Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals

The perfect starting point for anyone new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. GB1 teaches the essential techniques, mindset, and values to begin your journey with confidence.

New to Jiu-Jitsu? Start Here.

The GB1 Program is the foundation of Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra - designed specifically for beginners. With no experience required, this program introduces students to core techniques, self-defence skills, and the philosophy behind our team.

Classes are structured, supportive, and paced to help you feel comfortable as you learn. Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, gain confidence, or simply try something new, GB1 gives you the tools to grow on the mats and beyond.

Our certified instructors focus on proper movement, posture, and mindset, helping you build strong fundamentals that prepare you for progression into GB2 and beyond.

Book Your Free Class

Class Benefits

Builds a strong foundation in Jiu-Jitsu techniques and self-defence
Improves fitness, coordination, and body awareness
Introduces the principles of Jiu-Jitsu for personal growth
Boosts confidence, focus, and emotional resilience
Promotes respect, discipline, and a strong sense of community
Encourages lasting friendships through teamwork and shared challenges

GB1 is more than just a training program - it’s your gateway into the world of Jiu-Jitsu. Each class supports both physical and mental wellbeing, offering structure, encouragement, and meaningful progress in every session.

What to Bring to Your First Class

Water Bottle

Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during training.

Comfortable Clothing

Wear activewear like shorts, leggings, and a t-shirt that allows you to move freely. A Gracie Barra Gi and rashguard will be provided for your introductory class.

Slip-on Shoes

Flip-flops or sandals make it easy to keep the mats clean and transition in and out of class quickly.

Positive Attitude

Come ready to learn, have fun, and challenge yourself. Everyone starts somewhere, and our team is here to support you.

Begin your Jiu-Jitsu Journey with Gracie Barra

Book Your Free Class

Reviews

We started our son at 3, and after almost a year, we’ve seen huge growth in his discipline and physical skills. Every professor is patient, engaging, and amazing with kids!

Alice
My daughter has had a great experience learning skills and just having fun. Highly recommend!

Phil
I’m a Masters competitor who cross-trains at Gracie Barra Franklin often. They’re welcoming, with high-level Jiu-Jitsu, great partners, and a great atmosphere. Justin and Chris run a great academy!

Clay
Gracie Barra Franklin is an amazing place to train! The instructors are knowledgeable, welcoming, and truly care about every student. Great atmosphere, awesome team, and highly recommend!

Jess
Gracie Barra Franklin is an awesome place to train. It is a fun, positive atmosphere where you look forward to coming to class.

Bglassner93
We have been so impressed with Grace Barra Jiu-Jitsu in Franklin! Our two sons have been attending the gym for the past year, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. The professors and coaches are excellent. Over the past year, we have seen our boys grow not only in their Jiu-Jitsu skills, but also in discipline, respect, confidence, and awareness of their bodies. The classes are very well managed while still being interactive, fun, and engaging for the kids.

Kimberly
My 5-year-old has trained here for 8 months and loves it! The professors and coaches teach skills, discipline, and teamwork while keeping kids engaged. He looks forward to every class. 5 stars!

Daniel
Gracie Barra Franklin is outstanding! Professors Justin and Chris are welcoming, professional, and passionate about BJJ. They create a supportive environment with great instruction. Highly recommend!

Kyle
My Son has been loving this class. It teaches discipline and listen skills . We love it! Highly recommend for a 5 year old boy.

Nikki
Our son has trained at Gracie Barra Franklin for 3 months and LOVES it! He’s learning Jiu-Jitsu, building confidence, and enjoying every challenge as he works toward his next goal. Great place!

Laura
Our son started at Gracie Barra Franklin at age 4 and, now 10, still loves it! It’s his happy place. We’re grateful for Chris, Justin, Shupe, and the entire coaching staff!

Ashley
We love this place! Our daughter has trained here for 4 years and loves it. The professors and coaches are amazing with kids and keep them excited to come back. Highly recommend!

Katie
GB Franklin is a welcoming, family-friendly gym with knowledgeable instructors and a supportive community. Great for women, kids, and beginners. More than a gym, it's family!

Dorothy
Gracie Barra Franklin is outstanding! Professors Justin and Chris are welcoming, professional, and passionate about BJJ. They create a supportive environment with great instruction. Highly recommend!

M
Jiu-jitsu has been one of the best decisions for my physical and mental health. It builds confidence, reduces stress, and offers an uplifting community that feels like family.

Saurabh
We are loving the franklin location!!! Our son has been taught at the Belleview location but we recently moved and they have made it really easy to transfer and get my son acclimated to a new group of students and coaches. It’s a larger group but professor here has a great way of organizing the kids to still get an intentional group learning experience!

Gerardo
We are new to Jujitsu and Gracie Barra. So far my 7 year old son is enjoying the classes and learning all about jujitsu!

Susan
My son has trained at Gracie Barra Franklin for 6 years and gained so much from the coaching, supportive culture, and community. He’s grown in fitness and confidence while making lifelong friendships.

Elke
These guys are the best! Love their engagement with the community and they do great work!

Megan
Thankful for the Gracie Barra class!! The professor and the coaches at this location are great!! we love that the kids are not only learning an athletic skill but they teach discipline.

Cynthia
Our shy 9-year-old has gained confidence since starting jiu-jitsu. The instructors are wonderful, teaching discipline, courage, and physical skills in a supportive, positive environment.

Jill
We love Gracie Barra Franklin! Our son started at 4 and is now 10. It’s his happy place. Chris, Justin, Shupe, and the coaching staff help him grow in jiu-jitsu and in life.

Ashley

We are new to Jujitsu and Gracie Barra. So far my 7 year old son is enjoying the classes and learning all about jujitsu!

Susan
My Son has been loving this class. It teaches discipline and listen skills . We love it! Highly recommend for a 5 year old boy.

Nikki
Thankful for the Gracie Barra class!! The professor and the coaches at this location are great!! we love that the kids are not only learning an athletic skill but they teach discipline.

Cynthia
Our son has trained at Gracie Barra Franklin for 3 months and LOVES it! He’s learning Jiu-Jitsu, building confidence, and enjoying every challenge as he works toward his next goal. Great place!

Laura
My 5-year-old has trained here for 8 months and loves it! The professors and coaches teach skills, discipline, and teamwork while keeping kids engaged. He looks forward to every class. 5 stars!

Daniel
GB Franklin is a welcoming, family-friendly gym with knowledgeable instructors and a supportive community. Great for women, kids, and beginners. More than a gym, it's family!

Dorothy
Gracie Barra Franklin is an amazing place to train! The instructors are knowledgeable, welcoming, and truly care about every student. Great atmosphere, awesome team, and highly recommend!

Jess
Jiu-jitsu has been one of the best decisions for my physical and mental health. It builds confidence, reduces stress, and offers an uplifting community that feels like family.

Saurabh
We love Gracie Barra Franklin! Our son started at 4 and is now 10. It’s his happy place. Chris, Justin, Shupe, and the coaching staff help him grow in jiu-jitsu and in life.

Ashley
Gracie Barra Franklin is outstanding! Professors Justin and Chris are welcoming, professional, and passionate about BJJ. They create a supportive environment with great instruction. Highly recommend!

Kyle
Our son started at Gracie Barra Franklin at age 4 and, now 10, still loves it! It’s his happy place. We’re grateful for Chris, Justin, Shupe, and the entire coaching staff!

Ashley
These guys are the best! Love their engagement with the community and they do great work!

Megan
We love this place! Our daughter has trained here for 4 years and loves it. The professors and coaches are amazing with kids and keep them excited to come back. Highly recommend!

Katie
We are loving the franklin location!!! Our son has been taught at the Belleview location but we recently moved and they have made it really easy to transfer and get my son acclimated to a new group of students and coaches. It’s a larger group but professor here has a great way of organizing the kids to still get an intentional group learning experience!

Gerardo
We started our son at 3, and after almost a year, we’ve seen huge growth in his discipline and physical skills. Every professor is patient, engaging, and amazing with kids!

Alice
My son has trained at Gracie Barra Franklin for 6 years and gained so much from the coaching, supportive culture, and community. He’s grown in fitness and confidence while making lifelong friendships.

Elke
I’m a Masters competitor who cross-trains at Gracie Barra Franklin often. They’re welcoming, with high-level Jiu-Jitsu, great partners, and a great atmosphere. Justin and Chris run a great academy!

Clay
We have been so impressed with Grace Barra Jiu-Jitsu in Franklin! Our two sons have been attending the gym for the past year, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. The professors and coaches are excellent. Over the past year, we have seen our boys grow not only in their Jiu-Jitsu skills, but also in discipline, respect, confidence, and awareness of their bodies. The classes are very well managed while still being interactive, fun, and engaging for the kids.

Kimberly
Gracie Barra Franklin is an awesome place to train. It is a fun, positive atmosphere where you look forward to coming to class.

Bglassner93
Gracie Barra Franklin is outstanding! Professors Justin and Chris are welcoming, professional, and passionate about BJJ. They create a supportive environment with great instruction. Highly recommend!

M
Our shy 9-year-old has gained confidence since starting jiu-jitsu. The instructors are wonderful, teaching discipline, courage, and physical skills in a supportive, positive environment.

Jill
My daughter has had a great experience learning skills and just having fun. Highly recommend!

Phil

FAQs

Do I need experience to join GB1?
No experience is necessary! GB1 is designed for beginners and those new to Jiu-Jitsu.
Will I have to spar in my first class?
No. GB1 focuses on drills, technique, and controlled training before introducing sparring.
How long does it take to progress from GB1 to GB2?
Students typically train for a minimum of 4 months in GB1 before advancing to GB2. Progress varies individually based on attendance, knowledge, goals, and attitude.
Is GB1 suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes! Classes are structured to meet you where you’re at. You’ll build fitness over time - there’s no need to be in shape before starting.