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Free Trial Process

We are proud of the culture we’ve created at Gracie Raleigh and want you to have the best experience possible! 

To help make your trial experience as seamless as can be, please take a moment to read the steps outlined below. If you are having trouble registering or don’t know what class to sign up for, email us at Gracieraleigh@gmail.com.

For Ages 4–6: Watch First, Then Try!

Before your child participates in a free trial class, we ask that families first come in to watch part of a class. This gives your little one a chance to see how everything works, meet the coaches, and get comfortable in the space.

We’ve found that this simple step helps ease nerves and makes the first class way more fun and enjoyable for everyone!




  • Register for a Free Trial below
  • Check your email for Free Trial information
  • Reply with any questions or if you need to reschedule
  • If you aren't local, please visit the drop-in page instead

FAQs

I don't have any martial arts experience. Is that okay?

Absolutely! Everybody has to start somewhere. Gracie Raleigh is for everyone, no matter what age, experience or level of athleticism. You will not be thrown to the wolves on day one. Sparring is a separate class and you are not obligated to participate. You can spend as much time as you like developing the fundamentals. We require a minimum of 10 classes before you are eligible to spar in Jiu Jitsu and a minimum of 25 classes before you are eligible to spar in Muay Thai. Sparring is not required in either program.

What equipment do I need?

Come prepared to work out in gym clothes and bring water and a towel. We recommend eating a small meal or snack roughly 90 minutes before class. We don't allow bare feet off the mat so having flip flops is recommended to make getting on and off the mat easier

Can I try Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai?

You can try both!

Interested in Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai—but feeling a little intimidated?

If you’ve ever thought about trying Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai, but felt unsure or intimidated, you’re not alone. In fact, the most common thing we hear from people interested in training is:

“I’m interested… but I’m intimidated.”

The most common phrase we hear from students who were intimidated but start anyway is:

“I wish I would’ve started sooner.”

It’s easy to imagine walking into your first class and being surrounded by elite fighters, professional athletes, or people who’ve been training for years. But here’s the truth:

That picture couldn’t be further from reality.

At Gracie Raleigh, the overwhelming majority of our students started with no martial arts experience at all. They came in nervous, curious, and unsure—just like you might be. That’s exactly who we built our program for.

Our class structure, curriculum, and tiered onboarding process are designed to help beginners feel comfortable, supported, and confident. You’ll never be thrown to the wolves. Instead, you’ll train alongside other beginners and like-minded individuals who are here to improve, support one another, and grow as a team.

Not ready to jump into a class right away? That’s okay. You’re welcome to come observe a class, or meet one of our coaches beforehand. From the moment you walk in the door, we’ll make sure you feel welcomed, introduced, and guided every step of the way.

We also offer free trial classes so you can get a feel for things before making a commitment. Each class includes:

  • Clear, step-by-step instruction
  • Patient, encouraging coaching
  • A pace that matches your comfort level
  • Partners who understand you’re here to learn — not compete

 

Whether you’re here for self-defense, fitness, confidence, or just to try something new, our mission is to make your first experience a positive one.

If you’d like to schedule a time to tour our facility and discuss our programs, click the button below.

We’d love to help you take that first step — and we’re confident you’ll be glad you did.

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Women’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Class at Gracie Raleigh
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Nervous? So Were They…

"I came to Gracie Raleigh with zero background in any martial art—just curiosity and encouragement from my family. Fast forward almost two years, and I’m still here training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which I never thought possible. "
Priya R
I've been a member of Gracie Raleigh since December and I can say its the best decision I've made when it comes to my fitness. I've never been an athlete in my life. I'm 40 this year. It's never too late to start! The coaches and community are amazing.
Matt Ramey
"I really enjoy learning jiu-jitsu at Gracie Raleigh! The instructors are phenomenal, it's the perfect place for a beginner with little to no jiu-jitsu or martial arts experience. I also feel very comfortable there as a woman, there's a decent amount of women in the gi class. I always feel very welcomed."
Olivia Gilliam
"Amazing place. My kids are really enjoying the Kids classes. Very safe place to have your kids building self confidence. All instructors are very respectful and engaged to teach not only Jiu Jitsu technic but to share strong human values. I also joined the adults program and can’t be more happy to have taken this decision. Anyone thinking to join Jiu jitsu and learn self defense on a safe, respectful and professional way already have a place to go."
Frederico Belluco
"I've been training at Gracie Raleigh since the beginning of 2023 and couldn't be happier, jiu jitsu can be intimidating for any newcomer but the culture here is great for all levels, whether you're brand new or just new to the area. There's a nice mix of hobbyists and competitors so whoever you are you can fit in. Highly recommend!"
Bill Nave
"I'd been waiting to train BJJ for years, and finally pulled the trigger at Gracie Raleigh 2 months ago, along with my 7 yr old son. Though the gym has many positives, I've specifically enjoyed the overall culture or learning, support, and friendliness (particularly towards newbies). This is key when you're choking one another out... I feel comfortable and excited to go to class every time. The gym is welcoming, safe for kids, and CLEAN. The new location is baller. Props to the team."
Colin Kiser