Gracie Barra Mckinney

“Offering classes at 6am four days a week is crucial for me bc it's the only time of day I can consistently get to the gym to train. All of the professors and coaches are extremely knowledgeable and great at working with people of all ages and experience levels. My son and I are both very happy with our Gracie Barra McKinney experience.”

“I have been training at GB McKinney with my son for the past four months and I cannot speak more highly of this school and its instructors. My son and I have been training for just over two years in the Gracie Barra system (starting at another school in the area) and have found a true home at GB McKinney. Unlike other schools, there has not been a time where I have felt either my son or I were not safe while training. At our previous school, injuries were common due to the lack of training partners and the lack of sufficient number of instructors on the mats. At GB McKinney, there are always several instructors in each class. I have seen it in other schools that there could be a ratio of fifteen (or more) students to one instructor. My previous school was extremely dependent on "dad instructors" who volunteered their time to teach kids classes outside of their own training schedule. This is not the case at GB McKinney in either the kids or adults classes and there are always a sufficient number of staff instructors present. The class schedule is robust and offers morning, afternoon and evening classes for adults and gi/no-gi options for those who choose to train both. If you are considering trying jiu-jitsu for the first time, or enrolling your child, don't hesitate and start now. I tell every new student that I get to work with two very key messages. Message #1: Jiu-jitsu is hard and if I told you it gets easier, I'd be lying to you. Message #2: The only easy day was yesterday. With that being said, I wouldn't trade this experience for the world. Don't worry about "getting in shape first" prior to starting. I ran marathons and competed in triathlon prior to starting jiu-jitsu and it didn't matter. Everyone trains at their own pace, and has their own path on this journey. Give a class a try, and you might get addicted to it like the rest of us.”

“We heard so many great things from our friend about Gracie Barra McKinney and saw how her daughters truly shined, so we decided to give it a try. We were looking for an extracurricular activity that would help strengthen our kids (6 & 7) both mentally and physically, while also providing them with the tools to deter danger and stand up for themselves—and we’re so glad we did! From the moment we reached out to inquire about a trial class, Coach David was quick to respond and helped us get scheduled right away. When we arrived, we were greeted with warm, welcoming smiles from both the staff and a room full of eager kids ready to train. The first class was fantastic for my little ones. The coaches made them feel so comfortable, offering one-on-one attention to help them get started. The kids were fully engaged, and it was clear that the instructors genuinely cared about their experience. Professor Israel took the time to share a special promotion that was going on, which led us to sign up immediately. A few months in, and we couldn’t be happier. Our kids absolutely love it! They're normally very timid and reserved, but I’ve noticed a significant boost in their confidence. I truly appreciate how the coaches and professors challenge them and keep them focused and engaged throughout each session. All the professors and coaches are amazing! Coach Giovanna is just the sweetest! Her background and love for jujitsu shine through her smiles, warm welcomes, and especially when she leads the class. Coach David provides clear, concise direction when teaching the kids new techniques. Even though the classes are large, we love how Coach David ensures the kids get their own personal coaching experience during sparring time. He helps them strengthen their weaknesses while improving their strengths, always seeing their potential and motivating them to shine. Professor Rival is fantastic with the little ones. Keeping a class of 4 to 6 yo's focused can be challenging, but he manages to teach the techniques flawlessly while making it fun and engaging. The class time just flies by. Professor Israel is great at motivating and encouraging the kids to always do their best, and he directs them on necessary steps to improve their skills. We also really like how they offer different programs to keep the upper-level students engaged, using their skills and knowledge to help guide the younger kids. Coach Jacob is very helpful and always available to assist and provide guidance when needed. Professor Inacio has definitely handpicked some amazing coaches and professors to help lead the program. Overall, it’s been a wonderful experience, and I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to get their kids involved in jujitsu. Top notch, knowledgeable professors and coaches with a great love and passion for jujitsu! The positive changes I’ve seen in my children definitely make it all worth it! 10 out of 10 recommend!”

“I visited Gracie Barra McKinney while in town visiting family nearby and had a great experience. Everyone was very welcoming, and the training was well structured and enjoyable. I’m a white belt, and I especially appreciated how higher belts partnered with me and offered great guidance and advice. It really helped me feel supported and more confident. Big thanks to the coaches and students for creating such a positive and respectful environment. I’m looking forward to training with them again whenever I’m in town.”

“Excellent, respectful, efficient, effective, & safe BJJ instruction, techniques, environment, training, fitness, competition, sparring/rolling, etc. + fun had by all…straight from the lineage of one of the most renowned names in BJJ = Master Carlos Gracie, Jr. Highly recommend! Our 8-year old son started in December 2024 and he loves it! He will be entering his first competition in April. The owner and all of the Professors, Coaches, & trainees = create a family…we expect that our son, and eventually his twin sister, will be training here for years to come. Be there or be square…see you all on the mats! All the best!”