Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ
About Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ
At Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ, 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 Connecticut, Connecticut 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, Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ has a class for you.
Come experience the Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ community for yourself. Your first class is on us — we look forward to welcoming you to the mat.
Reviews
I've been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for over 11 years with Vincent Brightman. I started as a day 1 white belt and I'm now a confident brown belt, in the best shape of my life, at 46 years old. This school offers an inclusive, friendly, family environment for any age and skill level. Classes are offered six days a week. Whether you're just looking to get in shape, build your confidence, learn self-defense techniques or compete in Jiu Jitsu or MMA you will be welcome. Jiu Jitsu is a beautiful, evolving and practical martial art that has taught me a lot about myself and really enhanced my life. I would highly recommend this school to anyone interested in becoming the best version of themselves. Come join the team and discover what you're really capable of.
What a wonderful place to work out and train. I’m just a beginner but I decided to try it myself after seeing how great they were with my 7 year old daughter. The dedication of the coaches and how much they care is felt every day. If you are struggling to understand a move they take the time to make sure you get it. They have even helped me after class for a few min to try and understand further. It’s the kind of place where they make you feel very welcome. I’ve been to other Jiu Jitsu gyms with my daughter and we found a home here for obvious reasons. Thanks for such a great experience!
I've been training BJJ here for about a month and it has been nothing short of a great experience. Before coming here, I rolled for a couple of months off and on. This gym and the teammates within cultivate a creative atmosphere for growth and learning. Also, I just started kickboxing here and it is a lot of fun! I highly recommend joining this gym if you are starting out or even if you are an experienced grappler!
I've been going their for almost 2 years. Took another martial art in the past so it's not my first experience. Vinny is a good coach. I like the fact that you can get put with people that are a higher skill when rolling because the atmosphere is about teaching instead of always being on top. Or with someone stronger. Humility is as part of the lesson just as much as the skill itself. Realism as well. I've had to use my skills before even though they are developing through novelty, and I was successful in the real world. Will keep coming back as long as my work schedule allows.
Frequently Asked Questions
IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?
Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ. 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! Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ 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 Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ 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 Vincent Brightman's Carlson Gracie MMA & BJJ. 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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Student Stories
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