Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Beginners Thousand Oaks CA
The Thousand Oaks, CA area offers several highly regarded Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) academies with structured programs specifically designed for absolute beginners.
BJJ is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling, especially ground fighting, and is centered on the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the top options for a beginner in Thousand Oaks, including their foundational programs and key features.
Top Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academies for Beginners in Thousand Oaks
The most prominent academies catering to beginners in the area are Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks and Morumbi Jiu Jitsu & Fitness Academy.
- Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks
Gracie Barra is one of the largest and most globally recognized BJJ organizations, known for its standardized curriculum and structured approach, which is ideal for a consistent beginner experience.
Feature Details
Beginner Program GB1 (Fundamentals Program)
Program Focus This is the mandatory entry point for all new adult students. It is a structured, 16-week rotating curriculum that systematically covers core self-defense, fundamental positions, essential escapes, and basic submissions.
Sparring Live sparring (“rolling”) is typically delayed in the GB1 program to ensure beginners safely build technical proficiency and confidence before engaging in high-intensity training. Students generally train for a minimum of 4 months in GB1 before advancing.
Lineage & Instruction The academy is associated with the lineage of Professor Romulo Barral, a BJJ Hall of Famer and 10-time World Champion. Key instructors, such as Professor Gabriel Arges, are also decorated black belts, ensuring world-class technique.
Atmosphere Promotes an ego-free, supportive, and “family-like atmosphere” that is welcoming to all ages and fitness levels.
Location & Contact Address: 1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Phone: (805) 721-6776
Rating: 4.8 stars
Getting Started Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks typically offers a Free Trial Class for newcomers to experience the structured training risk-free. You should wear activewear (shorts/leggings and a T-shirt) and bring a water bottle; a clean loaner Gi (uniform) is often provided for your first session.
- Morumbi Jiu Jitsu & Fitness Academy – Thousand Oaks
Morumbi Jiu Jitsu offers a high-level BJJ program alongside supplementary fitness and striking classes, providing a comprehensive martial arts and fitness experience.
Feature Details
Beginner Program Fundamentals Program
Program Focus This program focuses on the foundational concepts and positions essential for BJJ, with an emphasis on leverage and body positioning. The goal is to build initial skills, coordination, balance, and strength before progressing to more complex techniques.
Hybrid Offerings Morumbi is distinct for also offering popular Adult Muay Thai Kickboxing and Adult Kettlebells & Fitness programs in the same facility, allowing students to integrate BJJ with striking and conditioning.
Lineage & Instruction Founded and led by Professor Fabio Leopoldo, a 4th-degree black belt and multiple-time World, Pan-American, and Brazilian National Champion, ensuring an elite level of instruction.
Atmosphere Dedicated to a family-focused community that is welcoming and dedicated to personal development and discipline.
Location & Contact Address: 1182 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Phone: (805) 258-2780
Rating: 4.6 stars
Getting Started Morumbi encourages prospective students to contact them to schedule a trial class to learn more about their programs.
Additional Option: 10th Planet Thousand Oaks
For beginners interested specifically in No-Gi (training without the traditional kimono/uniform), the 10th Planet system is a world-renowned choice.
Style Focus: 10th Planet is famous for its unique system of BJJ techniques adapted exclusively for No-Gi grappling, often focusing on positions like the rubber guard and the truck.
Beginner Class: The Thousand Oaks location offers a class called “Beginners: Basics of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu” on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 PM (Source 4.1).
Location: You would need to check their website or contact them directly for the exact address, as the general location information was not immediately available through the Maps tool.
The locations of Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks and Morumbi Jiu Jitsu & Fitness Academy are shown on the map below.
Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Academy Thousand Oaks CA
1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd, Thousand Oaks, California 91320, United States
Office Hours
Mon. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Tue. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Wed. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Thu. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Fri. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Sat. 09:00 am – 07:30 pm
Sun. Closed
Route
Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Academy Thousand Oaks CA
