First BJJ Carlson Gracie Team

First BJJ Carlson Gracie in Holladay, Utah, is shaped by the philosophy that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is as much about building confidence and resilience as it is about learning self-defense. Led by Professor Carlos Santos—a 5th degree black belt, IBJJF World Champion, and direct student of the legendary Carlson Gracie Sr.—the academy emphasizes respect, discipline, and perseverance for students of every age. Santos’s journey began in 1993 at Carlson Gracie Academy in Copacabana, and his experience coaching around the world, including as head coach for Brazilian Top Team and Emirates Jiu-Jitsu, informs a teaching approach that values personal growth as much as technical mastery. Classes at First BJJ are structured to help students progress through a systematic approach. Each session begins with focused warm-ups and technical drills, followed by live rolling with partners of all belt levels. Adult instruction covers both gi and no-gi formats, with regular sessions led by Carlos and other experienced instructors. The curriculum includes dedicated fundamentals classes with no sparring, allowing beginners to build a solid base before advancing. Women’s classes offer smaller group instruction and personalized attention, while open mat sessions provide time to experiment and refine techniques. For kids, First BJJ runs age-specific classes starting as young as four, with programs designed to teach self-defense, physical fitness, and anti-bullying strategies through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. There are gi and no-gi options for children, and the academy’s family-oriented environment encourages parents and kids alike to train together. Drop-ins are welcome, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. The academy’s roots in the Carlson Gracie lineage and Santos’s history of coaching at the highest levels ensure that every student receives instruction grounded in decades of expertise and tradition.

Amenities