Real Jiu Jitsu.
Built for Real Life.
The gold standard
Gracie Humaita Edwardsville is the premier martial arts academy in the Metro East – Built on an unbroken lineage from the founders of Jiu Jitsu. Our members don’t just train. They belong to something elite.
No experience needed. No contracts. Just show up.
100+ 5 Star Reviews
Est. 2021
All Levels Welcome
Elite Programs
World Class Instruction
Proven Results
Our Curriculum is proven through decades of competition and real world experience. Every technique, every class, every standard is held to the highest level in Gracie Jiu Jitsu.
Choose Your Path
Every program is rooted in the same proven Gracie Humaita lineage.
Adult Jiu Jitsu
Self-defense, fundamentals, and sport Jiu Jitsu for adults. Build confidence, fitness, and real-world skills in a supportive environment.
All levels
Kids & Youth
Bully-proof your child with authentic Gracie self-defense. We develop discipline, respect, and confidence alongside athletic skill.
Ages 4–17 • 3 age groups
Women’s Program
Women-focused classes in a welcoming, empowering space. Learn practical self-defense and develop strength on your own terms.
Women only • All levels
Authentic Lineage.
Real results.
Our technique traces directly to the Gracie family — the founders of Jiu Jitsu.
Hélio Gracie
FOUNDER
Grand Master of Jiu Jitsu. His gentle, leverage-based system made the art accessible to everyone.
Royler Gracie
7× WORLD CHAMPION
Hélio’s son. One of the greatest competitors in BJJ history and head of Gracie Humaita.
JW Wright
4th Degree BLACK BELT
Direct black belt under Royler Gracie. Brought authentic Gracie Humaita to the Midwest.
Joey Walters
2nd Degree BLACK BELT • HEAD INSTRUCTOR
Black belt under JW Wright. Founder and head instructor of Gracie Humaita Edwardsville.
Class Schedule
Flexible classes designed around real life. Morning, evening, and weekend options available.
*on average members attend 2 sessions per week (some more, some less)
ADULTS
Monday — 11:30 AM • 6:00 PM (Fundamentals) • 7:00 PM (Wrestling)
Tuesday — 11:30 AM • 7:00 PM
Wednesday — 11:30 AM • 6:00 PM (No Gi)
Thursday — 6:00 AM • 7:00 PM
Friday — 11:30 AM • 5:00 PM (Boxing) • 6:00 PM (Women’s Only)
Saturday — 10:30 AM (No Gi)
Sunday — 5:30 PM (Open Training)
KIDS & YOUTH
Monday — 5:00 PM All Ages (Fundamentals) • 6:00 PM (Wrestling)
Tuesday — 4:45PM (Little Champs 4-6yo) • 5:30PM (Little Champs 4-6yo) • 6:00PM (7+ and Teens)
Wednesday — 5:00 PM All Ages (No Gi)
Thursday — 4:45PM (Youth Fitness) • 5:30PM (Little Champs 4-6yo) • 6:00PM (7+ and Teens)
Saturday — 9:30 AM All Ages (No Gi)
What Our Students Say
“I walked in knowing nothing about jiu-jitsu. Six months later I feel more confident than I ever have. Coach Joey and the whole team make you feel welcome from day one.”
— Mike T., Adult Program
“My daughter started at 6 and she’s completely transformed — more focused, more respectful, more confident. This place is the real deal. Not just a sport, a life skill.”
— Sarah K., Kids Program Parent
“Best decision I made this year. The women’s class gave me a space to learn without feeling intimidated. I’ve lost 20 lbs and I actually know how to defend myself now.”
— David L., Adult Program
Start Your Free Trial Class
One class is all it takes. Come see what real Jiu Jitsu feels like — no commitment, no pressure, no contracts.
Find Us
Gracie Humaita Edwardsville
📍 503 E Vandalia St – Edwardsville, IL 62025
📞 618-427-2414 – call or text