Gracie Barra Agoura Hills Class Schedule: Morning vs. Evening Options

 

Deciding between the Morning/Noon Crew and the Evening Crew at Gracie Barra Agoura Hills is about more than just your calendar; it is about choosing your tribe.

 

While the curriculum (GB1, GB2, GB3) is standardized across the board, the energy, intensity, and demographic of the classes shift drastically depending on when the sun is out.

 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the two distinct “sub-cultures” within the academy to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.

 

1. The “Lunch Crew” (Noon Classes)

 

Time: Typically 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

The Vibe: “Executive Jiu-Jitsu”

 

This is arguably the most exclusive and unique atmosphere in the gym.

 

 The Demographic: This slot is heavily populated by C-Level Executives, Business Owners, and Remote Workers from Calabasas and Westlake Village.

 Why: These are the people who have control over their own schedules. They sneak away for a “power lunch” on the mats.

 

 The Pace: It is technical and efficient.

 The goal here is “Longevity.” Everyone has to go back to work; nobody wants a black eye or a sprained finger before a 2:00 PM Zoom meeting. The sparring is controlled, respectful, and flow-based.

 

 The Networking: You are more likely to roll with a venture capitalist or a studio executive here than a college athlete. It is a high-level networking event disguised as a workout.

 Parking: Painless. The lot is empty at midday.

 

2. The Evening Classes (Night Shift)

 

Time: Typically 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

The Vibe: “The Competitive Grind”

 

When the sun goes down, the energy turns up. This is the heartbeat of the academy.

 

 The Demographic: A diverse mix of students, young professionals, blue-collar workers, and serious competitors.

 The Intensity: The “Porrada” (hard training) level is higher.

 You will find the younger, athletic crowd here—college students and 20-somethings who have energy to burn after a 9-5 shift.

 If you want to test your cardio and see if your Jiu-Jitsu works against an aggressive opponent, this is the time.

 

 The Volume: Classes are larger. The mats are packed. The energy is loud and infectious. It feels like a team sport practice.

 The “After-Hours” Culture: There is often a camaraderie that spills out into the parking lot after class. People hang out, talk technique, and decompress from the workday.

 

3. The “Romulo Factor” (A Unique Perk)

 

At most gyms, the Head Professor only teaches the big evening classes.

 

 At GB Agoura: Professor Romulo Barral (The Legend himself) is famous for being incredibly active. He often teaches the Noon Class, meaning the “Lunch Crew” gets world-class instruction in a smaller, more intimate setting. If you want personal attention from a Hall of Famer, the midday option is often the “cheat code.”

 

4. Logistics: Traffic & Parking

 

 Morning/Noon: Zero traffic. You are driving against the commute or during lulls.

 Evening: If you are coming from the Valley (East), the 101 North can be sluggish around 5:00 PM. However, coming from Westlake/Thousand Oaks is usually clear.

 Parking: The Evening crowd fights for spots with the nearby restaurants. You might have to park a few rows back.

 

 Summary Verdict

 

 Feature  Morning Noon Crew  Evening Crew

 

 Primary Goal  Technical learning & Safety  Cardio, Intensity & Competition 

 Demographic  Executives, Parents (while kids are at school), 30+  Young Adults, Competitors, 9-5 Employees 

 Sparring Pace  “Flow Roll” (Keep it playful)  “Competition Pace” (Test your limits) 

 Crowd Size  Smaller, Intimate  Packed, High Energy 

 Best For  avoiding injury & networking  getting in shape fast & meeting friends 

 

Pro Tip for Beginners:

Start with the Noon Class if your schedule permits. It is less intimidating, the upper belts are more patient (because they are older/calmer), and you get more direct attention from the instructors. Once you feel confident, transition to the evenings to test your skills against the “young lions.”

 

Gracie Barra Agoura (often referred to as Gracie Barra Agoura Hills) is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) academy located in the heart of the Conejo Valley. It is part of the global Gracie Barra network—the largest BJJ organization in the world—and is distinguished by its direct leadership under BJJ Hall of Fame icons.

 

Here is a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the academy, its programs, and its philosophy.

 

1. Location and Facility

 

The academy is situated in a central hub accessible to residents of Agoura Hills, Oak Park, Westlake Village, and Calabasas.

 

 Address: 5883 Kanan Rd, Suites 16 & 17, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.

 Facility Standards: The gym is a “Premium Performance Center.” It features high-quality mats that are industrially sanitized daily (hospital-grade hygiene), modern changing rooms, and a spectator area for parents.

 Atmosphere: Unlike “fight clubs,” the environment is professional, well-lit, and family-oriented. The “Red Shield” etiquette requires clean uniforms and respectful behavior, creating a safe space for professionals and children alike.

 

2. World-Class Leadership

 

The primary differentiator for Gracie Barra Agoura is the caliber of its instruction. You are not just learning from a local coach; you are learning from legends of the sport.

 

 Professor Romulo Barral: A 10-time World Champion and member of the IBJJF Hall of Fame. He is one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport.

 Professor Jaeson Bianchi: A 2nd-degree Black Belt who has led youth programs since 2011. He specializes in child development and creates the curriculum for the “Future Champions” program.

 Professor Zane Spruce & Professor Caio Vinicius: Both are high-level Black Belts known for their technical clarity and ability to translate complex “world champion” moves into digestible steps for beginners.

 

3. Adult Programs (“Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone”)

 

The adult curriculum is structured like a university course, ensuring you learn in a logical progression rather than random moves.

 

 GB1 Fundamentals: The entry point for beginners. This follows a 16-week rotating curriculum covering the core 96 techniques of BJJ. There is no live sparring in the early stages; the focus is on cooperative drilling and self-defense (escaping headlocks, bear hugs, etc.).

 GB2 Advanced: For students who have earned at least 3 stripes on their white belt. This program introduces live rolling (sparring), complex guard systems, and advanced submission chains.

 GB3 Black Belt Program: Focuses on the “flow” of Jiu-Jitsu, high-level strategy, and bridging the gap between blue belt and black belt.

 “All Levels” & No-Gi: The academy offers classes where all ranks train together, as well as “No-Gi” submission grappling (training in shorts and a rash guard rather than the traditional kimono).

 

4. Kids Program (“Future Champions”)

 

The youth program is divided by age to ensure developmental appropriateness. The goal is to build “internal armor” against bullying while channeling high energy into focus.

 

 Little Champions (Ages 4–6): Focuses on motor skills, coordination, and “animal movements” (shrimping, crawling) to build body awareness.

 Juniors (Ages 7–9): Introduces the concept of “non-violent self-defense.” Children learn to control a bully on the ground without punching or kicking, protecting them from both physical harm and school suspension.

 Teens (Ages 10–15): A critical program for adolescents. It combines high-level BJJ technique with mentorship, helping teens navigate social pressure, build confidence, and prepare for adulthood.

 ADHD High Energy Focus: The academy is well-regarded for its work with hyperactive children. Instead of suppressing energy (“sit still!”), instructors channel it into “heavy work” (grappling), which often results in better focus at school and home.

 

5. The “Red Shield” Culture & Philosophy

 

Gracie Barra Agoura operates on a set of core values that extends beyond the mats.

 

 Brotherhood Sisterhood: The academy fosters a non-ego environment. Higher belts (“Big Brothers/Sisters”) are expected to help and protect lower belts, not dominate them.

 Safety First: The “Tap” (signaling submission) is taught as a tool for learning, not losing. Injuries are minimized through strict supervision and a culture that prioritizes longevity over intensity.

 Self-Defense First: While sport BJJ is taught, the foundation is always self-protection. You learn to manage distance, de-escalate verbal conflict, and neutralize aggression safely.

 

6. Schedule and Membership https://gbagoura.com/schedule/

 

 Operating Hours:

 Mon–Thu: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 Fri: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

 Sat: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

 Sun: Closed

 

 Membership: Gracie Barra typically uses a flat monthly rate that allows access to specific program tiers. The academy offers a Free Introductory Class so you can try the mats, meet the professors, and see the facility before committing.

 

 Next Step for You

 

If you live in the Agoura Hills area and are considering starting, the best first step is to experience the culture firsthand without obligation.

 

Would you like me to find the link to book your Free Introductory Class at Gracie Barra Agoura, or would you like to see the specific class times for a particular age group?

 

Contact

Phone Number: +1 805-800-9681

info@gbnorthridge.com

 

Location

5883 Kanan Rd Suite 16 & 17, Agoura Hills, CA 91301

Gracie Barra Agoura Hills Class Schedule: Morning vs. Evening Options