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Carlson Gracie Winter Haven

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven

Affiliation: Gracie
592 reviews
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About Carlson Gracie Winter Haven

At Carlson Gracie Winter Haven, we are passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and dedicated to helping students of all experience levels discover the transformative power of this martial art. Located in Florida, Florida affiliated with Gracie, our academy welcomes everyone from complete beginners to experienced grapplers.

Our experienced instructors bring years of dedicated training and a genuine love for the art to every class. We emphasize strong fundamentals, technical precision, and a supportive training culture where every student is encouraged to grow at their own pace.

We offer Adult programs designed to serve our diverse student body. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, competition, or simply the challenge of learning a complex martial art, Carlson Gracie Winter Haven has a class for you.

Come experience the Carlson Gracie Winter Haven community for yourself. Your first class is on us — we look forward to welcoming you to the mat.

Reviews

5
92 reviews
Andrew Sapp
2026-02-26

Finding this place saved my life. Rafa and Andrew are great mentors and all around great people. Coach Derrick is amazing and has become like a brother to me. It feels like going home when I show up on the mats. I started in 2023 at 45yo and it’s been amazing. I have had my son take private lessons and my daughter will be starting soon as well. I could not have picked a better gym for myself and my family.

Mandy Brendemuehl
2026-01-13

I can’t say enough good things. The environment is supportive, structured, and welcoming, no matter your experience level. The coaches are not only skilled, but they truly care about helping you grow on and off the mats. The women’s classes are empowering, technique-focused, and create a strong sense of community. It’s a space where you can build confidence, push yourself, and feel safe doing it. If you’re looking for a gym that prioritizes both skill and culture, this is it. I’m so grateful to be part of it!

Nancy Whidden
2026-01-14

Carlson Gracie Winter Haven has the best coaches and awesome students. I cannot express how much I have enjoyed training there. It is a great environment, one of my favorite places in the world.

Chris Brown
2024-09-18

I started training at this gym nearly 2 years ago and it was the best decision i’ve ever made! Everyone is very friendly and welcoming, and there are so many great training partners that genuinely care about you and your safety while training. There is never a dull moment on the mats and I would encourage anyone who is thinking of starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to start their journey here.

Corrie Kneer
2024-12-30

I attended two classes at Carlson Gracie Winter Haven while visiting family in Florida. They welcomed me like I was already part of their gym family. The coaches were awesome and I learned a lot even from just the two classes! So glad I went!! If you’re interested in Jiu-Jitsu, check them out! Great atmosphere, great people, and great coaches! You won’t regret it.

Frequently Asked Questions

IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?

Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at Carlson Gracie Winter Haven. It's the best way to experience our training environment, meet our coaches, and see if BJJ is right for you. No experience or equipment needed — comfortable athletic clothing is fine.

DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO START?

No experience necessary! Carlson Gracie Winter Haven welcomes complete beginners. Our instructors break down every technique step by step, and our community is known for being welcoming and patient with new students. Everyone starts as a white belt, and that's exactly where you should start too.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?

For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing works perfectly — a t-shirt and shorts or athletic pants. Once you commit to training regularly, you'll want to invest in a gi (kimono). Our coaches can recommend quality options at a range of price points.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?

Most students at Carlson Gracie Winter Haven train 2 to 3 times per week and see consistent progress. Showing up regularly matters far more than training intensely once in a while. We offer multiple class times throughout the week so you can find a schedule that fits your life.

DO YOU OFFER CLASSES FOR KIDS?

We primarily serve adult students. Please contact us directly to ask about availability for younger students — we're happy to point you in the right direction.