Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix offers Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes and self-defense training, including programs such as Gracie Combatives, Master Cycle, Gracie Bullyproof, Little Champs, Black Belt Club, and Women Empowered. The program also offers private lessons, private seminars, Kids Birthday Parties, Private Group Seminars, Corporate Team Building Events, and a Women’s Self-Defense Seminar. Students in the program range from age 5 to 78.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Class and program options are available throughout the week at both Tatum and Bell locations, and the Women’s Self-Defense Seminar meets on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (2.5 hours).
• Price: Women’s Self-Defense Seminar pricing: FREE

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix was founded in 2012 by owner and Head Instructor Adam Ideson, who began training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in 2010 and became a Certified Instructor through the Gracie Academy in 2013. The program has grown to two locations with a team of 18 Certified Instructors and more than 500 active students. The mission of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix is to create a welcoming home for real self-defense and to empower people of all ages through structured self-defense programs and additional resources and support.

Head Instructor Adam Ideson has earned advanced certifications including Gracie Survival Tactics, Gracie Medical Defense, and SafeWrap, and he plays an active role in supporting other Certified Training Centers across the country, including contributions to Gracie University Headquarters. Every coach at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix has completed Gracie University’s immersive Instructor Certification Program, engages in continuing education, and is re-certified by Gracie University every two years. Certified Women Empowered Instructors, who have completed advanced training specific to trauma-informed, women-centered self-defense, lead every Women Empowered class.

Both academies are Gracie University Certified Training Centers, and the flagship Tatum Academy is one of only seven Elite Certified Training Centers worldwide. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix is recognized by Gracie University as one of the top Certified Training Centers worldwide for instructional excellence, culture, and student experience. The academies are built on eight core principles: Empowerment Through Education; Supportive and Safe Environment; Community and Belonging; Compassion and Resilience; Passion and Dedication; Continuous Improvement and Innovation; Finding a Way; and Integrity and Discipline.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix partners with MVP and the We Defy Foundation to help veterans discover connection, healing, and purpose through Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and serves as a hub for personal growth, health, wellness, and connection within the community. According to parent and student testimonials, families describe positive experiences with the Bullyproof program, Little Champs classes, Black Belt Club, and private lessons, and note the instructors’ patience, deep knowledge of techniques and training programs, and ability to connect with students of all ages. One testimonial also describes the environment as no-pressure, with accredited professionals teaching every detail of the combatives course.

Last updated January 10, 2026.