Welcome to Rough Hands BJJ, 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.
At Rough Hands BJJ, 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.

Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
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!
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
"I'm in town for the Bjj Mental Models Camp, currently on the last day. I have had the time of my life. Great people, fantastic vibe, and expert instruction. I'll definitely be back. Thank you for hosting!!"
"Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The students are also very welcoming. My family and I have cross-trained with this gym many times and always enjoy our time there. Definitely suggest trying out a lesson here!"
"Have you ever visited a place and can't wait until you can go back? This is it. Rough Hands is community, culture and, oh yeah, intentional and thoughtful instruction. It is a place where this drop-in-out-of-towner walked in and felt immediately welcome. Thank you, Jesse (owner), and the Friday morning students for their kindness, warmth and hospitality. If you are looking to train in the area, this is the place. If you are traveling, this is the place. If you are terrified of starting your journey and can't imagine walking into someplace new and trying something like jiu-jitsu, call or text Jesse. And then you can thank me later when I see you on the mats. OSS!"
"This gyms culture is toxic and closed minded. Jessie has a YouTube channel where they dicuss liberal politics. They cover such topics as the importance of inclusion of trans bjj practitioners as well as the proper treatment of women in the gym. Great, except if you ask about how women sign up to a gym looking for a man. I have been in bjj for 25yrs. I have seen over a dozen marriages end this way. But Jessie and his crew deleted my comment rather than addressing it. Women are not the only victims here. These women provide fuel to an already burning fire, then blame the men for being the problem. The men did not pursue the women in many cases. It's a huge problem in bjj with women victim blaming men for asking them out, but yet they have gone out with other guys in the gym. Just the wrong guy asked them out and now it's a problem at the gym, and everyone is taking the women's side. If you are up for a close-minded culture, this may be the place for you. I believe this is what is destroying Jiu-jitsu. I have a daughter that trains, I understand how to respect women. I have had multiple women tell me "I won't tell your wife" . But this gym sees this as not a real issue. Good luck to all, I hope there are good gyms in your area."
3048 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40205, USA
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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