Don't wait any longer to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident child. Book their free class today and discover the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu.

As a parent, nothing matters more than your child’s safety and confidence.
But most kids don’t get the chance to learn real self-defense — until it’s too late.
At Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Tempe, we give kids ages 5 to 13 the tools to protect themselves, handle pressure, and grow stronger inside and out — all in a safe, structured, and beginner-friendly environment.
In their very first (free) class, your child will learn:
✅ How to stay calm and think clearly when challenged
✅ Basic grips, holds, and how to escape them safely
✅ How to protect themselves using technique — not strength
This isn’t about fighting. It’s about confidence, discipline, and situational awareness — things every child deserves to have.
💡 No experience needed — we specialize in working with first-timers
💥 Kids train with positive, patient coaches who lead with encouragement
🏆 Classes build focus, resilience, and real-world life skills
📍 Conveniently located in Tempe
🎁 First class is totally free — no pressure, just come try it out
Give your child the gift of confidence and capability.
Expert Instruction: Our experienced instructors are dedicated to providing top-notch training tailored to your skill level.
Flexible Scheduling: With classes available seven days a week, you can train at times that fit your busy lifestyle.
Community Focused: Join a welcoming environment where students support and motivate each other.

Crafted to empower kids through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, teaching them focus, respect, and resilience. With age-appropriate techniques and structured classes, students develop self-defense skills, physical fitness, and mental toughness.

Our Lil & Jr. program introduces young children to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and structured environment. Designed to improve focus, coordination, and discipline, each class helps kids build confidence and social skills while staying active.

There’s no better way to help your child grow than through martial arts.
At Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we give kids the tools they need to succeed: focus, respect, discipline, and confidence.
Our age-based programs are designed to meet them where they are and help them thrive — in class, at school, and in life.
Programs include:
Lil & Jr. Warriors (Ages 5–7)
Youth Warriors (Ages 8–13)
First class is FREE No experience necessary
Positive role models and real structure
Located at: 1848 E University Dr, Suite 108, Tempe, AZ 480-968-6303
Book your child’s free trial and let them step into something that builds strength inside and out.
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on December 23,1974, Gustavo is a proud father and husband, and a fifth-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Andre Pederneiras, the co-founder of the team Nova Uniao.
Along with being a world-class competitor and having over 25 years of coaching experience, Gustavo is a published author, a public speaker as well as a certified Mental & Life Coach with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from UFRJ (Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro).
Gustavo left Brazil in 1999 with a $2,000, two bags, and one teenage dream: to have his own academy. Somewhere he could make a living and change lives through teaching the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
After many years of sacrifice and dedication, the Gustavo Dantas Jiu-Jitsu Academy was established in Tempe, Arizona, on March 6th, 2012, re-enforcing the statement, “Believe in your dreams. Hard work pays off”.

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