
Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh
About Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh
Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Raleigh NC employs a complete multi-level Brazilian Jiu Jitsu curriculum developed by Royce Gracie - Certified Jiu Jitsu Black Belts
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Reviews
My daughter has been training at Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Raleigh for a little over a year, and it has been an amazing experience. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and truly dedicated to helping each student grow — both on and off the mats. In this short time, my daughter has already competed in two tournaments and proudly earned 3rd and 2nd place medals. The academy’s training and supportive environment have really boosted her confidence, discipline, and passion for jiu-jitsu. I highly recommend this academy to any parent looking for a safe, structured, and motivating place for their child to learn authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.
I have been a member of Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh for going on 6 years, but I have been training under the Royce Gracie blackbelt instructor, Billy Dowey, for years longer than that. Almost everything I know about this martial art, I have learned from Billy, and he has forgotten more about jiu jitsu than I even know. Billy is just that knowledgeable, and he is just that good. So, if you're looking for top notch instruction in self-defense and Gracie jiu jitsu, look no further than Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh. Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh also features an excellent children's jiu jitsu program that is led by yet another Royce Gracie blackbelt instructor. Additionally, they have both Judo, and kick boxing programs with knowledgeable instructors who will guide you toward reaching your martial arts and fitness goals. One last thing I'd like to mention is the sense of community I have found at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh. I am always greeted with a smile as I walk in the door by the office manager, Patches Dowey, and when I step on the mats, I am surrounded by like minded people who are always willing to help or to answer any Brazilian jiu jitsu questions I might have.
I've had the pleasure of training at this academy for two full weeks across a few summers when I travel back to Raleigh. It has become a highlight for my visit to the area; the cleanliness, quality of instruction, and absolutely welcoming atmosphere has set a high bar for my expectations on schools I visit. Having a gym dog to pet is an added bonus! Their beautiful new facility was spotless, mats were in excellent condition and plenty of space for the large and dynamic classes they instruct. Seeing their instructors deliver high quality teaching to students of all age and experience levels not only helped me as a practitioner, but as a coach as well. This will become a core part of my annual trips back to the area, every class is time well spent with good people and a deep focus on the fundamentals of both self defense and sport applications. See you all next summer! 🤙🏼
I have been training at Royce Gracie Academy for about ten years and at 74 years old, I am probably their oldest student. The facility is a clean and safe environment in a convenient location. The atmosphere is friendly, and the instructors are the best. It is the area's best martial arts training for people of all ages.
My children have been training at this gym for over a year now. The facility is nice, the people are wonderful and the staff is even better. My children’s confidence in themselves has grown exponentially. We love being a part of this program.
Frequently Asked Questions
IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?
Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh. 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! Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh 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 Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh 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?
Yes! We offer dedicated programs for children and teens at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh. Our youth classes focus on discipline, respect, confidence-building, and the fundamentals of BJJ in a safe, fun environment.
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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