Gracie Barra Pelham Alabama | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Self-Defense

200 Bowling Ln, Pelham, AL 35124, USA

4.9 (56 reviews)

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Gi Judo MMA

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Explore top-tier Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Judo, and Kids Martial Arts classes at Gracie Barra Alabama in Pelham. Suitable for all levels, with expert instructors and private training options.

https://www.graciebarraalabama.com/

(205) 637-5551

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Reviews

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B L

Tremendous experience - great professors, great culture, very welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend visiting and learning from these leaders in the BJJ community.
Posted 1 year ago
Melissa Thompson

GB Alabama has a wonderful, welcoming atmosphere. Our home gym is GB Jasper, but we have visited GB Alabama on numerous occasions. Our kids competed in locally hosted tournaments and participated in kids' camps. The facilities are clean and spacious. The instructors and staff are extremely friendly and great with kids (and adults too). It is always a great time when we visit.
Posted 1 year ago
Dorian Young

so I have been trying to find other ways to grow on my journey of self improvement, and one of those ways that I thought that would be great was trying out jujutsu and being that I knew the owner it was a great way because I already had a relationship with him and let me just say this. I’ve only been doing this for a month and I’m already seeing the level of confidence, growth, and my attention to detail has increased the professors there and instructors are very friendly and it’s not just about aggression, but it’s learning the importance of framework and attention to detail as well as building confidence so if you are someone that just wants to become better and to be more confident, trust yourself and not second-guess things and execute faster than you ever have before Gracie Barra in Pelham is the way to go. this is also a great outlet for your kids if they are needing something to help build their confidence as well
Posted 1 year ago
Mr Me

If you're looking for a place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, this gym is hands down one of the best! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. The instructors are highly skilled and genuinely care about your progress. They take the time to break down techniques step-by-step, making them easy to understand and apply, regardless of your experience level. The gym itself is spacious, clean, and well-equipped, providing everything you need to train safely and comfortably. The community is incredibly friendly, fostering a positive environment where everyone pushes each other to be their best. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this gym offers an inclusive environment with plenty of opportunities to grow. The rolling sessions are high-energy, and you'll walk away from each class feeling both challenged and motivated. If you’re serious about BJJ or just looking to get in shape, this is the place to be!

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Posted 1 year ago
Kaedon Back

About a year and a half ago I moved to AL and I started going to this gym and it’s been amazing. I had stopped doing Jiu Jitsu for a while as the gym near me had not treated me well and I no longer wanted to go. Gracie Barra Pelham is a different story. While the training is incredible and the facility is beautiful, that’s not what makes me love it here. The thing I love is the family atmosphere. Here, they take care of each other, and are super kind. They’re always helping me improve and encouraging me. Professor Kaliffa is amazing and has created a great atmosphere. I highly recommend this place. You’re not a customer here, your family. I’m super grateful and as long as I’m in Alabama I will not stop going to this gym. They are family.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Lawrence Giles

I train all around the country and this school is one of the best! Prof Kaliffa is Awesome and the Atmosphere is very welcoming of everyone. It’s a great environment to learn, train, and grow in. I will DEFINITELY be coming back the next time I’m in the Birmingham, AL area

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Nathan Whitman

I'm coming up on a year of training at Grace Barra - Pelham and I cannot express enough how grateful I am that I took that first step into this sport and into this gym. I could go on and on about the physical and mental benefits Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has given me, but I want to really focus on the great work done here on a daily basis by this Pelham team. I've been able to visit a handful of other Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academies, and none have met the high quality of standard and care that is shown here at the Pelham location. The facilities are always immaculate and clean including the mats, the bathrooms, and the showers. As a working professional this is extremely important to me because I often leave straight from practice to work. The staff are genuine and were a great resource for me to help me feel comfortable taking on this new endeavor. The instructors offer world class instruction and all of them have the heart of a teacher and show tremendous passion and interest for the art and their students. My five year old also wanted to start classes and LOVES his professors. This sport has changed my life for the better, and I am 100% convinced there is no better facility or staff to have helped me make it one year in and I look forward to many more to come with the team at Gracie Barra Pelham.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Bill Sonnemaker

Best BJJ and Judo school in Alabama! Professor Kaliffa and his Team are leaders that help people to achieve the best possible versions of themselves.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Bunni Sophia

I had to take a Jiu Jitsu class as homework for one of my classes at university. The staff here helped me talk through everything, from setting up my first class to guiding me through moves as a total beginner. Everyone was friendly and accommodating for my needs/circumstances pertaining to why I was taking the class. Thank you Gracie Barra Pelham!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Dusty Hayes

I started here at the end of June. Everyone has been welcoming, the gym is always super clean, and the instructors are amazing. I would recommend this to anyone interested in Jiu-Jitsu or MMA.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kao Lee

We signed my 4.5 year old daughter up a month ago and she loves it. Always says the classes aren’t long enough. The staff are friendly and helpful. They make learning fun.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kimberly Garner

My husband and I started our 6 and 8 year old boys at Gracie Barra Pelham a little over a month ago. The 8 year old didn’t even want to entertain the idea and the 6 year old was pretty nervous. The team at GB was able to create a positive experience for both of them and in no time at all they were excited about going. The confidence and self control they have gained in just 6 weeks is amazing. If you’re on the fence about it, I highly recommend doing the two week trial. Everyone is always in a positive mood and willing to go the extra mile to make the kids want to do better.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ahmed Salem

Awesome club, awesome team to roll around on the mats with. Happy to have joined the GB family

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Marcos Barros

Gracie Barra Pelham offers an exceptional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. The instructors are highly knowledgeable and dedicated, providing a welcoming atmosphere for practitioners of all levels. The facility is well-maintained, and the training sessions are structured, allowing for both skill development and a great workout. The sense of community among members enhances the overall experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Gracie Barra Pelham is an excellent choice for those looking to learn and grow in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Sierra S.

Love that they teach judo and Kaliffa Oliveira is a great instructor. Only place I've found around this area that teaches judo.

Instructors Facility Classes Location
Posted 2 years ago
Jade Skelton

Gracie Barra is not only the most welcoming, professional and compassionate facility but the entire staff is incredibly supportive and helpful. If you are looking for a clean, safe and comfortable place to take your health to the next level and grow in all areas including community I could not recommend any other place than Gracie Barra and the variety of classes they offer and times available to fit your lifestyle. Love them so much!! Definitely highly recommend!!! ❤️

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Carlos Lemos

World class instruction absolutely prime facility, family environment and top professors lead by two of the very best of Gracie Barra professors Kaliffa and professor Lorena. This was my first visit to GB Pelham and I will definitely comeback soon ! I highly recommend this place to anyone children, men and women trying to learn self defense, martial arts , get in great shape and become part of an incredible community.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Cesar Romo

Great place to train and visit

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
crying dog

great self design and disipline

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Bj brownson

10 Stars if I could!! Very Clean! I just can’t say enough about this business. It all starts with the owner Professor Kaliffa Oliveria. He treats every student and customer with respect, understanding, patience and kindness. The Instructors and Professors are Amazing! Starting with Instructor John in GB1. He is very patient, teaches in a step by step approach which is very helpful and is just a friendly guy! Professor Leo teaches the kids and also some GB1 classes. He always has a positive attitude, always has a smile on his face and you can tell has a genuine love for teaching kids! Professor Pedro teaches mostly the GB2 classes. He also always has a positive attitude, a deep understanding of BJJ and is overall just a great guy! Saying all that I do understand that Professor Leo and Pedro are from Brazil and english is not there first language so now and then a word may get lost in translation. If that bothers you I would suggest exercising some humility and meet them halfway in learning some Portuguese seeing that it is the native language of BJJ and can only help. Your not going to find a perfect instructor or teacher but there pretty close! The people at the front desk which for most part is Mrs Lindsey is very hardworking, will help you with whatever you may need and is very prompt in responding to any questions you may have. Also inside the facility there is a gym that is ran by Mr. Greg and is a Great place to workout! Just a AWESOME place!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
J.R. Spitzer

I have been rolling Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu here for about 6 months and all of the people are amazing. Everyone I have met is extremely knowledgeable and polite and have a tremendous amount to teach and to offer. The black belts are so patient and excellent at teaching. It is a bit on the pricey side to get into it, but it is very worth it. There are other classes (Judo, Muay-Thai,) that I haven't had the opportunity to take yet but I am looking forward to one day. Would highly recommend!

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Posted 3 years ago
Allen Brantley

I struggle to find words to quantify the immense benefit this gym has brought to my life. Over 3 years ago now, I thought I was signing up for a gym; little did I know I was joining a family. Since then, I’ve learned extremely practical martial arts, made several great friends, gained physical and mental toughness, and gotten in the best shape of my life. I could not recommend this gym enough. Don’t believe me? I dare you to come see for yourself; you won’t be disappointed!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Sidney Frierson

Wow, The team here is Amazing, they go above and beyond what is asked. I have seen incredible grow within my son in only months of taken Jitsu. Kaliffa and his team has become our second family. This might be a gym but the team makes it feels like HOME

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Shelli Smith

It’s a fantastic gym with the best coaches and professors! Highly recommend for all ages!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Scott Smith

Incredible new gym

Facility Location Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Eimy Guerrero

👍

Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Qiana Shaw

Everyone was welcoming. Great exercise.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Rafal Bulgarski

Wow, what an awesome place. I have traveled all over and trained all over and I have to say this is one of the best BJJ gyms. Not only form the technical point of view, but as a group of spectacular people. There is quite a few black belts and brown belts that support all levels. The classes are well scheduled and have a good curriculum. There is a good balance between training, learning and rolling and most of all SAFETY is their top priority. The kids classes are just as good with superb coaching staff that truly understand how to make well rounded little martial artists. The head coach Kaliffa is a phenomenal BJJ Professor with great sense of humor, amazing Judo and BJJ skills and most of all a coach that practices what he preaches by continuously competing at the top level. Thank You Team Gracie Barra Alabama !!!

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Posted 8 years ago
Whatwhattodo

Good place to train! Highly recommended!

Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
yaseen abdulla enad rashid abdulsalam, abu alhaija

I love they break down every technique and it's a good environment and you get a good workout

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Kim Mardis

It says "Jiu Jitsu for Everyone" on their wall and they truly bring that statement to life. The kids classes are fantastic and are about so much more than just a sport-- my 10 year old son has grown in strength, character, and maturity during his year with Gracie Barra and Professor Kaliffa. This is one of the best influences in his life. And the same holds true for me as well! I'm in my 40's and am about the most unathletic person you can imagine, yet am finding that what I once felt was impossible is now possible. I'm seeing and feeling the benefits of training, and it transcends way beyond the mats.

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Posted 9 years ago
Don Hix

A great bunch of folks that will make you feel like family. Top notch Jiu-Jitsu and Judo instruction.

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Posted 9 years ago
Caleb Kirk

My son (15) and I have been training with professor Kaliffa for almost a year now. This has been the best bonding experience for my son and I. Amazing staff and a very clean facility which is hard to find. Become a member and it will be the best decision you will make. Highly recommend to start your New Years resolution with us.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Joseph Sitter

An amazing facility to train in, with top-notch instruction from a judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt.

Instructors Facility
Posted 9 years ago
Cole Two Bears

Great instructor and environment to train in!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Brandon Graves

I went to Gracie Barra to inquire about taking bjj classes. Honestly, my experience was pretty bad all around. I felt like the young lady was very pushy on trying to sell me on classes even after I told her that the class times didn't really work for me. I told her I'd need to consult with my significant other before I agreed to commit to 3 months of classes... I let her take my information with the agreement that my card would not he charged unless I told her I had decided to go ahead with the commitment. She didn't charge me for the classes but did charge me for the uniform. My thing is, why would i be ok with paying for the uniform if I hadn't agreed to even take the classes yet? I admit I was very confused as to why she was sending the uniform home with me in the first place. I guess it's a sales tactic to get you to go ahead and sign up. You've already paid $80 bucks and been given a uniform... hard to opt out after you've done that. Honestly I was interested in taking the classes until this situation came to be. Once I realized what was going on I decided check out a different gym. I would suggest you checking out a different place to start training martial arts. Side note: the entire time I was there the guy runs the gym was giving me the dirtiest looks. Or at least that's how it came across. I was extremely uncomfortable the entire time I was there.

Instructors Facility Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago