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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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I've had a great experience training Jiu-Jitsu here! James is an excellent coach who really takes the time to explain techniques, makes everyone feel welcome, and creates a safe, supportive environment to learn and improve.
What I especially enjoy about Jiu-Jitsu is that it's not just about strength or self-defense. There's a lot of strategy, problem-solving, and analytical thinking involved, which makes every class both physically and mentally rewarding.
The classes are well structured, the atmosphere is positive, and you can tell James genuinely cares about his students and their progress.
Highly recommend it to anyone looking to challenge themselves, learn something new, or get into Jiu-Jitsu!
I would recommend Gracie Ottawa to anyone. James is a fantastic instructor and is clearly so passionate about what he does. He makes everyone in the class feel comfortable with safety being a top priority.
James is an amazing instructor and incredibly passionate about Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Its a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere. If you’re considering trying out, they offer a 10-day free trial.
Started going for the Women's Self Defense classes because it is available starting any given Monday and I love it here! The program is very well structured to allow for review and practice of every different scenario. On top of that, everyone is welcoming and supportive of each other. James & Ellie are very knowledgeable and great at explaining the techniques. The Combatives class is also fun. The space is quite clean. To find Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, look for the signage outside that says Boxing4Health
Did a 10 day Trial with Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa. It has been a great experience thus far! James is an amazing teacher, he is welcoming, patient and has great energy. Making every class both a workout and fun learning experience. This was my first time doing a jiujitsu class and I can confidently say, if you are ever looking for a place to start your jiu-jitsu journey or just want to try it out, I highly recommend Gracie jiu-jitsu. You can also see the great community James has built through the camaraderie of his students and all who attend.
I highly recommend this place to introduce Jiu-Jitsu to children. I love James approach to guide the children. He teaches them confidence, technique and some fun during the class. I tried 2 other places in Barrhaven and I chose this Dojo because the size of the class is manageable and not crowded. The place is clean and at the end of the day, I want my children to enjoy learning Jiujitsu and they do.
What started as a self-defense class for my 12-year-old son has now turned into an activity our whole family is enjoying together.
James is an excellent teacher and his ability to teach children and adults with both clarity and enthusiasm is remarkable. He is full of personality and blends wit with technique to make each class entertaining.
James is a one-man shop. This is not your typical gym experience. There is no front desk, there is no rotation of other teachers, there are no off-putting sales tactics.
It is a guy with some mats sharing his love and passion of jiu-jitsu with his students. It’s great!
The Gracie Combatives Self Defense Program has some unique features:
1) It is beginners helping beginners – All of your classmates are white belts with 0 – 2 years of experience. Because of this, it is a gentle introduction to jiu-jitsu. You never have to worry about being banged up by an overzealous competitor and not being able to go to work the next day. The drills highlight safety over everything else. Also, because everyone is more or less a beginner—it is really a no-pressure environment. The class feels intimate and you get to know everyone and make friends as the same people show up for class again and again.
2) Structured classes – The Combatives Program is completely structured meaning you will know exactly what you are learning in advance of every class. You will also have access to online videos with in-depth explanations which are INCREDIBLY HELPFUL. If you forget a detail of a technique you saw in class (which will 100% happen) – go watch the video. If you want to preview what you will be doing in the next class – go watch the video. If you don’t care about any of that and just want to see some cool moves – go watch the videos.
I highly recommend talking to James if you have even the slightest interest in dipping your toes into the world of jiu-jitsu.
You will be glad you did.
TL;DR If you want a gentle introduction to jiu-jitsu in a no-pressure environment surrounded by other beginners taught by a coach who truly cares about your progress and is enthusiastic about the art of jiu-jitsu – then I would highly recommend Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa – give James a call.
Very highly recommend — I started training here about a month ago with James as the instructor. He and everyone I’ve met so far has been so welcoming and kind. I’ve never trained jiu jitsu before so I was very nervous because I wasn’t sure how aggressive or suitable it would be for someone my age (45) with no experience. To the contrary, everyone who I’ve paired up with to train is very patient and they all try to teach you — not hurt you. I believe there’s a 10 day free trial too so give it a shot. I’ll be signing my kids for the junior sessions soon.
I was super hesitant to start BJJ, but eventually the courage came to me during New Year's resolution. What you won't get here - you won't be beaten down, laughed at, feel lost during lessons, or feel you're not progressing. Gracie Jiu Jitsu Ottawa is hands down the best place for jiu jitsu training, whether you're an adult or a kid. James, the instructor, is not only highly skilled but also incredibly supportive and dedicated. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming and you have amazing online portal to watch all the lessons. My daughter has gained confidence and self-defense skills in the kids' classes, while I've found the adult classes challenging and rewarding. Overall, I highly recommend this club to anyone looking for a positive and empowering jiu jitsu experience! Kosta K
If you're interested in learning a proven self-defense system then look no further than Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa. Coach James will guide you through the core 36 standardized "Gracie Combatives" Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques to earn your "Combatives" belt and beyond. Absolutely no previous martial experience is needed! Training takes place in an exceptionally safe and friendly co-operative training environment. You'll get a great workout, meet new people all while growing super-effective self-defense skills. You need this. Contact Coach James today!
Completed my first Gracie combatives class last night, and let me tell you off my experience.
1. If you have a child, you should most definitely bring them to see coach James, he is passionate about his teaching and building up young ones to combat bullying.
2. If you are debating whether or not to start Jiu Jitsu, stop debating and come try a class. Coach James, is tremendous in his passion for Jiu - Jitsu, and his desire to help others improve through learning this beautiful art.
I came into class nervous, and left wanting to be at the academy every day. My classmates as well, were welcoming and encouraging and willing to give me a couple tips and tricks learning all the positions.
Thanks Coach !
Fantastic group and coaching! With many years of experience with other forms of martial arts, Head Coach James warmly welcomed my son (tween) into the adult class after an initial assessment of his skills and maturity. My son is always eager to attend, enjoys being a part of a group where mutual respect and support is offered, where he can master skills and create new friendships. His confidence and character have grown and it's a wonderful way to work off the stress of life in a healthy and productive way! Thank you James and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa! Highly recommend.
I'm having a great time at this school. If you're interested in Jiu Jitsu you should definitely give it a try. James is a wonderful instructor and everybody in the class is very helpful and very welcoming!
Update (October 2026):
I wrote my first review about a year and a half ago, when I first joined. It reflected my first impressions at the time. I trained here for about seven months, and over that time my view changed, so I wanted to add an update.
I still think the Gracie University curriculum is excellent. It's well structured and step by step, and Gracie Combatives is a great foundation for beginners.
However, my experience with the instructor here was different. In my opinion, his behaviour toward students was inconsistent, and I often felt discouraged rather than supported. I never felt it was an environment where I could grow. For me, the instructor matters as much as the curriculum, and that's why I left.
This is just my own experience, and others may feel differently. But based on it, I wouldn't personally recommend training with this instructor.
First review:
If you’re reading this, it means you’re thinking about learning martial arts — and you’re on the right path.
I’m currently doing my PhD at the University of Ottawa, and as someone deeply invested in education, the quality of teaching is extremely important to me. I always prefer to learn from the best in the world because they provide structured, step-by-step material that truly helps you grow.
Whether you’ve tried other gyms or not, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu stands out as the gold standard in the world of jiu-jitsu. I discovered them online and was thrilled to find that they have a certified representative right here in Ottawa.
James is the kind of instructor who offers clear, step-by-step guidance. With him, you won’t feel lost. Bring your friends, bring your kids, bring the people you care about most — because everyone can benefit from this.
Learning at least the 36 fundamental techniques in Gracie Combatives is essential, and that’s exactly why you’re here.
Good luck — hope to see you at the gym!
