Expert BJJ Instructors in Thousand Oaks Gracie Barra
The Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks academy, located in the Ventura County area of California, stands out as one of the best choices for high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training due to its elite leadership, structured curriculum, and commitment to a welcoming community.

The academy is located at 1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320.
- World-Class Instruction and Lineage
The primary factor defining the academy’s quality is its direct connection to elite BJJ lineage:
Elite Oversight: The school is associated with the training lineage of Professor Romulo Barral, a BJJ Hall of Famer and 10-time World Champion.
Champion Instructors: Key instructors, such as Professor Gabriel Arges (a multi-time World Champion and black belt under Barral), actively teach classes. Students here learn techniques refined and proven at the highest competitive level.
GB Certification: All instructors adhere to the rigorous Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program (ICP), ensuring consistent teaching methodology, patient instruction, and focus on safety across all age groups.
- The Structured Curriculum (The Gracie Barra Method)
Gracie Barra’s strength is its systematic, tiered approach, which ensures that students progress safely and logically from beginner to black belt.
Program Tier Target Student Primary Focus Training Outcome
GB1 (Fundamentals) Absolute Beginners. Core Self-Defense, foundational positions, escapes, and submissions. 16-week rotating curriculum. Builds safe habits; prevents “technique overload” common in unorganized gyms.
GB2 (Advanced) Intermediate (3 stripes on white belt and up). Strategy, Takedowns, and Complex Submissions. Focuses on developing a personal “game flow” and incorporating elements from other grappling arts (Judo, Wrestling). Accelerates reflexes and preparation for sport BJJ.
GB3 (Black Belt Program) Expert (Blue belt and above). Mastery of Precision and Timing. High-intensity training, intricate transitions, and advanced competitive strategy. Develops leadership skills and complete technical proficiency.
- Holistic Benefits and Community
Fitness and Stress Relief: BJJ provides a full-body, high-intensity workout that builds functional strength and serves as a powerful outlet for stress relief and mental clarity.
Self-Defense: The foundation of the curriculum teaches practical, leverage-based self-defense techniques, empowering students to control situations against larger opponents.
Community: Gracie Barra promotes a supportive, “family-like atmosphere” where ego is discouraged. This collaborative environment ensures that training is enjoyable and sustainable for the long term. The academy offers programs for kids, teens, adults, and women, making it a center for the entire family.
Trial Class: Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks typically offers a free trial class for newcomers to experience the training environment firsthand.
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


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Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Academy Thousand Oaks CA