About Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu
Welcome to Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors
John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.
Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.
David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Dustin Row
"Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu has been an incredible place for both me and my daughter. She started training here at just 5 years old, and I’ve been training for over 3 years myself. Professor Sinistro is the heart of the academy—he’s patient, fair, and brings a consistently positive energy to every class. He pays attention to every detail, whether it’s helping a student fine-tune a technique or making sure the class runs smoothly. His care and dedication to each student, no matter their age or experience level, truly sets him apart. We’re proud to be part of the Gentle Arts family!"
Fausto Sempertegui
"I’ve been training Jiu-Jitsu for over 10 years of my life and I’ve had the chance to train with some of the best in the world and some great competitors, but few people can compete so good and be able to be such a good professor. Francisco is a great coach and world class athlete bringing always the best energy on the mats and making sure everyone is having a blast 🙌. Great Family environment if you’re trying to get a hobby with your Family and also if you’re trying to better in the competition aspect this is the place to be."
Batropolis
"I’ve been training with Professor Francisco Iturralde at Gentle Arts Jiu-Jitsu Academy since 2011. He is an outstanding instructor. Extremely professional, dedicated to his students, and deeply involved in the community. His passion for teaching shows in every class, and he creates a welcoming, respectful environment for everyone. More than just a great coach, he’s also a great friend. I highly recommend this academy to anyone looking to learn Jiu-Jitsu the right way."
Robert Upton
"I have been training at Gentle Arts JiuJitsu for nearly 3 years under Prof. Francisco “Sinistro” Iturralde. I find Francisco to be a kind, caring, and highly capable instructor. He purposefully maintains a safe environment that caters to hobbyists and competitors alike. The community of fellow students are welcoming, and hard working. Having moved to San Diego to train Jiu Jitsu I visited and trained at a few academies before finding my home at Gentle Arts. Whether you have goals as a competitor or non competitor there is a place for those wanting to practice the Gentle Art."
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
229b N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM