Who are we?
Welcome to Grapplers Den Academy, a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school proudly serving the Balham community in South London. We are an affiliate of the Mauricio Gomes Legacy team, committed to upholding the highest standards of BJJ training and fostering a supportive community for all levels. Our club was founded over 18 years ago by Coach Javed, a seasoned martial artist with a wealth of experience and dedication. As a 3rd-degree black belt under 10-time world champion Roger Gracie, Coach Javed brings exceptional expertise and passion to every class, making Grapplers Den a welcoming space for all.
Whether you’re a total beginner curious about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or an experienced grappler looking to sharpen your skills, we invite you to join us and be a part of our team. Our classes run six days a week, offering a mix of Gi and No-Gi sessions to suit every interest and skill level.
At Grapplers Den, we believe that BJJ is a journey that challenges and transforms each individual, regardless of size, strength, or background. Our mission is to help you realize your full potential and empower you through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Come and discover what you’re capable of with us!
What is brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ)
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is by far the fastest growing martial art in the world. It combines grappling and submissions. Techniques that can be used by anyone to overcome and subdue a larger and less skilled opponent.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a modern martial art which was started when a Japanese master Mitsuyo Maeda travelled to Brazil in 1916. There, he started teaching his ground fighting skills to Carlos Gracie who later passed it on to his brothers. Hélio, being the smallest and weakest of the brothers, had difficulties adapting the techniques. Therefore, he began to make adjustments until they could be applied by anyone, regardless of size or strength.
· Learn how to perform takedowns, control and submit an opponent with either joint locks or chokes in a safe and controlled environment.
· Learn defensive as well as Sports BJJ. BJJ is always evolving with new techniques, so you never get bored.
· Progress in skill and technique and take part in competitions to help sharpen and prove your abilities as you progress up the belt ranking system from White to Black Belt!
· Sessions are offered to all regardless of gender, age, fitness level or previous experience.
- Being skilled in BJJ is also considered a necessity for all (Mixed Martial Arts) athletes.