Student Testimonials

Gracie Barra San Diego has been a great school to learn Jiu-Jitsu. I have attended other schools, but they don’t compare to the instruction, atmosphere, and facility you get at GB San Diego. Professor Dominic Parker’s attention to detail, attitude, and patience is the best I have seen. The facility is accomodating, the atmosphere is comfortable, even for a beginner like myself. I would reccommend this school to beginners and advanced students. Thank you Professor Parker and GB San Diego!

-David Afzal

After returning from Iraq, I really needed an outlet and GB San Diego has been that and more.  It’s a great school where you can learn at your own pace because there are classes everyday at multiple times.  Everyone I’ve met has been very friendly and helpful in making a new white belt feel like one of the family.
Also, I’ve shown up early to class a few times and seen the kid’s class.  I’m very impressed with Professor Parker’s patience and mentorship as well as their discipline.  My son is almost four and I can’t wait to get him in class! I’ve enjoyed my time at GB San Diego and look forward to many more years of training.
Thank you very much Professor.

-Joe Grimm

Gracie Barra San Diego has been an excellent experience for me.  I had just turned 40 and was looking for a new discipline to get in shape, as the normal health club routine was boring.  I had always wanted to try a martial art, but was hesitant to try until a friend called around and signed me up for the introductory class with Professor Parker.  I must admit I was nervous at first, but Professor Parker made me feel comfortable from the start, and he maintains a friendly, supportive, and accommodating environment.  This was important to me not only a beginner to Jiu Jitsu, but to martial arts in general.  Everyone I have encountered has always been willing to help during training.   I have been attending for almost 5 months now, and could not be happier with the experience.  I have lost 24 lbs., found myself in much better shape, improved my self confidence, and enjoy learning new techniques every week.  Thank you Professor Parker and all the students at GB San Diego.

-Chris Kauffman

Jiu-Jitsu was new for me, as I previously studied a minimal amount of Kenpo and Aikido. I was attracted to Gracie Barra out of respect for Carlos Gracie Jr. and the Gracie family philosophy. Professor Parker at GB San Diego has proven to be an excellent instructor. He is able to evaluate multiple levels of skill, and he gives personal attention to everyone equally, whether they are here for a good workout or hard competition training. The facility is very clean and set up to accomodate personal instruction as well as group training. Professor Parker takes the training sessions very seriously and gives personal attention throughout the sessions to ensure the execution of proper technique and reduction of the chance of injuries.
With a law enforcement background, I think the Jiu-Jitsu discipline should be a must for officers working the street. Professor Parker has experience training law enforcement and military personnel and has worked one on one with me and others in the class to tailor our training toward not only vital techniques, but also adding in the protection of our impact weapons and gun belt placement during a grapple or street fight. The studio also offers Muy Thai Boxing, which combined with Jiu-Jitsu is by far the best combination I have seen in the MMA disciplines for law enforcement. My physical condition, endurance, and confrontational confidence has improved dramatically since beginning my study, and I have lost 15 pounds and increased my core strength.

-Bob Wheeler

Jiu-Jitsu has been life changing. The support, discipline, and structure have given me self-confidence, and strengthened my body and mind. I’m 52 years old with a list of health challenges and a basket full of pills I take 3 times a day. Overweight, with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, chronic joint and back pain that has plagued me for years. So it goes without saying that I was more than a little scared at the thought of joining Jiu-Jitsu. The reality is that all my fears were a waste of time and energy.

Studying at Gracie Barra San Diego provides new challenges every day. Even though the challenges are physically demanding, I’m always encouraged to keep trying. I’ve never heard a negative comment.

“Family” is the best word I can use to describe the staff and my fellow students. At the end of every class when I’m on my way home, I know I’m a winner.

Thank you Professor Parker and GB San Diego.

-David Hahn