Top 10 BJJ Clubs in Calgary Alberta

Looking for BJJ gyms in Calgary Alberta? You’re in luck. Calgary hosts over 50 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies across the city. This makes Canada’s energy capital one of the country’s fastest-growing BJJ hubs.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned competitor, Calgary has exceptional training options for you. This guide covers the top academies with full contact details and program information.

Why Train at BJJ Gyms in Calgary Alberta

Calgary offers a world-class BJJ training environment. The city’s martial arts community embraces the Canadian values of respect, inclusivity, and hard work.

Alberta produces some of Canada’s toughest grapplers. Calgary gyms regularly send competitors to IBJJF tournaments and international championships. You’ll find high-level training partners who push you to improve.

The city’s diverse population creates unique training opportunities. You’ll roll with partners from Brazil, Japan, Europe, and beyond. This exposure to different styles accelerates your technical development.

Most Calgary academies emphasize building strong communities. Training partners become lifelong friends. The support system extends far beyond the mats.

Calgary’s economy supports quality facilities. Modern mat spaces, professional instruction, and clean environments are standard. You get tremendous value for your membership fees.

Top BJJ Gyms in Calgary Alberta

Gracie Barra Calgary

Gracie Barra Calgary represents the largest BJJ organization worldwide. This academy brings Master Carlos Gracie Jr.’s vision to Alberta.

Southwest Location:
Address: 8989 Macleod Trail SW #10, Calgary, AB
Phone: (587) 327-2944 (Ext 1)
Email: gbcalgary@gbcalgary.ca

Southeast Location:
Address: 4948 126 Avenue SE #31, Calgary, AB
Phone: (587) 327-2944 (Ext 2)
Email: gbse@gbcalgary.ca

When you join Gracie Barra, you become part of a global community united by the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle. The class structure is the trademark of all Gracie Barra schools. Classes start on time and follow standardized curriculum.

The instructors train in Master Carlos Gracie Jr.’s teaching philosophy and methods. You and your family learn from professionals who understand the Gracie Barra system completely.

Both locations offer extensive schedules. Monday through Friday classes run from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Saturday sessions operate from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This flexibility accommodates any work schedule.

Understanding the Gracie family tree helps you appreciate the lineage you’re joining. Master Carlos Gracie Jr. is the son of BJJ co-founder Carlos Gracie Sr.

JR Academy

JR Academy has served Calgary since 2005. Professor Josh Russell holds a black belt directly under Master Carlos “Carlinhos” Gracie Jr..

This academy is Calgary’s premiere destination for quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. The long-standing reputation speaks to consistent excellence. Nearly 20 years of operation proves their commitment to the Calgary community.

Professor Russell’s connection to Carlinhos Gracie Jr. ensures authentic technique. You’re learning the same system taught at Gracie Barra headquarters in Brazil.

The academy focuses on developing complete martial artists. Technical precision, strategic thinking, and physical conditioning all receive equal emphasis.

For those just starting their BJJ journey at 30, JR Academy welcomes adult beginners warmly. Age is never a barrier here.

Authentic Jiu Jitsu Calgary

Authentic Jiu Jitsu Calgary has operated since 2017. Professor Ben leads this premier academy with 18 years of BJJ experience.

Ben excels at blending professional teaching knowledge with extensive Jiu-Jitsu experience. He creates an environment that is enjoyable, challenging, and designed to optimize every student’s potential.

His proudest moments come from witnessing students progress with their grappling technique. Student success on and off the mats drives everything the academy does.

The schedule offers programming seven days a week. Options include:

Cubs (ages 5-8) and youth (ages 9-15) gi and no-gi programs
Fundamental skill development classes
Advanced competition training sessions
No-gi grappling classes
Women’s only instruction

You’ll experience a positive community built upon mutual respect and inclusion. Professional instruction helps all members meet their goals. The updated facility receives meticulous care and regular cleaning.

The women’s only program includes Sunday women’s class and all open mat times throughout the week. Women’s memberships easily transfer to annual or month-to-month options if more mat time is desired.

Private or semi-private lessons fast-track technical development. These sessions can be scheduled outside normal operating hours with available instructors.

YYC Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

YYC Brazilian Jiu Jitsu provides a safe environment to learn amongst growing martial artists. The community unites through camaraderie and devotion to mutual improvement.

Owner Scott Schroeder started his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2008. His life changed quickly. Within six months he earned his blue belt and his passion ignited. He dreamed of opening an academy and becoming a world champion.

Scott achieved his first goal on May 14, 2022, when YYC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu opened. Today, the growth of his students astonishes and inspires him to continue pursuing his dreams.The academy culture centers around investing in your teammates, sharing knowledge, and keeping peers safe. YYC BJJ makes you feel at home from day one.Students describe instructors and training partners as tight-knit. Everyone looks after one another. This supportive atmosphere welcomes students from 4 to 40 years old.

All coaches provide excellent instruction and feedback on and off the mats. The teaching quality remains consistently high across all experience levels.

10th Planet Calgary

10th Planet Calgary brings Eddie Bravo’s revolutionary no-gi system to Alberta. This academy specializes in submission-only grappling.

Address: 5, 6020 1A Street SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0G3
Phone: (514) 518-2408
Email: 10thplanetcalgary@gmail.com

The academy’s location in Calgary’s beautiful SW quadrant sits right off Macleod Trail. Easy access makes training convenient from anywhere in the city.

The coaching staff includes multiple black belts. Coach Corey, Coach Gato, Coach Clay, and Coach Scott all hold black belts. Coach Adam teaches as a brown belt. This depth of experience ensures expert instruction at every class.

For those interested in gi vs no-gi training, 10th Planet offers pure no-gi grappling. The system works perfectly for MMA training and submission wrestling.

Free trial sessions are available. If you have interest in martial arts or feel something is missing in your daily routine, register for your free trial.

Affinity Academy

Affinity Academy operates locations in Varsity and Nolan Hill. This top-rated martial arts school provides programs for all ages.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is just one offering. The academy also teaches kickboxing and fitness classes. This variety lets you become a well-rounded martial artist.

The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone. Kids and adults train in supportive environments designed for their specific needs.

Carlson Gracie Calgary

Carlson Gracie Calgary continues the legacy of Master Carlson Gracie Sr. This legendary instructor produced some of BJJ’s most aggressive competitors.

Address: 7060 Farrell Road SE, Calgary, AB
Phone: +1 (204) 214-0196
Website: instagram.com/carlsongraciecalgary

Vinicius Pastuch leads the academy. His teaching emphasizes the Carlson Gracie philosophy: pressure, aggression, and relentless advancement.

Understanding how BJJ compares to wrestling helps appreciate the Carlson Gracie style. This school produces fighters who excel in both sports.

Straight Blast Gym Calgary

Straight Blast Gym Calgary is a community-based Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts facility. The academy bills itself as Calgary’s best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for adults, kids, and families.

Phone: (587) 742-2022
Location: Calgary Central Sportsplex, Calgary, AB T2A 7R3

You don’t need to be fit to start Jiu-Jitsu here. But you will get a great workout every class. You’ll build cardio, strength, flexibility, and burn fat while training.

Each student has a personalized plan to ensure regular progress. Coaches go the extra mile to make sure students succeed.

The program offerings include:

Spider Monkeys (ages 5-7) Jiu-Jitsu
Chimps (ages 8-12) Jiu-Jitsu
Micro Monkeys (ages 3-4) Jiu-Jitsu
Women’s Jiu-Jitsu program
Adult Foundations classes
Intermediate Jiu-Jitsu
Leadership classes
Homeschool kids programs

The structured, technical training for older kids blends skill-building, problem-solving, and controlled drilling. This develops confident, resilient kids who can handle pressure on and off the mats.

The women’s program helps build real self-defense skills, confidence, and control. Training focuses on practical techniques, calm decision-making under pressure, and learning at your own pace. No experience or athletic background is required.

Alavanca Calgary (Atos Jiu-Jitsu)

Alavanca Calgary is an official Atos Jiu-Jitsu affiliate. This connection links Calgary to one of the world’s most successful competition teams.

Address: 209 16 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1J9
Email: info@alavancayyc.com
Phone: +1 (587) 998-5578

Atos founder Andre Galvao is one of the most accomplished grapplers in history. His systematic approach to competition BJJ produces world champions consistently.

Training at an Atos affiliate means learning competition-tested techniques. The curriculum reflects what works at the highest levels of the sport.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fight Club

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fight Club is family-owned and operated. They’ve been teaching BJJ in Calgary since 1996.

This makes them one of Calgary’s longest-running BJJ academies. Nearly 30 years of operation demonstrates deep community roots and sustained excellence.

The academy specializes in self-defense for kids and women/adults. Practical application receives priority over sport-focused training.

Free trials are available. Book your session to experience the welcoming atmosphere personally.

Element Martial Arts

Element Martial Arts offers comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for adults and teens.

The Element BJJ curriculum is a full-body workout. Training techniques incorporate the whole body and improve flexibility, balance, and coordination. You’ll gain skills and techniques necessary for BJJ mastery.

Pricing is transparent:

$125/month – annual membership
$150/month – month-to-month (cancel with 30 days notice)

Element provides students opportunities to achieve whole-body fitness, self-defense techniques, improved self-confidence, and competition training options. The environment welcomes everyone and recognizes the unique energy every student brings.

Unlimited memberships mean you can train as much as you want. You also get access to Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, and Kung Fu classes.

Before buying expensive gear, read our guide on choosing your first BJJ gi. Start smart and avoid common beginner mistakes.

Quick Comparison of Top Calgary BJJ Gyms

Gym	Area	Specialty	Best For	Learn More
Gracie Barra	SW & SE Calgary	Gracie lineage	All levels	2 locations
JR Academy	Calgary	Carlinhos Gracie lineage	Serious students	Since 2005
Authentic Jiu Jitsu	Calgary	Women’s & kids programs	Families	7 days/week
YYC BJJ	Calgary	Community focus	Beginners	Opened 2022
10th Planet	SW Calgary	No-Gi only	Submission grapplers	Eddie Bravo system
Carlson Gracie	SE Calgary	Aggressive style	Competitors	Carlson legacy
SBG Calgary	Central Calgary	Kids & families	All ages	Community-based

What Programs Do Calgary BJJ Gyms Offer?

Most BJJ gyms in Calgary Alberta provide diverse programming. You’ll find options for every age and goal.

Beginner programs teach fundamental positions safely. Basic escapes, simple submissions, and defensive tactics come first. Most academies offer free trial classes. You can experience training risk-free.

Kids programs accept children as young as 3 years old. Classes emphasize discipline and respect. Anti-bullying skills and confidence-building are priorities. Physical techniques support character development.

Understanding the kids BJJ belt system helps parents track their child’s progress through colored belts.

Women’s programs address specific needs. Self-defense scenarios women face get special attention. Women-only classes create comfortable learning spaces. These programs build both skill and confidence quickly.

Advanced training includes competition preparation. High-level rolling sessions push experienced students. Techniques become more complex and nuanced.

No-gi classes teach submission grappling without the uniform. The focus shifts to body control and speed. Learning both gi and no-gi makes you well-rounded.

MMA integration lets you combine striking with grappling. Some Calgary gyms offer comprehensive combat sports training.

What to Expect at Calgary BJJ Gyms

Your first class will feel overwhelming. That’s completely normal. Every black belt started exactly where you are now.

Most Calgary facilities feature large, clean mat spaces. Expect modern heating systems (crucial for Alberta winters). Many gyms have showers, changing rooms, and parking.

The Calgary BJJ community values Canadian politeness and respect. Egos get checked at the door. Higher belts help lower belts improve consistently.

Many instructors hold black belts under prestigious lineages. You’re learning from world-class practitioners. Not weekend warriors teaching part-time.

Nearly all academies offer free trial sessions. Take advantage of this. Visit multiple gyms before deciding.

Most gyms offer morning, lunch, and evening classes. You can train around work schedules. Early morning and late evening options exist.

How Much Do Calgary BJJ Gyms Cost?

Expect to pay $100-200 CAD monthly for unlimited training. Calgary prices reflect Canada’s higher cost of living but remain reasonable.

Some gyms offer limited class packages for less money. Drop-in rates typically run $20-35 per single class. Good for travelers or occasional visitors.

Most academies require:

Monthly membership fee
One-time enrollment fee ($50-150 CAD)
BJJ gi purchase ($100-200 CAD)

Many gyms run new member specials. Ask about current deals when you visit.

According to the IBJJF, martial arts training provides better fitness results than traditional gyms. The investment pays off in multiple ways.

Tips for Choosing Calgary BJJ Gyms

Don’t commit to the first gym you see. Visit at least 3-4 options. Every academy has different vibes.

Watch a class before signing up. Observe how instructors teach. Do they give individual attention? Are students helping each other?

Check instructor credentials carefully. Research the head instructor’s lineage. A black belt from respected teachers matters tremendously.

Pick a gym close to home or work. Long commutes kill consistency. You’ll skip classes if driving takes 45 minutes. Location is crucial for long-term success.

Ask about contracts upfront. Some gyms require long-term commitments. Others offer month-to-month options. Know what you’re signing before paying.

Talk to students after class. Are they friendly and welcoming? Do they seem genuinely happy training there? The community matters as much as instruction.

Check mat condition and bathroom cleanliness. Dirty gyms spread ringworm and staph infections. Cleanliness protects your health directly.

Consider the training focus. Competition-focused gyms train harder. Self-defense academies emphasize practical scenarios. Choose what matches your goals.

Visit during your preferred training time. Morning classes have different energy than evening sessions. Make sure the schedule and crowd fit your lifestyle.

Complete List of BJJ Gyms in Calgary Alberta

Central Calgary

Southwest Calgary

Southeast Calgary

Northeast Calgary

Northwest Calgary

Specialty & Competition Focused Gyms

Surrounding Areas

View Complete Alberta BJJ Gym Directory →

Calgary’s martial arts scene extends beyond BJJ. Many academies offer complementary training.

Muay Thai classes teach striking fundamentals. This pairs perfectly with ground fighting. You’ll become a more complete martial artist.

Wrestling programs build takedown skills. BJJ practitioners with wrestling backgrounds dominate competitions. The combination is incredibly effective.

MMA training integrates everything together. You’ll learn to flow between striking, clinching, and grappling. This comprehensive approach reflects real fighting.

Kickboxing develops distance management and footwork. These skills translate directly to better BJJ standup game.

Starting Your Calgary BJJ Journey

BJJ gyms in Calgary Alberta offer world-class instruction in a supportive community. The combination of expert teachers, diverse training partners, and excellent facilities creates ideal learning conditions.

Whether you want self-defense skills, fitness improvements, competition success, or just fun, Calgary has the right academy for you. The hardest part is choosing which gym to visit first.

Start by visiting Gracie Barra, JR Academy, Authentic Jiu Jitsu, and YYC BJJ. Take their trial classes. See which environment feels right. Trust your instincts.

Remember: if you’re wondering whether BJJ is good for self-defense, the answer is yes. Calgary gyms prioritize practical technique that works in real situations.

Don’t overthink it. Just show up. Your first class is the hardest. After that, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to start. Everyone feels this way initially.

The Calgary BJJ community is ready to welcome you. See you on the mats!

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