JIU-JITSU for everyone

Experience 40 years of excellence in world-class
Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense training.

+ 1200 Schools Worldwide

+ 45 Countries

+ 150k Students Worldwide

Gracie Barra - More Than an Academy,, A Global Legacy Gracie Barra

Gracie Barra is one of the world's largest and most influential Jiu-Jitsu organizations, leading the way in excellence, discipline, and community. Founded in 1986 by Master Carlos Gracie Jr., our network has grown to over 1,000 schools worldwide, empowering hundreds of thousands of students—including numerous World Champions.

What sets us apart is our structured, global curriculum, designed to ensure consistency, safety, and progress at every level—from beginner to black belt. More than a martial arts school, we are a global family committed to personal growth and leadership, making Jiu-Jitsu accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background.

Training Programs

Discover your journey to excellence through
our structured training system.

GB1 Fundamentals

The GB¹ Program introduces students to the fundamental principles of effective Jiu-Jitsu. Its structured curriculum organizes the vast diversity of techniques into essential core movements, intelligently combined and practiced in a safe environment to support consistent learning and long-term development.

GB2 Advanced

The GB² Program builds upon the foundational principles introduced in GB¹ by incorporating more advanced techniques and dynamic drills. This phase focuses on developing the student’s game flow through the improvement of reflexes, timing, speed, and reaction, while emphasizing smooth and efficient transitions between techniques.

GB3 Black Belt Program

The GB³ Program is designed to prepare students for Black Belt excellence. Focused on advanced techniques, strategic development, and high-level performance, this program challenges practitioners to refine their game and pursue mastery. Come to train — and embrace the path to excellence.

GBF Females

The GBF Program is exclusively dedicated to women’s Jiu-Jitsu, creating a strong, supportive, and empowering environment where women of all ages can grow, train, and thrive. More than just self-defense, GBF builds confidence, resilience, and a powerful sense of community — on and off the mats.

GB Kids

Building confidence, discipline, and respect through our specialized youth curriculum. Ages 3-15 welcome.

Head Instructor - Lucas Munaro

Professor Lucas Munaro, a certified Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, leads Gracie Barra St. Petersburg with passion and authentic Brazilian instruction. Known for his welcoming approach and meticulous teaching style, he ensures every student receives personalized attention. His commitment to discipline and respect creates a family atmosphere where students gain confidence and skills that extend beyond the mat.

JIU-JITSU FOR EVERYONE • JIU-JITSU FOR EVERYONE •

History - The Legacy

Mitsuyo Maeda

Mitsuyo Maeda, a student of Jigoro Kano, brought Japanese Jiu-Jitsu to Brazil in 1914. Through his teachings to Carlos Gracie, he helped lay the foundations of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His focus on technique, leverage, and efficiency over strength remains a cornerstone of Gracie Barra’s philosophy and instruction.

Real reviews from our community on Google. See what our students have to say about their experience at Gracie Barra St. Petersburg.

5.0

Google Reviews

"Theres no words to describe this place, I mean you can order any type of food, its all really good. This store promotes local farmers, theres a decent certified organic section, they could improve on that. It has valet. Kids play space that you can drop your kid off at while you go a get beer or wine at the..."

"Wonderful kids program. Best in the bay and I love my kids are being trained by a real Brazilian black belt in jiu jitsu and not a lower belt or another kid. Very structured and organized and the kids know exactly what they need to do to get promoted and be successful."

"Exceptional Jiu Jitsu academy!!! I dropped in for a training session while out of town on a work trip, and I was blown away by the level of instruction and hospitality. Professor Lucas was phenomenal at explaining the "why" and "how to" behind every technique. His instructions were very clear, concise, and technically brilliant. I leaned so much in just..."

"I was looking for a place for my son to have discipline guidance and to learn obedience and how to protect himself from bullies and learn life lessons that can save him, but to also have control and know went to avoid fights and my son has learned so much from the time that he's been there which has been..."

"Great new academy! Lucas and his family are great and planning on growing a community around bjj! I am very excited to see how much we all grow in the next year."

"I highly recommend Gracie Barra jujitsu! Professor Lucas is absolutely amazing and very professional. He really takes his time with each one of his students making sure they are learning each technique accordingly. Very clean dojo and a great family environment. I'm so happy that this is the very first school I have chosen for my son. With excitement I..."

"Lucas has created an incredible jiu jitsu experience at Gracie Barra St. Pete! He knows how to deliver an exceptional experience that has brought me drive, discipline and focus that extends into my personal life. I`ve gotten stronger and built new connections in just a few months. It`s such a great community here. My friend loves the kids programming too..."

"Professor Lucas has done a tremendous job creating a welcoming, clean, and educational environment. Our son had no previous experience and he felt comfortable from the first class. You truly feel like you are part of a family there. Highly recommend checking them out."

See All Reviews on Google

Where we are Prime Location

Located on 66th Street North, connecting St. Petersburg and Pinellas Park, this academy offers privileged access to residential areas and the Tyrone Square commercial area. Its central location makes it easily accessible for students across the region, establishing itself as a convenient community hub.

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JIU-JITSU for everyone

Gracie Barra - More Than an Academy,, A Global Legacy Gracie Barra