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    Gracie Barra West County Reviews

    Love the clear instructions, the fun atmosphere, and the students!

    Doan B

    My cousins, Nathan and Evie, love Gracie Barra West County.

    Maggie S
    Incredible School with detailed instruction and great atmosphere
    Jonny K

    Best place to learn jiu jitsu.

    Anthony P

    the people are very nice here and it is a great place to learn jiu-jitsu and it is a fun and great workout

    Mr Delaney

    My brother-in-law, niece(age 8), and nephew(age 11) all really enjoy it!!

    Becca B

    I was introduced to Gracie Barra through a chance encounter with Mike Buckels. During our conversation he indicated that professer Jake was an excellent instructor and that jiu jitsu may be beneficial for my 5 year old son. I think he was correct on both counts. I couldn't be more pleased with all aspects of our experience at GBWC. Professor Jake is very kid friendly while maintaining a structured enviornment for learning.

    John W

    In general, I dont do reviews, but GB West County (GBWC) is worth an exception.

    I am 44, hate going to the gym to workout, ran across GBWC by accident, and am fortunate for this accidental introduction. The best combination of fitness, fun and learning that I have experienced. For anyone looking to replace mindless running with something enjoyable and beneficial - this is for you.

    As well, I have enrolled my kids (11 and 8 years of age). They love it, and I could not be happier with the quality of the instruction, the safety of the environment and the culture of the gym. My kids enjoy it so much that I can use it as an incentive...and both are appreciably different in terms of their confidence.

    Professors Jake and Mike are truly world-class - as BJJ experts and teachers.

    GBWC gets my highest recommendation.

    Scott B

    Being involved with martial arts since I was 15 and coming from other martial arts I was exposed to Jiu Jitsu and knew that is what I wanted to train specifically and focus on. I had tried classes at other schools in the area but it never seemed the like the right fit I was looking for. Once I found Gracie Barra all of that changed. I have been with Gracie Barra for 2 years now and the instruction is some of the best I have ever experienced that goes beyond the specific techniques on the mat. The instructors at Gracie Barra have helped me grow into a better person truly embracing a healthy lifestyle (down 80 lbs and counting). It truly is a friendly atmosphere and all of my team mates and instructors here at Gracie Barra are like a second family. Whatever your reasons are for being interested in training martial arts and Jiu Jitsu you won't find better instruction or school than Gracie Barra.

    Bradley L

    Our family was introduced to Gracie Barra through a friend, and it is truly a dojo that we all love. Classes for adults and children are extremely educational and fun for everyone. My fellow classmates are as excited and friendly as Professor Jake, and the entire school environment makes you feel like part of a big family. In addition to jiu jitsu, I have participated in a great women's self-defense class that is the most practical I've ever attended, and my daughter and son will be participating in an anti-bullying seminar that we anticipate will be just as rewarding. You really can't pick a better dojo.

    Jaime S

    This is by far the best place to train at what ever your hoping to achieve, whether that be getting in shape or learning self defense.

    Davion T

    I could write a book about how many positive attributes that I gained from doing Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra West county but I will try and keep them as relevant as possible. First and foremost their motto, "Jiu Jitsu for everyone" is very true. Do not think that motto means it is easy. It means regardless of your current physical condition, if you are willing to come to class regularly and have an open mind and teachable attitude you will do well and learn a lot of valuable self-defense techniques, gain confidence in yourself as a person, and get in great shape. The motto also means that if you are in decent to great shape already it will provide you with a challenge both mentally and physically. They have something for just about everyone.

    They offer laidback fundamental classes that focus more on the technique while still providing a great workout. Once you learn more on the basic and get into better shape they offer a competition class that will challenge your cardio, endurance and strength. As you continue to learn more then you will be able to take more advanced classes and further expand your knowledge. Along with learning Jiu Jitsu, they offer classes in Muay thai that is included in your membership for Jiu Jitsu classes. The value that you get and the teachers you are learning from make this an excellent choice. Here is another awesome thing about being apart of the GB Family, they have over 300 schools worldwide and 2 locations in the greater St Louis area. You can go to any of those schools if you happen to be out of town for business or vacation, etc.

    I would strongly suggest that if you are interested to come in for a free class and see how you like it. The gym is clean, the staff is friendly, and you wont regret it.

    Matt G

    I have joined GB West County a month ago. And I love it. Not only BJJ is Great, But professor Jake and professor Mike make it even better by the way they teach. They are very patient, detail oriented and care about your results. They never talk about money. They dont try to push it. Because they dont need to. Just come by and check it out for yourselves. Thanks Pr. Jake and Pr.Mike.

    Kyrgyz J

    I feel so fortunate to have discovered the children's program at Gracie Barra West County Jiu-Jitsu . My two daughters and two sons have attended classes for a year now.Their interest in other activities wax and wane but they never want to miss a day of Jiu-Jitsu. I credit Professor Jake Martin with fostering a greater sense of self-confidence, focus, discipline, commitment, perseverance and self-control. I have seen tremendous growth in all four of my children, both on and off the mat.

    Jennifer M

    Professor Jake and the staff at Gracie Barra West County are fantastic. A very welcoming group who works with groups as well as individuals to achieve their goals. I wouldn't train anywhere else.

    Joshua H

    Training at Gracie Barra has been nothing short of a great experience. Whether you want to train for a competition, learn some basic self defense techniques, or just want to get in shape in a positive group setting. Gracie Barra is the place to be. When they say Jiu jitsu is for everybody, that couldnt be more true. The instructors are very professional and welcoming.
    My son joined along with me, and I have noticed a significant improvement in his discipline, athletic ability, and focus, since we started. (He always looks forward to coming to class).
    I wholeheartedly recommend Gracie Barra, it has been a great experience all around.

    Jared M

    I have always wanted to practice some form of martial arts but I didn't know which one to choose. After doing some research, I found out about Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra West County. After my first class, I knew that Jiu-Jitsu was the right choice. It's a friendly environment that anyone would enjoy. The instructors are very friendly and make the class very enjoyable. If you're looking to practice martial arts and maintain fitness, Jiu-Jitsu is the right choice for you.

    Bryan W

    I love the school and all it has to offer. Professor Jake is AMAZING with the kids and we are so thankful to have him training our daughter.

    Rhonda R

    Very knowledgeable instructors, team oriented training, and a clean, modern training facility help create an excellent environment to learn basic self defense, get in shape, or train to compete. Everyone will feel comfortable and confident training there!

    Jason P
    I had my first class yesterday and I really liked it. Definitely recommend it to everyone!
    Emil C

    Want more from a yoga mat? Not getting anything out of your dumbbells anymore? Try jiu jitsu the Gracie Barra way!

    The instructors at GB West County (as well as students) are a good group -- both friendly and helpful. You'll feel welcome from the moment you walk in. And, the personal touch to training for newcomers is excellent.

    Gracie Barra has many levels of training. And, the material has been developed for students in 5 continents in over 300 schools across the globe! Bottom line: Gracie Barra has their act together. And, the West County school is no exception!

    Rob M

    Gracie Barra has the best learning atmosphere of any dojo I've been to. With a structured curriculum and and teachers and students who all want to see you get better, I would recommend it to anyone. So far it has been a fantastic experience and I can't wait to keep learning.

    Caleb C

    My kids wanted to sign up for BJJ lessons so we went in to talk the folks at Gracie Barra. My wife and I were so impressed with Professor Mike and Professor Jake, that I signed up the entire family. We have been here for almost two years now and wouldn't want to go anywhere else. It truly is a family atmosphere and the staff at GB really care about you and your kids.

    Wayne T

    Gracie Barra has the best learning atmosphere of any dojo I've been to. Very family friendly while creating a learning environment with a structured curriculum with teachers and students who all want to see you improve, I would recommend it to anyone. So far it has been a fantastic experience and I can't wait to keep learning.

    Steve O

    My son has benefitted tremendously from Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra West County. Since he began, he's gotten stronger and more fit and has lost weight. The discipline of Jiu-Jitsu has improved his focus and ability to manage work and life stressors, thus becoming an invaluable part of his life.

    Mary S

    My name is John Clark and the classes I take here in Ballwin, MO are the best in all of
    ST. LOUIS/WORLD!! I have looked for so many places to workout for a great self defense class and finally found one.. No other place compares to Gracie Barra West County/O'Fallon, Missouri. The instructors are all amazing! They show you what to do then pair you up with one of your fellow class mates. We are all BROTHER'S/SISTER'S here as we practice what we just learned for tournaments. We are all FAMILY here. Every time I attend class I'm sore because we work every muscles in our body's in different ways every time! This is the best decision I ever made for a workout program. It teaches you many different ways to defend yourself on and off the mat. I want to expecially say thank you to my instructors. Especially Jake and Jonny! You all are amazing instructors! To all of my class mates thank you for the hard workouts. Everyone one of you are great!! If you are reading this you should come and join us!! First class is free to see if you personally like it.

    John C

    My two teen daughters and I joined the West County GB to learn self defense. We have learned so much more from Professional Jake who lives his motto "jiujitsu for everyone!" I highly recommend this martial art for women!

    Jody T

    We've been very pleased with the quality of the classes and professor Jake at Gracie Barra Jui Jitsu in West County. Professor Jake is encouraging yet also challenges his students and spends extra time with them preparing them for tournaments. He seems to really care about his students too. I highly recommend you stop by and check them out!

    Lis F

    I have been enrolled for a little over a month now and I love it. This is one of my favorite things to do. The learning environment is very calm and the instruction is great. I would recommend this to anyone if you want to do it do it you will not regret it

    Brendan J

    My children are 10 and 9 and love Gracie Barra West County! The staff is wonderful and are teaching them so much, not only about self defense, but about staying active and being healthy! I appreciate the self confidence that the folks at Gracie Barra West County are giving these kids! Outstanding!!

    Tricia K

    I was looking for a gym to learn some good self defensive moves as well as get a good work out in, and at the time had been watching a lot of UFC, and I found Gracie Barra on Google and checked it out. It was a bit of a drive, but I had heard of them before through some friends, and decided to check it out. When I showed up I was taken care of immediately and was able to watch a bit of the class that was currently going on. The instructors, Jake and Mike, came out and spoke with me a little bit and was very friendly and welcoming. Everyone in the class seemed to have been very happy and enjoying themselves as well as displaying some amazing moves on the mat. I was offered a great deal to get signed up and took it on the spot. I've been happily training there since then, and love every second of it.

    Jason K

    My sister in law speaks so highly of this gym. Every chance they have either herself or her four children are here. They have a lot of fun while still learning the technical art of Jiu Jitsu. They are always sad when they have to miss a class. The kids look up to their instructor, Professor Jake, both in the gym and out of the gym. I highly recommend their program.

    Jennifer R

    I want to say thank you for what you have done for my husband. He is now more healthy, his face is not fat and his body is sexier now. His belly is now hard and flat instead of a ball. He is happier and less stressed now.

    Jessica Z

    Introductory class was great. Johnny showed me the fundamentals and I spoke in depth with the black belt professor about their teaching philosophy. I'm looking forward to learning BJJ here with Gracie Barra West County!

    Andrew C

    I have been a member from day one , nothing bad to say. Prof. Jake is world class instructor and runs a great school . I have military and law enforcement back ground, I have trained with a lot of different instructors over the years , this is the best I have seen. No matter your skill or experience level you will get something positive from west county gracie barra.
    Thanks Jerry

    Jerry B

    I joined Gracie Barra on March 7th. I'm overjoyed with the faculty and really enjoy the people. Professor Jake is great and I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to train or just be in a great environment...Thanks for letting me become part of the family...

    Joseph W

    Coach Johnny and Coach Gabriel are incredible with our kids.

    Dimitrios A

    I was looking for a school that would be a nice fit for my sons and I to learn BJJ, and the moment I set foot in Gracie Barra West County, I knew it was the right place for us. If you're looking for a school that's family-friendly, fun and safe, then look no further than GB West County. Walking into a new school can be very intimidating, especially when you have no prior experience, but Professor Jake and crew did an amazing job of making me feel welcome.

    Ryan F

    Amazing gym, great people! We liked our gym in CO, but love GB West County. Professor Jake is very professional and a skilled coach. He is amazing with the kids. I highly recommend GB West County!

    Christian M

    Great place to take your family and get an awesome workout. The instructors are very friendly, upbeat, and always have positive attitudes. The facility is clean (practically brand new). The mats, bathrooms, locker room, etc. are always clean. It's a great place to learn self defense and build self esteem. It's also the most fun I've found to burn calories! You definitely won't regret coming in.

    D Sweat

    I am almost 50 years old and NOT in the best of shape! But...these folks are fantastic! Today was my first training session. Excellent instruction. Excellent camaraderie. I am very glad I signed up.

    Blake A

    This is the best jiu jitsu gym in the world

    Austin S

    Excellent instruction and friendly environment. The staff are very welcoming.

    Shane K

    I was looking for a school where I could learn more about ground work. It is important to me to train in a respectful, clean environment with leadership that has strong morals, values and high character. I have found that at Gracie Barra West County. Our lead instructor, Professor Jake, is an outstanding instructor, leader and mentor to all students. His teaching style is calm and detailed and his encouragement is meaningful. The fellow students are always helpful to each other in this wonderful learning environment. Marketing Director, Johnny, and the other senior students are all welcoming and fun to be around. Whether your looking for a unique fitness option, a sport for competition or instruction for self-defense, Gracie Barra West County is a school that will meet all these desires and more.

    Whitney T

    Super friendly staff, great training emvironment, friendly atmosphere all around. I love this place and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.

    David D

    Excellent School, Have been here for 4+years and wont take my son anywhere else. Professor Jake and Coach Jonny are Great with the kids, all the coaches for that matter. We couldn't ask for better!

    Tom H

    Our five year old has really benefited from the structure of the kids class. We have seen how it helps improve his motor skills and working as a group. Coach Jonny really has a great attitude and respect for working with all the kids.

    Ken L

    After studying martial arts most of my life, Gracie Barra has been a whole new experience. I genuinely felt like a white belt again, but 6mo later I felt better equipped to defend myself than I did coming in. My wife and son train here too, and I feel good knowing that they're learning a practical martial art (plus it got my wife in shape ;).

    Dustyn A

    I love this place. The staff is absolutely wonderful! They are so good with kids and then environment is extremely positive. Very affordable and a great place for kids to learn self defense and confidence.

    Sydnni

    I have been searching for a way to get in shape while challenging my mind and learning a practical skill. I found that in Gracie Barra West County. Professor Jake, Coach Jonny, and Coach Gabriel foster a safe, supportive class culture, which is SO important in learning any new skill. I always feel respected and comfortable there, even as a beginner. It has been a great experience and I highly recommend this school.

    Sonya M

    I was looking for a school that would be a nice fit for my sons and I to learn BJJ, and the moment I set foot in Gracie Barra West County, I knew it was the right place for us. If you're looking for a school that's family-friendly, fun and safe, then look no further than GB West County. Walking into a new school can be very intimidating, especially when you have no prior experience, but Professor Jake and crew did an amazing job of making me feel welcome.

    Ryan F.

    Great place to take your family and get an awesome workout. The instructors are very friendly, upbeat, and always have positive attitudes. The facility is clean (practically brand new). The mats, bathrooms, locker room, etc. are always clean. It's a great place to learn self defense and build self esteem. It's also the most fun I've found to burn calories! You definitely won't regret coming in.

    D Sweat

    After studying martial arts most of my life, Gracie Barra has been a whole new experience. I genuinely felt like a white belt again, but 6mo later I felt better equipped to defend myself than I did coming in. My wife and son train here too, and I feel good knowing that they're learning a practical martial art (plus it got my wife in shape ;).

    Dustyn A.

    I have been searching for a way to get in shape while challenging my mind and learning a practical skill. I found that in Gracie Barra West County. Professor Jake, Coach Jonny, and Coach Gabriel foster a safe, supportive class culture, which is SO important in learning any new skill. I always feel respected and comfortable there, even as a beginner. It has been a great experience and I highly recommend this school.

    Sonya M.

    As a Brazilian, I can tell they follow the rules and the philosophy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I am also a student and a father that have kids doing BJJ at Gracie Barra. I can see the difference before and after. keep up the great work.

    Cicero Melo

    At Gracie Barra. Our lead instructor, Professor Jake, is an outstanding instructor, leader and mentor to all students. His teaching style is calm and detailed and his encouragement is meaningful. The fellow students are always helpful to each other in this wonderful learning environment.

    Whitney Tegethoff