About
Meet Our Head Instructor – James Doyle
James Doyle is the passionate and dedicated Head Instructor at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa. A lifelong martial artist, James began his training in 1995 in traditional martial arts and achieved his black belt in Can Ryu Jiu-Jitsu in 2001. By 2017, he was promoted to 5th degree black belt and had amassed extensive knowledge in various disciplines, including:
Kickboxing
Muay Thai
Aikido
Judo
Keysi Fighting Method
Krav Maga
Systema
Kali, Escrima, and Jeet Kune Do
In 2009, James discovered Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and it changed his life. His passion for the art led him to train rigorously, earning his blue belt in 2012 and starting his teaching journey in 2013. After completing the Gracie Combatives® course and earning his blue belt from Gracie University in 2018, he became a Certified Gracie Instructor and opened Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa in 2019.
In 2023, James achieved his Purple Belt under the personal instruction of Rener and Ryron Gracie at Gracie University Headquarters in Torrance, California.
With over 20 years of teaching experience, James is passionate about helping others, especially complete beginners, discover the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu. He is always available to answer any questions about your training journey.
Meet the Master Instructors – Ryron and Rener Gracie
Ryron and Rener Gracie are the Master Instructors behind Gracie University and the eldest grandsons of Grand Master Helio Gracie, the creator of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Their father, Rorion Gracie, is one of the world’s foremost experts in self-defense and the visionary behind the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), which he created in 1993 to showcase the effectiveness of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in real-world combat situations.
Royce Gracie, Rorion’s younger brother, went on to win three of the first four UFC tournaments, proving that the leverage-based techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu are the most reliable method for defeating larger, stronger opponents.
Ryron and Rener have continued their family's legacy, teaching thousands of students worldwide and ensuring that the Gracie family’s system of Jiu-Jitsu is taught with authenticity, effectiveness, and compassion.
Why Choose Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa?
Certified Training Center: We are the ONLY Center Certified Training Center® in Ottawa affiliated with Gracie University of Jiu-Jitsu, ensuring that you receive top-tier training directly from the Gracie lineage.
Safe, Welcoming Environment: Our priority is creating a safe and welcoming space for all students, especially beginners. Whether you’re a child, teenager, or adult, we provide the perfect environment to learn Jiu-Jitsu without intimidation.
Expert Instruction: With over 20 years of teaching experience, Head Instructor James Doyle, along with guidance from Ryron and Rener Gracie, guarantees you’ll receive the highest level of training.
Family-Oriented Programs: From the Gracie Bullyproof® program for kids to the Combatives® program for adults, we offer something for every family member.
Proven Gracie Curriculum: Our structured curriculum is designed to guide you step-by-step through your training, making progress easy to track and ensuring success in your martial arts journey.
Start Your Journey Today!
Welcome to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa – Ottawa’s Premier Certified Training Center!
At Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa, we are proud to be a Certified Training Center affiliated with Gracie University of Jiu-Jitsu, offering specialized programs for the entire family. Our mission is to teach Jiu-Jitsu in a welcoming, safe, and structured environment, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of age or experience level.
Our Programs
Gracie Bullyproof® (Ages 5-12): A proven, confidence-building bully prevention program designed to equip children with the skills and mindset to handle bullying situations, both physically and emotionally.
Gracie Combatives® (Adults): Our beginner-friendly self-defense program is perfect for adults with no previous experience. You’ll learn practical techniques to protect yourself while building strength, confidence, and resilience.
The Master Cycle® (Advanced): For advanced practitioners, this program dives deeper into the art of Jiu-Jitsu, providing the opportunity to refine your techniques and achieve higher levels of mastery.
Whether you’re looking to learn self-defense, stay fit, or progress in your martial arts journey, we have a program tailored for you!
The Gracie Family Legacy
For over three generations, the Gracie family has been dedicated to spreading the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the world. Their primary goal has always been to teach Jiu-Jitsu in a way that is approachable, safe, and enjoyable for new students, especially those with no previous martial arts background.
At Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Ottawa, we follow the same philosophy. Our proprietary programs, combined with a safety-first teaching approach and beginner-friendly classes, ensure that anyone can start their Jiu-Jitsu journey without feeling intimidated.