FAQs

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New to Jiu-Jitsu? These are the questions we hear the most.

My child has never practiced martial arts before. Will they be able to keep up?

Absolutely. Our kids' classes are designed specifically for beginners. Children ages 2 to 13 are grouped by age and experience level, not by athletic ability. Each class is structured so that new students can learn without feeling overwhelmed, while more experienced students continue to be challenged and grow. No previous experience is required. Every child starts somewhere, and we're prepared to guide them from day one.

I'm worried about getting injured. Is the training safe?

Yes. Classes are structured so that intensity increases gradually, especially for beginners. You won't be thrown into advanced training on day one. All drills and partner exercises are supervised by experienced instructors, who make sure students train safely and at an appropriate pace.

The environment is challenging, but supportive. New students aren't treated like punching bags or expected to "prove themselves." In fact, one of the most common things we hear from people who started with no experience is how welcoming and beginner-friendly the classes are.

That's why we always recommend trying a free class and seeing it for yourself.

I've never trained anything like this before. Will I be able to keep up with the adult classes?

Absolutely. That's exactly why the GB1 Fundamentals program exists. GB1 is designed specifically for beginners, with a pace and curriculum built for people stepping onto the mat for the very first time. You won't be thrown into an advanced class before you're ready. Instead, you'll learn the fundamentals in a structured environment, building confidence and skills one step at a time. Our instructors guide you through every stage of the process, so you always know what to work on next. No experience is required. Everyone starts somewhere.

My daughter is interested, but it's a martial art. Is there a place for girls?

Absolutely. Our team includes female instructors, and Coach Sandra is frequently mentioned by students as a role model and a strong presence on the mats. The environment is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive. Girls train, learn, and grow alongside their teammates in a culture built on mutual respect and support. At Gracie Barra, advancement isn't based on gender, it's based on the same standards that apply to every student: technique, commitment, character, and consistency. Many girls start training for self-defense or confidence and end up discovering a passion that stays with them for life.

Do you offer discounts for police officers, firefighters, teachers, or first responders?

Yes. We offer a 10% discount on any membership plan for police officers, firefighters, teachers, and first responders.

The discount is applied directly to your enrollment. Just let us know when you schedule your trial class, and our team will take care of the rest.

HOW JIU-JITSU CHANGED THEIR LIVES

I started here in September after a 4 year break from BJJ.

Professor Andre Sena is an amazing instructor.

He is patient and will take as much time with you as needed to learn the technique.

The structured learning method offered by Gracie Barra ensures that you will learn a strong fundamental base.

I highly recommend this gym and plan on staying here for years to come.

William Majors

Student

I’ve been training at GB Round Rock under Prof Andre for over 2 years and have had nothing but an amazing experience. Prof Andre has honestly turned into not only an older brother figure to me, but into an Uncle figure for my 11 year old daughter.

Prof Andre and all of his staff are absolutely amazing and do not treat you as customers, but as family instead. I love the culture so much I enrolled my daughter here approximately a year and a half ago. Prof Andre, Coach Stormy, Coach Sandra, and Coach Eric are honestly like Uncle’s and Aunts to my daughter. I have seen her confidence sky rocket while training here consistently.

This school has always made safety the number one priority.

Brandon Cantu

Student

I've been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for three years now, but my journey started with my son. I initially signed him up, and after seeing the positive changes in him, the coaches encouraged me to try a class. I haven’t looked back since.

Before joining Gracie Barra, I struggled with confidence due to past emotional abuse. But this team—this family—has helped me grow not just in my Jiu-Jitsu skills, but as a person. My son's confidence and attitude have also transformed, shaping him into a great teenager.

All three schools are a tight-knit community where both coaches and students genuinely care about your progress—on the mat and in life. The support and encouragement here are unmatched.

Big shout out to the 6AM team, the Women’s Open Mat, and GB3! Training at Gracie Barra has strengthened my discipline, resilience, and eagerness to keep pushing forward, no matter how many times I fail. Jiu-Jitsu truly is the gentle art, and I’m grateful to be part of such an amazing team.

Gabriela Verastegui

Student and Mother of student

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