We started our son at Gracie Barra as a way to build self confidence and to build skills to learn to protect himself. His shyness was very apparent every time he stepped onto the mats for the first few months. Professor Doug tells each person who walks through those doors, it takes courage to step onto those mats. What Doug and Christina have cultivated and curated at Gracie Barra is simply amazing and works to build that confidence. The professors, coaches, and students are encouraging and caring. You truly feel as if you’re among family.