Downtown Vancouver

BJJ gym with legendary Carlson Gracie lineage. GM Marcus Soares (only red belt in Canada) has created a friendly, inclusive, ego-less place to train legitimate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. If you are interested in getting in shape, learning self-defence, making new friends or all of the above, I strongly recommend you stop by for a trial. You will not regret it.

An absolute must-visit for any serious BJJ practitioner. Training under Mr. Soares is an incredible experience — as a living legend and the highest-ranked Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner in Canada, his instruction is top-tier and no-nonsense. Walking into the Vancouver school feels like stepping into a mini-museum dedicated to the Carlson Gracie style, the walls lined with incredible history and memorabilia.

Training at Marcus Soares Jiu-Jitsu has been an exceptional experience. The academy offers a perfect balance of high-level technical instruction, discipline, and a welcoming environment for students of all levels.

A word of warning: if you start training here, it may take over your whole life! I started after watching my son train and I haven't stopped since. It's fun, it's hard work and simply a beautiful art. My wife started training too, so now we've got the whole family in it. I feel honoured to train with Marcus in the Carlson Gracie lineage.

We couldn't be happier with our experience! My son has been attending since December and the transformation has been incredible. The trainers are top-notch — especially his coach, Hiro, who is not only skilled but genuinely cares about each student's growth. The positive, family-like atmosphere made it easy for us to feel welcome as newcomers to the city.

We are absolutely pleased with how our daughter has improved in confidence, strength and overall self-defence since starting here. The instructors, Marcus and Dana, are hospitable and great with kids — friendly, caring and patient yet firm. The place is clean and safe, and we are so glad we found it.