Freedom Jiu Jitsu Academy - Carlsbad

Freedom Jiu Jitsu Academy - Carlsbad is led by Professor David Ruiz, a 5th-degree black belt whose roots trace directly to the Gracie Academy in Torrance and the original teachings of Grand Master Helio Gracie. With over 30 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Dave Ruiz brings a lifetime of training, competition, and instruction to the mats. His teaching emphasizes authentic Gracie Self Defense, focusing on the principles and techniques as they were passed down from Helio and Rorion Gracie. Dave is joined by a diverse team of black belt instructors, including owner Staci Stefan, who earned her black belt under Royler Gracie and has been shaping the Carlsbad jiu jitsu scene for over a decade. The academy’s programs reflect the depth of its coaching staff. Classes are offered for all ages, from toddlers and kids to teens and adults, with a structured approach that covers both self-defense fundamentals and the nuanced details of sport Jiu Jitsu. Staci Stefan leads the women’s program and a unique homeschool jiu jitsu curriculum, reflecting her passion for empowering women and families through martial arts. Additional instructors, each with their own martial arts backgrounds, support specialized classes and offer private lessons. The academy also hosts Muay Thai under Coach Edson Perez, open mat sessions for adults, and a range of enrichment programs that extend beyond the typical BJJ curriculum. Day to day, students at Freedom Jiu Jitsu train in a family-focused environment where relationships and personal growth are as important as technical progress. The school is wheelchair accessible and welcomes drop-in visitors. Whether attending a kids’ class, open mat, or a women’s self-defense seminar, members find instruction rooted in lineage, practical experience, and a genuine commitment to individual development.

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