Renzo Gracie RI
About Renzo Gracie RI
At Renzo Gracie RI, we are dedicated to building a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community in Rhode Island, Rhode Island. As a proud Renzo Gracie affiliate, our academy offers rigorous, structured training for students at every level — from complete beginners stepping onto the mats for the first time to seasoned competitors chasing titles.
Our curriculum is rooted in the fundamentals of BJJ — proper technique, leverage, and timing — taught in a safe, welcoming environment. We believe that everyone who commits to training transforms not just on the mat but in every area of life. Discipline, respect, and perseverance are values we teach alongside armbars and guard passes.
We offer programs designed for every stage of life and every goal, including Child, Adult. Whether you're looking to get fit, learn self-defense, compete at the highest levels, or simply find a community that pushes you to be your best, Renzo Gracie RI has a program for you.
Located in Rhode Island, Rhode Island, our doors are open to anyone ready to start their BJJ journey. Come in for a free trial class and experience for yourself why so many students call Renzo Gracie RI their second home.
Reviews
My son wanted to start martial arts and I reached out to my friends who did BJJ. They recommended attending their school. We did the trial class and he wanted to sign up immediately. A little over a year later, my son is still attending and loving his classes. My friend teaches a women’s only class which I started to attend this past summer. It’s a great way to learn BJJ in a smaller setting. The coaches here are all knowledgeable and help their students reach their full potential. Professor Marcelo has created a great BJJ community where you are able to learn from dedicated teachers. I highly recommend at least coming in for a trial class if you or your child has an interest in BJJ.
I have been training at RGRI for just under a year and have experienced such a welcoming, knowledgeable and encouraging community since my first class. I wish I had started earlier in my life and am so grateful to have found them now! Our school leader, Professor Marcelo Cruz, has boundless knowledge of BJJ and lots of patience for eager beginners like myself. From hosting amazing seminars with very talented and highly accredited masters of the sport, to having class available every day of the week, what you can learn and experience here is priceless. If you want to learn self defense, compete, be part of an amazing community, or all of the above! This is the best place to be
Great BJJ training facility plenty of mat space, exercise area for strength training. Friendly environment great group of training partners. Awesome kids program! Professor Marcelo Cruz is a great instructor with great details breaking down positions….Highly recommended!!! Come train. Oss
Amazing BJJ school. I have been going for about 8 months and liked it so much, I signed up my nephews for the kids program. Professor Marcelo is the real deal. So much experience, knowledge, skill and dedication to the sport. Everyone here is so nice and welcoming no matter your experience.
My son really enjoys attending Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in North Smithfield. The instructors are very nice, patient, and great with the kids. It’s a positive and welcoming environment, and we’re happy with the experience. I would definitely recommend this school to other families. ---
Frequently Asked Questions
IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?
Yes! We welcome anyone curious about BJJ to come in for a complimentary trial class at Renzo Gracie RI. No experience is necessary — just wear comfortable workout clothes and bring a positive attitude. We'll have you on the mats learning Renzo Gracie fundamentals from day one.
DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO START TRAINING?
Absolutely not. Renzo Gracie RI welcomes complete beginners and our coaches are specifically trained to bring new students up to speed. Our beginner curriculum covers the core positions, escapes, and submissions at a pace that lets you build real skills without feeling overwhelmed. Most of our students started with zero grappling background.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR OR BRING TO MY FIRST CLASS?
For your first visit, just wear clean athletic clothing — board shorts and a rash guard or a t-shirt and leggings work great. We recommend leaving jewelry at home and trimming your fingernails and toenails for everyone's safety. If you decide to continue training, we'll help you get fitted for a properly sized gi.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN TO SEE PROGRESS?
Consistency is the key to improvement in BJJ. We recommend training a minimum of two to three times per week to build muscle memory and see steady progress. That said, even training once a week is better than not training at all, and we have members at Renzo Gracie RI at every frequency. Our coaches will work with your schedule to build a training plan that fits your life.
DO YOU OFFER CLASSES FOR CHILDREN?
Yes! Renzo Gracie RI has a dedicated children's BJJ program for kids of various age groups. Our kids' classes are structured differently from adult training — they focus on anti-bullying principles, confidence-building, coordination, and age-appropriate techniques in a fun, energetic environment. Parents consistently tell us their kids become more focused, disciplined, and self-confident after joining our program.
Programs
Weekly Schedule
| Time | Class | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00am | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 12:00pm | Noon BJJ | All Levels |
| 5:30pm | Kids BJJ | Youth |
| 6:30pm | Fundamentals BJJ | All Levels |
| 7:30pm | Advanced BJJ | Blue Belt+ |
| 6:00am | No-Gi Grappling | All Levels |
| 6:30pm | No-Gi Submission | Intermediate |
| 7:30pm | Competition Training | Advanced |
| 9:00am | All Levels BJJ | All Levels |
| 11:00am | Open Mat | All Levels |
Check the gym's website for current schedule and any changes. Visit website
Instructors
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Student Stories
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