Training BJJ Near Simi Valley CA Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Academy Thousand Oaks CA Options | Phone Number: +1 805-721-6776
If you live in Simi Valley, CA, and are looking for Gracie Barra (GB) training options, you are in an enviable geographic position. You are situated right in the middle of a “Golden Triangle” of high-level BJJ, with a local academy in town and two world-class academies just a short drive away via the 118 or 23 freeways.
Here is a detailed breakdown of your Gracie Barra training options near Simi Valley, helping you decide whether to train locally or make the short commute to Thousand Oaks for specific coaching lineages.
- The Destination Option: Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks
Best For: Serious Competitors, High-Performance Athletes, and those wanting World Champion instruction.
If you are willing to drive 15–20 minutes from Simi Valley, Gracie Barra Thousand Oaks (GBTO) offers one of the most elite training environments in the country.
The “World Champion” Draw: The academy is led by Professor Gabriel Arges, a 3-time IBJJF Black Belt World Champion. Training here means learning modern, cutting-edge Jiu-Jitsu (like the 50/50 guard and knee bars) directly from a legend who is still active on the world stage.
The Facility: GBTO is located inside the Sports Academy (formerly Mamba Sports Academy) at 1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd. This is a 96,000 sq. ft. high-performance center. The vibe is athletic and professional.
The Drive: From Simi Valley, it is a straight shot down the 23 Freeway to the 101 North. It typically takes 15–20 minutes, making it a very feasible daily commute for the quality of instruction received.
- The Local Option: Gracie Barra Simi Valley
Best For: Families, Beginners, and Maximum Convenience.
Located directly within the city limits (typically near Cochran St), this is the logical choice if you want to eliminate commute time and train within your immediate community.
The Vibe: Simi Valley is a family-oriented town with a high population of law enforcement and first responders. Consequently, the academy often reflects a “Blue Collar” work ethic—tough, respectful, and focused on practical application. It is heavily community-driven.
The Programs:
GBK (Kids): Excellent for parents who want their kids to train after school without driving to Thousand Oaks.
GB1 (Fundamentals): Follows the standard 16-week Gracie Barra curriculum, ensuring you learn the same self-defense system taught globally.
Convenience: If you live in the Wood Ranch or Santa Susana areas, this gym is likely minutes from your door.
- The “Elite” Neighbor: Gracie Barra Agoura Hills
Best For: Those who want the Romulo Barral lineage but live on the East side of Simi.
If you live on the East side of Simi Valley (near the 118 | Rocky Peak), Gracie Barra Agoura Hills is often just a quick drive over the hill.
Why Drive Here?
The Romulo Barral Lineage: This school is overseen by Hall of Famer Romulo Barral. While he is based in Northridge, his influence dominates Agoura.
Instruction: Led by Professor Jaeson Bianchi, the instruction here is world-class. If you are interested in the “Spider Guard” style famous in this region, this is a great option.
- How to Choose? (Simi vs. Thousand Oaks)
Feature GB Simi Valley GB Thousand Oaks
Commute < 10 Minutes 15–20 Mins (via Hwy 23)
Head Instructor Local Black Belt Gabriel Arges (3x World Champ)
Facility Standard Dojo High-Performance Sports Complex
Atmosphere Community | Family Competitive | Athletic
Best For Hobbyists & Kids Athletes & Competitors
- The “Red Shield” Benefit
The beauty of the Gracie Barra network is consistency. Regardless of which option you choose:
Uniforms: You wear the same Gi.
Curriculum: You learn the same techniques (GB1/GB2/GB3) in the same order.
Visitor Policy: If you sign up at Simi Valley, you can often pay a “drop-in” fee (or sometimes train free depending on ownership relation) to visit Thousand Oaks for a special seminar or open mat.
Recommendation
For Parents: Start with GB Simi Valley. The convenience ensures you will actually take your kids consistently.
For Young Adults/Athletes: Drive the extra 15 minutes to GB Thousand Oaks. The level of training partners and the presence of Gabriel Arges will accelerate your growth exponentially.
Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Academy Thousand Oaks CA
1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd, Thousand Oaks, California 91320, United States
Phone Number: +1 805-721-6776
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
Secondary phone: +1 805-721-6776
