Renzo Gracie

Brazilian jiu jitsu is a grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force him to submit. Due to the fact that control is generally easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the technique of Brazilian jiu jitsu is centered round the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless. To control and overcome greater size, strength and aggression with lesser size and strength is the keynote of the sport. This is done by utilizing superior leverage, grip and position upon your opponent. Students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body. This knowledge can be used to subdue and control an opponent with whatever level of severity the student chooses. The path to this knowledge is physically and mentally demanding. Students benefit from greatly increased physical fitness, problem-solving ability, self-knowledge of their body and mind and the many social benefits of working within a large group of like-minded fellow students as you learn and have fun together.

Many students first learn about jiu jitsu through the great popularity of mixed martial arts (MMA) competition, where Brazilian jiu jitsu technique is very prominent. Indeed, the beginnings of the contemporary MMA competition were largely tied up with proving the combat-efficiency of Brazilian jiu jitsu . The practice of Brazilian jiu jitsu as a sport, however, is strongly separated from MMA. Daily classes do not feature kicking or punching. The focus is on safe grappling technique that can be done on a daily basis with no more fear of injury than any other contact sport. While there is a professional MMA team at the Renzo Gracie Academy, the great majority of students study only the grappling sport and find that this is the most enjoyable and satisfying route to take.

Renzo Gracie is a world-renown practitioner of Brazilian jiu jitsu and MMA. He is a senior member of the famous Gracie family of jiu jitsu teachers and fighters who did so much to change the shape the current state of martial arts instruction in America. He has assembled a great team of some of the very best instructors from Brazil, many of whom are members of his illustrious family and who teach his system to a very large and ever- growing community and his world famous New York City Academy. Renzo's fame and charisma is the basis of a truly enjoyable place to train, grow and develop your skills among many avid practitioners of the sport, ranging from famous professional fighters to everyday enthusiasts.

Classes at the academy are taught all day six days a week. They feature a strength and endurance building warm-up, followed by demonstration and practice of techniques after which students engage in live wrestling with other students of their own level. It is a truly demanding workout with a strongly cerebral aspect and a sense of purpose and skill that will truly capture your imagination. Come down to the academy. Come take a look at a class or better yet, take one of the introduction classes. We are confident that jiu jitsu will become one of the most cherished and enjoyable aspects of your life. It will give you a confidence, knowledge and body-dexterity and fitness that few people will ever know.

- John Danaher

Renzo Gracie Black Belt / RGA Professor

RGA Free Introductory Class

The intro class is a one-time 30 min class outlining the basics governing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu theory. This class serves as a preparatory class to those interested in seriously enrolling at the academy and training at least twice a week in our beginner "Blue B" program. For more information regading the Free intro class, Read More

Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Programs

Programs at RGA

Fundementals Program
Advanced Program
Master Program
Youth Program
Private Instruction

To learn more about the programs at RGA, contact a program director today.

Frequently Asked Questions

carlos gracie
	What is Gracie Jiu-Jitsu ? What makes Gracie Jiu-Jitsu different from other martial arts? What's a Jiu-Jitsu Gi? What is a typical Jiu-Jitsu class like?
For more FAQ click here

Books and Videos

Renzo Gracie Books

Book Description
During the last decade, the martial arts world has looked to innovative mixed martial arts competitions such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship to determine which fighting style is the best. These contests have repeatedly shown the grappling style of martial arts, headed by Brazilian jiu-jitsu, to dominate.

Renzo Gracie Videos

Braziiian Jiu-Jitsu Instructional Videos
This instructional DVD set will improve the Jiu-Jitsu game of every one from white belts to black belts. From the legendary Jiu-Jitsu champion, Renzo Gracie this instructional DVD set is a must have. Coming Soon to the RGA online store.

HeadGear

Renzo Gracie Academy Beanie

Renzo Gracie Academy Beanie
Its cold out there in the winter in NYC. Can't train if you are sick right? Get this stylish beanie and keep yourself protected from the cold. Limited Quantities. Get yours today.

Renzo Gracie Academy Baseball Cap

Renzo Gracie Academy Baseball Cap
Wear this cap frontwards, backwards or to the side. Embroidered with the signature RGA logo, this cap is made of an acrylic, wool blend and is adjustable to fit most sizes. Rock the RGA Baseball Cap today. Limited Quantities available.

Patches

RGA Kimono Gi Patch

Renzo Gracie Academy Gi Patch
RGA is one of the best Jiu Jitsu Academies in the world. Show your school pride by adding a Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy Patch to your Gi. Fully Embroidered. Large Patch.

Shirts and Shorts

Limited Edition IFL Pitbulls T-Shirt

Limited Edition IFL Pitbulls | Renzo Gracie Academy T-Shirt
Made from 100% Pre-Shrunk Cotton Limited Quantities Available.

Team Renzo Gracie Shorts

Team Renzo Gracie Shorts
These micro-fiber cargo shorts are designed to help you wicker away sweat as you roll on the mats.
Machine washable. Embroidered with the Team Renzo Gracie logo.

Kimono Gis

Renzo Gracie Kimono Gi

Renzo Gracie Single Weave Gi
Lightweight but strong. Durable for training or competition. Tapered body and sleeves to leave less for your opponent to grab and cut roomy in the shoulders for mobility. Made of 100% cotton.

RGA Announcements

Ring of Combat XXII

Thursday, 23 October 2008

Our very own Igor Gracie will be fighting MMA at Ring of Combat XXII. He'll be going to war against Steve Barnett for a welterweight fight. Tickets will be at the front desk starting next Monday....
+ Full Story

Other Announcements