The ability to fall without sustaining injury is a foundational technical requirement in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
At Gracie Barra Rio Rancho, the curriculum prioritizes “Ukemi,” the formal study of break-falling. This skill set is essential for maintaining physical integrity during training, transitions, and accidental loss of balance. By learning to distribute the force of impact across the body’s largest surface areas, practitioners significantly reduce the risk of bone fractures and soft tissue damage.
The mechanics of kinetic energy distribution!
Falling safely is a matter of physics and biomechanics. When a person falls, kinetic energy is generated. If that energy is concentrated on a small point, such as a wrist, elbow, or the back of the head, the likelihood of structural failure increases. Instruction at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho focuses on three primary objectives during a fall:
Dissipating force: Slapping the mat with the palms and forearms at a specific angle to absorb energy.
Protecting the axial skeleton: Tucking the chin to the chest to prevent the skull from making contact with the ground.
Maintaining structural alignment: Exhaling upon impact to prevent internal pressure and keeping the limbs in a position that avoids joint hyperextension.
Gracie Barra Rio Rancho: Transform your life through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!

Core falling techniques in the curriculum!
The adult programs categorize falling techniques based on the direction of momentum. Students practice these movements repeatedly to ensure that the physical response becomes an unconscious habit.
Front and side break-falls!
Forward falls require the practitioner to create a triangular frame with the arms to protect the face while avoiding landing directly on the knees. Side falls (Yoko-ukemi) involve landing on the side of the thigh and the latissimus dorsi muscle, using a timed arm strike to neutralize the downward force.
The technical stand-up!
Learning to fall is only the first half of the safety protocol. The “Technical Stand-Up” is the subsequent movement taught to ensure a practitioner can return to a standing position while maintaining a defensive posture. This movement involves keeping one hand up for protection while using the opposite hand and foot as a base to slide the remaining leg through and back into a stable stance.
Practical utility and injury prevention!
While these skills are vital for live sparring and technical drilling within the academy, the physical benefits extend into daily life. Statistical data on slip-and-fall accidents indicates that improper landing mechanics are a leading cause of emergency room visits.
By training the body to react with specific mechanical sequences rather than instinctive, rigid bracing, students at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho develop a higher level of physical resilience. The training environment provides high-density mats that allow for the safe repetition of these high-velocity movements until the student achieves technical proficiency.
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!

Learn how to fall safely: Critical skills taught at Gracie Barra Rio Rancho | 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 |
