Organization
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (Gracie University)
Overview
Gracie University / Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu education system and academy network founded by Rener Gracie and Ryron Gracie. The organization focuses on structured curriculum delivery, instructor certification, and standardized teaching methods with a strong emphasis on self-defense-oriented Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Affiliation
Core Identity
Organization name Gracie University / Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Common name Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (Gracie University)
Organization type Curriculum-based academy network and certification system
Founded Circa 2008
Founder
- Rener Gracie
- Ryron Gracie
Headquarters (current) Torrance, California, USA
Operational status Active
Primary discipline Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi-focused, self-defense oriented)
Affiliation Model
Affiliation structure Centralized curriculum and certification system operating through Certified Training Centers (CTCs) worldwide.
Gym independence Gyms operate independently as businesses but must follow Gracie University curriculum, branding guidelines, and instructor certification standards to maintain CTC status.
Branding / naming conventions Certified gyms typically use Gracie Jiu-Jitsu or Gracie University Certified Training Center branding rather than traditional team names.
Instruction / curriculum Highly standardized, video-based and in-person curriculum covering fundamentals, self-defense, and structured belt progression with emphasis on pedagogy and safety.
Typical affiliation signals Official CTC designation, instructor certification through Gracie University, and use of standardized curriculum and belt structure.
Competitive Presence
Primary competitive ecosystem Limited and non-central; competition participation is optional.
Ruleset fit Not aligned to a specific competition ruleset; system prioritizes self-defense and controlled training environments.
Athlete representation Competitors may register under local gym names rather than a unified Gracie University team designation.
Footprint
Global footprint Certified Training Centers across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America with geographic density varying by region.
Discover affiliated gyms Certified Training Centers appear at the gym level within city and gym profiles when available.
Relationships
Related organization types
- Gyms (Certified Training Centers)
- Coaches (certified instructors)
- Gracie family lineage (historical context)