Business Details
Gracie Barra Princeton | Learn BJJ in Princeton, NJ
Gracie Barra Princeton stands as a premier destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, offering a structured and personalized approach to students of all ages and skill levels. With a legacy rooted in the Gracie family's expertise spanning decades, we emphasize individualized development, ensuring tailored instruction that aligns with each student's abilities. Our experienced instructors, certified through rigorous training, guide learners from foundational techniques to advanced mastery.The school fosters a supportive community that values discipline, respect, and personal growth, both on and off the mats. By integrating the principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into daily life, students enhance their physical fitness, self-defense capabilities, and mental resilience. As part of a global network of over 600 schools, we combine local dedication with worldwide expertise to deliver exceptional martial arts education.
Services
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Kids Martial Arts
Women's Program
Private Training Sessions
Summer Camp
Highlights and features
- Over 30 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction
- Personalized training plans for all skill levels
- Certified instructors with competitive and teaching backgrounds
- Supportive community focused on personal growth
- Structured curriculum for measurable progress
What people say
Phenomenal welcoming atmosphere
Amazing service
Great space
Friendly environment
Highly recommend
Services
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Structured programs for adults at all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors. Our GB1-3 tiered curriculum develops technical proficiency while building physical fitness and mental discipline through guided progression.
Kids Martial Arts
Age-specific classes for children aged 3-14 focusing on character development alongside technical skills. Students learn self-discipline, respect, and self-defense while improving coordination and confidence in a supportive environment.
Women's Program
Empowerment-focused classes combining practical self-defense techniques with full-body workouts. Designed to build strength, flexibility, and confidence while fostering connections among female practitioners in a non-intimidating setting.
Private Training Sessions
One-on-one instruction with certified instructors for personalized skill development. Tailored sessions allow focused attention on specific techniques, competition preparation, or accelerated progress toward black belt excellence.
Summer Camp
Specialized summer programs offering daily BJJ training combined with Olympic-style competitions. Designed to maintain skill development during school breaks while fostering teamwork, physical fitness, and martial arts values.
People
Wojtek Ratkiewicz
Chief Instructor
Black belt under Ricardo Almeida since 2022 with expertise in butterfly guard techniques. Passionate about teaching technical proficiency and character development through BJJ instruction.
Edward Bisono
Chief Instructor
Trenton-born instructor with extensive competitive experience across all belt ranks. Specializes in helping students overcome self-doubt through progressive mastery of challenging BJJ techniques.
Michael Leonardi
Owner/Regional Director
Former sports entertainment professional turned BJJ academy operator. Focuses on combining martial arts fundamentals with emotional intelligence development for holistic student growth.
Kristen Sampson
Regional Program Director
Purple belt with expertise in creating supportive learning environments. Dedicated to student goal achievement both in martial arts proficiency and personal development.
Starla Rocco
Instructor
Experienced coach bringing technical expertise and approachable instruction style to classes, emphasizing accessibility for new practitioners while maintaining technical rigor.
Questions
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?
BJJ is a grappling martial art focused on ground fighting and submissions, emphasizing technique over strength for self-defense and physical development.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, our GB1 program teaches fundamentals to newcomers with no prior martial arts experience.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle. Gi requirements will be discussed during your trial.
Do you offer kids martial arts programs?
Yes, our children's program teaches age-appropriate techniques focusing on discipline, confidence, and anti-bullying strategies.
Can I try a free class?
Yes, we offer a 7-day trial allowing you to experience multiple classes before committing.
How often should I train?
We recommend 2-3 times weekly for consistent progress, with flexible scheduling across our locations.
Reviews (7)
Fabio Costa
Jan 24, 2020
Report
Great school ! Staff is well trained! Clean mats and great family environment! 100% recommend to all my friends and family!
Veronica Chmiel
Jan 11, 2019
Report
The coaches are knowledgeable in their field and create an environment conducive to learning! They are warm, welcoming, as are the other students in the class! If you are looking for a fun and challenging environment with room for personal growth, look no further! Your mind, spirit, and body will feel challenged and pushed to the next level to help transform you to an even better you! What are you waiting for??? Don t miss out any longer!!! You will thank yourself for choosing you! Now go get it!💪🏻💯❤️😎
Kevin Greczek
Dec 28, 2018
Report
The instruction is great and it's a great atmosphere, but most of all Mike, Nick, and Wojtek are great people to be around.
Deanna Herrington
Mar 27, 2018
Report
Not one but two of my kids are enjoying Gracie Barra Princeton and I love that it is not just physical but also life lessons that they teach. The games are fun and the drills are great for self-defense. They run a tight ship and it truly does feel like a family there as well!!
Shubhra Pareek
Feb 09, 2018
Report
Thr instructors are very friendly, knowledgeable, mature, responsible and fun! My kids love going to Jujitsu, its a good workout and self defence techniques are a must learn for my girls!
David Hallgren
Oct 26, 2017
Report
This place is great. Whatever your level or ability you get amazing instruction. The instructors are really good at what they do.
Chris Matakas
Oct 10, 2017
Report
Coaches Turtle, Wojtek, and Mike are deeply passionate about sharing Jiu Jitsu with their community. All wonderful people, they also happen to be great practitioners and teachers. I cannot recommend these guys enough!
