I don't usually post reviews, but felt compelled after seeing a negative one about Coach Cam. We've been to a few martial arts schools, and none have had the same impact as Gracie Fighter. Yes, Coach Cam can be tough, loud, and even abrasive--but he genuinely cares about his students and is fully committed to their growth, both on and off the mat. He's not there to coddle or play the role of a parent--he's there to teach jiu jitsu, and jiu jitsu isn't easy. It takes discipline, effort, and resilience--qualities he instills through a no-nonsense, high-expectation approach. His style might not be for everyone, but for kids who are willing to work, the results are undeniable. Our kids have grown more under his guidance than anywhere else--not just in skill, but in confidence, focus, and grit. Coach Cam pushes them to be better, holds them accountable, and teaches the art with true passion and expertise. read more

We have had the pleasure of Coach Cameron teaching our son for several years. Is Cameron tough? Yes. Will he push your child to their physical limit? Yes. Will he teach your child discipline, self respect, a sense of purpose and honor? Yes. Coach Cameron loves his students unconditionally. I see the pride and satisfaction in his eyes as watches his students grow and push their limits. For them to achieve that, he pushes them hard, but he is always fair. He gives them his best and expects the same from his students. We consider Cameron to be a wonderful mentor for our son. He's a rare person and we are grateful to have him in our lives. If you are considering enrolling your child, come during a kid's class and talk to the parents and get their opinion. Most do not post reviews on yelp. I have a good feeling they will agree with what I've said. read more

Coach cam has been super helpful to me. Coach Cam has not just helped me in jiu jitsu but he has also helped me in life. That was from my daughter. He has transformed my daughter's thinking and how she approaches her goals! He does not just teach technique, he builds confidence, discipline, and respect. Coach Cameron's ability to break down complex moves and create a positive, motivating atmosphere makes them an exceptional instructor and role model. I've seen my daughter transform and transform how she approaches life. She's confident, bold, and willing to put in the work to become her best self!! Thank you coach cam!! No words can express what you've done for us!! read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - My Girls! - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

My boys, 5 and 7 love this gym. The training is structured, challenging, and focused on building real skills. Belts and stripes aren't handed out they're earned through hard work, focus, and discipline, which I genuinely appreciate as a parent. Coach Cam and the entire staff set high expectations while maintaining a safe, respectful environment. They don't coddle kids--they push them to rise to the challenge, build confidence, and take pride in what they've truly accomplished. If you're looking for meaningful growth, this is the place. But if you're more interested in participation trophies and easy praise, you might want to look elsewhere. read more

I am sad to leave this review but I signed up my daughter at the end of September in hopes of enrolling her on a trial basis. I told them I did not want to continue after attending for a month because my daughter is too young and not really learning. They agreed and said she should come back. I absolutely intended on re enrolling her. Then I noticed on my CC statement a reoccurring charge and when I called Lisa told me she would reimburse me but has yet to reimburse me. This is a terrible unethical practice. read more

Amazing kids instructor who motivates kids to their full potential. Cameron not only expects their best version of themselves on the mat, but to be exceptional humans off the mat as well. read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

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There are people who were meant to teach, to guide, and to be positive role models for kids, one of whom is Coach Cameron. He is not going to coddle your kid or give them a participation award. He will, however, be their number one supporter and bring out the best in them. If you put your trust in him, he will guide your child to not only become excellent at Jiu Jitsu but also excellent at life. My 8 year old daughter would be the first to say he doesn't often tell her what she wants to hear, but she'd also acknowledge he always tells her what she needs to hear. With parents, he's approachable, down to earth, and respectful. If your children want to compete, you'd be hard pressed to find a more dedicated coach than him. Every time I have the pleasure of watching him teach class or coach at a tournament, I am in awe of how he always seems to get it right. I am truly grateful that she has him in her corner and that she has such a positive role model in her life. If you don't know much about Jiu Jitsu, it requires an extraordinary amount of physical and mental strength. Very few people are naturally good at it-most are terrible and have to really dig down deep to keep going. Losing sucks, and it's hard to learn how to lose graciously, especially when you're a kid. You do stupid things, you're going to hurt someone, and it can be really hard to know when you're being stupid. Promotions are earned through hard work, consistency, and discipline. In other words, Jiu Jitsu builds character - grit, determination, sportsmanship, discipline, mental fortitude, focus, and self awareness. None of this happens without a really good instructor who is passionate about teaching and Jiu Jitsu. It takes someone special like Coach Cam to turn kids into winners on and off the mat. read more

My older son has been training in the kids class with Coach Cam for 2+ years. My son has grown physically stronger and has grown in his situational awareness as a result of training here. I'm thankful for the values instilled by Cam and the coaches. My kid is not an 'aggressive' temperament but the coaches teach to all different abilities and the kids encourage each other to succeed. We signed our youngest up when he turned 4 last month. The skills they gain here provide some peace of mind that I am helping prepare my children for handling themselves with confidence and dignity as they become adults. read more

Years ago, I walked into Coach Cameron with my kids, all nervous and unsure. Today, I confidently say he's been one of the greatest influences in my child's life. What makes him special isn't just his technical skill but how he turns every class into a life lesson. He inspires kids to show respect, push themselves, and take responsibility. Tough when needed, he also celebrates their small victories like major wins. Most coaches teach moves; this one builds character. We're so lucky to have found him. Thank you coach Cam! read more

This academy has been my daughter's home away from home for the past 10 years (since she was 6yrs old). She's grown personally, athletically, mentally and gone on to win & place in numerous tournaments under their tutelage. Cameron King is far more than a coach; he is a trusted friend, a parenting ally, an incredible role-model and a FIERCE defender of the under-dog and bullied child. In addition to his unquestionable expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, wrestling, self-defense and mixed martial arts, Coach Cam has an undeniable sixth sense about who people truly are. If your child is in need of self-confidence, self-discipline, and serious physical exercise and stress release, there is no-one better to entrust them to. His kid's class has large groups of children, as young as 4 years old, and they all have a great time, playing and laughing when appropriate, while also developing a sense of discipline, team work and pride in their personal development and the success of their classmates through hard work. He does not baby children but, treats them each like a capable individual and independent human being (including giving them fitting nicknames that make each of them feel truly seen and proud). He is tough, as a skilled Black-Belt and world class fighter should be yet, is warm, personable and genuinely cares for the physical and emotional health of everyone he encounters. If you want your child coddled or developed into a "fighting machine" for no deeper reason than to be able to beat-up on others or dominate those around them, THIS PLACE IS NOT FOR YOU. Coach Cam can spot a bully, abuser or enabler from a mile away (whether it be a child or their parent) and is quick to call them out and hold them publicly accountable. While this may be uncomfortable for those who are used to getting away with or excusing their child's bad behavior, it makes the rest of us (kids and parents) feel safe and empowered to stand up for ourselves and others. If your child is having struggles with being bullied or getting into trouble themselves and in need of guidance, he can truly help turn them around, WITH the support and trust of their parents, of course! I've witnessed it countless times in our years as a part of the Gracie Fighter family and have referred them to a number of my families (I run a neighboring infant & toddler care center) who have gone on to experience incredible growth, development and successes of their own, with Coach Cam as their number one fan and supporter. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!! read more

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This is 100% the gym you want to enroll your kids to train! My daughter started her ji jitsu journey at another gym, which did not provide the structured, character, and energy that Coach Cameron brings. This is not a Coach who sits on the sidelines. He is involved and engaged in every training. He thrives to encourage your kids to become a better version of themselves everyday. Within months of training with Coach Cam, I saw tremendous improvements from my daughter. Not only does he take the time to teach my daughter, he also includes me in every personal training in order for me to learn alongside my daughter. Cam is tough, but nothing in life comes easy and for him to be there EVERYDAY to ensure he's there for his kids even when he's injured shows a lot about his commitment! Don't think twice about it, He is the Coach you want for your kids. read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

I can't say enough amazing things about this gym and especially about Coach Cam. From the moment my son walked into his first class, we knew we had found something truly special. Coach Cam has not only taught my son the fundamentals of Jiujitsu--he's helped shape his confidence, discipline, and mindset in ways that go far beyond the mat. The environment is welcoming, safe, and focused on growth. Coach Cam brings unmatched energy, patience, and genuine care to every class. He connects with the kids in a way that inspires them to push their limits while still having fun. My son looks forward to every class and leaves feeling stronger, prouder, and more motivated each time. It's rare to find a coach who balances technical excellence with heart--but Coach Cam does it effortlessly. Whether you're looking for a place to build skills, character, or just be part of an uplifting community, this gym is it. If you're even thinking about trying jiujitsu for your child or yourself, don't wait. This place--and this coach--are truly next level. Thank you, Coach Cam, for being such a powerful role model and mentor. You've made a lifelong impact on my son, and we are forever grateful! read more

If you're a parent looking for a kids Jiu Jitsu program that builds more than just athletic skill, look no further. Coach Cameron has a profound impact on the kids lives (on and off the mat). The structure of each class is intentional, consistent, and incredibly effective. Warm-ups, drills, and sparring are all done with a clear purpose. Coach Cameron sets high expectations, reinforcing the value of discipline, self-control and responsibility. He also celebrates effort and improvement. He doesn't let kids coast--he challenges them while making them feel safe and supported. Highly recommended! read more

I signed my son up for this Jiu-Jitsu class, but the instructor was really mean and tough on the kids. While some kids seemed okay with it, the instructor embarrassed and yelled at them to make them angry so they'd try harder. One boy was singled out, yelled at, and even pinned to the ground by the instructor, who threatened to beat him in front of his family. The boy cried, and the instructor told him to shut up in front of everyone, and none of the parents said anything. It was my son's first class, and he didn't want to go back after that. We paid for a full month and a Gi, but we didn't get a refund even though we only attended one class. They gave us the Gi after the class, and when I tried to contact Tina for a refund, I was ignored even though he didn't wear it. I recommend finding a Jiu-Jitsu class that offers a free trial so you can avoid this kind of experience. read more

Huge shoutout to Coach Cameron and the Gracie Fighter team! My daughter's been training there for 4 years now, and the growth we've seen in her has been incredible--confidence, discipline, strength, all thanks to Coach Cameron's amazing guidance. He truly cares about his students and it shows. The gym feels like family. Couldn't ask for a better place for her to train! read more

The best BJJ academy by far! Kids classes ran by coach Cameron are beyond any expectations!

What a great find! Caesar & his team have welcomed my 9 year old son with great warmth & dignity. The instructions are clear and the rules are firm but they come from a place of strength & patience. A $150 a month for up to 5 days a week instruction is a awesome deal & best of all my kid goes to bed at night without a fuss... read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - Student - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

It's an amazing place and it makes you feel like you are at home they are so nice with people and you learn a lot

Great place to take your kids to train self defense!!! I recommend this gym for real self defense training. It is clean and neat. It has a warm family feeling. read more

I've been training at Gracie Fighter for 6 months and cannot recommend it enough. Everyone there has been incredibly welcoming and Coach Guga is an amazing teacher. He has an amazing ability to break things down so beginners can easily understand and advanced students can grow. On top of learning new skills it's a great workout. read more

I have been training at Gracie Fighter for about two years and would recommend it to everyone! It's great for self defense, mind development, strength, and exercise. Professor Guga teaches at a very understandable pace and teaches techniques that can be applied in real life. He's an extremely good instructor and practitioner of BJJ. Doing BJJ is like a drug because of how addicting it is. I can't emphasize enough the level of fulfillment one gets after a good day of training. read more

We signed up our 5 year old son for Jiujitsu. He picked the black gee with white belt, he looks cute as hell BTW. On his first day, he was extremely shy. He was so nervous that he wanted to cry, but Cameron was cool. He came over to talk to him and sat next to him on the mat. It's nice to see him engage with my son even when he has a full class to teach. It's been a week since my son joined and I can tell he's finally opening up. He loves to practice at home too. He is still shy, but I'm sure he will be out of that stage once he feels more comfortable & make some friends in there. The giant mat is clean, the floor looks clean as well. There are cubbies where you can place your shoes and socks in. There's a few chairs around the side so you can sit and watch. read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

Great gym, the toughest room in the bay area but also a great place for beginners to develop. The environment is welcoming for for women, something worth mentioning because not all gyms are. read more

I have been training at this gym for years. It has always felt like a family. It welcomes everyone, beginners and advanced, doesn't matter. You will feel welcomed I can assure you in that. It has great coaches and staff. Come and join!!! read more

Training with Cesar Gracie has given me and my family an opportunity to train and meet all types of people and coaches. It's about the journey and figuring out what works for you. I was able to train Pleasant Hill GF. Several Blackbelts were on the mat willing to teach from the start. I also loved being able to train with affiliates at Team Dumdamaya too. After they choke you out, don't worry they will help you up. Gracie Fighter Brentwood is growing. It's had its challenges but it has always put out quality training. Coach Mark is great with the kids and knows how to teach and keep it fun. Coach Pedro works with everyone and knows how to get the most out of you during training. Come check out Gracie Fighter Brentwood! read more

Five stars. I visited about 6 BJJ gyms in the Pleasant Hill/Concord/Brentwood area and this place was the best. The instructors are professional and friendly. The students are also very friendly and welcoming, which speaks well to the culture created by the instructors and ownership. The owner, Cesar Gracie and his wife Tina, are very available and often in the gym. You will feel like family from the start. read more

Love the classes, instructors, students & brand new renovation of this historic BJJ school in Norcal! The talent of the athletes that walk in everyday & train on the mats is humbling to anyone in martial arts. It is always worth the 45-minute commute for me to train in a comfortable "no ego" environment, which is not always the case for women in BJJ. In addition, to entice more women to join, Cesar even offers a discount for women & weekly classes for women taught by women. Thank you to all the staff in Pleasant Hill, esp Cesar & Tina! Ossss... read more

Cesar Gracie Academy - Best BJJ in Norcal! - Boxing Near Me - Pleasant Hill, California

The best martial arts gym I have ever been in. My daughters take BJJ. The staff is amazing. Clean friendly welcoming. Highly recommend.

I really hate to give businesses one star reviews, but I had to for this one. I was looking for a JJ place for me and my son to go to and I really wanted to check this place out, so I reached out to Gracie via their website for information. I waited a few weeks and never got a response. It was fine, because I ended up getting pretty busy and I honest forgot about it for a little while. When I did remember, I checked my email and my junk folder for any response. Since I hadn't heard from them, I tried to call and see if I could get ahold of them that way. They didn't answer so I left a voicemail, and I still haven't heard from them. It's been a few months. A friend recommended another JJ place in the area, and when I reached out to them, they responded less than a day and a half later. I'm sorry for the one star review, but I really hope you improve your customer service. Even if you emailed with, "Sorry, we're not accepting new students," I would've appreciated that more than being left hanging. read more

My son trains in the kids class with Coach Cameron and we love it! The children love and respect him and he genuinely loves his students! It's great exercise for the kids while they learn BJJ! I highly recommend Gracie Fighter to everyone! As for the negative comments posted, I just want to say that all the staff and owners are very kind and welcoming so don't base your opinion on someone else's negative perspective. read more

This is an amazing academy to learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Once you hit the mat Caser's whole team treats you like family. My six-year-old son trains four days a week with Coach Cameron and my wife and I could not be happier. Also, the legendary Cesar Gracie is at the Academy all the time and even coaches the kids class at times. read more

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We traveled an hour each way 4 times a week just to train at this gym for years. Totally worth the trip! You won't find a better kids coach than Cameron King. He is so technical and he's the right mix of discipline, caring and fun! They have a close knit women's class. Adult classes are amazing! Whether you are training No Gi with Sean or Gi with Guga. Both are knowledgeable, technical, and they set the tone for a great atmosphere. The people are so friendly. It won't take long to feel like you are part of a Jiu Jitsu family. Becky and Tina at the front desk are so friendly and accommodating. Cesar Gracie makes it a point to welcome everyone who signs up to train. In my opinion this gym also is the best value. You are getting world class instruction and training at a fair cost. Other gyms in the area tend to overcharge and they aren't giving the same quality. This is a place for all levels of Jiu Jitsu from the hobbyist to competitor. Give them a try, you won't be sorry! read more

I am not shocked that other people are having the same issue with charges not being stopped or removed. They charged us for six sessions in August when we only have two kids, and have perpetually promised to fix and end billing without following through. These people are clearly dishonest and we are about to take legal action and report them to the BBB so this never happens to anyone else. Call your credit card or bank and have them block charges if this continues for anyone else. This type of practice is despicable. Update: BBB notified. "This case will be reviewed by a complaint specialist at the Better Business Bureau, and then forwarded to the business for their response. It is our policy to allow the business 10 working days to respond to your complaint. You will be notified when the business has responded." For others who would like to notify visit: http://goldengate.bbb.org/ read more

Hi this is Joey I was working the Dragon House 11 event , I just want to say my apologize's to the Gracie Family & Bjj instructors for any offensive verbal words that Were exchanged first of all I was only do my job & I never said To anyone to shut up or that I would choke them . That information was way put out Of text by Kevin .L. . So I just wanted to clear that up & I'm not a black belt only a brown in Bjj & 3rd degree black belt in taekwondo & I'm a ex US Marine of 6 years . I l look foward to seeing everyone at the future fight events in the bay area , we're all family through the world of Martial Arts God bless Joey s read more

We have been part of the Gracie family since 2015. I say family because once you're here, you are truly part of this amazing community of folks who have your back. My kids have learned to win and lose with grace, and have learned a sense of discipline that seems to be a thing of the past these days. Coach Cameron goes to every tournament to support the kids and is absolutely the best coach who treats the kids as his own. Cameron is authoritative but not authoritarian. I don't trust my kids to just anyone. Highly recommend this studio. read more

Great place to train jiujitsu. All of the students and instructors are world class. Everyone who seriously trains here are like brothers to each other and truly enjoy helping and encouraging other students. Not only will you gain confidence and fitness you will also acquire a tremendous hobby that will be part of your life forever. Cesar has a great intellect that translates into his jiujitsu. He makes teaching personal and knows everyone's game and what they need to do to improve it. He is a true master of his craft and surrounds himself with highest quality black belts that share those qualities. Just train and observe how not only your body but also your character is molded into something tougher and more resilient In response to one reviewer who had problem canceling his contract. You have the copy of the contract. Call that number and talk to the personnel directly. The will go over the conditions. Usually you give them a 3-month written notice. I did the same thing when I moved to SoCal for graduate school. This is a standard procedure for many gyms. Train here if you want to learn a serious brand of Brazilian Jiujitsu. read more

I have to agree with the second poster, Lucas T. I have wanted to train BJJ for quite some time and looked at several schools in the Bay Area and just joined up here a couple weeks ago. I am very new and definatly the worst student in my class, but that is where the positive experiences begin. I have found the students here to be very friendly and helpful to the new guys...no egos and "You suck" attitudes. Noone taking advantage and intentionally embarrasing or applying painful holds and ignoring your tapping just to be a jerk. any question I have had, i can just ask another guy with more experience and they are all ready to help me out. Believe me, finding a school with so many guys willing to help even the weakest guy improve is a gem in itself. As far as the instructors...they are out of this world. First rate Professors (and I say professors...because the word teachers would be an understatment). Even when I have difficulty learning something...they are always positive and work very hard to help me and the other beginners. Never made to feel inferior and always full of positive encouragment. I can't really say anything that Lucas didn't say...he said it so well...but even being "the new guy" I already feel like this is a family...and one that I plan to stay a part of for a very long time. If you are looking to try BJJ...come join us on the mat and see for yourself. read more

HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE BY TINA GRACIE I have attempted several times to cancel the monthly billing but they continue to bill for services not rendered. Tina Gracie, (I'm assuming the owner's wife?) is unprofessional, knows little about customer service and is non responsive to phone calls or text messages. She will not respond to my multiple requests to cancel our membership. I don't recommend going to this gym solely due to the fact that you will not be able to stop getting charged if you decide to terminate your membership. This is the first review I have every written on Yelp, sadly it's for poor service. read more

I used to think I was the shit, then these guys whooped my ass and showed me I ain't shit. Now I can't stop going back

This academy is fantastic. The instructors are exceptional--patient, encouraging, knowledgeable, and highly skilled in the art of Jiu Jitsu. The facility is spacious. The other students--in particular the higher belts--are welcoming and helpful to new/inexperienced students. I encourage anyone interested in learning Jiu Jitsu as a sport, for self defense, or to get in shape, to try this place. You won't regret it. read more