Riverside, California, is home to a thriving martial arts scene, offering a variety of gyms and programs for those interested in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn self-defense or an experienced practitioner aiming to sharpen your skills, Riverside has something to offer.
Top MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms in Riverside
Here are some of the leading martial arts academies in Riverside, each offering unique programs and training philosophies:
Gracie Barra Riverside
Welcome to Gracie Barra Riverside, a proud part of the global Gracie Barra network. We offer classes for all ages and skill levels, from kids to adults, beginners to advanced practitioners.
Gracie Barra Kids: Our GBK Program introduces children to Jiu-Jitsu in fun, safe, and age-appropriate classes - building confidence, discipline, and respect through a structured curriculum. It focuses on self-defence, takedowns, and ground techniques.
Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals: The GB1 Program is the foundation of Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra. Originally called the "Fundamental Program," it offers structured training in self-defence, core techniques, and the philosophy of Gracie Barra. Designed for beginners, GB1 builds strong technical skills and prepares students for progression to advanced levels.
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Advanced Jiu-Jitsu: The GB2 Program builds on fundamentals with advanced techniques, complex drills, No-Gi training and live sessions - preparing students for GB3. Eligibility requires at least 3 stripes on a white belt, which requires a minimum of 4 months of training.
Expert Jiu-Jitsu: The GB3 Program is the ultimate level of training at a GB school and challenges students, increasing the complexity of the drills, and the intensity of the training session. It is open to blue belts and above.
Jiu-Jitsu for Women: The GBF Program offers a supportive and inclusive introduction to Jiu-Jitsu for women, focusing on core techniques while building confidence and preparing students to progress into more advanced classes like GB1, GB2 and GB3.
Many students have found Gracie Barra to be a life-changing experience. The welcoming environment and supportive community make it feel like a family. The instructors are skilled and supportive, and the community welcomes both low and high belts alike. This is a place where you feel right at home right when you walk in the door.
EDJ Academy
At EDJ Academy, we proudly serve the communities of Corona, Riverside, Hemet, and Rancho Cucamonga, offering world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for students of all ages and skill levels. Under the expert guidance of 4th-degree black belt Juan Pablo Garcia, our academy is more than just a training facility. Our programs are designed to help you achieve your goals, whether it’s self-defense, competition, fitness, or personal development. Through structured classes and hands-on coaching, you’ll build confidence, discipline, and resilience-skills that extend far beyond the mats. Whether you're looking to compete at a high level or simply improve your overall well-being, EDJ Academy is here to help you reach your full potential.
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Adult Jiu-Jitsu Program: Our Adult Jiu-Jitsu Program is designed for all skill levels, focusing on self-defense, technique, and fitness. Train in a supportive environment that builds confidence, discipline, and resilience-on and off the mats.
Kids Jiu-Jitsu Program: Kids Jiu-Jitsu Program helps children develop discipline, confidence, and coordination while learning self-defense in a fun and structured setting. We foster respect, teamwork, and a love for martial arts from an early age.
Women's Only Jiu-Jitsu Program: This empowering program provides a safe, supportive space for women to train, learn self-defense, and build strength. No matter your experience level, you'll gain confidence and skills in a welcoming, community-focused setting.
Competition Class: For those looking to test their skills, our Competition Class offers advanced training, strategy, and conditioning to prepare for tournaments. Train with intensity, sharpen techniques, and take your Jiu-Jitsu to the next level.
Private Classes: Get personalized instruction tailored to your goals with our Private Classes. Whether you're refining techniques, building confidence, or accelerating your progress, one-on-one training will take your Jiu-Jitsu journey further, faster.
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Discover the life-changing benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at EDJ Academy. Build confidence, improve fitness, and develop real-world self-defense skills in a supportive and empowering environment. Join a thriving community that pushes you to grow mentally and physically while having fun on the mats. Your journey starts here!
EDJ Academy offers more than just physical training, they help you develop skills that will help you succeed at home and the office as well.
Riverside MMA & Kickboxing
At Riverside MMA & Kickboxing, we believe that high-quality Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training delivers on multiple levels. Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes will get you in the best shape of your life. By combining the finesse and discipline of a traditional martial arts technique with the power and demand of a modern contact sport, Jiu Jitsu offers you a full-body workout. Through the practice of Jiu Jitsu, you are always developing skills that will help you succeed at home and the office as well.
Our programming offers both beginning and advanced Jiu Jitsu tracks. So, whether you are stepping into your first class or are a veteran of martial arts training looking for a new challenge, we have instructors that will help you to take the next step on your Jiu Jitsu journey.
Imagine waking up better rested, with more energy throughout the day, and possessing the discipline to accomplish everything on your plate. Imagine the confidence you’ll gain from setting goals and working hard until you achieve them. Imagine the peace of mind that will come from knowing that you could defend yourself or your loved ones in a dangerous situation. Now stop imagining, and make it a reality with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Our kickboxing program will give you the opportunity to torch calories and get that lean, toned look in no time. Get started with the best workout in Riverside and see results faster than ever! Join us for our Open Gym hours and take advantage of the incredible resources we have to offer here at Riverside MMA & Kickboxing. We're making success more convenient than ever before and we can't wait for you to get started!
Marcellini's Martial Arts Academy
Build Confidence & Skill Through Authentic Gracie Jiu-JitsuExperience Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai kickboxing, and self-defense training in Riverside - designed to help kids, adults, and families grow stronger, safer, and more confident. Students are taught how to keep themselves and others in the class safe. The classes are taught to minimize the risk of injury and Sam does a great job of educating the dangers of each position which carries over in the students (all ages) looking out for each other.
Sam Marcellini is a world class self-defense instructor with extensive knowledge and passion for martial arts, providing an enriching experience for all our students. He is among the most respected BJJ instructors in Riverside, directly trained by the legendary, Hélio Gracie and Royce Gracie. At our school, we teach a self-defense style of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, which our instructor Sam Marcellini had the privilege to learn directly from the co-founder of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Grandmaster Helio Gracie and his sons. Sam spent decades regularly training with Royce Gracie, legendary figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts. Sam was the second person ever to receive a Black Belt from Royce Gracie in CA and was Royce's sparring partner for some of his legendary fights. We are the only facility in the area offering this self-defense focused style of Jiu-Jitsu, with many people commuting for hours to train with us.
Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Ages 3+): Our kids’ martial arts program builds focus, discipline, and respect through structured BJJ training and fun, age-appropriate drills. Help your child develop confidence and life skills that extend beyond the mat.
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Train in authentic Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for fitness, self-defense, and mental resilience. Our classes are open to all experience levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.
Muay Thai Kickboxing: Get in shape, build endurance, and sharpen your striking techniques. Our Muay Thai Kickboxing program offers a safe, structured way to train like a fighter while improving strength and coordination.
Women’s Self-Defense: Empower yourself with techniques designed for real-world safety. Learn situational awareness, boundary setting, and proven BJJ-based self-defense skills. Seminars available for local businesses and organizations.
Sam Marcellini holds five black belts and has dedicated his life to developing and teaching the best self-defense techniques by training with some of the best in the world in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai Kickboxing and wrestling. His commitment extends beyond physical training, as he emphasizes the mental and personal development of each student. Sam's extensive background enables him to instruct safe methods to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, instilling confidence and empowerment.
Our school stands out for our dedication to teaching martial arts while fostering responsibility in using these skills. We emphasize values like patience, perseverance, respect, and humility, creating not just a learning environment, but a positive community.
What Makes Us Riverside’s Top BJJ School:
- Authentic Gracie Lineage: Learn directly from an instructor trained under Grandmaster Hélio and Royce Gracie.
- All Inclusive Learning: Welcoming students of all backgrounds, skill levels, and abilities, our martial arts school fosters a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
- Safe & Structured Training: Learn real self-defense in a controlled, beginner-friendly environment.
- Community & Character: Build focus, respect, and resilience on and off the mats.
- Versatile Goals: From fitness and self-defense to self-improvement, our programs are tailored to meet diverse objectives.
Comparison of Programs
Here's a table summarizing the key programs offered by each gym:
| Gym | Adult Jiu-Jitsu | Kids Jiu-Jitsu | Women's Program | Muay Thai Kickboxing | Self-Defense |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gracie Barra Riverside | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| EDJ Academy | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Riverside MMA & Kickboxing | Yes | No | No | Yes | No |
| Marcellini's Martial Arts Academy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
These martial arts programs in Riverside offer a comprehensive approach to physical fitness, self-defense, and personal development. Whether you're interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, or a combination of disciplines, you'll find a welcoming community and expert instruction to help you achieve your goals.