The curriculum at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is organized to provide age-appropriate and skill-specific training for students across various grade levels.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a system focused on ground-based grappling and leverage, allowing individuals to manage physical confrontations through technical application rather than reliance on superior weight or explosive power.
Elementary foundations: Positioning and safety!
For younger students in the primary grade levels, the focus is on fundamental body mechanics and spatial awareness. At this stage, self-defense instruction centers on non-violent solutions and the prevention of injury. Students learn how to fall correctly to avoid trauma and how to maintain a safe distance from an aggressor. The technical curriculum for this age group includes:
Base and balance: Maintaining a stable stance to prevent being knocked down.
Escapes: Methods for neutralizing holds on the wrists or clothing.
Positional control: Using weight distribution to hold a position without the need for striking.
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: Transform your life through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!

Middle school development: leverage and control!
As students enter middle school grade levels, the physical requirements of the curriculum increase. The instruction shifts toward more complex techniques that utilize leverage to overcome larger opponents. This is particularly relevant as physical disparities between peers become more pronounced during these years.
Training at this level emphasizes the transition from standing to the ground. Students practice take-down defense and learn how to utilize the “guard” position—a defensive posture used when on one’s back—to control the movements of an opponent. These techniques are practiced in a supervised, repetitive manner to ensure the movements become instinctive responses to physical pressure.
High school and adult proficiency: comprehensive systems!
The high school and adult programs at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho provide a comprehensive approach to self-defense. The curriculum incorporates advanced defensive strategies, including the management of various clinch positions and the application of joint locks or chokes to neutralize a threat effectively.
At these higher grade levels, students engage in “live rolling” or live sparring. This practice allows individuals to apply learned techniques against a resisting partner in a controlled environment. This specific type of training is essential for self-defense, as it simulates the unpredictability and physical exertion of a real-world encounter.
Logical progression and skill retention!
The structure of the Gracie Barra system ensures that no student moves to an advanced technique without first demonstrating proficiency in the foundational movements. This hierarchy of learning ensures that self-defense skills are built on a solid technical base. By categorizing techniques based on the student’s development and grade level, the academy provides a measurable path toward physical competence and safety.
The methodology remains consistent across all levels: identify the threat, minimize damage through positioning, and resolve the situation using the most efficient mechanical advantage available.
Getting started at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is easy: SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: start your martial arts journey with expert guidance!

Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: transforming lives through jiu-jitsu!
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy that offers a wide range of programs for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Founded on the core values of brotherhood, integrity, and personal development, Gracie Barra is one of the most recognized names in the martial arts world.
The academy is dedicated to helping students of all backgrounds unlock their full potential through high-quality instruction and a supportive community.
Our programs at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho!
BJJ for kids and teens: Gracie Barra Rio Rancho offers a fantastic program for children and teens, focusing on instilling discipline, respect, self-defense skills, and self-confidence in a safe and fun environment. The GBK program caters to various age groups, including GBK1 (4-6 years), GBK2 (7-9 years), Juniors (10-12 years), and Teens (13-15 years). We also offer a youth competition class by invitation, providing young athletes with the opportunity to develop at the highest level.
Adult program: For adults, Gracie Barra Rio Rancho provides a comprehensive curriculum that caters to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, our adult classes focus on technique, physical conditioning, and mental resilience. The GB1 program is perfect for those starting their journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, while the GB2 and GB3 programs offer more advanced techniques, preparing students for higher-level challenges and mastery.
Self-defense program: Our self-defense program is designed to equip students with practical and effective techniques for real-world situations. Through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, students not only gain physical strength but also build the confidence and calmness needed to handle potentially dangerous situations.
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: Transform your life through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Private training: For those seeking more personalized attention, Gracie Barra Rio Rancho offers private training sessions. These one-on-one classes are tailored to your specific needs and goals, helping you refine your techniques and accelerate your learning.
Kickboxing: If you’re looking to improve your fitness, build endurance, and learn combat techniques, our kickboxing classes are an excellent way to enhance your cardiovascular health, strength, and overall fitness. Kickboxing is a fun and motivating way to get in shape while mastering effective striking techniques.
Why choose Gracie Barra Rio Rancho?
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is not just a martial arts school, it is a community that values personal growth, discipline, and mutual respect. Our academy, led by world-class instructors like Roberto “Tussa” Alencar and Don Ortega, offers a welcoming environment where students of all ages can thrive. With over 16 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Professor Tussa has created a strong network of BJJ practitioners across New Mexico, and his expertise and dedication ensure top-notch training for everyone.
At Gracie Barra Rio Rancho, you’ll be part of a global network of over 700 schools worldwide, enjoying access to professional-quality Jiu-Jitsu gear, online resources, and a structured curriculum that emphasizes both physical and mental wellness. Whether you’re looking to improve your self-defense, enhance your fitness, or delve deeper into the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Gracie Barra Rio Rancho offers the ideal environment to support your goals.
Join Us Today!
Getting started at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is easy! Our friendly staff will guide you every step of the way to help you begin your Jiu-Jitsu journey. Whether you want to enhance your self-defense skills, improve your fitness, or master Jiu-Jitsu, we have a program tailored just for you. Schedule your free class today and become part of a community that goes beyond the mats – transforming lives, fostering personal development, and building lifelong friendships.
Getting started at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho is easy: SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: start your martial arts journey with expert guidance!

Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: Practical self-defense for every grade level | Phone: +1 (505) 818-9220

Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Rio Rancho New Mexico

Secondary phone: +1 505-818-9220
URL: https://gbriorancho.com/
| Monday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM - 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |