Top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms in St. Louis, Missouri
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Top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis brings a rich BJJ community—from elite competition academies to foundational beginner schools and MMA cross-trainers. Here are the highly regarded local gyms with working website links:
1. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu St. Louis
A Certified Gracie University Training Center offering structured, Gracie-style self-defense programs for all ages—including Gracie Combatives®, Women Empowered®, and Bullyproof® curricula. (Gracie Jiu-Jitsu St. Louis, BJJ Bundle)
2. North Broadway Jiu-Jitsu
Founded by world champion Bryan Guidry, this academy operates 24/7 and features high-quality instruction across all levels, with a strong community focus. (guidrytraining.com)
3. Watson Martial Arts
Led by UFC veteran Kyle Watson, this beginner-friendly, community-oriented gym offers Gi and No-Gi classes with a clean facility and quality instruction. (Watson Martial Arts)
4. Maelstrom Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Offers BJJ, MMA, boxing, and self-defense in a cohesive, welcoming environment—ideal for students committed to continual improvement. (maelstrom bjj)
5. BJJ Lifestyle Academy – St. Louis (South County)
Founded by Mike Rethmeyer, this academy offers Gi and No-Gi training for all ages and levels, fostering a strong, family-like community. Free trial classes are available. (BJJ Lifestyle Academy)
6. Team Vaghi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
An elite Rickson/Rodrigo Vaghi lineage school offering BJJ, wrestling, Muay Thai, and competition prep. Known for producing national and international champions, including UFC athletes. (teamvaghi.com)
Choosing the Right Gym for You
| Goal or Preference | Recommended Gym(s) | What Makes It Stand Out |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Gracie self-defense | Gracie Jiu-Jitsu St. Louis | Authentic lineage and structured self-defense curriculum |
| Elite competition training | North Broadway BJJ, Team Vaghi BJJ | World-class coaches and competitive success |
| Beginner-friendly community vibe | Watson Martial Arts, Maelstrom BJJ | Clean facilities, welcoming instruction |
| Family-oriented & youth programs | BJJ Lifestyle Academy | Inclusive programs and strong community atmosphere |
Nearly all of these academies offer free trial classes or introductory sessions, making it easy for you to experience the training style and atmosphere before signing up. Whether your goal is competition, self-defense, or confidence-building, St. Louis’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community has a solid academy for you.