Kids Jiu-Jitsu class at GD Academy

Tempe, AZ Parents

Only 8 trial spots left this month

Your Child's First Jiu-Jitsu Class Is Free — And It Could Change Everything

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the world's most effective martial art for kids — and it doesn't involve any punching or kicking. Instead, your child learns control, discipline, and quiet confidence through grappling techniques they can use to protect themselves without hurting anyone.

Try a class at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy with zero commitment. No experience needed. Ages 5–13.

Claim Your Free Jiu-Jitsu Class
GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Claim Your Free Jiu-Jitsu Class

Takes 30 seconds. Zero commitment.

100% Free
No commitment
No experience needed

847+

Families Enrolled

5.0 Stars

Google Rating

25+ Years

Teaching in AZ

ESA

Approved School

Every parent's concern

Could Your Child Defend Themselves If They Had To?

As a parent, nothing matters more than your child's safety and confidence. But most kids don't get the chance to learn real self-defense — until it's too late.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art — meaning no punching, no kicking. Instead, kids learn how to use leverage and technique to control situations, de-escalate conflict, and protect themselves safely. It's often called "the gentle art" because it's designed to neutralize threats without causing harm.

At GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Tempe, we've taught hundreds of kids ages 5–13 to carry themselves with discipline, respect, and real confidence — the kind that comes from knowing what you're capable of.

In their very first Jiu-Jitsu class, your child will learn:

Stay calm and think clearly under pressure

Set boundaries and stand up for themselves

Control situations without throwing punches

Respect others and earn respect in return

Don't take our word for it

847 Families. 5.0 Stars. Zero Coincidences.

Here's what parents say after their kids start training at GD Jiu-Jitsu.

"My son was painfully shy — wouldn't make eye contact with adults, wouldn't speak up in class. After 3 months at GD, his teacher called me to say he volunteered to present in front of the whole class. I almost cried."
SM

Sarah M.

Mom of 8-year-old · Youth Warriors

"We were worried about our daughter being the only girl. Turns out there are several girls in her class and the coaches make sure every kid feels included. She now tells us Jiu-Jitsu is the best part of her week."
JR

Jennifer R.

Mom of 6-year-old · Lil Warriors

"My 10-year-old was getting bullied at school. Within weeks of starting, he told me: 'Dad, I'm not scared anymore.' He didn't have to fight anyone — he just carries himself differently now. Professor Gustavo and the team are genuinely incredible with kids."
KL

Kevin L.

Dad of 10-year-old · Youth Warriors

Two programs, one mission

Designed for How Your Child Actually Learns

Age-appropriate classes that meet your child exactly where they are — building skills, character, and real confidence.

Lil & Jr. Warriors class at GD Academy
Ages 5–7

Lil & Jr. Warriors

Fun-first introduction to martial arts fundamentals in a safe, structured environment.

Builds listening skills, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions

Develops confidence and social skills through partner activities and games

Introduces age-appropriate self-defense concepts they can actually use

Youth Warriors sparring at GD Academy
Ages 8–13

Youth Warriors

Comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training that builds discipline, grit, and real-world skills.

Teaches real self-defense and bully prevention — control without violence

Builds focus, resilience, and discipline that transfers to school and life

Belt progression system that rewards effort and keeps kids motivated long-term

Book Your Free Jiu-Jitsu Class
Professor Gustavo Dantas

5th Degree Black Belt

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Your head instructor

Meet Professor
Gustavo Dantas

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Professor Gustavo holds a 5th degree Black Belt and has over 25 years of teaching experience. He's a world-class competitor, a father, a husband, and a certified Mental & Life Coach with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education.

He left Brazil in 1999 with a dream: to build a place where kids and adults could change their lives through the art of Jiu-Jitsu. GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy is the result of that decades-long commitment.

World-Class Competitor
25+ Years Teaching
Certified Life Coach
ESA Approved Instructor

Common questions

Questions Parents Ask Before the First Class

Safety is our #1 priority. All classes are supervised by experienced instructors with strict safety protocols. Kids train on professional mats, learn to tap out, and are taught controlled techniques appropriate for their age. Injuries are extremely rare — far less common than in soccer or basketball.
The opposite, actually. Jiu-Jitsu teaches kids how to control situations — not escalate them. Students learn respect, discipline, and conflict resolution as core values. Parents consistently report that their kids become calmer and more composed, not more aggressive. Our entire philosophy is built on the idea that confident people don't need to fight.
That's exactly why the first class is free with zero commitment. Your child tries it, and if it's not for them, you walk away having given them a great experience with no strings attached. But fair warning — most kids ask to come back before they even leave the mat.
We have flexible membership options to fit different family budgets. After the trial class, we'll sit down with you and walk through the options — no pressure, no hard sell. We also accept Arizona ESA funds, which can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs for qualifying families.
Absolutely. Most kids who walk through our doors have zero martial arts experience — that's completely normal. Our instructors specialize in making first-timers feel welcome and included. Within 10 minutes, your child will be learning alongside other kids, high-fiving partners, and having fun. It's designed for beginners.
Only 8 trial spots available this month

One Free Jiu-Jitsu Class.
A Lifetime of Confidence.

30 seconds to sign up. One free Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class to try. Your child walks out standing a little taller.

We'll text you to confirm your child's class time. No spam, ever.

Free Jiu-Jitsu Class — Only 8 spots left