Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville

Jefferson Trade Center, 3600 Chamberlain Ln 136 B, Louisville, KY 40241, USA

5.0 (74 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Self-Defense

Classes

Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction Fundamentals Private Lessons

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

We are the only Certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Training Center® in Kentucky. What this means for you is that you get the highest quality jiu-jitsu education p ...

Reviews

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Travis Pugh

Great instructor extremely technical and thorough techniques. Wouldn’t want to train anywhere else.

Instructors
Posted 1 year ago
preston copley

Our son started as a seven year old 5-6 months ago. We are so happy with our experience. I credit so much of his maturing to the work he’s doing in class. He’s really become so much more focused and in control of himself. The lessons are great, but what’s really extraordinary are the instructors themselves. They’re all so positive, encouraging, and terrific with children of all ages and interests. Highly recommend!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Jim Aneszko

Scott, his staff and the other members are very welcoming to new students. They are all willing to share their experience to help you learn and I felt like I was part of the team from day one! A great place to learn and practice your skills!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Nalee E.

My son has been going for over 2 years now and loves it! All the instructors are great, valuable skills are learned, respect and discipline are incorporated into the sessions and the best fun of all is the “ball-game” at the end.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Tone Rowe

I only attended a couple of classes on the free trial a couple months back. I knew I wouldn't be able to continue going when I did it, but while I had the open availability, I wanted try it, and see if it I would in fact want to continue. I am.a person that is highly out of shape, and overweight, yet nothing was strenuous, and a person couldn't hope for a better culture. Immediately the Instructor ( Alan ) along with his trainers that I had the privilege to meet, even the other students were very welcoming. There was no shaming of any kind to anyone, and only encouragement to everyone. I am getting close to be able to officially start my journey, and can't wait. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for anyone considering ANY type of martial arts, or even just a good exercise regimen.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Travis Gehlhausen

Allen class is the best

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Paul Evans

Great place, awesome experience, and wonderful instructors.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Tim Lewis

Alan and the other instructors are excellent. I love the curriculum, structure and culture. They genuinely care about the quality of each class.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
bigjonhwt

I am a purple belt and I was lucky enough to attend a GST Lvl 1 Instructor course at this location under the instruction of Professor Manganello. The professor is down to earth and very experienced. Professor Manganello made the course material a breeze to understand and teach. The professor has an extensive knowledge of BJJ and self defense techniques. The coach cadre that assisted made up of gym members were polite and very helpful. It’s clear to me that this gym has an excellent training environment. The gym is clean it has great locker room space and a lot of parking. If you live in the Louisville area and are considering training Jiu Jitsu you should definitely try a class at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
John Mike Ramsey

Great teaching, great people! A+

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Kris Riedley

Great experience for my son

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Matt Camardi

This is an excellent school with very friendly and helpful instructors

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Shelby Rice

Man can't say enough about Allan school. If you looking for a amazing place to train with an incredible knowledgeable instructor. This is the one!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Steve

Everything I thought it was going to be & more. Highest of recommendations

Instructors Facility Location Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Timothy Murphy

Been coming to classes for 4 months now and I'm learning more each and every class. The instructors are fantastic and great people. If you want to learn jiu-jitsu I definitely recommend Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Cathy Mizell

My kids LOVE Gracie Louisville!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Goju Boxer

As a 50 yr old lifetime traditional karate practitioner, I thought I had seen it all. You know, "been there/done that". Wow was I wrong. The methodology, ideology, and philosophy of the Gracie family is uniquely sound and readily applicable to all interpersonal violence related encounters. From kids programs (Bullyproof) to women (Women's Empowerment) to real fuctional self-defense (Gracie Combatives), GRACIE LOUISVILLE surely covers all the bases!!!! So whether you hold a black belt in another martial art, or you wear a leather black belt to match your black foot wear😉.....come check out Gracie Jiu-Jitsu at GRACIE LOUISVILLE. Tell'em Goju Boxer sent ya.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Travis Hawkins

I first came down to Gracie Jiu Jitsu Louisville about a year ago for Gracie Survival Tactics Level 1. Day one Prof. Allan Manganello, his wife Leeann and instructors treated me like an old friend. If you look at all into Prof. Magnaellos jiu jitsu pedigree you can be nothing but impressed: Rickson, Pedro Sauer and an official Gracie University training facility. The club is spacious and clean. The instruction is top notch and it is a welcoming environment. I've been a martial artist for 30 years and have trained Gracie Jiu Jitsu under the Caique network for about 9 years. It is nice to find such fantastic people training with focus and commitment to the art when you travel. Without a doubt if you live in the area and want top notch martial arts training this is the place. If traveling through contact the club and see if you can find a chance to stop by.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Princess B

Very great with children! My son who can be antisocial at times, warmed up very quickly to them, he loves going to their classes, I highly recommended.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Kaustubha Das

Drove their with my wife for their Gracie Women's Empowered seminar. Well worth the drive! Facility was spotless, staff was nothing but welcoming to not only my wife but my son and I who were just hanging out waiting for her, and the coaches and curriculum are all top notch. We can't make the class weekly, even though we wish we could, but we'll definitely be back out for private lessons, seminars and testing for the Gracie Jiu Jitsu curriculum. Can't wait to go back!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
I. Campbell

Great place, superb teaching, super friendly

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Gwen Beaton

I started the Women Empowered Program @ Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville (only Gracie Certified Training Center in Kentucky) in August 2016 and earned my pink belt this summer 💗. The instructors are amazing and super friendly. I leave every class with knowledge and confidence!! Thankful for this program and the ladies I now call friends.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Elizabeth Dorwart

I love going here. I take the Woman Empowered class and and I’ve never felt more welcomed somewhere. They explain everything thoroughly and it has made me feel 10 times safer walking alone somewhere.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Heather Mitchell

I love that my family is receiving training at the only certified Gracie school in Kentucky. Allan and Leeann and the instructors are knowledgeable, enthusiastic and work to ensure every person who walks through the door is made to feel welcome. There is no pressure because everyone begins at their own level or at a different stage in life. I love our Gracie family!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Mary Anglin-Coulter

Was looking for a positive activity my 15-year-old daughter and I could do together. This place is perfect! We are enrolled in the Women Empowerment training and are learning so many amazing self defense techniques. She loves it, and so do I. The instructors and other students are welcoming and friendly.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Anne Gregory

My family has been associated with this wonderful academy for 10 yrs! Love the Gracie Women Empowered program. Expertise and support are top-notch at this one and only Gracie Certified Training Center in KY!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Brianna Mattingly

So blessed this place came in to my life 2 years ago. I attend the Women Empowered classes and it has been life changing. My daughter just joined Bullyproof as well. Great place for the whole family.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Katharine Herman

Women Empowered is a fun, but practical curriculum. I wish I knew these techniques when I was in college! My kids also do bully-proof, and their confidence and self esteem have both increased since starting the program. I Highly recommend Gracie Jiujitsu Louisville!!

Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Tyler Wine

An incredible facility with excellent instructors! Positive upbeat environment that makes everyone feel very welcome!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Chad Martin

I drove from the Cincinnati area to attend a five day course for law enforcement. After completing the course, I told my wife I was seriously considering moving to Louisville. It was one of the best weeks of training I’ve had in my police career, which started in 1998. I would love to get my wife and three kids in a program at Gracie Louisville. Being 43, I’ve always worried about being injured during training, and having to miss work. The Gracie program is outstanding, and safety was priority one! There’s no need to be intimidated or afraid to try! The atmosphere and trainers are very accommodating! I may end up in Louisville before too long, I can’t find anything close to home like Gracie Louisville!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Phil Russell, PhD

I highly recommend Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville! Allan Manganello is a magnificent teacher who through his extraordinary Jiu-Jitsu knowledge combined with his law enforcement experience as well as his personal relationship with the Gracie family provides a depth of knowledge unlike any other Jiu-Jitsu instructor! The facilities are great and the people are fantastic! You will not be disappointed!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Kal El

If you’re in the process of looking for a school to visit in Louisville I highly recommend Gracie Louisville. I travel often and train at various schools when I do. Hawaii, Tennessee, and Florida to name a few. Things I look for are a welcoming atmosphere, content of techniques, and quality of the facility. Nothing worse then visiting a school and hoping your life insurance is paid up! This place gets an A+ rating all across the board. Able to grow and do so safely. Being a purple belt I’m a fan of going back and revisiting the fundamentals since it’s so often I can find I’ve lost vital components. Gracie Louisville helped me with that incredibly, and I will be taking back so much value when I return to Michigan. Visit, stay and learn!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Josh Thompson

I was lucky enough to take the GST course this week and the training was great. The facility was spacious and clean and the instructors were second to none. I highly recommend anyone interested in self defense to give them a call.

Instructors Facility
Posted 7 years ago
Craig Cox

I can’t put into words my gratitude for such a fine establishment and even better staff and trainers. I visited for a one week level one combative course for Law Enforcement and was amazed at the hospitality and superior instruction that was given. I can honestly say in my 16 years in Law Enforcement I’ve never been to a single school of any kind where the trainers and staff were so knowledgeable and where they payed such close attention to detail and explained things so well. The teaching method here is world class! I didn’t feel out of place and the environment was easy going and so helpful. Thank you Allan, Leanne, Evandro and all of the other staff that made this possible and for making us all feel at home!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Brian Sanford

This is the place to train for self defense. Allan Manganello is a great instructor, and will get you prepared for situation that you may come across on the street. This is getting the information directly from the source. Come by and join us for class we would love to have you.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Jackson Stites

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville is a fantastic place to learn jiu-jitsu. The teaching is top-notch, coming from instructors certified by the Gracie family. There are classes for kids (such as the Bullyproof class) and for adults (such as the Gracie Combatives and Master Cycle). Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville offers a 10-Day Free Trial; so try it for free today!

Instructors Facility Classes
Posted 8 years ago
Joseph Price

Last night I took my daughter to the Gracie BullyProof class, my wife to the Women Empowered class, and I attended a class for Gracie Combatives and we all had a great experience. The staff was very welcoming, the instructors were helpful and encouraging, and the other students were excited to bring us in to the classes to learn alongside them. I trained in Tae-kwon-do as a kid and Japanese jiu-jitsu in high school and want to get back into training now that I am in my 30's, but also share that experience with my wife and daughter as I had found joy and confidence in training in martial arts in the past. The organization at Gracie jiu-jitsu Louisville are on the next level of excellence, I went to this school because they are the only certified training center in town and that came with great benefits that I wanted to capitalize on and they did not disappoint. If you are even thinking about attending, do yourself a favor and just go, you will probably be as excited as I am which is why I wrote this review.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Big Fat Art Cat

Very organized

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
J Jimenez

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville is a great place to learn self-defense! Allan Manganello is an incredible instructor and of course, the curriculum is second to none! If you want to learn how to defend yourself in a realistic situation and you live in the area, then pay them a visit, you won't be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
John Erickson

This is an excellent school, with great instruction, and wonderful students! It's a great place to learn.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Blair Ruwe

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville the is the place to train!! I initially started all 3 of my kiddos there because of the Bullyproof program. Growing up in today's world kids need to feel confident, and be able to handle situations that are thrown at them. I was in awe of the confidence and self discipline that was displayed by my kids after only a few training sessions. I was intrigued, I wanted to learn more. I started taking classes about a year ago from Allan Manganello. Allan has a thorough knowledge in Jiu-Jitsu & how to train at any level. BEST decision of my life. You never know when you could end up in a life altering situation. Wouldn't you want to know how to protect not only yourself but your children?? I encourage all men, women and children to check them out yourself. You get 10 DAYS FREE!! What do you have to lose??

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Louisville

I have been training in verous martial arts for the last 20 years. I a truly beleive that the Gracie Combatives is the absolute best Jiu Jitsu program going. Allan Manganello, the lead instructor, make the classes fun and extremely effective. Because Gracie Jiu Jitsu Louisville is a Certified Gracie Training center all of the students have access to Gracie University and all of the classes have supporting video. So after class you can go back home and review the class content online. The techniques are presented by Hener Gracie and his brother and their family invented Gracie Jiu Jitsu so the instruction is world class. If you are interested in learning how to defend yourself, BBJ or MMA this is the academy for you. I think they have a free 10 day trial. Great school and fantastic people! Thanks Allan and team!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
T C

Been training here just a bit under a year now, and have had nothing but positive experiences. Best Dojo in Louisville for real world self defense.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Nick Ward

Allan and the team at LMAA are awesome. The environment is welcoming for beginners and they make you feel like you belong. Myself, my daughter, and my son all attend LMAA and we love it there. I've wanted to begin martial arts for a long time and we checked several different places until we found LMAA and the combination of professionalism with real world application made LMAA our home. Thanks!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Logan S

one of my favorite places ever to train so excited to go there!

Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Chris Couch

A great school. They offer a variety of martial arts training, under some great instructors and in a fun manner. I've never had a bad experience there, everyone has been very friendly and I've never seen or heard a bad attitude. I absolutely recommend that you at least check it out if you are looking for a good school.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Ethan Richards

When I was looking for a martial arts dojo, I wanted skilled instructors, practical fighting styles, and the proper attitude in approaching combat. Louisville Martial Arts Academy fit the bill not only on paper, but also in practice. All of the instructors place a high priority on their students safety both in studio and if they ever are engaged in combat in real life. Not only was I trained in how to physically protect myself, but also how to avoid and discourage fights as well. Ignacio Kali has been a joy to learn, not only for the variety of weapons we were taught to wield and defend against, but also for the camaraderie of the classes and our mutual desire to help everyone improve each day. I now have a great deal of peace about the prospect of me being attacked, if that ever happens I don't have to be afraid because I know what to do. One of the most important lessons I learned at LMAA is that victory in combat isn't outright defeating every foe that stands before you, but it is lasting long enough to see tomorrow. Strength and Honor, Mind and Heart are all aspects of the great practitioners of any art. If you are looking for a place to practice the Martial Arts, I would gladly suggest LMAA.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
G. Spaulding

My daughter has been taking martial arts lessons from Louisville Martial Arts Academy since October. She began Kempo Karate almost three years ago at another academy. Although we were sad when our old dojo closed, we are EXTREMELY pleased with Louisville Martial Arts Academy. Alan, the main instructor/owner is charismatic, intelligent, hardworking, understanding, and a gifted martial arts instructor. He truly understands kids, the art of martial arts, and when/when not to push kids. He has a knack for helping kids realize their potential, while encouraging them to strive to be their personal best. He is disciplined, yet approachable and nice. His wife, Leann, who also works there is so sweet and is willing to do anything she can to help parents and students feel comfortable, while learning all they can. The atmosphere is one of hard work and excellence. Students WANT to achieve. The families and students who attend Louisville Martial Arts Academy are all supportive of one another. I feel that we now have another family. I would HIGHLY recommend Louisville Martial Arts Academy to anyone who is interested in self defense, getting into shape, or just as a way to sharpen your mental focus. I hope to see you there!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Brennan B

Excellent instruction and physical challenge. Highly recommend for any level of martial arts expertise.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Clara Harris

My elementary-aged son trains here in Kempo and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. I have been very pleased with the stellar training and the personal attention he has recieved, as well as the welcoming atmosphere. The instructors are careful to make sure each student is being challenged at his or her rank. He loves every minute he spends in the dojo. We love LMAA!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Tracy Suttles

Best Gracie Jiu Jitsu in Kentucky by far. My son absolutely loves his class.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Quinn Cross

This is a great place to learn self defense and the art of Gracie Jiu-jitsu. The facilities are good and there is a family atmosphere with an emphasis on safety. Highly recommend.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Eric Ashley

Started training here 6 months ago. Was apprehensive because I had no martial arts training. Very welcoming. An overall excellent experience. I plan to continue for the foreseeable future.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Johann Eyvindsson

By far LMAA is one of the best martial arts academies in the United States and without doubt the best in the Louisville area. I have traveled from Europe time and time again to train with Allan Manganello, his team and world known legends like Pedro Sauer, world champion Andre Galvao, Ryron Gracie and many other big names. LMAA offers high end quality instruction under the guidance of Allan Manganello, a Pedro Sauer and Rickson Gracie blackbelt. Johann Eyvindsson Academy owner/instructor Gracie Iceland.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Ron Ignacio

Best multi-discipline academy in the area. Grappling, Striking, Weapons, Combat, Sport, Classical and Fitness... We GOT IT. We focus on several styles of defensive arts to help you be prepared for what may come. "Why should I train, when will I ever use it?" The reality is that there are bad people out there and we want you to have skills to survive. We have highly experienced instructors that can cater to all fitness and training levels. Come in and try a few classes. Make it more fun by bringing in a friend!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Alexandrea Vance

Great school! I love the family atmosphere and how they make everyone feel welcome.

Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Larry Suttles

Allan is a phenomenal instructor. I trained under him 20 years ago and my son trains under him now. I won't consider sending my family or friends anywhere else. Louisville Martial Arts Academy is truly the best around.

Instructors
Posted 11 years ago
Halldór Sveinsson

Awesome training with great people. Best Gracie jiu jitsu in Kentucky

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 13 years ago