Jiu-Jitsu Classes Louisville
Louisville Jiu-Jitsu Classes
Louisville’s only Official Carlson Gracie Academy
Why it’s awesome: Jiu-Jitsu is great for fitness, confidence, & self defense. Beyond any physical improvements that come as a result of Brazilian jiu-jitsu are the mental improvements that are often overlooked. Self confidence, discipline, determination, focus, mental toughness etc.
Who its for: Youth 5+ & Adults

Jiu-Jitsu Classes Louisville, KY
Our Jiu-Jitsu Classes Are For Everyone
Area 502 is proud to be the Louisville’s only Official Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu academy.
Our head coach Phillip Perkins is a Carlson Gracie Jr. Blackbelt. He has taught and trained all over the world. He has spent over 2 months in Brazil training and teaching seminars. We are proud to carry on the Carlson Gracie Legacy at Area 502.Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the style of Legendary Grandmaster Carlson Gracie Senior is one of only four distinct styles.
Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is considered more aggressive and offensive in nature, and better suited for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competition. Carlson Gracie made his name as a fighter in the era of Vale Tudo, and is considered the best Vale Tudo fighter of the ’50s and ’60s. His hyper aggressive style of jiu jitsu had a deep influence on the art and his students. Carlson’s school flew in the face of Helio Gracie’s tradition of reserving advanced techniques for members and teaching only basic self-defense to all others. Carlson taught his students everything he knew in the name of advancing the art.
Testimonials
see what people are saying
EXCELLENT Based on 224 reviews Dean Phillips2025-06-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Owner was cool. I’m from out of town. I stopped by for a few days. No hassles and cool folks! I love places like this. Justin Pham2025-05-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I joined this gym to learn boxing and get in shape. I’m not going to lie it was difficult at first, especially after being pretty sedentary in an office job for two years. After pushing myself and going consistently to the classes, I could tell I was improving. It also helped that most of the members, staff, and Coach Aaron were very friendly and that motivated me to keep going. Unfortunately I had to stop going because of my new work schedule, but I would recommend this place to anyone! Brian Hundley2025-04-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. training here is top tier. amazing gym and staff of people. very welcoming and caring towards the students. ruben is a top notch coach and breaks down the techniques very well. would 100% recommend to this gym to experienced fighters and newcomers. Constance Kokes2025-04-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent training with children! They motivate the children to continually improve and work with students on all levels and abilities. Jacob Bass2025-04-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great first time experience doing martial arts. Friendly environment and nice people. Definitely wanna try it again. chase strong2025-03-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great gym. People are very friendly and welcoming. Would recommend to anyone. David Cortes2025-03-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best coaches and staff
Jiu-Jitsu Classes Louisville, KY
What is Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu, often referred to as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. Its roots can be traced back to Japanese Judo and traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, but it was further developed and popularized in Brazil. The core principle of Jiu-Jitsu is to enable a smaller or weaker individual to defend against and, using proper techniques, overcome a larger and stronger opponent.
This is achieved primarily through the use of leverage, body positioning, and submission holds such as joint locks and chokeholds. Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes taking an opponent to the ground and employing ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint-locks and chokeholds. The strategy is to control and overpower the opponent, leading them to a submission.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training can be used for sport grappling tournaments (gi and no-gi) and mixed martial arts (MMA) competition. It is known for its effectiveness in real combat situations, which has made it a cornerstone of MMA. Beyond its combat effectiveness, Jiu-Jitsu is also regarded as a way to promote physical fitness and build character in young people, fostering principles such as respect, discipline, and perseverance.

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