Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu

Leverage. Control. Submit. Master the gentle art that revolutionized self‑defense and combat sports.

The Art of the Ground

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu is a grappling‑based martial art that teaches you to control and submit larger opponents using technique, leverage, and patience. At Elite Martial Arts, our BJJ program follows a structured curriculum rooted in the Gracie lineage, ensuring every student develops a deep understanding of positioning, escapes, and submissions.

Whether your goal is self‑defense, competition, or simply getting in the best shape of your life, our program meets you where you are. Beginners learn essential survival skills before moving into offense, while advanced students refine their game with specialized workshops and open mats.

View BJJ Schedule

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15
Weekly Classes

Gi & No‑Gi
Both Offered

Morning, lunch, and evening times available every weekday plus weekends. Perfect for busy New Yorkers.

The BJJ Path

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Fundamentals

Survival positions, basic escapes, and foundational submissions. No experience needed – we build your base from day one.

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Intermediate

Guard passing, advanced sweeps, and submission chains. Begin controlled positional sparring to apply what you’ve learned.

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Advanced

Complex guard systems, leg locks, and competition strategy. Open mat sessions and in‑house tournaments available.

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Competition Team

For those who want to test themselves, our team competes in IBJJF, ADCC, and local tournaments with full coaching support.

Meet Your Professor

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Prof. Rafael Almeida

3rd Degree Black Belt

A direct student of the Gracie family, Prof. Almeida has over 20 years of teaching experience and has produced multiple IBJJF world champions. His patient, detail‑oriented approach makes complex techniques accessible to everyone.

“Jiu‑Jitsu changed my life as a teenager in Rio, and now I have the privilege of sharing that transformation with New Yorkers every day. Our academy is a place where you can fail safely, learn constantly, and become the strongest version of yourself.”

— Prof. Rafael Almeida

What to Expect in Your First BJJ Class

1

Warm‑Up

Jiu‑jitsu‑specific movements like shrimping, bridging, and breakfalls to prepare your body.

2

Technique

Professor demonstrates a sequence; you drill with a partner under close supervision.

3

Positional Sparring

Apply the technique in a live, controlled setting. No full sparring until you’re ready.

4

Cool‑Down

Stretching and brief Q&A. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of what you learned.

Find Your First Class Time