Thank you for signing up for OUR
Free Martial Arts Intro Class
🎉We're excited to have your join us.🎉
NEXT STEP
What happens next?
P.S: One of our instructors will contact you at this number [mynumber] to confirm your appointment.
If you haven't already, book your free class. It's easy do it from the link: click here
Choose a convenient time slot
Bring yourself to our location "12807 W Hillsborough ave Tampa Florida 33635"
Don't forget water & towel
That's all! We're looking forward to meeting you.
Who is this program for?
This exciting program is perfect for adults who want to build confidence, discipline, and real self-defense skills all while getting in great shape and having fun!
Whether you’re new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to take your training to the next level, our classes cater to all experience levels and fitness backgrounds.
We focus on practical self-defense, stress relief, and personal growth, helping you develop both physically and mentally in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
Experience the life-changing benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with our world-class instructors here in Hillsborough and discover a stronger, more confident version of yourself!
Reviews
What Happy Memebers are saying?
Visited Tampa and trained with the team on a Saturday morning. Great group of guys, very welcoming and really nice technique. Also seemed to have incorporated some wrestling aspect to their jiu jitsu, which made for a really well-rounded grappling experience. Highly recommend giving them a try! Thank you Professor Bamboo!
Richard M
Gracie Westchase is a great place to train! Bamboo’s knowledge and experience are remarkable, and it’s reflected in all his martial arts programs. The instructors provide high level training in a welcoming environment which fosters learning at any skill level. Every class is a challenging workout and allows students to really push themselves. There’s an energy in Gracie Westchase that drives students to do their best and I really appreciate that aspect of the school. I’m a retired Green Beret and training at Gracie Westchase lets me continue to train with phenomenal instructors and be surrounded by Warriors.
Michael Lynch
I love this gym! I've been training BJJ and Muay Thai here since May 2022. The instruction from Bamboo and the other coaches are excellent and my fellow students are great training partners. It is also a fun and friendly environment.
Elizabeth Flores
I’ve been training at Gracie Westchase since January 2020 and I love it. Bamboo is personable and has so much knowledge to share. He is that rare individual who can perform and teach. The members are amazing. They will all help and challenge you in a totally safe environment. If you’ve always wanted to try jiu jitsu, this is the place. If you already train, this is the place. I’m an L-E-O and the training has helped me in my work. My only regret is I didn’t start training here years ago.
Gary Corbett
We LOVE Gracie Westchase!!!! The schedule allows for training at all different hours throughout the week. They have special occasions that involve EVERYONE including clients not just employees. The Owner Bamboo and his wife Robin are absolutely amazing people! The GM Vik is hands down one of the nicest most professional people you’ll ever meet. The kids class is Fantastic!!! And the coaches who teach the class; Erin, Aden and Javier are the perfect mixture of patience and discipline. It really and truly is the best place to get a workout in a non judgmental environment.
Destiny Wynn
Awesome! Perfect environment - challenging but not intimidating. Very supportive - everyone looking to elevate those around them. I always look forward to going and have made some great friends. Sometimes you just get those schools where it just works: right mix of ppl, high level instruction and feels like extended family - this is def one of those schools. If your interested in jujitsu and have been wavering just go in - you won't regret it. Pro fighters train here as well so its a blast to get to train with all levels and know that there will always be room to grow and be challenged.
Nikko Pianetto
hIGHLIGHTS
Moment from the classes
InstructorS
Meet our Instructors
Joe “Bamboo” Wissmann
Head Coach & Owner – Gracie Westchase
Professor Joe “Bamboo” Wissmann began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2003 and has been immersed in the art for over two decades. A lifelong martial artist, Bamboo earned his black belt in
2013 under Rob Kahn, in the direct lineage of Royce Gracie.
Over the years, he has competed in hundreds of grappling tournaments—including the MMAC Grappling Championships, NAGA Championships, Le Leo Code, and Grapplers Quest—earning multiple NOGI titles at prestigious events such as Copa America Grappling and Grapplers Quest. In addition to his success on the mats, Bamboo holds a professional MMA record of 4–2, having competed at both 170 and 185 pounds.
Since beginning his teaching career in 2007, Bamboo has coached more than 50 professional MMA fighters, developing athletes who have gone on to compete in major promotions including the UFC. His coaching influence has shaped the careers of fighters such as Corey Hill, Shane Prime, Marcus Jones, and Martin “Trey” Brown.
Bamboo has also produced some of Florida’s most respected black belts, including Dan Martinez and Tony Way—both of whom now operate successful academies of their own, continuing to teach the principles and style passed down through his instruction.
For the past several years, Professor Bamboo has dedicated his focus to developing students at every level—from beginners seeking fitness and confidence, to elite competitors in Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, and MMA. Known for his technical depth, intensity, and humility, he remains a hands-on coach who trains alongside his students every day.
Welcome to
Gracie Westchase
Welcome To Gracie Westchase
At Gracie Westchase, we help men and women of all fitness levels build confidence, strength, and real-world self-defense skills in a friendly, supportive, and motivating environment.
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs are designed for adults of all ages whether you’re looking to get back in shape, learn effective self-defense, or simply find a new challenge that keeps you mentally and physically engaged.
Every class at Gracie Westchase combines practical self-defense with a full-body workout. You’ll improve your fitness, flexibility, and focus while developing discipline, confidence, and resilience that carry over into every area of life.
Led by passionate black belt instructors and part of the Gracie Westchase family, we’re proud to serve the Hillsborough community giving adults a proven path to better health, sharper minds, and unshakable confidence.
If you’re ready to feel stronger, safer, and more confident both on and off the mats we’d love to welcome you to our school.
Contact us
Contact us
Location
Gracie Westchase
"12807 W Hillsborough ave Tampa Florida 33635"
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of martial arts do you teach?
We teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA for adults. Our programs focus on real-world self-defense, fitness, skill development, and confidence whether you train for health, self-defense, or personal growth.
Am I too old to start martial arts?
Not at all. Many of our adult members start in their 30s, 40s, and beyond. Classes are structured so you can train safely at your own pace, regardless of age or athletic background.
How fit do I need to be before I start?
You don’t need to be fit to begin training is how you get fit. Our classes are beginner-friendly, and instructors help you modify movements as needed. Just show up consistently and progress will follow.
Who teaches the classes and what are the instructors’ credentials?
All classes are led by experienced, professional instructors with years of training and competition experience. Our coaches are passionate about teaching, safety, and helping students improve no matter their starting level.
Is it female friendly?
Yes. Our academy is very welcoming to women, with many female members training across all programs. Classes emphasize respect, safety, and proper instruction, and women are encouraged to train confidently and comfortably.