If you are looking for the absolute best spot to train no-gi jiu jitsu in New Mexico, you have to head over to the west side of Albuquerque.
Specifically, Gracie Barra Westside is the place that has really mastered the transition from traditional kimono training to the faster, more fluid world of No-Gi.
There is a common misconception that no-gi is just regular jiu jitsu without the heavy jacket. While the core physics remain the same, the actual experience is worlds apart. Without the friction of the gi and those reliable lapel grips to slow things down, the game becomes a lot more about connection and pressure. In my experience, most gyms treat No-Gi as an afterthought or a chaotic scramble, but the crew at the Westside location approaches it with a level of technical sophistication that is hard to find elsewhere.
The biggest differentiator here is the focus on positional hierarchy. In many modern grappling circles, No-Gi has become a race to see who can dive for a leg lock first. At Gracie Barra Westside, the philosophy is much more grounded and, frankly, more effective for long term growth. They teach you how to use your own body weight to pin an opponent down. Instead of relying on a handful of cloth, you learn how to use underhooks and cross faces to kill your opponent’s mobility.
It is a much more strategic game. You aren’t just sweating and sliding around; you are learning how to create friction where there isn’t any. For anyone living in the Albuquerque area, having access to this kind of high level instruction right off Coors Boulevard is a massive advantage.
Start your jiu-jitsu journey today: schedule your free class at Gracie Barra Westside!

The energy in a no-gi session at this academy is palpable. Because the rounds move faster, your cardio naturally hits a different level. But what I appreciate most is that they don’t sacrifice safety for speed. Even though the pace is higher, the instructors maintain a structured environment where you can push your limits without feeling like you are in a street fight.
You see a real mix of people on these mats. You have high level competitors sharpening their transitions alongside professionals who just want a killer workout and some practical self defense skills. It creates this atmosphere where everyone is helping each other bridge the gap between technical knowledge and physical execution.
From a self defense perspective, No-Gi is about as real as it gets. Most people in New Mexico aren’t walking around in heavy winter coats year round, so learning how to control an adversary by grabbing their wrists, neck, or waist is incredibly practical. The Westside team excels at showing you how to adapt those classic jiu jitsu movements to a scenario where there are no grips available.
If you are tired of the same old gym routine and want to see what your body is actually capable of, this is the premier spot. It isn’t just about the sweat or the techniques; it is about joining a room full of people who are all trying to get one percent better every single day. If you are in Albuquerque and haven’t stepped onto the mats at Gracie Barra Westside, you are missing out on the best grappling New Mexico has to offer.
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!

Gracie Barra Westside Albuquerque: Where is the premier location for no-gi jiu jitsu in New Mexico | Phone: +1 (505) 818-8077

Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu West Side Albuquerque in 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 |