“I wanted to take a moment to share our experience at Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu, where my son Sterlyn has been training for four months. It has truly been a wonderful journey for him, and I feel it's the perfect time to write a review.
Sterlyn absolutely loves coming here and expresses a desire to train every day, so I take him Mon-Fri. The staff, professors, and Coaches treat us like family, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters lasting relationships. Professor Andre is an exceptional instructor, demonstrating extensive knowledge of Jiu Jitsu. His support and guidance has made a significant impact on Sterlyn, and I consider him a positive role model for my son.
As a parent, I’ve also gained a deeper understanding of the sport just by observing from the sidelines. I’ve formed meaningful connections with other parents, making the experience even more rewarding. Sterlyn is genuinely excited about Jiu Jitsu and is eager to compete. The facility provides excellent support for him, challenging him by pairing him with more skilled opponents, which is essential for his growth.
The academy itself is clean and inviting, creating a positive training environment. I’ve noticed Sterlyn developing greater discipline and working through his claustrophobia, especially when the coaches calmly guide him through moments of panic during sparring. It’s inspiring to see him becoming stronger and more confident as he grasps new skills each day.
Overall, Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu Academy has been an incredible place for Sterlyn to grow, learn, and thrive. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to introduce their child to this wonderful sport!”
“Was here a while back for approximately 8 months. Wasn’t a fan of how much of a money grab this place is compared to other facilities. You can only use their products; which are cheaply made and pricey. For instance their gis (at the time) were nearly $200 and started fading after washing a handful of times without machine drying. I could have gotten an Origin gi that’s American made for a similar price point that I actually feel good wearing. The head instructor at the time was incredibly hard to understand and really made it a point to only focus on students that were going to compete. So, as a hobbyist I felt really left out. He got to the point where he wouldn’t even make eye contact if I had a question. It just got so awkward and uncomfortable to even be there that I cancelled my $180/month membership. It really even put a bad taste in my mouth about jiu jitsu altogether. I would say if you’re looking to start BJJ to really look around at some of the other places. An instructor on YouTube said that if a place is making you buy their products then it’s not a place that cares about you, they care only about money. I ignored that advice when I was watching videos before starting. Find a place that isn’t worried about squeezing all the money out of you and isn’t so competition heavy. Also, find a place that isn’t so eager to promote you or the instructors for the sake of keeping you coming/paying or promoting the business cause they now have a black belt. It was very cringe worthy to get a stripe when I knew absolutely nothing and the stripe was really just earned from attendance. BJJ is a great hobby, just find a place that you can make it a hobby and not feel bad cause you’re not competing or drinking the GB Kool-Aid.”
“This Jiu Jitsu studio is absolutely top-notch — clean, friendly, and full of good energy. From the moment we walked in, we felt right at home.
As visitors from another Gracie Barra school, we were really grateful for how welcoming everyone was. They didn’t just allow us to train — they embraced us like we were part of their own team. That kind of hospitality means a lot.
Thank you for creating such a positive and respectful environment!”
“My kids been training here for almost about a year now, This is the best place to learn self-defense, sport, fitness, to boost your confidence, Nice clean facility, and very professional. The professors are all highly skilled, super patient, knowledgeable, and truly help you improve your skills to be best you can be in, and outside of the gym. Everyone is always welcoming, and friendly. Excellent environment for people of all backgrounds, families, small kids, teenagers, young adults, and older ones as well. There is no discrimination, or favoritism, and people of all backgrounds are welcomed here. You will quickly build relationships with your training partners, and even the professors as well. Also the gym has great instructors, and assistants who know what they are doing.”
“This school and team are amazing! Professor Fabiana really cares about her students and has a soft spot for the children and teens! She hosts anti bullying seminars to help bring awareness and guidance to the children. My daughter is 5 and loves to go to class every week! Very welcoming environment with supportive staff and students. As a female whose been to a couple different studios this was the studio that made me feel the most comfortable and safe. We have an amazing group of females to welcome you into the mats too!
Coach Andre is very kind and patient. He takes his time to guide you through techniques and is very knowledgeable.
Whether for yourself as a new comer, your child or someone experienced looking for a new school you can’t go wrong with Gracie Barra Alamo Ranch!”
