A New Era of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Phoenix Begins This September!
Our newly expanded 5,000 sq. ft. flagship academy opens soon at Tatum & Thunderbird.
Until then, we’re fully operational in Suite 9—just down the sidewalk from our original space.
All classes are running at full capacity during construction.
In This Powerful Interview with Head Instructor Adam Ideson, Discover the Mission, Passion, and Vision Behind Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix.
Training For All Levels
Self-Defense Through Gracie Jiu-Jitsu for Kids and Adults at Any Skill Level.
Join a certified, world-class academy where you’ll gain real self-defense skills, build lasting confidence, and become part of a community that supports your growth—on and off the mat.
About Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix
Our mission is to create a welcoming home for real self-defense. In every group and private lesson, certified instructors guide you through proven Gracie University techniques—building real-world skills, lifelong confidence, and mental resilience in a safe, supportive environment.
To better understand why our academies and culture stand apart—play the GJJ 101 Philosophy video.
Real People. Real Results.
Discover how people just like you have built strength, confidence, and lasting change through
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix.
“I can’t emphasize enough how incredible the instructors are who teach private lessons at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Over the past couple of years, my father, my son, and I, have all had the privilege of working with several instructors, and each one has impressed me with their deep knowledge of the techniques and the training programs.
What truly stands out is their patience and understanding. Even on days when my confidence wavers, they are always there to listen and uplift me, providing the encouragement I need to push through. Their ability to connect with students of all ages is remarkable; they are just as fantastic with kids as they are with adults.
If you’re seeking personalized attention or looking for someone to work with your children, you can’t go wrong with any of the instructors at this school. Their dedication to teaching and fostering a supportive environment makes all the difference in the learning experience.”
– Jana Foreman
“I stumbled into the right place! Six years ago, my oldest son was being bullied at school and I wanted him to have the skills and confidence to stand up for himself. The Bullyproof program and the Little Champs classes were perfect for him. He loved it from the very first class, has been training ever since, and is currently thriving in Black Belt Club. My younger son started a year later and also loves it and they continue to train together. The kids’ programs continue to reinforce discipline, listening, mental and physical strength along with the 6 Character Development Traits of manners, respect, responsibility, caring, health and citizenship.
The community that Adam has created is one of the most positive atmospheres that I’ve ever been around. It got me training on the mat, too, and I have been at it for about a year and a half. For me, it is everything. It’s physically and mentally challenging, it’s humbling, it’s empowering, it’s fun, and it’s something that has become a big part of our life and we have all made some very good friends in the process.”
– Jason Zipser
“ If you have even the tiniest bit of curiosity about Jiu-Jitsu, then you really should try it out. No pressure environment, with encouraging accredited professionals showing every detail of your combatives course. Self defense has never been so fun and safe. ”
Meet Our Head Instructor
Adam Ideson
Head Instructor
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Adam Ideson has been dedicated to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® since 2010. From his first class, he was drawn not only to the effectiveness of the art, but to its ability to transform lives. In 2013, he became a Certified Instructor through the Gracie Academy* and has since earned advanced certifications, including Gracie Survival Tactics®, Gracie Medical Defense®, and SafeWrap®.
Today, Adam serves as Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix and plays an active role in supporting other Certified Training Centers across the country, including contributions to Gracie University Headquarters. Known for his thoughtful teaching style and deep commitment to student growth, Adam is a respected leader within the organization and a passionate advocate for safe, structured, and empowering instruction.
*In 2017, the Gracie Academy outgrew its previous location and was rebranded as Gracie University to reflect its growth from a single academy to a global organization.
Listen to the Podcast: Head Instructor Adam Ideson Shares the Story Behind Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix
Meet the Certified Instructor Team
These are the instructors you will find in both of our academies—each bringing care, clarity, and connection to every class.
Our instructor team is made up of passionate, highly trained educators who bring Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense to life for students of all ages. Every coach has completed the rigorous Gracie University Instructor Certification Program, and shares a deep commitment to structure, safety, and empowerment in every class.
Certified Women Empowered® Instructors: These instructors have completed advanced training through Gracie University specific to trauma-informed, women-centered self-defense. Every Women Empowered® class is led by these amazing instructors.
Each instructor maintains ongoing certification and continuing education requirements to uphold the integrity and quality of instruction set forth by Gracie University.
BP – Bullyproof® | GC – Gracie Combatives® | MC – Master Cycle® | WE – Women Empowered®
Alisha Olson
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Brandon Clark
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David Sandoval
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Emmerson Douglass
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Erica Shoenberger
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Joe Court
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Justin Koester
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Kai Koester
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Kiara Howerzyl
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Lance Praet
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Ruthy Mavashev
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Sarah Richetto
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Troy Mylius
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Women Empowered® – Dedicated Instructors
Amy Barrus
Angela Okerye
Bella Azzi
Nina Bignalet
Vivian Globus
Powered by Gracie University. We are proud to be a Certified Training Center licensed by Gracie University—the worldwide leader in self-defense education. Visit Gracie University online.
