Gracie Barra Santa Barbara — Local services in Santa Barbara

I can not say enough about Gracie Barra, and all that is offered there!

It's more than just a place to take my son for a bit.. there are real connections, interactions, and experiences that help shape the person he is becoming.

He has a lot more confidence, seems more self assured, and sets goals for himself... all while learning how to defend himself in a healthy, centered way, while (mostly) remaining grounded and focused. Coach Ryan has played such a big role in all of this. It makes me feel good to see him take time to explain the technique to the children and help them out in areas they are having a little difficulty. Ryan is incredibly kind, patient, funny, and just seems like an all around good person, which the children definitely pick up on! My son will often talk about him and what he teaches them in class, and that warms me to know how much he is valued in my child's life.

It's important to have healthy role models, and the coaches, professors, students, etc.. which I see at Gracie Barra, they are all in alignment with that.

I have so much gratitude for everyone that holds space for us, and all of the other students, parents, families, and friends that come in as well. It feels good to be a part of a community that supports each other, helps one another when needed, and will also call you out (all for good reason!) when necessary.

Thank you for sharing your space, knowledge, insight, and time with us. We appreciate you all so so much, and look forward to continuing...

I am the dad of an 8-year-old boy and 6-year-old girl. I’ve trained at a few different places in my life, and have been witness to many different martial arts programs for kids. The best that I know of is GB Santa Barbara. I write this as we say goodbye, because we are moving out of town. My son has been training here for 3 years, and my daughter for 1 year. Of all the sports and activities we had our kids enrolled in here in town, none stand up to the kid’s jiu jitsu program at GB Santa Barbara. Rodrigo is the man - great person, friendly, and the best at what he does. Recently, the kid’s program has been taught by Paulo Thiago (ex-UFC legend) and Coach Chaye. Paulo is such an incredible person. He teaches every technique like he would to an adult, but he makes it relatable to the kids. He has amazing patience, but lays down the law in very parent-friendly ways. Coach Chaye - I can’t say enough about him. He’s one of the most genuine, full-hearted people I’ve ever met. He makes full eye contact with everyone and remembers everyone’s name - test him. Chaye makes everyday at jiu jitsu a fun time for the kids. These guys are the best, and although we’re excited for our move in life, one of the greatest things we’ll miss about Santa Barbara is GB SB....

The Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu here in Santa Barbara is an amazing location. I have trained at three other gyms before here. I have trained primarily stand-up, mostly Muay Thai. But I absolutely love the ground game. Especially Jiu Jitsu. When I came in the the Gracie Barra I met with Marcella who works the front desk. Very sweet. And she introduced my to Professor Rodrigo Clark. The man is a very kind and caring individual whom is attentive to all his students. He greets many of us individually(by name) and will carry on conversations of personal life outside of the gym. The classes are very well structured with lots of room to work new strategies and use for self defense. All of the students currently training their are extremely friendly. I felt my first day they all accepted me with open arms into the Gracie Barra family. From the white belts to the black belts, we all train together and have a great time. If you're looking for a gym to train at free of egos and want to obtain world class training. THEN LOOK NO FURTHER.

Yelp is filtering reviews and not giving the due this gym deserves. Please click on the filtered button below. There are tons of reviews and all of them are authentic. I've trained with many of the people whom have...