Gracie Barra Westside provides a structured educational environment for children to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The facility adheres to the global standards of the Gracie Barra organization, ensuring that the instructional methods and safety protocols remain consistent.
For parents researching enrollment, understanding the operational logic, the class hierarchy, and the physical requirements of the program is essential for a successful transition into martial arts training.
The enrollment and orientation process!
The entry point for new students at Gracie Barra Westside involves an initial assessment of the child’s age and current physical coordination. Parents complete a registration process that includes documentation of health history and the acquisition of the official Gracie Barra uniform, known as a Gi. This uniform is mandatory for all sessions as it is integral to the techniques being taught, providing the necessary fabric for grips and controlled movements.
Upon starting, students are introduced to the etiquette of the mat. This includes specific procedures for entering the training area, bowing as a sign of respect to the practice space, and the correct way to tie their belts. These protocols are established to maintain order and focus during the instructional periods.
Curriculum levels for youth students!
The youth program is divided into specific categories based on the developmental stages of the participants. This division allows the instructors to calibrate the complexity of the movements to the cognitive and physical abilities of the children.
Little champions I (Ages 3-6): The primary focus is on basic motor skills, following instructions, and fundamental movements such as falling safely (breakfalls) and basic ground mobility.
Little champions II (Ages 7-9): At this level, the curriculum introduces more complex technical sequences and the beginning of supervised positional drilling.
Juniors and teens (Ages 10-15): The instruction shifts toward advanced technical applications, including submissions and transitions, with a higher emphasis on live sparring and competitive readiness.
Each class follows a set duration, typically beginning with a warm-up, followed by technical demonstration, partner drilling, and concluding with controlled situational training.
Start your jiu-jitsu journey today: schedule your free class at Gracie Barra Westside!

Safety protocols and instructor qualifications!
The safety of the students is the primary operational priority at the Albuquerque academy. The mats used in the facility are high-impact foam surfaces designed to absorb kinetic energy during takedowns and grappling. Instructors are required to hold current certifications from the Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program, which covers first aid, child safety, and pedagogical strategies for teaching minors.
During live training, instructors maintain a specific student-to-teacher ratio to ensure that every pair of practitioners is monitored. This oversight prevents the application of techniques with excessive force and ensures that students follow the “tap out” rule, which is the universal signal to immediately cease all physical pressure.
Administrative expectations and progression!
Progress within the program is tracked through a standardized belt system. Children earn “stripes” on their belts as indicators of their attendance and technical improvement. Promotion to a new belt color occurs during scheduled ceremonies based on the criteria established by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).
Parents are expected to ensure that the student’s Gi is laundered after every session to maintain hygiene standards within the school. Furthermore, consistent attendance is required for a student to meet the technical requirements for advancement. The facility provides a viewing area where parents can observe the classes, allowing for the monitoring of the child’s progress and the instructor’s adherence to the curriculum.
Getting Started at Gracie Barra Is Easy: SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!
Gracie Barra Westside: discover superior martial arts training in New Mexico Westside!

Gracie Barra Westside: come to the best jiu-jitsu academy in New Mexico!
Gracie Barra Westside, NM is not just a school for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ); it’s a thriving community grounded in the values of brotherhood, integrity, and personal development. Founded by Master Carlos Gracie Jr., the legacy of Gracie Barra has become one of the most recognized names in the world of Jiu-Jitsu, with its red shield symbolizing excellence, dedication, and the passing of knowledge from the Gracie family to the next generation of athletes.
Under the leadership of Professor Roberto “Tussa” Alencar, a 4th-degree black belt and a world champion in the sport, Gracie Barra Westside offers top-tier instruction and a welcoming environment for students of all levels. With over 16 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Tussa has built a strong following in both California and New Mexico, cultivating a community of dedicated practitioners who strive for excellence on and off the mats.
At Gracie Barra Westside, students not only learn the techniques and strategies that define Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but also develop valuable life skills such as discipline, respect, and resilience. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, the focus is always on personal growth, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. The Gracie Barra competition team, known as Equipe GB, fosters athletic development and builds pride within the community, offering students the opportunity to compete and excel at the highest levels.
Start your jiu-jitsu journey today: schedule your free class at Gracie Barra Westside!
Gracie Barra is not just about teaching Jiu-Jitsu; it’s about transforming lives through the practice of the art. With a comprehensive approach that includes physical conditioning, mental toughness, and character development, Gracie Barra Westside provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential.
If you’re looking to get started with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Gracie Barra Westside New Mexico is the place for you. Schedule your free class today and experience the Gracie Barra legacy firsthand. The journey to better health, improved self-defense skills, and personal empowerment starts here at Gracie Barra Westside New Mexico, located at 3200 La Orilla Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120.
Getting Started at Gracie Barra Is Easy: SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!
Gracie Barra Westside: discover superior martial arts training in New Mexico Westside!

A parent’s guide to kids jiu jitsu classes at Gracie Barra Westside in Albuquerque, NM | Phone: +1 (505) 818-8077

Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu West Side Albuquerque New Mexico

Secondary phone: +1 505 818-8077
URL: https://gbwestside.com/
| Thursday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |