Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Virginia Beach

As a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Certified Training Center, we teach Jiu-Jitsu as a realistic method of self-defense and not a tournament sport. Our focus is on structure, safety and street readiness.

In the Gracie Bullyproof program, we focus on 33 non-violent self-defense techniques that teach children to "neutralize and negotiate" with the bullies.  Most martial arts programs rely on striking the attacker with punches and kicks. This strategy can often make the situation worse, or be completely ineffective against a larger, stronger, more aggressive opponent. In the Gracie Bullyproof program we use leverage-based control holds to neutralize threats without violence.

Gracie Combatives is the official Gracie Jiu-Jitsu beginner program for adults. In this program, you will learn the 36 core techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and cooperative environment. Each one-hour lesson addresses one standing and one ground self-defense technique. You can start the program at any time and participate in any class without previous experience and, since safety is our number one concern, there is no competitive sparring in this program.

We offer new students a 10-day risk-free trial that includes a uniform and unlimited access to all of our beginner group classes. We're confident that the class structure, the camaraderie, and high quality instruction will convince you to let us guide you on your path to self-defense mastery!

You’ll learn from Bernardo Figueiredo, the academy’s Master Instructor, in a Gi BJJ environment that prioritizes structure, safety, and realistic self-defense. His coaching style supports new students through cooperative, one-hour lessons that break techniques into clear standing and ground solutions, making each class approachable while still practical. If you’re starting fresh, you can expect patient guidance, a welcoming pace, and a curriculum designed so you can join in at any time and build confidence from day one.