Carlson Gracie Columbus
About
Carlson Gracie Columbus in Columbus, Ohio is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym teaching the aggressive, attacking style pioneered by Carlson Gracie. The gym is led by head instructor Brandon Willis, who has developed from a beginner to a passionate black belt instructor over the years, offering programs suitable for self-defense, sport competition, and MMA grappling. While many adult students praise the training quality and community atmosphere, there are mixed reviews regarding the structure of instruction and children's classes.
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We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.
Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.
InstructorsClass StructureSafety and HygieneFacility QualityValue for MoneyLocation & AccessibilityPublic Review Sentiment
Instructors
Head instructor Brandon Willis is described as knowledgeable and passionate about the Carlson Gracie style, with years of experience developing from beginner to black belt. While many students appreciate his expertise and approachability, some reviews suggest inconsistency in his teaching approach and structure.
Facility
The facility is located within FTW Crossfit, with mats that are rolled out and cleaned for each class. Several reviews mention the lack of air conditioning, which can make training challenging, especially during summer months.
Pricing
While specific pricing information is not readily available on the website, the gym appears to offer good value based on the quality of instruction and small class sizes. Visitors have noted that the gym does not charge drop-in fees, which is appreciated by traveling practitioners.
Facility
Gym
Instructors
Classes
Pricing
The gym appears to offer trial classes for prospective students, though the specific terms and duration are not clearly stated on the website.
Location
Opening Hours
| Monday | 5:30 - 8PM |
| Tuesday | 12:30 - 2PM, 5:45 - 7:15PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30 - 8PM |
| Thursday (Today) | 5:45 - 7:15PM |
| Friday | 5:30 - 8:30PM |
| Saturday | 11AM - 12:30PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Location
Carlson Gracie Columbus is conveniently located and easily accessible from major roads including Route 315 and Bethel Road, making it convenient for residents of Dublin, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, and Clintonville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of jiu-jitsu is taught at Carlson Gracie Columbus?
The gym teaches the aggressive, attacking style of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu pioneered by Carlson Gracie, with applications for self-defense, sport competition, and MMA grappling.
Is the gym suitable for beginners?
Yes, the gym welcomes practitioners of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, with small class sizes that allow for more individual attention.
What should I expect during my first class?
First-time students can expect a warm-up session, technique instruction, and potentially some controlled rolling (sparring). The instructor and other students are generally welcoming to newcomers.
Do they offer programs for children?
The gym does offer children's classes, though some reviews suggest the experience may vary. It's recommended to observe a class before enrolling your child.