128 East Nifong Boulevard, Suite E, Columbia, Missouri, 65203, United States

Gracie Barra Kids

Introduce your child to Jiu-Jitsu and help them build confidence, discipline, respect, focus, physical ability, and essential self-defence skills - all in a safe and supportive environment. By practicing Jiu-Jitsu, children learn valuable skills they wouldn’t develop from other sports.

Empowering Kids Through Jiu-Jitsu

At Gracie Barra, Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art - it’s a path to confidence, resilience, and respect. Through structured training, kids learn focus, discipline, and how to overcome challenges.

In a safe, supportive environment, our certified instructors help students build strength, coordination, and essential life skills. Surrounded by a strong sense of team and belonging, they become part of a global family - growing on and off the mats.

By practising Jiu-Jitsu, children learn valuable skills they wouldn’t develop from other sports - like staying calm under pressure, using technique over strength, and solving problems with focus and confidence.

Book Your Free Class

Class Benefits

  • Builds confidence, discipline, and respect in young students.
  • Develops motor skills, coordination, and physical fitness.
  • It focuses on self-defence, takedowns, and ground techniques in a fun and engaging environment.
  • Our curriculum is structured around their age group and level of the students.

What to bring in your kid’s first class?

Water Bottle

Please pack a water bottle so your child can stay hydrated during class.

Comfortable Clothing

Children should wear comfy activewear like shorts, leggings, and a t-shirt that allows them to move freely. A Gracie Barra Gi and rashguard will be provided for their first class.

Slip-on Shoes

Easy-to-remove shoes like flip-flops or sandals help keep our mats clean and make it easier for kids to get ready before and after class.

Positive Attitude

Encourage your child to come with an open mind and a positive attitude, ready to learn and have fun.

Begin your Jiu-Jitsu Journey with Gracie Barra

Book Your Free Class

Reviews

  • Flexible, caring, formative. 3 words that describe our experiences at Gracie Barra. From the warm greeting at the beginning to the encouragement and excellent instruction on the mats, the experiences are solid. They spend their time working and magnifying the process as well as the product. They are working toward forming and growing our son in ways that I cannot do at home. And for that, we are beyond grateful.
  • I highly recommend getting your entire family on the mats at GB Columbia. It has been one of the best things we have done for our family! The gym has become our second home. We love the Professor Fabio, the coaches, and the atmosphere. Our kids are learning so much more than jiu jitsu. They are learning resilience, to believe in themselves, and that they always have more in them than they think they do. I myself have rediscovered a part myself that I haven't known for years. As a woman, I just wanted to learn a little self defense, but I have found resilience, pride, and confidence.
  • Gracie Barra BJJ is an outstanding place to train. From day one, I felt completely welcomed by both the instructors and the students. The facility is always clean and well-organized, which makes a big difference in feeling comfortable and focused during training. The Professor and higher belts are patient, knowledgeable, and take the time to make sure beginners understand the fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed. Everyone is friendly and supportive, creating an environment where novices can learn confidently and improve at their own pace. If you're new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking for a positive, professional place to train, Gracie Barra BJJ is an excellent choice.
  • Coaches make you feel like family from day one, Professor Fabio is a world class instructor and person. Friendly GB community who are the best and nicest training partners you will ever meet when you walk in the door. They truly live by Jiu Jitsu for everyone!
  • We can’t say enough wonderful things about this Jiu Jitsu program. The coaches are truly exceptional, not only highly skilled, but genuinely invested in our kids. You can see how much they care in the way they teach, encourage, and push each child to be the best version of themselves, both on and off the mats. They build confidence, discipline, respect, and resilience while creating a positive and motivating environment. Our kids feel supported, challenged, and proud of their progress every single week. We are beyond grateful for the entire coaching staff and the impact they’ve had on our family. Highly recommend! 🥋💙
  • I highly recommend getting your entire family on the mats at GB Columbia. It has been one of the best things we have done for our family! The gym has become our second home. We love the Professor Fabio, the coaches, and the atmosphere. Our kids are learning so much more than jiu jitsu. They are learning resilience, to believe in themselves, and that they always have more in them than they think they do. I myself have rediscovered a part myself that I haven't known for years. As a woman, I just wanted to learn a little self defense, but I have found resilience, pride, and confidence.
  • Coaches make you feel like family from day one, Professor Fabio is a world class instructor and person. Friendly GB community who are the best and nicest training partners you will ever meet when you walk in the door. They truly live by Jiu Jitsu for everyone!
  • Flexible, caring, formative. 3 words that describe our experiences at Gracie Barra. From the warm greeting at the beginning to the encouragement and excellent instruction on the mats, the experiences are solid. They spend their time working and magnifying the process as well as the product. They are working toward forming and growing our son in ways that I cannot do at home. And for that, we are beyond grateful.
  • Gracie Barra BJJ is an outstanding place to train. From day one, I felt completely welcomed by both the instructors and the students. The facility is always clean and well-organized, which makes a big difference in feeling comfortable and focused during training. The Professor and higher belts are patient, knowledgeable, and take the time to make sure beginners understand the fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed. Everyone is friendly and supportive, creating an environment where novices can learn confidently and improve at their own pace. If you're new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking for a positive, professional place to train, Gracie Barra BJJ is an excellent choice.
  • We can’t say enough wonderful things about this Jiu Jitsu program. The coaches are truly exceptional, not only highly skilled, but genuinely invested in our kids. You can see how much they care in the way they teach, encourage, and push each child to be the best version of themselves, both on and off the mats. They build confidence, discipline, respect, and resilience while creating a positive and motivating environment. Our kids feel supported, challenged, and proud of their progress every single week. We are beyond grateful for the entire coaching staff and the impact they’ve had on our family. Highly recommend! 🥋💙

FAQs

  • At what age can my child start Jiu-Jitsu?
    Children as young as 3.5 years old can start training in the GBK Program, which is tailored to their age and developmental stage.
  • Is Jiu-Jitsu safe for kids?
    Yes! Safety is a top priority. Our structured curriculum emphasizes safety, uses controlled movements, and respectful partner interaction to ensure a safe, positive environment.
  • How often should my child train?
    We recommend 2 times per week for steady progress, but training frequency depends on your child's schedule and goals.
  • What if my child is shy or nervous?
    That’s completely normal! Our instructors are experienced with first-timers and will help your child feel welcome and supported. Progress happens at their own pace.

Instructors

Certified Gracie Barra instructors have been trained in the methods outlined by our founder, Master Carlos Gracie Jr. himself. The Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program connects our instructors to the inspiring, time-tested methods, and proven strategies of Master Carlos Gracie Jr., while giving access to an unparalleled collection of ideas, information, and lessons to provide Gracie Barra students with an exceptional training experience. This is the legacy of our founder, and it is the same legacy we instill into each and every one of our students today.

  • Professor Fabio Lima
Gracie Barra Online

Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.

Gracie Barra Online

Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.

GB Columbia
128 East Nifong Boulevard, Suite E, Columbia, Missouri, 65203, United States
School Hours
Monday
11 AM - 1 PM, 4 PM - 8 PM
Tuesday
4 PM - 8 PM
Wednesday
11 AM - 1 PM, 4 PM - 8 PM
Thursday
4 PM - 8 PM
Friday
11 AM - 1 PM, 4 PM - 8 PM
Saturday
10 AM - 12 PM
Sunday
Closed
Not the school you were looking for?Change location