Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix was founded in 2012, by owner and Head Instructor, Adam Ideson. Adam was introduced to jiu-jitsu through a friend and within seven short months, he quit his full-time job and began training jiu-jitsu every day. His deep interest and passion for the art took him to the Gracie Academy in Torrance, California. There he met and trained with Head Instructor, Rener Gracie. Upon learning more about the system, principles, and positive learning environment Rener and his brother, Ryron Gracie, were sharing through Certified Training Centers to teach self-defense around the world, Adam committed himself to learning, applying, and mastering these concepts. Within a couple years, he opened Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix.

Today, with two locations, a team of 18 Certified Instructors, and over 500 active students, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix serves the Phoenix/Scottdale community as a premiere destination for self-defense.

The students in our programs range in age from 5-years-old to multiple students in their 70s, with our most senior student being 78!

Our school is built on a foundation of eight core principles that guide every aspect of our instruction and community engagement. These principles not only shape our teaching methods but also define the environment we strive to create for our students.

Empowerment Through Education

Our mission is to empower individuals by providing the highest level of self-defense instruction. We believe that learning the art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and principles that make it work, in combination with the physical application of the techniques creates incredible self-awareness and confidence. By educating our students with effective self-defense techniques, we equip them with the skills and confidence to protect themselves in any situation. This educational approach is designed to foster a sense of personal power and resilience in each student.

Supportive and Safe Environment

Creating a positive, healthy, and safe environment is paramount. We understand that the right environment significantly impacts learning and performance. Our instructors are dedicated to maintaining a space where students feel respected, supported, and free to explore the art and make mistakes without fear of judgment. This nurturing atmosphere encourages growth, confidence, and a willingness to learn.

Passion and Dedication

Our instructors are deeply passionate about self-defense and community. They are committed to providing the best possible instruction and support. This passion is reflected in their dedication to each student’s progress and well-being. We aim to inspire this same passion in our students, helping them to see self-defense not just as a skill, but a vehicle for a lifelong journey of personal development.

Finding a Way

We recognize the individual abilities and backgrounds of each student. Students will come in with different skillsets, concerns, and overall abilities. We strive to understand and address the unique needs of each student, doing our best to overcome any challenges or obstacles that a student may feel when coming in to learn self-defense.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

We are committed to the continuous improvement of our techniques and teaching methods. By blending traditional martial arts principles with ever-evolving self-defense strategies and techniques, we ensure that our instruction is both effective and relevant. This commitment to innovation helps us provide the most practical and efficient self-defense training available.

Our instructor team stay current with all changes and adaptations within our worldwide organization and all instructors are required to maintain a level of continuing education and must recertify their instructorship through Gracie University every two years.

Community and Belonging

Joining our school means becoming part of a supportive community. We believe in the power of social support and accountability, and we foster a sense of belonging among our students. This community spirit not only enhances the learning experience but also provides a network of encouragement and motivation.

Compassion and Resilience

We approach self-defense with compassion, understanding that many of our students may have experienced bullying, fear, or trauma. Our goal is to help them overcome these challenges and build resilience. By offering a compassionate and understanding environment, we support our students in their journey to regain confidence and personal power.

Integrity and Discipline

Integrity and discipline are at the heart of our philosophy. Through our teaching methodologies and the environment fostered in our schools, we teach the importance of honesty, respect, and perseverance of which we believe integrity and discipline are built upon. We believe these values are essential not only for mastering self-defense but also for personal growth and success in all areas of life.

By integrating these principles into our daily operations, we create a holistic and enriching environment and experience that can be felt in every class, every day!