Carlson Gracie Winter Haven | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Martial Arts, Kick boxing, Physical Fitness & Self Defense Training

622 Ave O SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880

4.9 (78 reviews)

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Brandon Lepkowski

Facility was clean, and instructors/students were friendly and welcoming to drop ins visiting from out of state. Everyone was safe and fun to train with.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Kevin Serrano

The gym boasts an incredible community of friendly and knowledgeable students and coaches. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming, but the real standout is the exceptional quality of training. I 100% recommend.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Corrie Kneer

I attended two classes at Carlson Gracie Winter Haven while visiting family in Florida. They welcomed me like I was already part of their gym family. The coaches were awesome and I learned a lot even from just the two classes! So glad I went!! If you’re interested in Jiu-Jitsu, check them out! Great atmosphere, great people, and great coaches! You won’t regret it.

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Posted 1 year ago
David Durham

Awesome people, great coaches. Schedules to fit anyone's life. Two years in and I these people are like family. Absolutely love this gym.

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Posted 1 year ago
TaraOwen Edwards

Looking for the best place to train your kids in martial arts? Look no further than Carlson Gracie Winter Haven! Our son joined their family a little over 2 years ago… Not only is he learning and maturing! We have seen him grow, excel and shine under the guidance of the amazing coaches Derek Walker, Barron Shepherd, and Andrew Kinchen. If you want the best for your child in Jiu Jitsu or Judo, Carlson Gracie is the place to be! 🥋✨

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Krista Wilder

This gym is beyond amazing. It is more than Jiu-Jitsu, it’s a family. My son gained so much confidence and discipline while practicing. After he passed, the gym hosted an event in his honor, ROLL4COLE, that brings all the families together, as well as, supports another jiu-jitsu family. My husband also trains here and has gained so many skills and friendships. Highly recommend!

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Posted 2 years ago
Jade Davis

My 16yr old started with Carolson Gracie last year and today we have an extended family in this gym. All of the coaches are amazing and so knowledgable. They are so welcoming and really took the extra time to make sure he understands new concepts and skills. I love how they build these kids up in such a great way!! 10/10 recommend

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Chris Brown

I started training at this gym nearly 2 years ago and it was the best decision i’ve ever made! Everyone is very friendly and welcoming, and there are so many great training partners that genuinely care about you and your safety while training. There is never a dull moment on the mats and I would encourage anyone who is thinking of starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to start their journey here.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Robert Blessin

I have been doing jujitsu for 15 + years and this is one of the best gyms I have trained at. Amazing staff, tons of mat space and huge classes in a welcoming environment. 10/10

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Posted 2 years ago
Blake Bradley

This gym is a family and for families. They offer classes for all ages groups in bjj. Great coaches, great environment, and a great opportunity to learn a superior fighting style.

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Posted 2 years ago
Jordan Hamilton

This is the best gym around hands down. The coaches and students make it more than just a gym, it's a family. Training and teaching is just a small part of what this gym does, they help the community and support their students and their families on and off the mats. I'm grateful everyday that I walked through the door, this gym and BJJ in general have changed my life and I'm so thankful for it.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Chris Law

Because I believe in making truly honest reviews, good or bad, I decided to wait until I've been with them for a few months before writing one. I'll admit, they were not my first choice. I was looking for something more street defense focused. As a CCW carrier and having trained in other striking based arts, I considered this really important as I believe firmly in having the ability to protect yourself and your loved ones. I was informed from the start that they are a competition school. Not what I was looking for. However, the one school I could find that did offer it, didn't really jive with my work schedule. However...these guys did. So I figured, why not. It still better than nothing. But let me tell you...I am very grateful that I ended up here. Coach Andrew and Coach Derek are great. You can also tell they genuinely care foe their students and their community with their outreach efforts and fund raisers. They are skilled practitioners and want YOU to be as well. Also, the people you train with are great, respectful and caring as well. I've had quite a few take their time in my short period here to help me learn and grow. No egos. Just guys and gals wanting to help each other. You seriously can't go wrong here. No, the place isn't fancy. You won't get AC. But you will get a great experience with fantastic people that you won't get anywhere else. And that's far more important. So sign up.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Fernando Candia

I typically don't leave too many reviews but I figured this would help a lot of people in the Winter Haven area. I was recently visiting some family and was looking for a quick fix of BJJ as I frequent approximately 2-3 days of training a week. I saw this was the nearest and highly rated gyms nearby so I gave them a call. I spoke with Instructor Andrew over the phone and he welcomed me to stop by. I did a quick waiver form online, stopped in for an open mat Sunday. Everyone at the school was so welcoming and pleasant. Monday I came back for an instructional class and another roll. Instructor Derek was awesome. I appreciate the hospitality and hope others find this helpful. Much love to Carlson Gracie of Winter Haven.

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Posted 2 years ago
Angel Velazquez

Great crew to train with!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
David Coleman

Being from out of town I picked this gym to Check out needing a place to train and hoping for the best, I couldn’t have been happier I did. Great atmosphere and great gym. Instructors Derek and Barron who I met on the first day were knowledgeable and had great attention to detail. Thank you for sharing and being welcoming. Look forward to see you all agin soon.

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Posted 2 years ago
Chad Christopher

Love training at this gym. Every year in April I come to Florida for work and train here for a week. Great coaches and awesome atmosphere.

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Posted 2 years ago
Da Fatprince

Highly recommend Carlson Gracie Winter Haven for anyone wanting to learn or practice Brazilian Jiujitsu. Today makes a month that I have been going, though I can't speak for other BJJ gyms this one has a very welcoming culture and people are genuine. I can only make the 6 am class so I can only attest to my experience in said class. The coach highly skilled, patient, and goes into great detail for you to learn the art. I am not in good shape at all but he is very motivating, and has the ability to teach everyone as a whole, then takes the time give each person tailored training depending their skill level, body type, and fitness level. He's able to keep each person engaged, and challenged each time they're in the gym. I've always wanted to join marshal arts and I'm glad I came to this school. As a side note I live in Kissimmee there are about 3-4 other BJJ gyms near me but I would rather drive an hour to train at this gym because of the culture.

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Posted 2 years ago
Austin Arzola

Dropped in for a couple open mats with my girlfriend. Coach Derek and the other grapplers at the gym were insanely welcoming! Lots of good rolls, friendly, and they took care of our safety which is my #1 concern. If you’re looking for a place to drop in, this is the gym! We bought a shirt and rashguard to show our appreciation. Will be back!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
David Kleinhans

Highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn or practice brazilian jiu jitsu. My kids and I have been going since August 2023 and we love it. The culture is welcoming, and people are friendly. The coaches are highly skilled and great teachers. They are super patient yet also very motivating. I had been wanting to join for years but was always a bit intimidated to show up. Now my only regret is not showing up way earlier. Also, if you are looking to get in better shape, this is so much more fun than counting reps at the gym or running mile after mile by yourself.

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Posted 2 years ago
Alvaro Castro

Great academy....my go to school when I'm in town....friendly staff Great instructors

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Posted 2 years ago
wenddy velez

Good vibes all around. Caring, respectful, and knowledgeable instructors. Family friendly. Well structured classes. Best gym in town.

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Posted 3 years ago
Andreia Hutcheson

These guys are so awesome with the kids. I def recommend after bringing my 10yr old daughter!!

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Posted 3 years ago
Robert-Paul Diaz

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven is a great place for adults and children. My son has been attending for several months and absolutely loves it. The instructors are very attentive and good with the kids. I would highly recommend CGWH to everybody.

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Posted 3 years ago
Matt Hulen

Both myself and my kids have been part of the Carlson Gracie family for nearly 2.5 years. My kids love attending class and enjoy all the instructors. Can't say enough good things about this gym and all the people who make it a family!

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Posted 3 years ago
John Venturini

Can't say enough good things about this place. I live in MI but spent 6 weeks here, hoping to find somewhere that I could get some training in. This place is about an hr away from where I've been staying, but the guys (and girls) as well as the coaches here are incredible. I'm so happy this is the gym I decided to visit while I was down here. I lost absolutely nothing being away from my home gym for 6 weeks and the fact they have early morning classes 7 days a week is very valuable to me. I've never seen another gym with this offering. I'm still here another 9 days but thank you so much Andrew/ James/ Jake/ Derick and all of my training partners.

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Posted 3 years ago
Adam

I was in the area for a few weeks and trained here. These guys were super friendly and made me feel very welcome. If you’re looking for a place to train in Winter Haven, be sure to check them out.

Instructors Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Charlie C.

Really cool gym great vibes looking forward to training here

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Posted 3 years ago
James Dreger

Everyone was super friendly, have both judo and jujitsu. Contact them before you stop by first as schedule has changed from what is online. If you're a princess like me, be prepared because it's an open air garage.

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Posted 3 years ago
Mason Osborn

Great place to get a workout and learn some new skills. It is a fantastic family oriented organization. You won’t regret joining the team.

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Posted 4 years ago
Jonathan Leonard

This is the premier place for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Winter Haven. The team of instructors are extremely knowledgeable and great with kids and adults alike!

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Posted 4 years ago
roger walker

My children have been attending here for over 10 months. They love it here. The instructor are great with the children. The instructors, and other families in this gym have become part of my family. A great place full of great people.

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Posted 4 years ago
Joseph Bullington

Great coaches, diverse class offerings for multiple practices, kid programs and the lineage to back up the knowledge. Hate when I miss going every week.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Bianca Watson

If you are looking for somewhere to go that is more than a gym, this is where you need to be. This is a family. Train together, hang out together, fight for each other. The coaches are absolutely amazing and I trust them with my kids. The lessons we are learning go way beyond the mat.

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Posted 4 years ago
Christopher Watson

The best of the best. Carlson Gracie Winter Haven is great for everyone in your family! Come and enjoy an environment that is friendly and welcoming to all.

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Posted 4 years ago
Joe Bunting

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven is an amazing martial arts academy. Self defense Jiu jitsu, women only classes, striking classes, Judo and high level competition classes are all available. Every instructor is not only knowledgeable but experienced in competition at the highest level. Family friendly environment were you feel welcomed every time you are around them.

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Posted 4 years ago
chris lowe

Andrew Kinchen, Rafa Santos, Coach Derek and Coach Marc always put amazing classes and they have an excellent vibe going. Part of my bjj family for the last 10 years . Highly recommend

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Posted 4 years ago
Alexander Dunn

Best BJJ GYM in town, don't forget to roll!!!

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Posted 4 years ago
Angie Nava

This review is long overdue, my oldest has been at this gym since he was 4 1/2 years old now 9. Our daughter has also joined & now our youngest has as well. I cannot recommend a better jiu jitsu gym than this gym. We've become a family & have amazing coaches who have different teaching styles which work well. Proud to be a part of this amazing gym

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Posted 4 years ago
Corri Shelton

Absolute amazing school! The coaches are amazing and patient with all students, adult and children. Really enjoy the women's class offered here too! 100% recommend.

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Posted 4 years ago
mario maserati

Excelente escuela de Jiu Jitsu, son muy buenos

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Posted 4 years ago
James Herring

Carlson Gracie winter haven is a phenomenal place to learn and practice jiu jitsu. All of the instructors are phenomenal and take the time to ensure everyone is understanding what is being taught. It’s a great atmosphere and I would recommend it to any one to visit no matter what level practitioner of jiu jitsu you are

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Posted 4 years ago
Matt Shelton

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven and really the entire CG group of schools are amazing they treat you like family walking in the door. Coaching is great! You learn so much about Jiu-jitsu no matter what level of athlete you are, it's a great environment for kids too. Coach Andrew is a great person he really cares for his students. I cannot recommend CGWH enough!

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Posted 4 years ago
Jessica Lane

Very friendly! Looking forward to going back.

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Posted 5 years ago
T C E

Absolutely loved the friendly atmosphere and the instruction. I will definitely be going back to 🤙

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Posted 5 years ago
Travis McConnaghy

I came in from out of town and everyone was so inviting and friendly. The mat space was huge and the instruction was thorough. I'd recommend it to anyone in the area!

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Posted 5 years ago
Darlian Hernandez

It's a great place to work out the staff is friendly and helpful

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Posted 5 years ago
Marc Spiro

There is no better place to train and no better team to train with. The coaches and facility are as professional as they come. If you haven't given them a try please do yourself a favor and go get a good workout in while learning the highest level of jiu-jitsu.

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Posted 5 years ago
Brandon Smith

Great place to train and learn new skills. Professional, friendly instructors that make you feel welcome as soon as you walk in the door.

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Posted 5 years ago
Single Parent with Crypto Freedom!!

My son who is 10 has been part of the Carlson Gracie family since he was 4 years old He trains at all three local facilities but is welcome at any Carlson Gracie School..... The mentorship that is shown throughout all three schools is something that I truly appreciate as a father. I would recommend any of the three locations for any child.... He has also been fortunate to train with Carlson Gracie Jr himself on numerous occasions.. They teach from the heart not from Ego!

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Posted 5 years ago
Dom Newman

Just started, and I already love all the classes I’ve attended. Great teachers and students. Very comfortable environment.

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Posted 5 years ago
November P

My wife, 3 daughters and I have been members for almost 2 years and its changed our lives and life style for the better. Coaches are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Great to make great friends and connections with the community as well. IT IS NOT EASY but worth the investment in yourself

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Posted 5 years ago
raul aleman

Professional coaches, friendly atmosphere, and fair price. Great place for my son to practice BJJ.

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Posted 6 years ago
Logan Harper

Great place, knowledgeable staff, clean facility. Would recommend to anyone I know.

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Posted 6 years ago
brian foster

Great place to learn bjj.

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Posted 7 years ago
Cross Wired Electrical Services, LLC

Extremely encouraging environment to push yourself mentally and physically. Love the people here!

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Posted 7 years ago
Mel Ben

If you want to be a part of something great and meet great friends for life get into shape and have fun or if you want your kids to be part of something that i can't even explain these are the best people i know my son loves going to jujitsu and he has learned alot but also meet some great friends. Just go to where the adults are working out while your kids learn to protect themselves and meet new friends and have some fun.. Not to mention it gives you and the kids a reason to do things out of the house and together.

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Posted 7 years ago
Tke

Absolutely love this place

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Posted 9 years ago
Matt Livingston

Best place to change your life! All ya gotta do is show up!

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Posted 9 years ago
Sherlonda Anderson

Oh trust me, you will receive a great work out. My hair changed 3 textures in 3 hours. Really nice people that encourage you to reach your physical and healthy lifestyle goal s. Great luck!!! Fyi- if you are a whiner... Stay home!

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Posted 7 years ago
gigi the bird

This gym gives you things far too easily, and gives you a false sense of being better than you are. (A stripe when you don’t deserve it, and a belt when you clearly don’t deserve it) The atmosphere is friendly for the most part, but I’ve had a few guys crank a submission, with no build up, during my first month there. They also seem to struggle with cleaning the mats… I got multiple infections in the two and a half months I was there. I wouldn’t recommend going here.

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Posted 3 years ago