJ experience with Master Luis and Pedro. The dojo culture is like a family and there are classes at several different times during the week to accommodate everyone’s busy work schedules. I would highly recommend Jacksonville Gracie Jiu Jitsu to anyone looking to learn or improve in this wonderful martial art.
I quit smoking and gained a lot of weight. My weekend 5ks and learning healthier eating habits helped, but they were not enough to return my body to the level of physical fitness I want.Why I chose JGBJJ: The challenge for me was finding the right place that understood my goals and could help me grow. The team here has worked with big guys like me before and have been awesome at getting me set up for success.What you can expect: I had two sessions with Master Luiz where we covered some of the fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu. We also covered class cost and schedule options along with the things you will need prior to joining group sessions.As a new student, I discovered Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best aerobic building activities I have ever experienced. I’ve already started shaving off weight, which feels great! My blood pressure has started lowering and I feel more confident and less stressed.The groups have also been terrific and I appreciate my fellow classmates for their support in helping me to learn, build and grow.One thing I will mention is wearing a Gi for the first time can be a little challenging. I’m still learning how to tie the belt correctly, but the upside here is it is starting to fit me a better each week. Also, make sure to read up on proper cleaning and care for your Gi so it will last you.Overall, Master Luis and Professor Pedro are absolutely world class. Im thankful for their kindness and dedication to their students and their craft.If this is something you have always wanted to do, my advice is to do what I did. Show up, try it out, sign up and start putting in work.Hope to see you on your journey. Lets roll!
Jacksonville Gracie Jiu Jitsu is one of the, if not the best, Jiu Jitsu Academy’s in the southeastern United States. Master Luiz Palhares is a Red/White belt under Jiu Jitsu legend Rickson Gracie and has been teaching high level Jiu Jitsu for over 40 years. He and his son, Pedro (ranked 21st in the world as a black belt competitor by IBJJF), teach the majority of the classes daily, and train (roll) with their students. They have a great kids program and welcome all ages (over 4) and all levels of experience. The adult ages and experience vary from 14 years thru 60+ and white belt to black belt. All students are friendly, helpful and eager to learn. Additionally, there are no egos while training. This Academy’s location is only several years old and very clean. The training mats are cleaned after each class, which averages 3-4 times a day. The Academy is easy to get to, with ample parking. Come check it out. You won’t be disappointed! Osss
Only place to train in Jax IMO. Where else can you find an 8th degree Blackbelt and his world ranked son teaching classes regularly.
They offer morning classes! This was a huge plus for someone with a busy work/family life. Luiz and Pedro are excellent teachers. They foster a healthy, relaxed and welcoming environment. A typical class has 30 - 45 minutes of self defense instruction & the last 15 - 30 minutes are sparring rounds. It’s always a great workout and a lot of fun!
Our family loves this place! My boys started their journey a good year before me, and now I’m all in too. Master Luiz and Pedro are excellent instructors and they have created an amazing culture among the students. We are here for the long haul!
Great experience training here. Youll be greeted with fist bumps and handshakes. Great sportsmanship amongst the students. Friendly environment but come motivated because youre going to get what you pay for in exhaustive training. Master Luiz and Professor Pedro will definitely help you get better one session at a time and youll see results quickly in both technical skill and physical stamina.
I look forward to every class I take with Master Luiz and Professor Pedro. These guys are truly awesome. I came into their classes with zero martial arts experience and they were immediately welcoming and friendly. Everyone at the school is also very encouraging and helpful with us newbies. In a very short time period theyve taken me from knowing nothing at all to comfortably rolling and having a blast.
Luiz and his son Pedro are awesome teacher for both kids and adult. The gym is big and well maintained. If you are looking for a friendly school with world class instruction for you or your children, this is the place to be. Proud to be a part of this institution!
I am having a great time training here under Pedro and Lewis instruction! The entire team is helpful and insightful. If you want the best of BJJ .. come here!
Master Luiz and Professor Pedro are the best instructors you could ever ask for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Self Defense techniques. Our son has loved the kids class and has been learning from Master Luiz and Professor Pedro for over 3 years now. We love the family atmosphere that comes along with great friendships. My husband has also been learning under Master Luiz and Professor Pedro and really enjoys Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a sport.
My kids have been attending jiu jitsu here for the past 2 years. They have learned so much in that time that I have zero fears of them being bullied ever. Such a peace of mind in today’s society.Pedro, Luiz and the rest of the professors treat every child as their own. The love they have for their students and sport is top notch and is apparent every class.I couldn’t ask for a better family for my children to study under.
This is an amazing gym. Top notch instruction and students. It’s a very welcoming and family friendly atmosphere.
Awesome kids classes. Professors are great with kids. Kids are able to learn so fast with the professors instructions. The environment is very family orientated.
When you see Gracie it means Excellence. This establishment is all of that plus more! The Palhares Team is the best in the state! My son loves it!
Very honored to be a part of an amazing association! I’ve known Master Luiz and Professor Pedro Palhares for a long time. They are some of the most welcoming people, along with the rest of the team there. If you are looking for a place to start training, this is the place to start!
Awesome instruction and a family atmosphere! What more can you ask for. They are the best!
Great place. My granddaughter takes classes here. Pedro is so patient with the kids in the class. He is a great teacher.
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced practitioner, you’ll be welcome with open arms. You’ll feel like family while getting high level training in self defense and competition style Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. If you’re looking for a place to train in North Florida, I wouldn’t look anywhere else.
High level instruction with a family like atmosphere. A ridiculous amount of knowledge on the mats at all times. Proud to be a part of this team!
My daughter trains there and LOVES it. She is only 6 years old started when she was 5 and has already learned so much. If in her life she protects herself one time using techniques that she has learned then everything was worth it. And if she never has to protect herself then thats ok because Jiu Jitsu is a lifestyle I am glad she is starting to learn about.Thank you,Mike Castillo Bjj BB
Youll get what you paid for when training under Luiz and Pedro. Couldnt ask for better jiu jistu instructors.
Awesome group of people. Dont hesitate to come in. Everyone is very friendly and want to help people succeed. If youre hesitant they offer a free try it out period and will loan you a gi.
Easily one of the top gyms in Jacksonville. A friendly, yet competitive environment where a heavy emphasis on learning correctly is applied.
A great place to learn self defense and Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Master Luiz and Professor Pedro are serious about bringing out the best in their students. This place has classes for all ages and experience levels. Perfect for anyone from the weekend warrior to the competition level practitioner to the individual who just wants to learn to defend themself.
Best BJJ in Jacksonville!!! Luiz and Pedro run a great, friendly school and have classes available at all times of the day. Love it!
Expert instruction and welcoming people! Luiz and Pedro have cultivated an atmosphere unmatched at any gym Ive attended.
Fun and great place to learn Jiu Jitsu!The instructors are kind and helpful!Awesome place.
Great place to learn Jiu-Jitsu. Master Luiz is very knowledgeable and experienced as well as great to learn from. His son Pedro is also highly knowledgeable and great with kids. Great family atmosphere!
Greatest training you can get period love the Palhares family. Luiz and Pedro are the best examples of great competitors and great teachers. Top notch self defense as well which most school do not teach. If you really what to be a well rounded Jiu Jitsu practitioner this is the place to be.
Im and older martial artist, 64 to be exact, that has trained 28 years in multiple disciplines. From the day I walked in the door 9 years ago I have been made to feel like family. Luiz and Pedro are excellent teachers and highly experienced competitors who will train you in the techniques, details and nuances of Jiu-Jitsu. So whatever you are looking to get out of your Jiu-Jitsu training; self-defense skills, fitness, or competitive skills, you will find it, and more, here in a warm and friendly environment. Truly the very best Jiu-Jitsu has to offer.
Luiz and Pedro Palhares are amazing instructors and have a wealth of knowledge in Jiu jitsu. Everything is geared for every skill level and after a while, everyone becomes your extended family. I would highly recommend to others.
Best Jiu Jitsu school I have ever been to. Great coaches and everyone there is nice and welcoming.
I’ve trained with Luiz and Pedro for 6 years and have never made a better decision. They foster a team/family environment that is super conducive for learning.
Quality instruction from some of the most respected and respectful jiu jitsu instructors out there. I would recommend to anyone looking to improve their BJJ, self-defense, physical health, mental health, and essential characteristics of a human being such as respect, discipline, courage, mental/physical toughness, and perseverance. The dojo creates an awesome atmosphere to be a part of and has served as a home away from home for myself.
Top notch Gracie Jiu Jitsu instruction and a great workout. Master Luiz and Professor Pedro live and breathe Jiu Jitsu and it shows. The best in the business!
Family-run jiu jitsu. Competition style jiu jitsu. Best competition team in town. Pedro is a great coach. Its kind of pricey but you get what you pay for.
Top notch instruction from Master Luiz Palhares and his son, Professor Pedro Palhares. My 10 year old daughter has been going here for a year and a half and I just started a few months ago. This gym has a great family environment and a strong crew of skilled Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners to help you get your game where it needs to be. I wouldnt want to learn from anyone but the best, and these guys are it!
The best BJJ school in Jacksonville! Prof. Luiz Palhares and his son Pedro cover all aspects off BJJ i.e. self defense, and judo, as well as wrestling and muay thai. I cannot speak highly enough on the kids class! My daughters have been training here since they were 5 and are now 9. The kids class is very safe for children to learn in and the coaches teaching style creates a fun atmosphere. There are always coaches walking around ensuring safety throughout the class. Id highly recommend both curious adults and kids come see what this school can offer.
Proffesor Pedro Palhares has a gr8 kids program and competition team.. I highly recommend if your in the San jose area take advantage of their quality instructors...Osu!👊
World class Jiu Jitsu, great people and environment.
Best school I have ever trained at in my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey. Luiz Palhares is a great teacher and true friend to all his students. I miss training here daily and can hardly wait for my next visit.
Great place to learn Jiu-Jitsu. Master Luiz is very knowledgeable and experienced as well as great to learn from. Professor Pedro is also highly knowledgeable. The entire team is very welcoming and great to train with. You cant beat this school.
Felt like home the minute I walked in.
Checked out the No Gi class: loved it. Mr. Palharess son is an excellent and knowledgeable instructor. Friendly and welcoming atmosphere for newbies as well as advanced practitioners. In my opinion, this is as good as it gets in north Florida when it comes to learning Gracie jiu-jitsu.
Absolutely love this place!
Simply the best.
Great place!