Whether in group classes, private lessons, or custom seminars for businesses and organizations, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix provides a safe, empowering self-defense experience rooted in the time-tested principles of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Through our structured curriculum and supportive culture, students gain skills, confidence, and connection that extend far beyond the mat.

Founded in 2012 by owner and Head Instructor Adam Ideson, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix began as a single academy inspired by a powerful vision: to offer world-class self-defense and life-changing personal growth to the greater Phoenix community. Adam’s journey began with an introduction to jiu-jitsu through a friend. Within seven months, he left his full-time job and committed to training daily. That passion led him to the Gracie Academy in Torrance, California, where he trained under Rener Gracie. After experiencing the curriculum, philosophy, and learning environment that Rener and Ryron Gracie were cultivating through their Certified Training Centers, Adam knew this was his calling.

Today, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix operates two thriving locations, with a team of 18 Certified Instructors and more than 500 active students. Our academies have become premier destinations for self-defense, personal development, and meaningful community connection across Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Our students range from age 5 to 78, with diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and goals. Some train once a week. Others train five days a week. But all are part of something greater — a supportive, energizing “Jiu-Jitsu family” where people of all ages grow in strength, confidence, and character.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix is known not just for our world-class self-defense instruction, but for the deeply connected community that brings hundreds of individuals and families through our doors each week. We are a space where health, wellness, and self-improvement are lived values — and where personal growth is a shared journey.

We invite you to experience firsthand how our expert instruction and welcoming community can positively impact your life. Join us, and discover why so many across the Valley choose Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix as their path to empowerment.

Our academies are built on a foundation of eight core principles that guide every aspect of our instruction, culture, and community engagement. These principles shape not only how we teach, but the environment we create — one that supports growth, connection, and lifelong empowerment. You’ll find each principle outlined below, woven into everything we do.

1. Empowerment Through Education

Our mission begins with education. All of our instructors our graduates of the rigorous and detailed, Instructor Certification Program through Gracie University. Our team of Certified Instructors, empower students by teaching the principles that make Gracie Jiu-Jitsu effective—both physically and mentally. Through understanding why techniques work and how to apply them, students gain self-awareness, confidence, and a lasting sense of personal power that extends far beyond the mat.

2. Supportive and Safe Environment

Creating a positive, healthy, and safe environment is paramount. We understand that fostering the right culture and energy significantly impacts learning and performance in a positive way. Our instructors are committed to cultivating a space where students feel respected, supported, and free to learn without fear of judgment. This foundation of trust encourages students to grow with confidence and curiosity.

3. Community and Belonging

When you join Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix, you join our “GJJPHX family”. We foster a strong sense of belonging and shared purpose that enriches each student’s experience. This community culture creates accountability, encouragement, and connection—both on and off the mat.

4. Compassion and Resilience

We understand that many students come to us with reservation, fear, past trauma, or self-doubt. Through compassionate instruction, we help students face challenges, build resilience, and rediscover their confidence in a supportive and uplifting environment.

5. Passion and Dedication

Our instructors are deeply committed to both the art of self-defense and the success of each student. Their passion fuels their teaching and inspires students to view self-defense as a lifelong path of growth and self-discovery—not just a skill to learn, but a mindset to live by.

6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation

We are dedicated to evolving. By blending time-tested Gracie Jiu-Jitsu techniques and principles with modern self-defense strategies and adaptations, we ensure that our curriculum stays relevant, practical, and effective. All instructors engage in continuing education and are re-certified by Gracie University every two years to uphold the highest standards of instruction.

7. Finding a Way

Every student brings a unique background, perspective, and set of experiences. Our team meets each person where they are—adapting instruction and offering solutions to help every student feel seen, supported, and capable of progress.

8. Integrity and Discipline

We believe that self-defense begins with the belief that one is worth defending. Through honest communication, consistent effort, and mutual respect, we instill the values of integrity and discipline—principles that extend beyond the mat and support success in every area of life.