Instructors have a difficult job of herding cats. My son is 3 and is in the Little Champs class. Overall the place is amazing. The student to instructor ratio is almost 1 to 1. I’ve noticed when Rob and/or the other Black Belt Leads the class, there’s a lot more 1 on 1 with the kids and when others Lead it’s more of a free for all. At the end of the day, the kids are enthusiastic about it and I think it does a great job of familiarizing them. Keep up the good work.
Between my classes and my kid’s classes all of the instructors have been top notch! The gym is clean and their commitment to educating shows their own love for BJJ.
Gracie Ohio, has been an incredible experience for my 12-year-old son, who started just a month ago and was instantly hooked. The instructors are not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to helping young people learn self-defense in a safe and supportive environment. I've already noticed a significant boost in my son's confidence, as the academy emphasizes both physical skills and mental discipline. It's a fantastic place for kids to grow stronger, more self-assured, and better prepared to handle challenges both on and off the mat.
InstructorsFacilityClassesAtmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
J T
Friendly and welcoming people in a large and beautiful facility!
Robin and Amanda are amazing. They are so helpful, kind, and have dedicated their lives to shring the art of Jujitsu. My daughter and I love the art and have just. It's been so welcoming even as novice in the art. The instructors, both Mike's, Allison, Eric, Matt, just all of them, bring their own color of the art to their respective classes. Then, one adds on the community, events, and top-notch facilities to round out one of the Midwest best academics, if not the best. One of the coolest other things is the history of this academy. The original owner was just promoted to be the first coral belt from America.
I highly recommend this gym to anyone in the area. This is an excellent group of men and women who are all both welcoming and humble. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and they made sure I had a great visit. The facility is MASSIVE and clean and well run and organized and I 100% will come back in the future
I tried all the Jiu Jitsu gyms in the city and this is by far the best. Gracie Ohio is a world class facility with world class instructors! With 7 fundamental classes a week taught by multiple black belts and tons of advanced classes and open mats this is the perfect place for both beginners and experienced Jiu Jitsu practitioners. The gym is giant and has 2 large projectors that play the move you are practicing on repeat letting you catch every detail.
The gym owner was taught by members of the Gracie family and he has been a black belt for over 20 years. This is the oldest Jiu Jitsu gym in Ohio and has trained many killers.
My daughter has been coming here for over a year. The instructors are kind, patient, and knowledgeable. It's been wonderful to see her confidence grow here. Some of their instruction also includes standing up to bullies which helped her during a rough 4th grade. Highly recommend.
One of the best decisions I've made in life is a commitment to learn here. All of the instructors are patient and willing to answer questions. Even the stupid questions are answered with humility and understanding. The environment & community is very friendly overall. I'm learning self defense skills from very knowledgeable people and getting excercise at the same time!
Incredible place! I dropped in for their Friday open mat from out of town, and everyone was very kind and welcoming. Michael helped me feel right at home! Definitely visiting again as soon as I can.
This is a really great place to start your jiujitsu journey.
I’ve been coming here for about 3 months now and the people here have made my experience amazing.
The professors are very supportive and really good teachers. They teach techniques very meticulously and also make the class fun and interesting.
They are also very strict on safety and making sure we don’t injure ourselves.
Gracie Ohio is a fantastic gym. Great facility, amazing instructors and wonderful culture. Having started my BJJ at a different gym, I can say if I started here, I'd be much further along with my skill level.
Love this community and the brand new, massive NEW LOCATION!
When I finally decided to get back into Martial Arts and was considering Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, many people suggested I meet Robin Giesler and his Relson Gracie academy. I found the Gieseler’s and their instructors to be quality people, with a heart to teach both kids AND adults the gentle art of JiuJitsu.
After a year of training 4-5 days per week now, I personally have not only lost weight and gained muscle, but I’ve also learned self defense techniques and disciplines that could save the life of my loved ones, or myself. More than that, my 2 son in laws now train here and we’ve all gained new friends, and would strongly recommend other families looking to get more active (both parents and kids) come check out some of the beginner and adult and kids classes in this big, clean, new location!
The instructors and experienced members have been incredibly kind and welcoming. The environment of the classes is so positive and supportive. My first few classes have been a great experience.
I had my first bad physical about two months ago and my doctor got on me about being more active. I hate going to the gym so I started looking around at martial arts classes and stumbled upon Gracie Ohio so I signed up for an introductory class. It’s the best decision I have made in a long time. Everyone is kind and supportive and generally amazing, especially with a fat, old guy like me. I am getting in shape, learning to protect myself and having a blast in the process. The best part is now my young daughters want to come and do the kids program! It’s really awesome to have an activity to share with my kids that we both enjoy. I wish I could give them more than 5 stars!
Our family loves this place! My husband trained here for a little bit several years ago and loved it, but unfortunately couldn’t make the time for it anymore. But he still followed them on social media and that’s how we found out they had a program for little ones. We were looking at getting our daughter (3 at the time) started with an activity and decided to give it a shot. I had never been here before, but I felt so welcomed when I brought her in for her first class — and now she’s been going for over a year! She absolutely loves going to class and she loves her teachers, Mr. Mike and Ms. Natalie. They are so unbelievably patient and just so great with the kids. My daughter is becoming so confident in herself and I’m so proud of her. I definitely recommend this place!
Very warm and welcoming environment. Very knowledgeable instructors with many many years under their "belt" . Glad I joined and I am excited about growing within the walls of Gracie Ohio. They offer a wide variety of classes for all skill levels, including kids classes.
I was in the area for training for my job and I stopped in here to train for a few days. The gym was welcoming and the instruction was incredible. I went to the advanced class and beginners class and all the instructors were very kind and welcomed me as their own. I would recommend this gym to anyone in the Columbus area! I can’t remember all the instructors names but thank you!
In travel I found this place for training.
Incredible welcoming and trainer.
People really friendly.
The training was very accessible to every people.
Unfortunately I can't return second time because of work but it was so nice souvenir.
Thank you!
My daughter LOVES going!! We love taking her! The instructor is amazing! He makes it a lot of fun for the kids... You can tell he enjoys what he does!
The price for what you get is amazing too!!
100% recommend!!
They also have adult classes too!!
This place is amazing and needs some context as to why. I have been a serious martial artist for many a year. I have lived in a multitude of states and trained at numerous gyms. It eventually came time to step back from Muay Thai. Muay Thai gyms themselves (any good gym at least) is very much like a family. People take care of themselves and each other. I was scared that I wouldn’t find it again, but I was wrong. My first class here was a joy. The higher level belts were very hospitable and helpful in developing students. The gym itself is very clean, and the professors have good expectations and standards as to the cleanliness and behavior of the students as well (which is good if you’re grappling with them). It is not cheap, but SO worth it because they literally track the progress of each individual student and nurture their own needs. If I get a black belt at this gym then I know it is a true blackbelt. I can also leave the gym with my body parts intact and feeling like I got one of the best workouts of my life. I also couldn’t think of a better gym to send my kids to do some safe and fun training.
I came to train at the fundamentals class while I was in town, and was very impressed. Such a friendly atmosphere and professional people. I will definitely come back to train next time I’m in town. Great place and highly recommend.
I’ve been training at Gracie Ohio for over five years now. The instruction is top notch and the training environment is phenomenal. Within the academy one will find a plethora of exceptional training partners whom possess a wide range of experience levels. It is also a family friendly facility for teachers, kids and adults alike. I am confident that you will not find anywhere better to train in the art or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! Don’t just take my word for it though, come check it out for yourself!
If you have no knowledge in Jiu-Jitsu or martial arts in general, this is where you want to go. This academy is very welcoming and dedicated into teaching the fundamentals of the art to people who have never trained before. I've been training here for 4 years now, and I continue to learn something new everyday.
I love this Academy. I initially had zero experience in any martial art, and I came to Gracie Ohio on a suggestion from a friend. I fell in love with it after one class, and now I've been here for just about a year. The instructors for the adult fundamentals classes in particular are excellent at bringing the techniques down to a very understandable level, and they provide a beginner friendly learning environment. There's no pressure to get anything down super quickly or to train super hard; you can learn at a rate that's comfortable for you. The head instructor and advanced class instructors have a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from. If you have a question, they will either have an answer for you, or they will know where to go to get it. The style of Jiu-Jitsu they teach is very self-defense focused. A lot of emphasis is put on keeping yourself as safe as possible out on the street. There are some highly skilled instructors and higher level belts here to learn from if you're looking to learn sport/competition BJJ, but there is no pressure at all to compete. Their main objective is to make sure that all of their students are able to defend themselves if needed. Long story short, If you're looking to learn a cool and practical skill from some talented, nice people, I'd definitely recommend Gracie Ohio.
Great atmosphere. Friendly students and staff. Nobody makes you feel unwanted here. Good, solid Jiu Jitsu for self defense, as well as plenty of opportunities for competition.
Great attention to the cleanliness of the mats. Mats are swept and sanitized after literally every class. Showers on site. Every effort is taken to ensure a healthy environment to train for everyone.
Instructors are personable and not pretentious at all. They offer great encouragement and clear direction. Nobody wants to be called "master" or "sensei". Bowing will probably get you some funny looks.
If you're reading this review and have seen the hours posted and don't think your schedule will align, be sure to hit their website to find the latest training schedule. There's availability in early mornings, mid afternoons, and even some later nights (up to about 9 or 10pm, I believe).
My 9 year old daughter has been going here for over a year and she remains excited to attend the classes. The care and thoughtfulness that the instructors have with the children is outstanding. I could not be more pleased and can't recommend this place enough.
You will be hard pressed to find a better place to
train. You have world class trainers who care about you and your success and will go above and beyond to make sure you succeed and feel welcome. More importantly the sense of pride and community is absolutely astounding. You will walk in expecting to train and leave with a family and new place to call home.
Welcoming, friendly, family atmosphere and very solid ju-jitsu.
Fantastic place to learn and train with national competitors & world class instructors.
I can't say enough good things about this academy. One thing I would like to share is that I have never been in an environment where there is so much constructive learning! Everyone is willing to help you along in your BJJ journey! Great place to train. Awesome group of guys and gals!
This is a great gym for beginners like me. The instructors are warm and make it a safe environment to practice and acquire new skills. I look forward to classes. There's no having to drag myself to the gym! And, as a woman, BJJ is incredibly empowering. So glad I found it.
Robin, the instructors and the community of members at Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy are superb examples of what make the art so incredible. They truly live the idea that jiu-jitsu is for everyone. And at the same time, they push you to do things you might not even believe you're capable of with positivity, humility, patience and supportiveness. If you want to find a community of like-minded folks trying to be the best people they can be - inside and outside the gym - whatever your goals or priorities - come visit or set up your first class!
I've trained at the Relson Gracie Academy since 2005. It's an incredible place, with an excellent culture started by founder Dr. Jeff Hudson (one the first Jiu-Jitsu black belts in the Midwest), and continued by my instructor (head instructor and owner of the academy) Robin Gieseler. Jiu-Jitsu is an amazing form of self-defense that can work for anyone, as the techniques rely on leverage and body-positoning rather than size and strength. I can't say enough about how much of a positive influence Jiu-Jitsu has been on my life! Robin is easily one of the best teachers that you'll ever meet (and an even better person)! In turn, the students are all great, and very welcoming towards newcomers. Come in and check it out!
I started my journey at RGBJJ back in November of 2018 and have absolutely loved it! The 10 for $10 is what initially hooked me in and it gave me a true understanding and vibe about this academy. Everyone has been extremely helpful and it's filled with good humans. There's a reason this has been around since the early 90s.
Best place in central ohio to start or continue your training. The culture is awesome; people are welcoming, humble, and everyone wants to help everyone else get better. Some of the best human beings I have ever met. The techniques are solid and practical. Theres something for everyone wether you are trying to be a world champion or just want to learn self defense. The instructors are super knowledgeable and some of the best in buisness. I went here for two years and had to take a break to get my life in order. Ive tried other gyms here and there but nothing compares to this place. I cant wait to get back in there. If you're in the area stop in and you wont be disappointed, I guarentee it!
I have been a part of this great Jiu-jitsu academy for 9 years. Robin is an amazing instructor, person & friend. You will be surrounded by a group of great people who are all very willing to help your jiu-jitsu game improve. I have bonded some very strong friendships at the Relson Gracie Jiu-jitsu Academy. This is family. I am here to stay!!
The instruction and training at this school is superb. Robin and company are extraordinary, I highly recommend them. Do yourself a favor and check them out!
Can’t recommend this place enough! The instructors and owner put in a lot of effort to ensure a welcoming, safe, healthy, and inspiring atmosphere to all students. As a women it can be pretty intimidating to join combat sports, especially when you are the only female in class! However, the instructors and the students are all very welcoming and supportive and help create a really positive learning environment and academy culture. 10 out of 10 would recommend.
Couldn’t have asked for a better place to train. The instructors are second to none. The culture and people from the top down are welcoming, encouraging, and supportive regardless of whether it’s your first day or if you’ve been training for years. And there are a lot of really technical, tough training partners to be had. If you’re in the Columbus area and looking to train jiu jitsu, this is your spot!
I was extremely fortunate to train at Gracie Ohio for over 2.5 years before moving out of state. During this time I made life long friends and received world class instruction from Robin and his team. Robin has created an incredible culture that includes a safe learning environment and becoming part of a family. Everyone is welcome and I encourage you to test your skills at Gracie Ohio when you are in Columbus, it is the best of the best.
If you’re looking to learn self-defense and get in shape- look no further than Gracie Ohio. Gracie Ohio has a strong instructor team that focuses on fundamental Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self defense, cleanliness, and safety. There is an unmatched community environment that draws in friends and families with plenty of fun, laughs and support. With top Gracie Jiu Jitsu instruction it also creates a competitive team environment where the team pushes each other to be better but also focuses on the right things... self-defense and having a great time! Thank you Gracie Ohio! #lifechanging
I've been attending the school for a few months. Didn't have any Jiu Jitsu experience prior. Felt very welcomed and the instructors taught to a level I could understand and grow. Plenty of opportunities for advancement in knowledge and experience. There isn't any big EGO's, everyone is willing to help you learn and develop the proper technique without judgment. I would recommend this school to anyone wanting to learn a new skill, try something new, or even the experienced.
I regretfully have gotten busy and haven't been able to keep up with my training, but I trained here for several years and they are an amazing group of people.
As a former college wrestler I knew a lot about grappling but very little about Jiu-Jitsu when I started. The instructors here are extremely knowledgeable and kind. Also all of your fellow students will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and help you if you are struggling with a technique.
It's a great place to train for all ages and people of all abilities, from Black Belts to beginners.
I can't recommend them highly enough.
Relson Gracie BJJ is filled with the best people I know! There are lots of opportunities to train morning, noon, and night! For all skill levels and personalities. Come learn to defend yourself and your loved ones! You won't regret it. I love being a part of the RGBJJ FAMILY. Robin is a legendary black belt and person. Amazing instructors who will take time out to help you with your technique and students who want you to feel comfortable training. It's a healthy and happy environment.
Great people. Phenomenal instruction. Since day one I was greeted with open arms. I am both blessed and humbled to train here. Happy to call them family.
This is such an amazing academy. All of the instructors are super friendly and willing to take the time to ensure every student understands whatever technique they’re working on. Robin runs one of the best schools in the country. Highly recommend stopping in if you’re traveling or looking for an academy to train at full time.
Amazing experience at Relson Gracie. Very welcoming to all people from all walks of life. Jiu jitsu is for everyone and this academy is the prime example of it.
This place is the best. I joined 3 years ago and it was one of the best decisions of my life. The instructors are top notch. The atmosphere is amazing. The people there are simply some of the best people I've ever met. I highly recommend anyone who is considering self defense or just someone looking for a hobby, to check out Relson Gracie Columbus.
I was a little intimidated to start my first class in my 40's and overweight. I am so grateful for the kind, warm and welcoming environment at Relson Gracie Columbus. I was encouraged to work at my pace and comfort level and have stuck with it for 2 years. I found a love for jiujitsu and self defense that I might not have tapped into if I had felt judged in the beginning. I have made many new friends and a few connections that are now like family.
I love this place! The academy is so welcoming! From the amazing instructors to all the really cool people you'll meet. I've now been training here for over 2 years, and feel so lucky to have found this great community! I can not recommend this academy enough. Drop everything, drive up there. NOW.
A little under a year ago brought my son (7) into Relson Gracie Ohio. I knew what Jiu Jitsu was and had read about its effectiveness as a self defense technique and confidence builder. He immediately loved it.
After watching him for a week I knew that I needed to sign up as well. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Fast forward to the drive home yesterday after almost 100 classes my son told me “I’m so happy I got into Jiu-Jitsu, because it’s fun to do with my friends”. He’s absolutely right.
Beyond all the self defense, self confidence and exercise benefits two things have really stuck out. First Jiu-Jitsu IS incredibly fun. Second Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Ohio is full of amazing people. I have tons of new friends from all different backgrounds because of this place and I’m really grateful that it exists.
If you are interested in learning Jiu Jitsu from some of the best instructors in a welcoming family environment come to Relson Gracie Ohio. You won’t regret it.
Robin and the entire community at Relson Gracie is absolutely amazing. I have been a member for five years and it's completely changed my life. GREAT people and a phenomenal environment!
Probably the best Martial Arts gym I've ever practiced in. Professional staff, affordable price, flexible hours, and comfortable and clean atmosphere. The only reason I had to stop training is because I had to move. Highly recommended!
From the moment I stepped into this academy I’ve been supported. The culture here is nurturing, and inclusive. Upper belts are eager to help and answer questions. I’ve never felt unsafe or overlooked, and this feels very important to me as a female in a male dominated sport. I definitely recommend!
I have been training here since 2005. This is the best place to train in Columbus. The atmosphere is very welcoming which is important since getting started in BJJ can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. BJJ will not only keep you safer in the world today, but it may just change your life.
Love this place! Started training in July and I’ve been obsessed ever since. Super welcoming environment thanks to great instructors (Robin, Eric, Michael, Allison to name a few) and thanks to fellow gym members. Lots of opportunity to train both during the day and at night which is super helpful for my busy schedule. The amount of women showing up has steadily grown since I started and that has been great. (The men are also great to train with too)
Great instructors! Great lessons for my son. He is really enjoying himself and is in better shape than he has ever been. He is more confident and Jiu Jitsu also helps him compete in other sports.
Relson Gracie Columbus is a great place to train and learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I was here for a month and was quickly welcomed by the students and professors. Robin and Michael were my main instructors both of whom were knowledgeable and helped improve my technique. They have a good fundamentals program for beginners, advanced classes, and open mats. I particularly enjoyed the many different times of day that classes were offered. Weekdays have early and late classes with open mat at lunch time.
Highly recommend.
I'm a former student of this location. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, the instruction is top notch, and the instructional times are convenient. I recommend this place for anyone seeking martial arts instruction.
I lived in Columbus for a year and trained at Relson Gracie Jiu Jitsu for most of that time. I wish I could’ve taken the academy with me when I moved away!
If you’re in the greater Columbus area, there isn’t a more welcoming and knowledgeable group of people to train with. Highly recommend from newcomers to experienced grapplers. If you’re new to jiu jitsu, you won’t find a better place to start.
On the first day I walked in to give Jiu Jitsu a try I was nervous, and had little idea of what to expect. I knew that there was a lot of close contact, which use to make me very uneasy, but for self defense it was also necessary. I don’t think I was on the mat for more than thirty minutes before I was feeling much more at ease. Everyone at this school put me at ease, and the class was all kinds of fun, and very eye opening. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had while getting my fanny kicked. And it’s an awesome workout. If you’re on the fence about trying Jiu Jitsu I suggest you jump off and give it a try. You’ll be glad you did.
This place is awesome. Robin is a genuine guy, a family man, and clearly an astute Jiu-jitsu practitioner. He makes classes fun and engaging for the kids, and gives each child the attention that is necessary. My son started when he was 8, now 10, and we'll be coming back for years to come.
This is THE place to go in Columbus for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! I picked this place for my two daughters originally based on convenience of location and, after about 9 months of training, it turned out to be the right choice. I cannot imagine taking them anywhere else. Everyone feels like family here. My kids are always excited to train. After observing the kids and adults classes I know one thing for sure, this is a place where the instructors will take you at your confidence and skill level and really build you up. I've seen experienced students grow even more in their journeys and I've seen the most timid students come out of their shells and really shine. Age, gender, race-- none of these things matter because everyone is encouraged here and given the opportunity to be successful. Highly recommend!!! Robin is awesome!
Learning Jiu Jitsu the proper way from the start is very important. Relson Gracie is one of the best, teaching you techniques all the way back from the Gracie Family and how Helio Gracie taught his students. If you want to learn the true art of Jiu Jitsu this is the place.
