This family-run studio is amazing. Growing up in the martial arts myself, I was a very tough critic when it was time for my daughter to take her first class. We tried several programs, and this is the one we chose. Over a year later, we made the right choice. My daughter is tougher and stronger because of the guidance and patience of her instructors. read more

Family friendly atmosphere. Coach Troy, Coach Evan, and Coach Lovey are amazing. They have a lot of good technical skills. They are very patient as well, which as an older practitioner, I truly appreciate. Best jiu jitsu around. read more

Ladies!! If you're thinking about joining a jiu jitsu gym- this is the place to do it! I've been coming here for about 2.5 years now and I've never felt more included in a place. This gym has totally changed my life. The coaches are incredible and make you feel super comfortable to train. In addition, there is a women's class taught by an amazing black belt woman. I love OC Carlson not only because they've pushed me to be better physically and mentally..but I feel apart of a family here! read more

A family run gym. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming. Instruction is great and there are plenty of black belts to help you out.

I can't say enough great things about Carlson Gracie OC. It is a wonderful place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is very family oriented with a chill and very welcoming vibe. The head coach Troy and his two sons Lovey and Evan are exceptional human beings and superb martial artists. They keep to a good curriculum and don't change things up too quickly so that students can absorb and learn the lessons well. They always provide valuable on the spot coaching during technique drills and live rolling/sparring. There are many black belts here with lots of experience that are always willing to help out and provide additional coaching. If competition is something you are interested in, you can rest assured they and the other students will have you well prepared for it. The gym offers a competitive membership fee. At Carlson Gracie OC, you will certainly feel like family. read more

I've been training here for a few years now and I'm so proud to call this place my home gym.. at this point it's like a 2nd home! Troy, Evan, and Lovey are encyclopedias of BJJ knowledge. This gym has been here since '94 so they've really seen the entire evolution of Jiu-Jitsu, with many notable people putting in work on these mats. There's something in it for everyone, from the hobbyists to competitors of all ages, genders, and physical abilities. I have a background in wrestling so competition was important to me, so I'm very proud that we have a tradition of success when we compete. Yet I still share the mats with people who also are just looking to stay in shape and have fun! We have a pressure style on top with an active guard from the bottom, the teaching style has a heavy emphasis on technical details/strategy and we focus on a particular series/position for about 1-1.5 months at a time. I'm very thankful for OC Carlson Gracie! read more

The art speaks for it's self, so it's really all about the instructor, people, vibe, team, comradeship that makes a world of difference when choosing a school. Having trained with several different JiuJitsu schools, two of them being a Gracie JiuJitsu style, I have found a home here at OC Carlson Gracie JiuJitsu with Troy Acker, lead instructor. Troy is humble and does not have an ego, rolls with his students from white to black belt and is the kind of guy you want to work hard for. Great school, will be your last school. read more

Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - Troy Acker, instructor with new student - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

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My son has been training here for a few years now , along with my husband and I recently just started myself . From the moment you walk in you feel welcomed . Troy is the nicest guys you will meet . The kind of guy that will give you his own shirt off his own back if you needed one . He has taught my 9 year old not only bjj but confidence , RESPECT , and how to handle any situation he might have at school with his own peers . Thank you Troy for everything you have done for us. Oc Carlson Gracie makes you feel like family. It's our second home and family . Highly recommend this place ! You won't regret it ;) read more

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Can't begin to tell the you how much my son has flourished, athletically, academically and emotionally since being involved in jiujitsu 9 months ago. He was a shy and quiet boy, but he took to coach Troy, Evan & Lovey, and we saw an enthusiasm towards the class, unlike any other prior activity. His confidence grew. He is much more social, more willing to try new things, and helped his focus in school. This is the best thing has happened to him thus far. So grateful for what the coaches at OC Carlson Gracie JJ has done for him. read more

Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - OC Carlson Gracie yields winners - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

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Very great coach (Troy) he has trained my son for almost a year and my son has had a blast learning new things. Price is very reasonable. My ADHD 6year old son won 2nd place in BJJ tournament just after 5 months of training with Troy. read more

Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

I should really give this studio 5 stars, based upon the fact that this is where I was introduced to my husband, by the owner/proprietor Franco de Camargo. The Cadet was in 3rd grade at the time, and enrolled in the Kid's Class - the parents were a very agreeable and eclectic bunch: general contractors, heavily inked accountants, homemakers... a proverbial breath of fresh air. I was living in Orange County and feeling very stifled by the TKD Academy that we'd just left... I just wanted to get away from the oppressive soccer-mom and stage-dad types. My 9-year old wanted to grapple and roll around on the mats... which is exactly what he did, in a very positive, competitive, non-judgemental environment. Franco taught some very age-appropriate, focused techniques to the students who had the skill and coordination; he included younger siblings in attendance to participate in the warm-up exercises. For adults... I know that some of the students with higher belts have moved on to other schools (or gotten hitched and moved to the Bay Area) - but all of the guys AND gals that I saw rolling here were really, really sweaty. (No, Darin I. - they don't have a web cam. But they do free introductory lessons; you're guaranteed to get uh... "mounted".) Parking is ridiculous and cramped by Orange County standards, but there's more in the back and across the street. Walk a few extra calories off, as long as you're bothering to take classes! Leave the tiny parking lot in front for the shiny, silver, souped up BMW 330xi! As a single parent, I can say: it was good for my Cadet to have some physical rough-housing, but with rules. As the temperamental wife of a Caveman, when I reach out to thump my knuckle-dragger on the noggin, he'll just laugh and pull me through and into his guard, or I'll end up in a [gentle] arm lock. This is why I typically reserve arguments and disagreements for casual wear... and behind closed doors. I have learned: it's slightly less embarrassing to have your husband roll you into some kind of bizarre leg-lock when you don't have to scream, "Not in this! Not in this - it's vintage Alexander McQueen!" So... even though I, personally have never been an actual student at this school... it didn't prevent me from acquiring a modicum of self-control. read more

I trained here while attending Chapman University between 04-08. If you're looking for the authentic OC Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) gym this is it. Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Orange was here long before anyone knew what BJJ and MMA was and is the most authentic BJJ gym in the OC, possible even CA, responsible for producing many world and pan-american champions. With that said, don't be intimidated, there are plenty of students of all shapes and ranks to train with and it's almost impossible that you'll be the best one on the mat so there's always something to strive for. An important point to note: I've continued my training all over the world, from Europe to Asia with both civilian and military and this gym has one of the best cultures I've ever had the privilege of being involved in. Culture is greatly undervalued by new students looking for the right gym to begin their BJJ journey and there isn't much better than this gym. Don't be distracted by brand-name gyms, mat-time is more important than fancy technique and you'll grow much faster if you spend that mat-time with people you enjoy learning from. There isn't a time I visit OC without stopping to train at this gym. I'm so confident you'll be happy with your membership to this gym that if you're not, I'll take down this review. Yup. read more

I was a student here years ago under the late Franco de Camargo (RIP my friend). I'd give this place a 5-star if Franco was still there. Now he has an old student of his, Troy, running the place. He does a good job. He was on his way to getting his black belt just before Franco passed (cancer), and eventually got it from Carlson Gracie Jr. Franco was a three stripe black belt under Carlson Gracie Sr., so this is a legit Carlson Gracie school. There's plenty of room for about 20 people to a class. They have a small changing room in the back or you can change in the bathroom. The parking sucks here - at least in front. There are quite a few spots in the back and you can also park on the street. I don't know if Troy still runs the kids classes like Franco did. But they used to have a really cool kids program there. They were taught a lot more than just BJJ. They've been in this location for over 15 years now too. read more

This is a no frills gym run by some hard core practitioners. Most are accomplished in tournament BJJ or MMA. Here you'll get a type of Jiu-Jitsu that is very effective (Carlson Gracie Style) made famous when MMA was first being popularized. The school has many instructors and senior students and you get to apply what you learn often in free sparing sessions. Classes are held often with morning and evening classes, in both Gi and No-Gi. Child classes are available. If you are serious about learning Jiu-Jitsu, Check them out for a free introductory class. read more

Troy is an excellent instructor. He is great with kids. In the short time my kids have been training they have shown self confidence and respect for others. I highly recommend this school for kids, men and women. read more

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My son started training here almost a year ago, and I joined shortly after. Every single person I've met so far has been extremely welcoming and helpful. This place feels like a real community. My son's confidence has increased and he decided on his own that he wanted to try out the tournaments and he now has two medals that he is extremely proud of. read more

Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

Nothing but great things to say about this place. Our second home! Such a family friendly environment. Our kids love the classes and coaches. Professor Troy is a huge mentor to our kids and we greatly appreciate him. Even having a toddler, I'm still able to train frequently. I love going to the Women's class Sunday mornings, starts my day off right! read more

I started coming to OC Carlson Gracie because I wanted to find a new way to work out, and I figured martial arts was an excellent way to go. I had no idea what I was getting myself into and when I started classes it was definitely awkward having to mount people being the only female in the group. Once I got over the initial shock of that and really started training, I was a able to lose about 50 pounds, got amazing training and support from everyone at the gym. Troy and Diego are fantastic, they have all the patience in the world for beginners and are willing to work with you till you get a move. Everyone at the gym is incredibly supportive and if you choose to compete everyone becomes your coach or mentor. As a female I did not feel intimidated to go up against the males, and was occasionally able to tap some out. Jiu Jitsu is such a great sport, and this place is an amazing place to learn. Not only is the instruction incredible, everyone you train with is amazing too. I haven't been training here in a while and that is only because of work scheduling. But trust me I miss it and everyone here. One other thing, it's a small gym so if it's a big class you may roll into other people, and sometimes parking is a pain in the butt, but there is space in the back. Aside from these minor grumbles this place is definitely worth checking out. read more

This place has been awesome and Franco helped me get of the streets. I hope to revisit this place soon.

My 5 year old son has been going to classes here for 2 months now and he is doing great! I am have seen a impressive change in his discipline and attitude. He loves going!! Coach Troy is great and very patient with all the children. read more

This place is so much fun. I've been training for about 2 years. I have tried a number of gyms that are closer to my home and have always come back here. The instructors are so nice, encouraging of all members, and really make jiu Jitsu not only really fun, but a great workout as well. Professor Troy is very knowledgeable, patient, and makes this place a great environment to train and grow. I couldn't imagine going anywhere else!!!!! read more

I am so impressed with Carlson Gracie. My son has learned so much in a short period of time. The instructors are excellent, and there is a great student to teacher ratio. I'm so glad we decided to come here! read more

Been apart of this school for 4 months now and love it. The culture here is super cool and everybody is very helpful with the newbs (me).

Legit Jiu Jitsu. Family atmosphere with friendly folks. If your tired of of looking like a "before" model, come and get in shape.

The real deal! A Great place to train..no attitudes, a real family atmosphere. Me and my kids all train here, cant say enough about how it has improved the quality of our lives. read more

Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu - Kids class - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

"There isn't enough time to boast on how incredible Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Orange has been. It has done so much for me and I am so grateful for Troy Acker and everything he has done to give me direction and a great work ethic. They treat you like family, they are my family. Regardless of your age and gender, I'd recommend anyone interested in learning or advancing their skill sets in Brazilian jiu jitsu to come to Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Orange]. You won't be disappointed. read more

Came here for the first time on Saturday from the referral of a friend and I was not disappointed. I've heard of BJJ but honestly had no idea what it entailed. My intention was just to watch and see if it was something I might be interested but after walking in the door I some how got persuaded into trying on a gi and I was on the ground rolling. Had I not participated, I don't think I would have had the courage to do it after just watching. Although my body is hurting in places I didn't even know I had muscles... I had a great time and look forward to learning more of the fundamentals of BJJ and I feel I picked the perfect place to do so. read more

Coach Troy runs a great program! My son loves his first year at this location. I like all the warm-up activities. I can tell you that all the kids will have better flexibility and strength because of it. There are 2-3 coaches when the kids practice sparring. This is the best part! They learn good moves and practice with a coach watching each match. My son's classmates are great as well! Highly recommend the free trial! read more

This is a great gym! I train with Carlson Gracie Jr. Team in Chicago and was visiting CA for the IBJJF Pan Ams. I called here and spoke with the Black Belt instructor Troy Acker, my flight arrived at a time where if I hurried I could get to his class. He actually offered to extend the class a little longer so I didn't have to rush! Upon arriving I was welcomed and made to feel as if it were my home gym. The atmosphere here is inviting, no pressure and respectful. Troy gave great instruction and although he didn't want to teach me too much the day before competition he did add some technique to what I already knew that I still use today! He even stayed late with me after class and helped me drill some things I had been working on. His students were very nice and respectful and at all different skill levels. This would be a great gym to train at regardless of wether your a brand new White belt or a seasoned color belt!! If your considering learning BJJ this is the place to do it!! Rolling here was just what I needed to help get those pre competition jitters out and it definitely paid off, I took Gold at Pans the next day and I have to give Troy credit as I feel his hospitality and knowledge helped to play a part in that. Much respect! Osss. read more

I trained with Franco and Allen Goes for several years. What a great experience it was to train with these two wonderful athletes. The last time I saw Franco he was really thin but I didn't think anything of it. I thought it was just because he was training so much. He didn't look sick. I just found out Franco passed away and I am saddened. I spent many hours in the gym with Franco and I still have several pictures of us at Golds. He was a wonderful friend and the world is a lesser place without him in it. read more

did a walk in class with professor nick. very nice and welcoming

You won't find a better atmosphere for training and camaraderie than at OC Carlson Gracie BJJ. The level of instruction is great, and all of the students (kids, teens, and adults) are some of the best people you will meet. Everyone is supportive and pushes each other to reach their goals, regardless of what your own personal goal may be. Simply put...it is an awesome place to train! read more

I am a Kajukenbo instructor teaching street self defense in Santa Ana. A good friend of mine has trained with Troy at Carlson Gracie BJJ Orange County for several years. Steve had tried to persuade me to start BJJ training 4 years ago, but I was not interested at the time. I really regret not starting then! Finally started training with Troy in 2012 and fell in love with BJJ. All of the guys (and girls) that train at CG OC have been awesome. Everyone is super supportive and help you to improve and develop at your own pace. The academy is great whether you want to compete, stay in shape, learn self defense or just have fun. Not to mention the best BJJ training around! read more