Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone!

Join our Gracie Barra community to build strength, confidence, and discipline through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

INTEGRITY

DEVELOPMENT

BROTHERHOOD

We seek to train body, mind and spirit through the highest level of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction. We envision it as a vehicle for individual development and the strengthening of the family spirit, going beyond the winning-losing or contest philosophy.

Master Carlos Gracie Jr.

Why Gracie Barra?

Jiu-Jitsu is often likened to a game of human chess. If you don’t like to work out at a gym because you get bored, you’re not alone. Many of our students were tired of going to the gym, and they couldn’t find new songs or audio books to entertain them on the treadmill. They found Jiu-Jitsu to be the perfect workout because it requires a high level of concentration proportional to the amount of calories burned and pounds lost. What’s more, you’ll still learn to defend yourself. It’s a win-win situation.

The folks at GB make our school what it is, and you too will soon be one of us. You’ll be impressed by how committed each and every team member is to your learning. The instructors, staff and other students make our environment friendly yet demanding and challenging, which stimulates all of us to achieve our best.

The class structure is the trademark of all Gracie Barra Schools. Classes start on time and adhere to a standardized curriculum and class structure. As a student, you know up front what is expected of you and have a clear understanding of what to expect from your instructors and training partners.

The consistency of this structure combined with the creativity and innovation of our devoted instructors blend perfectly to facilitate your progress.

When you join Gracie Barra, you are not just getting classes. You become part of a community united by the ideals of the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle. Special classes and side events coupled with ordinary classes create a fun and exciting calendar of activities that you and your family will love to take part in.

You don’t come to class just to learn how to fight. You also work hard toward mastering the underlying principles that allow you to succeed on the mats. When applied to your life off the mats, these principles can bring more balance to your routine and help you reach your true potential.

There are over 700 Gracie Barra Schools worldwide. When you join a Gracie Barra school you are free to train at any location while traveling.

One of the most unique characteristics about our schools is our family-orientated approach. Gracie Barra is proud to be a powerhouse with the most stalwart champions of Jiu-Jitsu in the world while still maintaining a training environment that is welcoming for the whole family: men, women, and children.

At Gracie Barra, families find marvelous activities through which to spend quality time together.

Cleanliness is a top priority. Our schools adhere to the strict standard of cleanliness and hygiene set by Gracie Barra. GB School staff clean the facilities constantly, and all GB uniforms are washed regularly.

Our GB School mats are cleaned on a daily basis with a specially designed cleaning agent that neutralizes bacteria, fungus and odors without detriment to the equipment.

Student safety is our instructors’ primary goal. Training sessions are supervised at all times, and we have CPR-trained personnel on duty during every class.

A certified Gracie Barra Black Belt instructor is responsible for teaching classes and is committed to Keeping the Legacy Alive. Our team of instructors are trained in the teaching philosophy and methods of Master Carlos Gracie Jr., the founder of Gracie Barra.

A legacy of over 30 years of teaching experience is at your service, so you don’t have to worry: you and your family are in great hands.

Jiu Jitsu for kids

Jiu Jitsu for kids is a martial art designed to teach young learners self-defense, discipline, and physical fitness through fun and engaging methods.

It focuses on techniques that involve grappling and using an opponent’s strength to one’s advantage, rather than relying on striking or brute force.

Self-Defense Skills

Kids learn how to protect themselves using techniques like holds and locks that help them stay safe in various situations.

Physical Fitness

Training helps improve strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall fitness, while also promoting healthy habits.

Discipline and Focus

The structured environment of Jiu Jitsu classes teaches children the importance of listening, following instructions, and concentrating on tasks.

Social Skills & confidence

Kids have the opportunity to work with peers from various backgrounds, fostering teamwork and friendships through shared experiences.

Respect and Humility

Jiu Jitsu emphasizes showing respect to instructors and classmates, and learning to handle both success and setbacks with humility.

Problem-Solving

The strategic nature of Jiu Jitsu helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they learn to respond to different challenges.

Overall, Jiu Jitsu for kids is about teaching valuable life skills in a supportive and enjoyable setting, helping them grow both physically and mentally.

Free Family Class! 
Every Saturday at 10am!

Just come as you are and wear something comfortable!
This is a fantastic chance to get on the mats with your kids or friends and enjoy some fun together! No obligations, no commitments—just a way to share the love of jiu-jitsu!

Join us this Saturday (and every Saturday) for our free Family Class, open to everyone in the community.

Time: 10 AM – 10:45 AM every Saturday.

reviews

from kids/teens

It creates a rhythm and a structure, self-confidence, and accountability.

It taught him how to control himself and to be confident.

Self confidence, social, knowing boundaries.

from parents

It taught him how to control himself and to be confident.
Self confidence, social, knowing boundaries.
It creates a rhythm and a structure, self-confidence, and accountability.

from adults

The community is great and it instills discipline and toughness.
I’m always learning something.
Good day or bad day, come in and roll around, and your day is better.

Educational Programs

Gracie Barra Layton is a proud participant in the following educational programs here in Northern Utah:

Utah Fits All
OpenEd
Children First
Harmony Education

Professor Steve Crisler

My martial arts journey began in 2010 with Tae Kwon Do. For years, I felt unsatisfied with what I was gaining from it. Everything changed one night when I stumbled upon a video online that extolled the virtues of jiu-jitsu as a superior martial art. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. I walked into Gracie Barra Encinitas (CA) in 2016, and from day one, I was hooked.

I quickly became a regular at the school, training consistently month after month and year after year. I had the privilege of training under Master Nelson Monteiro and Professor Rafael Ramos, and their guidance has been invaluable. The lessons I’ve learned from them have profoundly impacted my life.

In 2023, I earned my black belt, marking a proud milestone in my journey. By 2024, I chose to retire from a 23-year career in accounting to pursue jiu-jitsu full time and open my own school. My love for the mountains and skiing helped me decide on the perfect location.

In March 2024, I received the keys to the new school, and after three months of construction, we officially opened on June 1st. I’m thrilled to bring Gracie Barra jiu-jitsu to the Layton community and share the transformative benefits of this art with others.

assistant instructors

Coach Matheus Oliveira

Originally from Minas Gerais, Brazil, I began my Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2010. In 2015, I joined Gracie Barra and trained diligently. I completed my college degree in Law in 2018.

In 2023, I relocated to California to train with Master Nelson Monteiro and Professor Rafael Ramos at Gracie Barra Encinitas. By 2024, Professor Steve invited me to join his team and move to Utah to help open Gracie Barra Layton.

“I am dedicated to making a living through teaching Jiu-Jitsu, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, honing my skills, sharing my passion for the art, making new friends, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.”

Coach Tracy Hardy

My name is Tracy Hardy, and I’m a native of Ogden, Utah. I started training in Jiu-Jitsu in 2012 to enhance my MMA skills. A standout achievement for me was competing in the ultra-weight class against a much larger opponent, where I showcased Jiu-Jitsu’s effectiveness by winning all three of my matches, demonstrating that size isn’t always a decisive factor.

In addition to my Jiu-Jitsu pursuits, I work as a plumbing apprentice and am currently attending trade school to complete my apprenticeship and become a journeyman in my trade.

“I’m committed to continuing my competition journey in Jiu-Jitsu and dedicated to helping others experience its mental and physical benefits.”

Class schedule

Frequently asked questions

While most traditional martial arts focus on self-defense from a standing position with an emphasis on strikes, Jiu-Jitsu specializes in self-defense from the ground. Since many real-life confrontations end up on the ground, standing strikes and kicks may not be effective.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in particular, teaches smaller or weaker individuals how to overcome larger or stronger opponents using technique, leverage, and joint manipulation.

We recommend training at least twice a week. Jiu-Jitsu involves many intricate details related to movement, positions, and grips, which require practice and repetition to master.

While some students train 6-7 days a week or even twice a day, the optimal frequency is personal and depends on factors such as age, body type, work, and family commitments. Starting with a moderate schedule and gradually increasing training frequency is often a good approach.

$39/week. This is unlimited, so you can come as often as you wish. We also offer Family Discounts.

Students are required to wear a Gracie Barra Gi and Gracie Barra rash guard to each class. We also suggest bringing a water bottle and optionally a mouth guard. Please wear shoes or flip-flops when entering the facility and using the restroom, and remove them before stepping onto the mats.

The Gracie Barra Class Structure is a meticulously organized framework designed to guide each class. It includes specific time allocations and sequences for each class component, ensuring a comprehensive approach. The structure covers:

– Designated timeframes

– Specific class elements

– Sequences of elements

Yes. For the health, safety, and respect of the other students and the school, please follow the rules below:

– Keep fingernails and toenails short for everyone’s safety

– All metal objects, jewelry, piercing, necklaces, and other items should be removed

– All students and instructors must wear shoes when walking outside the training area

– No shoes, food, or drink on the mat
- No cell phones in the training area

– All students, Instructors, Professors, and visitors must wear the Gracie Barra uniform (Gracie Barra Rash Guard and Gi)

– The uniform must be clean at all times. A dirty uniform is a sign of disrespect.

– It is mandatory to have underwear under the Gi pants

– When tying the uniform, students must face the edge of the mats

– The uniform must be worn at all times when on the mat and during class.

– Refer to black-belts as ‘Professor’

– Refer to non, black-belt instructors as ‘Coaches’

– Bow to the picture of Master Carlos Gracie Sr. when entering the training area

– Bow to the picture of Master Carlos Gracie Sr. when exiting the training area

– Classes begin with students lining up in belt order and a bow to the Instructor

– Classes end with a bow to Master Carlos Gracie Sr. and then a bow to the Instructor

– If you are late to class, stand by the side of the training area and wait for permission to enter from the Professor

– During class, students must sit or stand in good posture. No foot on the wall, laying down, or chewing gum

– Shake hands with your partner before and after each training round

– Absolutely no foul language inside the school

– When you become close to another set of students during training, stop and move a safe distance away. Students with the lower belt rank should move away from the student with the highest belt rank

Yes, many students opt for Private Training with our instructors. This can enhance regular class training by focusing on particular techniques, competitive strategies, or skill acceleration. You can arrange sessions based on your preferred focus and schedule. Contact us for more details.

Absolutely! Gracie Barra is the largest Jiu-Jitsu franchise globally, with over 700 schools in the US and internationally. As a Gracie Barra member, you can train at any of our sister schools.

We’ll provide a ‘Visitors Attendance Card’ for you to present at other GB locations. It’s advisable to bring your Gracie Barra Gi, rash guard, and belt, although some schools may offer loaner Gis.

Yes, we do! Referring friends and family is the highest compliment we can receive, and we appreciate it greatly. Check with our front desk for details on current referral promotions.

We understand that circumstances can change and Jiu-Jitsu may not always be a fit. We don’t impose penalties for cancellations—just inform us, and we’ll stop the auto-payment before the next cycle. Should you choose to return in the future, you would be subject to the current pricing, as fees may change over time.

Private Classes with Professor Steve Crisler

Experience personalized attention and targeted training designed to expedite your development with black belt Professor Steve Crisler.

My private Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are tailored to meet your specific needs and goals, enabling you to achieve success more quickly.

Customized Instruction

Receive dedicated support and personalized guidance from a BJJ black belt.

Quick Advancement

Maximize your learning with a curriculum crafted for your skill level and objectives.

Flexible Scheduling

Set class times that suit your schedule, providing greater training flexibility.

Comprehensive Understanding

Dive deep into techniques, ensuring a thorough understanding of BJJ principles and strategies.

Confidential Environment

Train in a private setting that focuses on your individual needs and concerns.

Contact me today to get started!
Professor Steve Crisler

Master Nelson Monteiro

Professor Nelson Monteiro was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He started training when he was 13 years old under the direct tutelage of Master Carlos Gracie Jr. at the world-renowned Gracie Barra Academy. With unrivaled dedication, Professor Monteiro trained diligently until he was awarded the black belt in 1989; and in the same year, he received a bachelorʼs degree in physical education from Gama Filho University. Professor Monteiro is one of the original pioneers of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the United States. After receiving his black belt and graduating from college, Professor Monteiro moved to San Diego in 1990 and began teaching Jiu-Jitsu out of his garage in Encinitas. After steady growth in enrollment, Professor Monteiro moved to a larger space in Del Mar, where the academy continued to prosper. After the 1993 debut of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. The world had now witnessed the effectiveness of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as the unassuming Royce Gracie used leverage and technique to defeat his larger and stronger opponents. People from all walks of life began to search for qualified instructors. As a result, the academy experienced even greater growth.

In 1995, a new student arrived at the academy. This new student would soon have a profound effect not only on Professor Monteiro but also on the future of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The new arrival was Sheik Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nayan, a prince of the United Arab Emirates. Bin, as his friends would call him, became a dedicated private student of Professor Monteiro. After training for 8 months, the prince invited Professor Monteiro to come to the UAE to become his private Jiu-Jitsu instructor. Professor Monteiro accepted.

While training the prince and other enthusiasts in the UAE, Professor Monteiro helped to form the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC), which would evolve into the most prestigious grappling tournament in the world, the Abu Dhabi Submission Wrestling Championships. During this four-year period, Professor Monteiro also trained many champions in Vale-Tudo, MMA, and sport Jiu-Jitsu. With many accomplishments resulting from his stay in the UAE, Professor Monteiro decided to make his way back to Brazil.

In 2000, he and his family moved back to Rio de Janeiro. While living back in Brazil, Professor Monteiro opened a health club and continued his education in the field of sport physiology. In addition, Professor Monteiro continued his efforts in spreading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by traveling around the world conducting seminars. After four years in Brazil, Professor Monteiro and his family decided to come back to San Diego.

In 2006, Professor Monteiro opened Gracie Barra Encinitas. Since its grand opening, the academy has become one of the most respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools in the San Diego area. Professor Monteiroʼs positive attitude, charismatic personality, and passion for Jiu-Jitsu have been an integral part of the academyʼs success. Professor Monteiro is still an active athlete, competing in many of the major Brazilian Jiu-jitsu tournaments worldwide. With over 25 years of experience, Professor Monteiro is one of the most knowledgeable instructors teaching today.

Competition Accomplishments:

  • 2x World Champion International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Master’s Division
  • World Championship International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Master’s Division (2nd Place)
  • World Championship International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Master’s Division (3rd Place)
  • Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) Championships (Invite Only Competitor)
  • European Championship International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Master’s Division (2nd Place)
  • 2x American National Champion International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Master’s Division
  • 2x Pan Am Champion International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu(IBJJF)
  • And much more
  • 7th Degree (Coral Belt) certified by International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), United States Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (USBJJF), Confederação Brasileira de Jiu-Jitsu (CBJJF)

Professor Rafael Ramos

Professor Rafael started training at the age of 13 , under legendary Master Carlos Gracie Jr. at the original Gracie Barra School in Rio de Janeiro , Brazil. Under Master Carlos tutelage Rafaelʼs extensive knowledge of the “gentle art” was formed at the same mats of the best BJJ instructors and fighters ever known.

As a competitor Rafael won and placed in the biggest events, including multiple Brazilian Nationals, Rio de Janeiro State Championship, Brazilian Team, Pan American.

Today, Rafael Ramos assumes, as his main mission, the task of passing on to students the teachings and techniques accumulated over a life of arduous training under the tutelage of Master Carlos Gracie Jr. And he maintains close ties to the Gracie Barra academy, to which he is grateful for his apprenticeship, and for the family values he learned that are so important to him.

As he puts it:
“This sport is too damn fun not to go as much as your life permits!!!”