Our Instructors
Join the only Brazilian-born, Brazilian-trained Jiu-Jitsu instructor in Reno and Sparks, NV
HEAD INSTRUCTOR
Alexandre Garcia — 3rd Degree Black Belt
Alexandre Garcia was born on October 28, 1975. Raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Alexandre was always very interested in learning martial arts. At age 9, he started taking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. That was Alexandre’s first contact with Jiu-Jitsu.
Alexandre attended a seminar hosted by Royler Gracie and found that one of Royler’s students, Professor Marcão, had opened a school nearby where he started training immediately. He earned his Black Belt in Brazil under the Gracie family.
Alexandre moved to the U.S. in 2002 and eventually settled in Reno. He served as the head Jiu-Jitsu instructor at UFC champion Ken Shamrock’s Lion’s Den before opening his own academy. Alexandre has won several tournaments in both Brazil and the United States.
As Northern Nevada’s only Brazilian-born, Brazilian-trained Gracie black belt, Alexandre leads Reno’s original Gracie Humaita academy — carrying the lineage of Helio Gracie and the Humaita tradition.
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
Trusted by Hundreds of Northern Nevada Families

Students roll hard, are respectful, safe, and dedicated to the art. I’ve had amazing improvement.
Can’t beat professor Alex Garcia. The man knows his craft and is a superb teacher for both self defense and competition, beginner through expert.
Reno is lucky to have this great place to up your BJJ game.
Highest recommendations!
The school and its students are also very welcoming. Everyone is respectful and supportive, so it never feels intimidating even when you’re new. The teaching is solid and you can tell it comes from a real Gracie foundation—very focused on technique, control, and understanding the details. I’ve learned a lot in just a few months and I always look forward to training. I highly recommend this school for jiu jitsu.
What really sets him apart is his attitude and personality. He brings a great energy to every class and creates an environment that is enjoyable. He has a great sense of humor, keeps the atmosphere positive, and genuinely cares about the people he teaches! He’s the kind of coach who is not only skilled but also kind, generous with his time, and invested in helping his students grow.
I had the opportunity to compete under him on multiple occasions, and I always felt very well prepared going into tournaments. His coaching, guidance, and attention to detail made a huge difference in my confidence and performance!
What really sets him apart is his attitude and personality. He brings a great energy to every class and creates an environment that is enjoyable. He has a great sense of humor, keeps the atmosphere positive, and genuinely cares about the people he teaches! He’s the kind of coach who is not only skilled but also kind, generous with his time, and invested in helping his students grow.
I had the opportunity to compete under him on multiple occasions, and I always felt very well prepared going into tournaments. His coaching, guidance, and attention to detail made a huge difference in my confidence and performance!
Professor Alexandre creates a positive and respectful environment on the mats. He’s patient, supportive, and always takes the time to help students improve, no matter their skill level. On top of that, he has a great sense of humor and always keeps the class laughing, which makes training even more enjoyable.
You can tell he truly cares about his students’ progress and wants everyone to succeed. Training under him has not only improved my Jiu-Jitsu, but also my confidence and discipline. If you’re looking for a professor who is highly skilled, professional, funny, and genuinely invested in his students, I highly recommend training with Professor Alexandre. OSS
Professor Alexandre creates a positive and respectful environment on the mats. He’s patient, supportive, and always takes the time to help students improve, no matter their skill level. On top of that, he has a great sense of humor and always keeps the class laughing, which makes training even more enjoyable.
You can tell he truly cares about his students’ progress and wants everyone to succeed. Training under him has not only improved my Jiu-Jitsu, but also my confidence and discipline. If you’re looking for a professor who is highly skilled, professional, funny, and genuinely invested in his students, I highly recommend training with Professor Alexandre. OSS
The adult class is always fun to participate in - other students push you to succeed and help you grow.
Gym is very welcoming and my daughter and I look forward to coming to class every night!
If you are looking for a school that will help you grow in your ability and welcome you like family, this is the school for you.
Kids class is always fun but he makes sure that the kids stay on task and attentive.
Excellent kids program, focusing on basic jui jitsu training, techniques and fitness for kids.
Adult classes are driven by bjj fundamentals, basic and advanced techniques. A great learning environment.
If you’re thinking of trying jujitsu, this is the place! We’re very pleased with the staff and the instruction.
Update: After three years and at the age of 60, I can say this was the best decision I’ve made. Alex, the coaches, and everyone that trains here are my family. I’ve had injuries and medical issues, but didn’t quit. I’ve made an effort to be consistent. BJJ has taught me to be disciplined, respectful, and humble. I’m now coaching and I strive to instill the same principles to all the kids that begin their Jiu Jitsu Journey! Thank you Alex for everything you’ve done for me!
The coaches created an environment that is disciplined but welcoming, challenging but supportive. They meet you where you are, whether you’re brand new or experienced, and push you in the best possible way. The instruction is thoughtful and technical, but it’s the culture that sets this place apart. There’s respect, encouragement, and a genuine investment in each person who walks through the door.
For my husband, this studio didn’t just improve his fitness — it transformed his health and his outlook on life. He’s stronger, more confident, and more grounded. Training here and the people he’s met have given him a renewed sense of purpose and resilience that carries into our home, our marriage, and every part of his life. The mental clarity and discipline he’s gained have been just as powerful as the physical transformation.
We are endlessly grateful for Alex and all the coaches and teammates who have poured into him and welcomed our family into theirs. If you’re looking for more than just a workout, this is the place.
It’s not just a gym. It’s family.