Gracie Barra Black Belt Program Mastery in Northridge | Phone Number: +1 818-357-4074

 

Gracie Barra Northridge (GBN), the “Black Belt Program” (officially known as GB3) is the pinnacle of the academy’s curriculum. It is widely regarded as one of the most elite training rooms in the United States because it serves as the headquarters for Professor Romulo Barral, a 5-time IBJJF World Champion and ADCC Champion.

 

This program is not for beginners. It is designed for Blue Belts and above who have graduated from the GB2 (Advanced) curriculum and are ready to refine a personal style, learn high-level competition strategy, and train at full intensity.

 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the Gracie Barra Northridge Black Belt Program Mastery.

 

1. The Curriculum: From “Learning” to “Flowing”

While lower-level programs teach you how to do a move, the Black Belt Program teaches you when and why.

 Game Development: The primary goal of GB3 is to help you build your specific “A-Game.” Instead of drilling random moves, you work on systems that link together (e.g., a specific takedown that leads directly to your favorite pass).

 Advanced Concepts: Instruction moves beyond basic mechanics into concepts like:

     Invisible Jiu-Jitsu: Weight distribution, pressure, and leverage that an opponent feels but cannot see.

     Transitions: How to move seamlessly between submissions (e.g., failing an armbar to immediately catch a triangle) without losing position.

     Romulo’s Signature Style: You will get heavy exposure to the techniques that made Barral famous: the Spider Guard (controlling the opponent’s sleeves) and Knee-Cut Pressure Passing.

 

2. The Environment: “The Shark Tank”

The training intensity in the GB3 program is significantly higher than in the fundamental classes.

 Competition Training: The 12:00 PM sessions are legendary in the BJJ community. This is often where the “Pro Team” trains. You might find yourself rolling with visiting world champions, high-level black belts, and MMA fighters.

 Longer Rounds: Sparring rounds often extend to 6–10 minutes to simulate black belt competition times, testing your deep cardio and mental resilience.

 “Shark Tank” Drills: A common drill where one student stays in the middle and fights a fresh opponent every minute. This builds the mental fortitude required to fight while exhausted.

 

3. Prerequisites & Hierarchy

You cannot simply sign up for this program; you must earn your spot.

 Rank Requirement: You typically must be a Blue Belt or higher to attend GB3 classes.

 Graduation: White belts must complete the GB1 (Fundamentals) and GB2 (Advanced) curriculums first. This ensures you can fall safely and have enough control to spar intensely without injuring your partners.

 Uniform Policy: Strict adherence to the uniform is required. You must wear the official Gracie Barra Gi (often the “Premium” or “Competition” model) and a ranked rash guard underneath.

 

4. The Instructors: Learning from Legends

The main draw of this specific academy is the lineage.

 Professor Romulo Barral: A Hall of Fame inductee. His presence ensures that the techniques taught are current and battle-tested at the World Championship level.

 Professor Jaeson Bianchi & Team: The program is supported by a cadre of high-level black belts who ensure that every student gets personal attention, correcting micro-details in your grip or hip placement.

 

5. Schedule & Logistics

 Class Times:

     Mid-Day: The “Pro | Competition” sessions are typically around 12:00 PM, catering to full-time athletes and professionals with flexible schedules.

     Evening: Advanced GB3 classes are also held in the prime evening slots (usually 7:00 PM) for working professionals.

 Cost: Access to the Black Belt Program is the highest tier of membership.

     Estimated Price: $200 – $315 per month (Unlimited Access).

     Note: Pricing varies by contract length (12-month vs. month-to-month).

 

6. Why “Mastery”?

The “Mastery” in the program title refers to the shift in mindset. In GB1, you are trying to survive. In GB3, you are trying to thrive. The goal is no longer just to tap someone out, but to do it with efficiency and grace—using the least amount of strength possible.

 

The Gracie Barra Northridge Black Belt Program is an Ivy League education in martial arts. It is where hobbyists transform into competitors and where competitors transform into champions. If you are a Blue Belt or higher living in the San Fernando Valley, this is the room where “iron sharpens iron.”

 

Gracie Barra Northridge Location & Contact:

 

Address: 19520 Nordhoff St 10th, Northridge, CA 91324

 

Phone: +1 818-357-4074

 

info@gbnorthridge.com

 

Website: gbnorthridge.com

 

Hours

Mon-Thurs: 12 PM to 9 PM

Fridays: 12 PM to 7 PM

Saturdays: 9 AM to 2 PM

Sundays: CLOSED

Gracie Barra Black Belt Program Mastery in Northridge | Phone Number: +1 818-357-4074