Gracie Barra – Paris, France
During my visit to Gracie Barra BJJ in Paris, I was impressed by the school’s blend of professionalism, technical instruction, and welcoming atmosphere. Gracie Barra has several campuses spread throughout the city, making it convenient to find a class no matter where you are staying. I attended the HQ location, situated within a moderate walking distance from the Eiffel Tower, where I stayed.
The HQ offered classes throughout the day, beginning as early as 7 AM and continuing into the evening. (Make sure you call before showing up because there is a security code to gain access into the courtyard where there are entrances to several places. ) This frequency and accessibility of classes were impressive, catering to both early risers and those with more flexible schedules. Classes run six days a week, providing ample opportunity for consistent training, whether you’re in town for a short visit or staying longer.
Mohammed, my black belt instructor, was among the most technically proficient teachers I’ve encountered, reminding me of Prof. David Porter (aka the Lanky Mongoose) from XCal BJJ. Mohammed’s instruction was detail-oriented, breaking down complex techniques in an understandable and practical way. Despite his high level of skill, he maintained a friendly demeanor, fostering a positive learning environment for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
One thing to note about training at Gracie Barra is the mandatory uniform policy. All students are required to wear the official Gracie Barra gi during classes, a common rule across all their academies. While this might be a turn-off for some, I found the provided gi to be of high quality. Additionally, the school took hygiene seriously, washing uniforms daily to ensure cleanliness—a thoughtful touch, especially appreciated in a busy gym setting.
Overall, training at Gracie Barra Paris HQ was a great experience. The combination of strong instruction, convenient scheduling, and a clean facility made it an ideal spot for anyone looking to sharpen their BJJ skills in Paris. If you’re in the city and want to train with a welcoming and professional team, Gracie Barra is worth a visit.
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