New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy
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BJJ · Belfast
BJJ in Belfast
6 bjj studios to discover.
Last updated
Belfast has a small but well-established Brazilian jiu-jitsu scene, with six dedicated academies spread across the city. Rather than clustering in one district, the sport has taken root in neighbourhoods on opposite sides of town — from Carlisle Circus in the north to Ballyhackamore in the east and Whiterock to the west. New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy and Lycan Grappling Academy Ni both carry perfect five-star ratings, reflecting the tight-knit, instructor-led culture typical of smaller grappling gyms. Class sizes tend to be modest, and most academies cater to both beginners and competitors. This page lists the main BJJ academies currently operating in Belfast, with locations, ratings, and the details you need to find the right fit.
6 gyms & studios
All 6 bjj studios in Belfast
- New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy — Smithfield
- Lycan Grappling Academy Ni — Ballyhackamore
- Trickster Jiu Jitsu — Windsor
- Forge Grappling Mixed
- Fight Academy Ireland/Evolve Gym — Kilwee
- Nossa Bjj — Knockbreda
Other categories in Belfast
BJJ in other cities
Frequently asked questions about bjj in Belfast
How many BJJ studios are there in Belfast?
There are 6 BJJ studios in Belfast. They are spread across areas including Ballyhackamore, Carlisle Circus, Kilwee, Knockbreda, and Whiterock, so most parts of the city have reasonable access to Brazilian jiu-jitsu training without needing to travel far.
Which areas of Belfast have BJJ studios?
BJJ studios in Belfast are located across several areas, including Carlisle Circus (New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy), Ballyhackamore (Lycan Grappling Academy NI), Whiterock (Trickster Jiu Jitsu), and Kilwee (Fight Academy Ireland/Evolve Gym). Knockbreda also has provision, giving good coverage across north, east, south, and west Belfast.
Is BJJ suitable for complete beginners in Belfast?
Yes. Most Belfast BJJ academies, including New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy and Lycan Grappling Academy NI, run structured beginner programmes or fundamentals classes. No prior grappling experience is required. Expect early sessions to focus on basic positions, escapes, and safety rather than sparring, making it accessible regardless of fitness level or background.
Which are the best-known BJJ academies in Belfast?
Among the most established BJJ academies in Belfast are New Ground Jiu Jitsu Academy in Carlisle Circus, Lycan Grappling Academy NI in Ballyhackamore, Trickster Jiu Jitsu in Whiterock, and Forge Grappling, which also covers mixed martial arts. Fight Academy Ireland, based at Evolve Gym in Kilwee, is another well-known option in the south of the city.
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