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Classes
Gracie Barra offers progressive Jiu-Jitsu training for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're just beginning your journey or already an experienced practitioner, our structured classes are designed to support your development every step of the way.
Gracie Barra Kids
Our GBK Program introduces children to Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate classes - building confidence, discipline, and respect through structured curriculum. It focuses on self-defence, takedowns, and ground techniques.
Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals
The GB1 Program is the foundation of Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra. Originally called the "Fundamental Program," it offers structured training in self-defence, core techniques, and the philosophy of Gracie Barra. Designed for beginners, GB1 builds strong technical skills and prepares students for progression to advanced levels.
Advanced Jiu-Jitsu
The GB2 Program builds on fundamentals with advanced techniques, complex drills, No-Gi training and live sessions - preparing students for GB3. Eligibility requires at least 3 stripes on a white belt, which requires a minimum of 4 months of training.
Expert Jiu-Jitsu
The GB3 Program is the ultimate level of training at a GB school and challenges students, increasing the complexity of the drills, and the intensity of the training session. It is open to blue belts and above.
Jiu-Jitsu for Women
The GBF Program offers a supportive and inclusive introduction to Jiu-Jitsu for women, focusing on core techniques while building confidence and preparing students to progress into more advanced classes like GB1, GB2 and GB3.
Private Classes
Private classes offer one-on-one training tailored to your goals - whether it's refining techniques, preparing for competition, or accelerating progress. With personalized training schedules and focused feedback, students of all levels gain deeper insight into their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Begin your Jiu-Jitsu Journey with Gracie Barra
Book Your Free ClassInstructors
At Gracie Barra, our instructors are more than coaches — they are mentors, role models, and passionate leaders committed to the personal growth of every student. Each certified instructor upholds the highest standards of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction, following a proven teaching methodology rooted in safety, discipline, and respect. With years of experience on the mats and a deep connection to the Gracie Barra values of brotherhood, integrity, and development, our team is dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals in a supportive and inspiring environment.
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Head Professor Zack
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Coach Tyler
Professor Zack Shelley
first-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt
Zack Shelley is the head professor at Gracie Barra Cincinnati and a first-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt.
He began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 16 and has spent most of his life immersed in combat sports, including boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling.
Zack trains and teaches both Gi and No-Gi, focusing on Jiu-Jitsu that actually works—whether for competition or everyday training. He’s also the creator of the Kumite Jiu-Jitsu competition and was fortunate to meet Helio Gracie along the way.
Zack runs the School with high standards, plenty of mat time, and a strong sense of community, helping students grow on and off the mats.
Coach Tyler
Purple Belt
Tyler has been practicing Jiu-Jitsu for eight years and is currently a purple belt.
He has several years of experience teaching both kids and adults classes, including private classes.
He has competed and won local NAGA and New Breed tournaments in Cincinnati and is eager to help others improve at Jiu-Jitsu, whether for self-defense or to compete!
He has two sons, both who you'll likely see on or around the mats during Little Champs!
Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.