Carlson Gracie North Lakeland - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Martial Arts Training, Gym for Kids, Health & Fitness Program

921 Shadow Dr #10, Lakeland, FL 33809

4.9 (84 reviews)

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Enroll your child in Winter Haven or Lakeland FL's Top rated BJJ, Boxing, Martial Arts & After School Program! Build confidence, discipline & fitness wih Kickboxing & More

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Jeremy Wright (Pastor)

I have trained over a decade at this school. Great instructors. Great community. Great BJJ.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Gio Fernandez

Excellent family environment

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ward Hively

My son attends Carlson Gracie BJJ. I am particular where I send my kids. I send my son here because Rafa is a leader who has built a team of motivated young adults that have a true passion for the sport. Within weeks, my son’s behavior aligned and found him focusing much easier. More importantly, he has fun. It isn’t about grappling, it’s about learning how to contend. I appreciate the entire team a lot and thank Christina, Rafa, Adriana and Dristan for their dedication.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Caleb Dyer

Both my sons and I have been training here for six years and have had nothing but great experiences. It is a positive environment full of excellent instructors and team mates. Classes are available seven days a week at multiple times throughout the day. I encourage anyone to come try no matter what your age, shape or size to come give it a try!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Anton Jefferson

The classes are full of knowledgeable instructors. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming to everyone and anybody, both male and female. Glad I signed up.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Saúl Samuel Torres

I highly recommend Carlson Gracie Lakeland for both kids and adults interested in learning Jiu-Jitsu. The instructors are experienced and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for students of all levels. The classes are engaging and well-structured, focusing on both technique and practical application. Whether you're a beginner or looking to advance your skills, Carlson Gracie Lakeland is the place to be for top-notch Jiu-Jitsu training.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
David

Coach Marc is great. Welcoming atmosphere great people

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Primed01

I love this gym

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Horary Bam Bam

Great place to learn some jiu-jitsu and make some friends.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Christopher Daniels

I have been training at Carlson Gracie Lakeland for over a year and I can honestly say that it is the best decision I ever made. The instructors are very knowledgeable, friendly and patient. The atmosphere is very welcoming and supportive, and the teammates are like family. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, you will find a place to grow and learn at Carlson Gracie Lakeland. I highly recommend this academy to anyone who wants to learn Brazilian jiu jitsu from the best.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Tke

Awesome students and instructors! Highly recommend

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Patrick Scully

I came from another well established School in the area and I've been in the area for about 13 years. This is the most family oriented and supporting gym families I have been a part of. Thank you for welcoming my family and myself into your family!!

Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Samuel Kimmel

I’ve trained with Rafa at Carlson Gracie Lakeland for almost 20 years now. Training at Carlson Gracie Lakeland has changed my life. I love this team !

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Richard Roman

Have been away for a few months. When I returned to the Lakeland area I found out that Marc Spiro is the current head instructor under Rafa Santos. I didn’t even think twice. I made my way to Carlson Gracie South and the experience was better that I imagined it would be. Marc to me is by far one of the best and dare I say the best instructor when it comes to their children’s program. I would encourage anyone to bring their children and also join your children in their Jiu Jitsu journey. Marc keep it brother!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Toni Marie Lombardo Coleman

My teens just started here. (16b/18g) To see a couple of screen addicts sweaty from exercise but also with huge smiles on their faces, absolutely priceless. Thanks Coach Marc.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Chris Pugh

Our son has been attending for about 6 months now and he absolutely loves it. He works with coach Kyle on the south-side during the week and with coach Mark at this gym for competition training on Saturdays. Coach Mark is amazing working with the kids and the class is all business - in a good way. Couldn't ask for anything more.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
scott bailey

Coach Marc is awesome with the kids, with a great focus on personal development and teamwork. Always a safe friendly environment for our kids

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Garry Harding

Coach mark is awesome very knowledgeable and great with kids . Have enjoyed seeing him push them mentally and physically.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
EDG-AR-15

This is an awesome bjj fight gym for kids and adults, my two kids go to attand the after school program and they love and pretty soon my third one will too. Coach Rafa is a great coach with a lot of knowledge and coach Mark is deeply invested in coaching the kids he coaches them as if he was coaching a the adults for competition they’re both best coach hands down!!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Anthony Stone

This gym has been great to us. Definitely happy to be part of this growing establishment. Coach Mark and is Remarkable when training the youth. He definitely knows how to build their confidence and instill good obedience into our youth. Highly highly recommend coming to check us out. You will not be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Juan Garcia

Best group of people I have ever been around, family environment, down to earth, very clean and respectful. Look forward to returning

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Michael Johnson

Great gym with friendly environment. I was visiting from out of town and Professor Rafa and the coaching staff and students made me feel very welcome. Whenever I’m in Lakeland this will definitely be the gym I train at. If you are in central Florida and looking for a good BJJ gym, make sure you check out Carlson Gracie Lakeland

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Jeff Colander

Stopped in to get some info and wow customer service was awesome. I dealt with Kyle and he answered all my questions was very professional. We will for sure be back. If your looking to learn martial arts do your self a favor and stop in and talk to them

Instructors
Posted 5 years ago
Jose J. Feliciano (Guezfam)

Great place all around. A multitude of qualified professional caring instructors. Rafa knows how to teach to all experience levels. Fundamentals class is taught perfectly for beginners. Every black belt here is willing to help you learn the drills correctly. There are no egos here. Come in and train.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
sunshine Ee

Awesome place.

Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Chris Key

Due to a major neck injury had to take several years off. Finally worked up the courage to get back into to training. Raja and his entire coaching staff as well as my teammates have been nothing but welcoming and careful of my injury. Would highly recommend if interested in trying jujitsu to give them a chance.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Jason Gates

Just a great atmosphere all around, wether you are beginning your journey or have been training for years you will grow and continue to advance here. A lot of talented and humble individuals train here under an absolutely awesome individual who is a great friend, coach, and leader, Rafa Santos

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Tony Roberts

Absolutely love this school !!! Carlson Gracie Lakeland teaches BJJ fundamentals daily all the way up to advance levels. The staff and instructors are very knowledgeable and extremely friendly. I enjoy the BJJ , kickboxing and boot camp classes that they offer. I am proud to be a student and a close friend to Rafa. Thanks Rafa and all the CGL students for always being there for me and my family.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Marc Spiro

High level instruction and a close knit family.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Anthony Roman

I waited until the young age of 45 🎂 to begin my BJJ journey (Don’t be like me, start NOW). Ive been training 3 yrs (Feb2021) with Carlson Gracie Lakeland, under Professor Rafa Santos (3rd degree black belt), Amazing friend and Instructor. It’s the best decision EVER! Being welcomed into the CGL family has enhanced my life on many levels. It’s physically demanding and challenges me beyond what I could achieve alone. My training partners are respectful, hilarious, and generous with their vast experience. Each class I retain a little more and over time I find that my skill set is improving. I train with assassins and I like that I’m slowly becoming one myself. Thanks all to CGL! Iron sharpens Iron. Oss. Anthony Vazquez

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Vincent Nunez

Joined gym a few mos ago and never turning back. Great coaches and training partners, join and you won't regret it.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Josh Oliver

It’s a great gym for all ages. Good group of people, and great for all levels of skill from beginning to very competitive. Family friendly, clean and its a good time.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Brandon Smith

Awesome gym and knowledgable, friendly staff. I’ve been attending for about 7 months and look forward to every session.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Chris Hampton

I'm coming up on 3 years of training here and it's still the best thing I've ever done for myself. At 46 years old, I'm in the best shape of my life - physically and mentally - and can do things I never thought possible. You won't find a better gym in this area. The instructors and other students are amazing. New students are welcomed into the family from day one. Stop in for a FREE class and try it out for yourself - it can change your life as well.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Michael Sudlow

Been rolling with the 6 AM group since October. Great people, great workouts and lots of fun. Some seriously talented martial artists teach here.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Michael Richter

My wife and I looked for summer programs that were open in the mist of the 2020 covid shutdown. To our surprise Carlson Gracie Lakeland was still open and in full swing. They offered a safe and clean environment for my son. Fast forward 8 months and he is still going and love grappling with his new friends. The life skills he is learning from this gym will stick with him forever! He even got me to join and start doing rolling on the Mats. I have met some amazing people at this place! They truly love this sport are super open to new comers and teaching you about BJJ!!!!! Stop in and get hooked

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
j suss

best bjj school in central Florida

Instructors Facility Classes Location Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
David Sam

Awesome place to learn and train! Instructors are very friendly and patient. Always and welcoming environment would recommend to anyone of any age!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Dristin Bennett

Great place good environment and great coaches and workouts great place to learn BJJ !!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Dalton Barrett

Great training environment. A+ establishment

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Joseph gann

Great place and even better people!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
G P

We have been coming to the gym for over 3 yrs now. They have accepted us with open arms and this gym is truly a family. The kids training is the best around.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Jade Johnson

Great coaches and very welcoming for beginners and women!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Nikita Markov

I started training again after taking nearly 8 years off in Carlson Gracie Lakeland and Winter Haven. It’s the friendliest, family-oriented gyms I’ve ever been to, that provide high class training in comfortable environment. If you want to get in shape after the pandemic, learn self defense, pick up a new hobby, prevent your kids from ever being bullied, and learn the art of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu this is the place for you. They students of all ages, skill level and size.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Arie Cudlitz

My wife and I belong to another gym in PA, but we visit FL a lot and wanted to find a place to train. Rafa Santos and the entire Carlson Gracie team welcomed us and treated us like family. Rafa Santos is an amazing coach and amazing person. We drive about 40 minutes to get to THIS gym because it’s worth it.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
james bennett

Great coaching, welcoming environment and a family atmosphere. This is the place to go if you want to learn jiujitsu, get in shape and build confidence. Their kids program is top notch.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Haley Athey

We are coming into our 6th month here and I cannot say enough good things about this place! They treat us all as family since we arrived ! My children are in the after school program and they love it! Kyle, Kelsey, and Christian are amazing and patient with the children. I do the bootcamp classes and every class is amazing! Rafa and Paul are great at teaching us and they enjoy their job. We learn new things every day so it is never boring or repetitive and i can feel myself getting stronger!! I also recently started the women's only jiu jitsu and i am learning slowly myself! The environment is clean and friendly we love it here!!

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Posted 6 years ago
Christian Reed

Amazing instruction, and also a great family atmosphere.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Jennifer Peachee

We came from a different gym after having some issues and we absolutely love it here! The kids instructors are fantastic with the kids and it's very structured and consistent. Rafa does a great job teaching the adult class and I felt very welcomed from day 1. I would highly recommend this place for kids and adults! You will not be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Brandon Ragsdale

This place is awesome! They are skilled in Brazilian Jujitsu and have really helped me better my technique. I enjoy their energy and willingness to help.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Single Parent with Crypto Freedom!!

Great kids programs.. My Son has been training there for about 2 yrs.The coaches, adults, and Black belts are a true example of the mentors kids need these days.. I'd recommend it for any child..

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
NS JR

Best place to train in the area. Realy big training area, lots classes available and Professor Rafa is on the best in the business.

Instructors Facility Classes Location
Posted 7 years ago
Carl Baker

The coaches we're able to take my uncontrollable daughter and turn her into a more controllable, more confident young girl. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants their child to have self esteem and the ability to defend themselves.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Chrystina Ricks

My oldest has been going to Carlson Gracie of Lakeland since he was 6 yrs old. He is now almost 15 yrs old and now his twin brother and sister go there as well too and have been for 2 yrs. My 15 yr old is a black belt and the other two are orange belts. The Sensei there is one of the best men, he truly loves every single one of his students.... He teaches disciplining, how to protect yourself if being bullied, and respect for others. I give this jui-jitsu place an "A+"...also in the summer they go on field trips like I have never seen before, from trips to swimming, to the best theme parks Mosi to Adventure island Weekie wachee Springs oh and the kids's favorite skating. I would recommend this place over any other.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Franklin Cruz

I have only been there less then 2 months... but, it feels like I have 40 other brothers ready to help me improve on a daily basis. Amazing Atmosphere and lead by a Great Leader Rafa Santos!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Crystal Roberts

Rafa and Kyle have made a strong impact on my daughter's life. They consistently push her to realize her full potential while always being positive and encouraging. I have seen her self confidence improve greatly in just the 6 months she's been there.

Instructors
Posted 8 years ago
Erin Fiore

Very friendly and good with my kids. We are so happy we found this place!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Charlene Hogan

This is a very family oriented place you never made to feel left out. They are so excellent with kids it’s amazing what our little people can do with the correct training and guidance.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Paul Grasso

This is a great place to train the art of Jiu-jitsu! No egos and a great team environment can be found here. I definitely recommend this dojo for Adult and kids Jiu-jitsu training. They also have a great boot camp, yoga classes and many other fitness options.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
carl underwood

There isn’t much to say about this place that hasn’t been said.... You won’t find any egos here at this gym, nor will you be judged for being out of shape. The family you will find there will lift you up and help you every step of the way. The only step they can’t help with is the one through the door, that one you have to do on your own....

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Guyin Cognito

Been at this gym just over a year. I had a washed up wrestling background and a love for grappling and this place was what I needed for growth. The instructor Rafa is an awesome coach and friend. The entire team is close and everyone feeds off each other and we all grow. The comradery is the closest I've felt since the military, and also a healthier environment. I honestly love and respect everyone at this gym. Except kyle.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Kelsey Erickson

I love this gym. My whole family trains here. I myself have only been training for four months, but I am in the best shape I've ever been in. Theres something for everyone here. Boot camps, kids and adult jiu jitsu classes, yoga, kick boxing, etc. I've learned tons of great self defense that honestly makes me feel more comfortable with my everyday life. This place is full of awesome people who are very knowledgeable and supportive. Rafa is an amazing instructor. This place has quickly become my second home. Come try it, you won't regret it.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Jonny Quest

Never have I met such humble dedicated and sincere people then when I first stepped onto the mat at Carlson Gracie Lakeland .... In less than a year , I have made relationships that I'm sure will last a lifetime ... this place changes your life U step off the mat a better person ... guaranteed

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
tyler ellis

Rafa Santos is a really good instructor and is very down to earth with everyone who comes in. Everybody at the gym is super friendly and is always willing to help. I recommend this gym to anybody who's serious about jiu-jitsu. I can't wait to come back during the summer to train!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
chris lowe

I have trained off and on for 12 years and ever since I joined up here I've stayed consistent and I attribute that to Rafa Santos my 2nd degree black belt sensei, he prides himself on teaching and it shows through in his students many of us have trained together for 5 plus years! This school is growing fast a truly great place to train. My kids both get lessons here as well and love the school.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
pedro lopes

I started training at Carlson gracie lakeland after a layoff of about 3.5 years. Prior to that I've trained at 4 other big name schools. This is one of, if not the best school and environment I've ever experienced. Everyone is friendly, the instruction is great, there is a really good variety of style and skill level, the atmosphere is very upbeat and encouraging, and the instructor has a great personality and cares about the students. This is the most fulfilling jiu jitsu experience I've had since I started training in 2008.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Jason Jackson

Great place to train and make friends

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Leonard McDermott

Rafa (lead instructor) is very knowledgeable about the sport and his passion for it shows in his teaching. After your first class you'll feel like family. They have a child care program that also teaches children BJJ. No better place around, come check them out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Brian B

Great instruction and a great group of people. Best gym I have ever trained at. If you are in Lakeland, wether you are new or experienced, I encourage you to try this School first.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Yoandy Gomez

Great place to learn Jiu Jitsu , friendly training partners, great instructor and awesome after school program for your kids.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Kenneth Zapen

Great place to learn jiujitsu. Knowledgeable instructor and friendly people.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Barnstormin bulldogs

the best bjj in florida i love the whole team up there also great place for kids to learn self defence. im in the best shape ive ever been in my life I have never trained this hard anywhere else.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 14 years ago
Kimberly Causby

I absolutely love this gym!!! This is not a place where you are going to go and run on a treadmill for 30 mins. and not even break a sweat, trust me I did that for a long time and it got me nowhere. This is a real gym where if you come and put in the work you will get 10 times more out of it then you could have ever imagined. The work outs are awesome and the people are amazing! You’ll commonly hear it referred to as the “Lakeland De La Riva family” for a reason. If you’re looking for a REAL gym you gotta try Top Dog!! Everyone is always welcome, come see us !!!

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Posted 14 years ago
Nick m

Coach Dristin is a nice guy and cares about the kids. However I don't believe he is set up to succeed. The kid to coach ratio is not good at all. Sometimes 16 to 1 and it's chaos. I honestly think the kids class is more of a baby sitting service then anything else. The owner is too distracted with his other businesses as well.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Mia Khalifa

It was okay.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Johnny

Didn’t enjoy my time here. Trainers were rude and I ended up leaving early. Very disappointed because I’m a long time member of the Carlson Gracie Jiujitsu branches but this one had an off vibe.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago