Highlights: 30 classes/wk · Gi & No-Gi · Kids classes · Members only · Free trial · Competition team
Looking for Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu in Encinitas, CA? It's a Brazilian jiu jitsu Alliance affiliate at 229b N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA, rated 4.7/5 across 104 Google reviews. Below: programs, schedule, pricing, reviews, and how to book a free trial.
A welcoming, ego-free family environment led by world-class black belt Professor Francisco 'Sinistro' Iturralde. The academy balances high-level technical instruction with a supportive community culture that caters equally to hobbyists, competitors, and kids.
Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu runs about 30 classes a week. Call (760) 704-7989 to confirm the current timetable.
Led by highly decorated world champion Francisco "Sinistro" Iturralde; Structured beginner program emphasizing safety, without dangerous submission holds or sparring initially; Age-group specific kids program (Toddlers, K-4th, 5th-9th) taught by a world champion; Kids program focuses on life skills, confidence, and anti-bullying
Rated 4.7/5 across 104 Google reviews.
Exceptional Jiu Jitsu School with a strong community Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu in Encinitas, CA is a top-tier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy that stands out for its quality instruction, inclusive community, and strong leadership. Whether you’re a beginner, a parent enrolling your child, or an advanced student looking to sharpen your technique, this school offers a welcoming and highly disciplined environment that prioritizes both skill and character development. Professor Francisco is phenomenal with kids — his teaching style combines structure, encouragement, and fun. Many local families (including ours) have seen firsthand how much confidence, discipline, and physical fitness children gain through his classes. One parent wrote, “Professor Francisco does such an amazing job with the kids. He teaches them discipline, manners, respect — and the kids have so much fun doing it. By far the best Jiu Jitsu gym in the area for kids.” The gym's focus
Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu offers a top-tier experience for anyone looking to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a welcoming, structured, and high-level environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this academy strikes an excellent balance between technical instruction, physical conditioning, and community spirit. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about teaching. Classes are thoughtfully structured—typically beginning with a warm-up, followed by technique breakdowns, drilling, and live rolling. What stands out is how the instructors make sure each student, regardless of rank, understands the “why” behind every movement. This attention to detail builds both confidence and skill. The gym culture is another highlight. It’s friendly, respectful, and ego-free. You’ll find a diverse group of students, from hobbyists to serious competitors, all training under one roof and pushing each other
Having trained at many gyms across the globe and being a recent transplant to San Diego, it's not easy to find a place that feels like home. Yet, from the moment I stepped into Gentle Arts, thanks to Coach Sinistro, I knew I'd found somewhere special. Sinistro is not just a coach; he's a mentor whose welcoming nature, technical prowess, and passion for Jiu Jitsu shine through in every session. His ability to create a warm, inclusive environment is unparalleled. What makes Gentle Arts even more special is its kids' classes. As a parent, watching my 4-year-olds grow in confidence, skill, and love for Jiu Jitsu has been nothing short of remarkable. They eagerly anticipate each class, and seeing their progress has been incredibly rewarding. Since joining, I've been welcomed into more than just a gym - I've become part of a community. The range of talent here is incredible, catering to everyone from top competitors to those who enjoy Jiu Jit
I’ve been training with Professor Francisco since I moved to north county in 2021. I’ve enjoyed excellent technical instruction here and Francisco fosters a welcoming, warm, and positive community. There is jiu jitsu instruction 6 days a week and recently Francisco has added yoga to the schedule. There is a wide range of abilities and skills here and former world champions and top-ranked competitors are often training or teaching. Professor Francisco has created a safe environment for hobbyists and competitors alike to train intensely while also being helpful and thoughtful training partners. It takes a special instructor to be able to cater to both beginners and experts and Francisco does that extremely well. I have seen many adults and kids come in to Gentle Arts new to jiu jitsu and they improve quickly under Francisco’s patient coaching. I can’t recommend this gym and this team enough - if you’re curious about jiu jitsu or wanting t
Training at Gentle Arts under Professor Sinistro has been an outstanding experience. From the very first class, I was impressed by how welcoming and ego-free the environment is. The community is friendly and supportive, and everyone—from white belts to seasoned competitors—treats each other with respect. Professor Sinistro is an exceptional instructor. His depth of knowledge and attention to detail are world-class, yet he teaches with humility, patience, and humor. He has a true gift for breaking down techniques in a way that’s clear and effective, and his passion for Jiu-Jitsu comes through in every class. What’s even more meaningful to me is that my 7 year kid trains here as well—and absolutely loves it. The kids’ program is phenomenal, with a perfect balance of discipline, fun, and skill development. It’s been amazing to watch my little dude gain confidence, focus, and a love for the sport. It's been an awesome experience for us to s
Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu in Encinitas is truly world-class. Professor Sinistro Iturralde is an exceptional instructor who brings both deep technical knowledge and a genuine passion for the art. His attention to detail, patient teaching style, and high-level experience make every class feel like you're learning from the best in the world — because you are. The environment is welcoming, clean, and filled with students who are respectful and dedicated. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Gentle Arts offers an unmatched experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Highly recommend to anyone serious about improving their game or just starting their journey. This place sets the standard.
Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu is at 229b N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA. Call (760) 704-7989 to confirm class times or book a trial.
Gentle Arts Jiu Jitsu doesn't publish pricing. Encinitas BJJ typically runs $150-$250/month for unlimited. They offer a free trial so you can test the room first.
Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi Grappling, Kids BJJ, Little Kids (3-6), Teens BJJ, Competition Team, Self-Defense.
Head instruction is led by Francisco Iturralde (black), under the Alliance lineage.
Beginners are welcome. Use the trial class to watch a fundamentals or all-levels session and meet the coach before signing up. No experience or gear needed for your first class at most Encinitas gyms.
See all BJJ gyms in Encinitas or browse jiu jitsu in California.