About Us

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston is built on the belief that with every sweep, choke, and armbar, Jiu-Jitsu is simultaneously providing physical, mental and lifestyle growth. What other physical activity can boast those benefits?

We are passionate about creating a community where every martial artist is given the ability to thrive. Our current academy is brand new – providing our athletes with top-of-the-line training and plenty of space to practice whatever new move they’re perfecting. We are committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment where everyone can feel welcomed and eager to learn.

Additionally, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston is home to a team of professional and highly trained instructors who want to ensure that every single one of their students gets the most out of their training. When you are a student at our school, your technique will be better than ever! Also, your athleticism and physical fitness levels will improve drastically. Your lifestyle habits will become much healthier and you’ll achieve goals both in and out of the dojo. Most importantly, your confidence will be a reflection of all of these areas of improvement!

Meet Our Instructors

Here at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Of Charleston, our staff is the secret to our student success. Each instructor has a rich background in the Jiu Jitsu industry and is eager to train the next generation of martial artists. Meet the team below!

Michael Key

Owner/ Instructor of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston

Relson Gracie

Head Instructor

James Foy

Instructor - Black belt under Relson Gracie

Jerry Brewer

Instructor

History

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston

Having opened in 1999, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston is a familiar face in the Charleston community. For over two decades, we have used jiu jitsu as a way to improve the lives of the people in our area and we plan to continue this mission for years to come!

We are owned by Michael Key. He received his black belt under fellow instructor Relson Gracie. No one knows Gracie Jiu-Jitsu like Relson Gracie! In fact, as his name may have already given away, Gracie is directly related to the founders of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu! As the second oldest son of Grandmaster Helio Gracie, who has been credited for creating what is now known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Relson Gracie is able to provide our students with the best Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training possible.

Ever since first opening our doors, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston has been passionate about utilizing Jiu-Jitsu as a tool for growth. Over the years, we have helped countless students grow into their fullest potential.We have also connected hundreds of best-friends-to-be and helped tons of students reach their goals. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Charleston is more than a martial arts school – it’s a community of athletes who will always have your back.

Testimonials

They welcome drop-ins. Laid-back, but they work hard--class was 1.5 hours long and people kept rolling for an additional hour. Instructor Michael took time after class to help me out with a basic move I've always had trouble with, plus threw in some bonus techniques. Got to roll with some talented blues, and also with the most aggressive 73 year-old woman I've ever met (not kidding, she's been training for three years now). Definitely worth a visit if you are traveling to Charleston.

Ali J

Facebook

Dropped in for my first BJJ class ever and had a blast. Everyone was very helpful and they went out of their way to teach me different things. It was a great learning environment where everyone just wants to improve. Can’t wait to go back.

Sean V

Facebook

This was where I started my BJJ journey in spring of 2016. My first class and first impression of the BJJ was here. Great, awesome, and nice people who were dedicated to the art. Michael Key was my first instructor ever in BJJ. He definitely made an impression. He's very humble and caring. When I first started I had no idea what's going on. He lent me one of his Gis to train in for some time while he helped order my first Gi. He also told me that I can pay whatever I can if I have any financial problems. I can tell he treats his students like family. Inopportunely, I had to relocate somewhere else because of my job in late 2016. Although I am not in town and don't train with Gracie Charleston anymore, this will always be the source of my BJJ journey.

JQ L

Google

I dropped in for a class while in town for work. Everyone was super welcoming. Jerry was a great instructor and he worked with me to make sure I had what he was teaching dialed in before I left. After an hour, hour and a half of class, mats were opened up for rolling. Everyone was chill and it was a great learning experience. I will not hesitate to visit again, and if I ever move to Charleston, I would sign up for class before unpacking.

Noone U

Facebook

This is my second home and I am very proud to train here. I would highly recommend this jiu jitsu academy to anyone who wants to learn jiu jitsu or to those who already train. The instructors are very humble and treat everyone great. Love this academy!

Todd L

Google

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Of Charleston

Get Started Today

843-377-5361

michaelkey1234@gmail.com

2070 Sam Rittenberg Blvd Unit 752, Charleston, SC 29407
Inside Citadel Mall, south east entrance next to Planet Fitness

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Of Charleston has everything…except you! Join our community today and begin your martial arts journey! Send us a message by filling out our contact form below.