Gracie Lake Norman Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

“An incredible experience from start to finish. World class teachers who actually care deeply about you and your family. Awesome classes for kids and adults. They work hard to develop the whole person both on and off the matt. A great place to come if you are ready to improve yourself and/or develop character in your kids!”

“Gracie Lake Norman has been such a blessing for my family. My son Sam is in the 4–7 year-old class, and Coach Ranard has been amazing with the kids—not just teaching them Jiu-Jitsu, but also instilling discipline, accountability, and confidence. Sam is learning real skills that go far beyond the mat, and he genuinely looks forward to every class. Coach Ranard and Coach Ryan have also been instrumental in my own Jiu-Jitsu journey. They’ve helped me build a strong foundation, and their support, patience, and dedication are what make this place feel like more than just a gym. They’re becoming more than coaches—they’re becoming friends and family. A special thank you to Leigh Ann, who keeps everything organized and running smoothly. From making sure everyone has the right gi and belt to creating a welcoming environment, she truly holds it all together. And the parent community here is something special, too. It’s filled with like-minded, supportive people who share the same values. I’ve made genuine connections and feel part of something bigger every time I walk through the door. Gracie Lake Norman is a place of growth, community, and connection—for kids and adults alike. Highly recommend!”

“Love love love this facility! My game has grown exponentially in just the past month of going here in areas I didn’t even realize existed. Over the last year and a half I’ve trained at a few different schools and been to dozens of trial classes as my job tends to take me to different locations. In my experience this school has everything you look for when trying to find a top rated school. It’s safe, the instructors are knowledgeable and organized. The classes are structured and promote an environment of progressional learning. The curriculum crafted by Ranard promotes development in all aspects of your Bjj game. The culture here is welcoming and supportive. Ranard and LeeAnn take great pride in their school and their students.”

“GLKN has completely transformed my family’s life. What started as a place to train quickly became a source of strength, growth, and connection for all of us. The gym’s unique focus on life performance—intertwined with the discipline of martial arts—has had a deep and lasting impact. Personally, it’s helped shift my mentality and allowed me to transition my wrestling background into the patient, humbling art of jiu-jitsu. My daughter’s confidence has blossomed, her focus sharpened, and my wife has also experienced a meaningful personal evolution through the GLKN journey. It’s hard to describe the gratitude I feel. Professor Ranard, Ryan, and Allen have poured wisdom, patience, and purpose into every session—and I’m equally grateful for Leigh Ann, Ranard’s wife, who is the most accommodating and encouraging business owner I’ve ever encountered. There’s no pressure—just consistent support, thoughtful detail, and an uplifting energy that makes everyone feel welcome and seen. GLKN isn’t just a gym—it’s a sanctuary for growth, a place where families thrive, and a community that continues to enrich our lives every day.”

“Training with Ranard Brown has been an incredibly empowering experience. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated sport, I look for instructors who not only know the art inside and out but also create a safe, supportive environment—and Ranard does exactly that. His attention to micro details is unmatched!! He breaks down each technique making sure I understand not just the “how” but also the “why.” What stands out most is how much he genuinely cares about his students' progress. He’s patient, encouraging, and pushes me to improve at my pace while showing me how to advance quickly. I’ve grown so much already in my skill and confidence, and I can’t wait for the next lesson!!!”