Kids Program
Ages 3-15
We're not building fighters. We're building good human beings.
Learn MoreFall ’23
Opened — built from
an empty building up
#1
Largest BJJ organization
in the world — GB
2 schools
Our lead professor built
in Niterói, Brazil
All ages
Kids 3+, adults,
women’s program
Most People Get
Jiu-Jitsu Wrong.
It is not a fight sport. It is something better.
When people see a jiu-jitsu school, they think it is for athletes, for fighters, for people who grew up doing this. I thought something similar before I started — at 39 years old, in Colorado. I was wrong.
Jiu-jitsu is the most honest thing I’ve ever done. The mat doesn’t care about your job title, your age, or what you looked like in high school. You either know the technique or you don’t. You either showed up this week or you didn’t. And every time you fail — which you will, constantly — you have a choice about who you’re going to be.
That is what we brought to Lake Orion. Not a gym. A practice. An art. A community.
It actually changes your brain.
Consistent training rewires how you handle stress, failure, and pressure — on and off the mat.
Technique beats size.
Jiu-jitsu was designed so that a smaller person can control a larger one. Skill is the great equalizer.
Humility is the practice.
You can’t fake your way through a roll. The mat strips the ego and builds something better in its place.
Programs
Find Your Path
Structured programs designed for every age and skill level
Most Popular
Adults Program
Ages 16+
For adults at every level. There is no wrong time to begin.
Learn More
Women's Program
Ages 16+
A dedicated women's program led by Coach Michelle Klepser. Technique over size. Community first.
Learn MoreYour First Class
Your First Class — Exactly What Happens
Nobody throws you in on day one. Here is what actually happens.
1
Show Up
No experience needed
2
Learn the Basics
Simple, clear instruction
3
Train Safely
With guidance every step
4
Leave Better
Than you came
Live Schedule
Classes 6 Days a Week
One membership. Unlimited classes. Morning to night — there is always a class that fits your life.
Select the class that works best for you. We'll confirm your visit before you come in.
Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone. A Program for You.
Community
You're not just another member here. We know your name, your goals, and what you're working toward.
Curriculum
Every class builds on the last, with a clear path from day one to black belt.
People
Coaches and training partners who care about progress, safety, and the person behind the belt.
Featured Moments
This Is What It Feels Like
Real moments from the mat, the community, and academy events.
Photos are shared to celebrate our academy community. If you have a question about a photo, contact us.
Academy Pulse
Stay connected with what's happening on and off the mat
Follow Us on Instagram
See what's happening on the mat every day
Keep Learning Between Classes
Use the Gracie Barra Online app for GB training content and learning resources between classes.
- Access technique videos anytime
- Review class curriculum at home
- Track your belt progression
From the Mat
Stories, updates, events, and training notes from the academy
Showing 4 of 162+ posts
Featured
Week 5 at Gracie Barra Lake Orion – Responsibility on the Mats
As we move into Week 5 of our curriculum at Gracie Barra Lake Orion, this week’s focus is on Responsibility. Owning your…
Read Article
Blogs
2 min read
Week 4 at Gracie Barra Lake Orion – Confidence on the Mats
As we move into Week 4 of our curriculum at Gracie Barra Lake Orion, this week’s focus is on Confidence. Believing in…
Blogs
2 min read
Week 3 at Gracie Barra Lake Orion – Focus on the Mats
As we move into Week 3 of our curriculum at Gracie Barra Lake Orion, this week’s focus is on Focus. Staying present…
Blogs
2 min read
Week 2 at Gracie Barra Lake Orion – Discipline on the Mats
As we move into Week 2 of our curriculum at Gracie Barra Lake Orion, this week’s focus is on Discipline. Showing up…
What Changed for Them
Stories from students and families.
5.0
88 Google reviews
Updated from Google reviews
Mat Luis
2 weeks ago
Verified
1-star Google rating
David Miller
a month ago
Verified
Both my younger boys go here and they love it! Every person on staff is great and super sweet with the kids…they are always exited to come! Thank you…
Lee Davis
2 months ago
Verified
5-star Google rating
Ernest Teem
3 months ago
Verified
Great the littles and fantastic coaches and professors
Lori Skibo
4 months ago
Verified
My daughter has had a wonderful experience in this jiu-jitsu class. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and great with kids. She's gained confid…
darlene Lewis
5 months ago
Verified
Wellington and Michelle are amazing coaches! They’ve had a profound impact on my children, teaching them discipline, courage, and self-confidence. Gra…
Kristi Thompson
a year ago
Verified
We enrolled our 5 year old son a few months ago and we are so glad we made the switch to this studio! Our son loves the structure of his class, we fin…
Devin Young
a year ago
Verified
I came in knowing nothing, no prior experience, and no clue what I was getting myself into. To my surprise, I’ve found a friendly environment where ev…
Amanda da Rocha
2 years ago
Verified
My experience was amazing! I live in Watertown WI, and met prof. Bryam and coach Wellington at a tournament, in Chicago. Their performance at the tour…
I Started at 39.
I Earned My Black Belt at 47.
"The goal is simple. Be better than yesterday."
Gracie Barra is more than a martial arts school. It's a community built on the values of brotherhood, integrity, and personal development.
In Centennial, we've created a space where people come not just to learn technique, but to grow as individuals – building confidence, discipline, and lasting friendships.
Lake Orion Has Been
Waiting for This.
Your first class is free. Come see what a real jiu-jitsu school looks like — built by this community, for this community.
- No contract
- All ages
- Beginners welcome