Question 1

How much is a membership?

Accepted Answer

Gracie Barra St Johns offers flexible membership options to fit different budgets and commitment levels. Membership prices range from $30/day to $200/month depending on the plan you choose. We also offer family and multi-member discounts. Contact us at (904) 506-0100 or visit our Programs page to find the right option for you.

Question 2

Do I need any experience to start training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Accepted Answer

No experience is needed at all. Our adult program (GB1) and kids programs (GBK0, GBK1, and GBK2) are built for complete beginners as well as intermediate and advanced practitioners. Every class covers the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, so you'll start building real skills from day one — regardless of your fitness level, age, or athletic background.

Question 3

Do you offer a free trial class?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer a free trial class so you can experience our training environment firsthand before committing to a membership. Visit our Programs page, select the program you're interested in, and book your free class directly. You can also call us at (904) 506-0100 to reserve your spot.

Question 4

What should I wear to my first class?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable athletic clothing — a t-shirt or rash guard and shorts without pockets, zippers, or belt loops, and easily removable footwear such as sandals or crocs. Remove all jewelry before class. If you continue training, you'll need a Gracie Barra gi (uniform), which can be purchased at the academy.

Question 5

How do I sign up for a membership?

Accepted Answer

You can sign up by visiting our Membership page on the website, calling us at (904) 506-0100, emailing hello@gbstjohns.com, or stopping by the academy in person at 10440 US-1, Unit 115-116, St. Augustine, FL 32095. We recommend trying a free class first to make sure it's the right fit.

Question 6

What kind of classes do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a full range of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs including classes for kids ages 3-4 (GBK0), ages 5-8 (GBK1), ages 9-14 (GBK2), adults ages 15 and up (GB1), and a women-only BJJ program for ages 12 and up (GBF). Every program emphasizes self-defense, discipline, and personal growth in a safe, family-friendly environment. Visit our Programs page for details.

Question 7

What's the best age to start kids in martial arts?

Accepted Answer

Our youngest program, GBK0, is designed for children as young as 3 years old. At this age, the focus is on developing motor skills, coordination, balance, and body awareness through games and basic Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Kids who start early build a strong foundation that prepares them for more advanced training as they grow.

Question 8

What is the difference between the GBK1, GBK2, GB1, and GBF programs?

Accepted Answer

GBK1 is for children ages 5-8 and focuses on coordination, discipline, and fun. GBK2 is for kids ages 9-14 and introduces more advanced techniques and competition readiness. GB1 is the adult fundamentals program for ages 15 and up, building a strong foundation in self-defense and modern Jiu-Jitsu. GBF is designed specifically for women ages 12 and up, providing an empowering and welcoming environment for females to learn BJJ. All programs welcome beginners.

Question 9

Do you offer women-only classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our GBF (Gracie Barra Females) program is a women-only Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class for ages 12 and up. The program covers self-defense techniques from both standing and ground positions in a supportive, empowering environment. Come try a class and train alongside other women who are learning to handle themselves confidently in any physical situation.

Question 10

Is BJJ safe for young children (ages 3-4)?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our GBK0 program is specifically designed for children ages 3-4. Classes focus on fun, age-appropriate games that develop coordination, balance, and basic movement skills. There is very little sparring at this level — the emphasis is entirely on motor development, teamwork, and building a love for martial arts in a safe environment.

Question 11

Where is Gracie Barra St Johns located and is there parking available?

Accepted Answer

We are located at 10440 US-1, Unit 115-116, St. Augustine, FL 32095. We're conveniently situated near Nocatee, World Golf Village, and Ponte Vedra in St. Johns County, Florida. There is plenty of free parking available right outside our door. You can reach us at (904) 506-0100 or hello@gbstjohns.com.

Question 12

What are your class hours and schedule?

Accepted Answer

We offer classes throughout the week with options for kids, adults, and our women's program. Visit our Home page or contact us for the most up-to-date class schedule. If you have questions about which class is right for you, call us at (904) 506-0100 and we'll help you find the best fit.

Question 13

Do you offer family or multi-member discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer discounts for families and households with multiple members training at the academy. Many of our families train together — parents in the adult program while kids train in one of our youth programs. Contact us at (904) 506-0100 or stop by the academy to discuss family membership options.

Question 14

What gear or equipment do I need to buy?

Accepted Answer

For your first class, you just need comfortable athletic clothing. If you continue training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you'll need a Gracie Barra gi (uniform), which is available for purchase at the academy. Our staff can help you figure out exactly what you need based on the program you join.

Question 15

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu a good workout for weight loss and fitness?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. BJJ is one of the best full-body workouts you can do. A typical class combines cardiovascular conditioning, functional strength, flexibility, and coordination. Many of our students see significant improvements in body composition, endurance, and overall health within the first few months. The best part is that you're learning a real skill while getting in shape — it never feels like a treadmill.

Question 16

What are the benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for adults?

Accepted Answer

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers adults a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Beyond the physical benefits, BJJ builds mental resilience, reduces stress, and teaches practical self-defense skills. At Gracie Barra St Johns, our adult members consistently report improved confidence, better focus, and a strong sense of community. Training BJJ is also an effective way to reduce screen time and challenge yourself in a supportive environment.

Question 17

Will martial arts make my child more aggressive?

Accepted Answer

No — in fact, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches the opposite. BJJ emphasizes control, discipline, respect, and knowing when to walk away. Children learn how to manage their emotions and handle conflict without aggression. Our instructors reinforce these values in every class, and parents consistently tell us their kids become calmer, more focused, and more respectful at home and at school.

Question 18

Is BJJ good for kids who deal with bullying?

Accepted Answer

Very much so. One of the core components of our kids' programs is anti-bullying education. Children learn practical self-defense skills that give them confidence, but more importantly, they learn how to carry themselves in a way that deters bullying in the first place. Knowing they can protect themselves — without having to — gives kids a quiet confidence that changes how they interact with the world.

Question 19

Can martial arts help kids with ADHD or anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Many parents of children with ADHD or anxiety have found Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to be incredibly beneficial. The structured environment, physical engagement, and requirement to focus on technique can help kids develop better concentration, emotional regulation, and impulse control. BJJ also provides a healthy outlet for excess energy. While it's not a medical treatment, we've seen real improvements in many of our students.

Question 20

How do you ensure safety during kids' sparring?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our top priority. In our younger programs (GBK0 and GBK1), sparring is limited and closely supervised — the focus is on games and controlled drills. In our GBK2 program for ages 9-14, children are gradually introduced to more sparring under direct instructor supervision. Our coaches match students by size and experience and teach them to practice with control and respect for their training partners.

Question 21

What life skills will my child learn from BJJ?

Accepted Answer

Beyond self-defense, children who train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu develop discipline, respect, perseverance, focus, and emotional resilience. They learn how to set goals, handle adversity, work as part of a team, and carry themselves with confidence. These skills transfer directly to school, social situations, and eventually the workplace. Many of our parents say BJJ has been one of the most positive influences in their child's life.

Question 22

How do I cancel my membership?

Accepted Answer

To cancel your membership at Gracie Barra St Johns, send an email to hello@gbstjohns.com with the subject line Membership Cancellation Request. Please include your full name and the date you'd like the cancellation to take effect. Our team will respond within 2 business days with confirmation and any further steps.

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