Gracie Lake Norman Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

I can’t recommend GLKN enough! I have two children that attend and the differences in both of them in the time they have been there has been amazing. Ranard empowers them to be independent and confident through his coaching style and teaches them the importance of being respectful and accountable to their own actions. He is teaching them to be young adults and learning jiu jitsu along the way is a fun addition :) I have to mention his wife Leigh Ann as well, who’s communication and transparency in the joining process made both starting and continuing the journey feel welcoming, with no pressure. Thank you both for making a difference in these young children’s life’s!

Love love love this facility! My game has grown exponentially in just the past month of going here in areas I didn’t even realize existed. Over the last year and a half I’ve trained at a few different schools and been to dozens of trial classes as my job tends to take me to different locations. In my experience this school has everything you look for when trying to find a top rated school. It’s safe, the instructors are knowledgeable and organized. The classes are structured and promote an environment of progressional learning. The curriculum crafted by Ranard promotes development in all aspects of your Bjj game. The culture here is welcoming and supportive. Ranard and LeeAnn take great pride in their school and their students.

Great experience. We came here with Executive Club - our business mastermind group for young entrepreneurs aged 18-35. Ranard shared some great safety techniques and also some great wisdom with the guys. You can tell Ranard really knows what he's doing and is able to explain it in a way that makes people at any level enjoy the experience.

Deleted my old review so I can leave an updated one. :) I’ve been at this school for about 3 years now! I’ve been inconsistent with training but have to say this is the BEST thing I’ve ever done for my confidence and mental health. There’s a lot of jiu jitsu schools out there but this is one is about community, and person growth in all areas of life. I’ve had nothing but great experiences and every one is so supportive. If you want a place to train, have amazing coaches and be surrounded by good vibes this is the place for you! 🫶

Gracie Lake Norman has been such a blessing for my family. My son Sam is in the 4–7 year-old class, and Coach Ranard has been amazing with the kids—not just teaching them Jiu-Jitsu, but also instilling discipline, accountability, and confidence. Sam is learning real skills that go far beyond the mat, and he genuinely looks forward to every class. Coach Ranard and Coach Ryan have also been instrumental in my own Jiu-Jitsu journey. They’ve helped me build a strong foundation, and their support, patience, and dedication are what make this place feel like more than just a gym. They’re becoming more than coaches—they’re becoming friends and family. A special thank you to Leigh Ann, who keeps everything organized and running smoothly. From making sure everyone has the right gi and belt to creating a welcoming environment, she truly holds it all together. And the parent community here is something special, too. It’s filled with like-minded, supportive people who share the same values. I’ve made genuine connections and feel part of something bigger every time I walk through the door. Gracie Lake Norman is a place of growth, community, and connection—for kids and adults alike. Highly recommend!