Balham’s Home of Authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Located in the heart of Balham, Grapplersden Academy is one of London’s longest-standing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies, proudly serving the community for over 25 years.
We are a trusted affiliate of the Mauricio Gomes Legacy Team, with direct lineage to Roger Gracie, 10-time world champion and one of the most influential figures in modern Jiu-Jitsu.
Leadership & Experience
Founded and led by Javed, a 4th-degree black belt under Roger Gracie, the academy blends authentic, high-level instruction with a focused and welcoming culture.
A lifelong martial artist and dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, he continues to study, compete, and refine the art, bringing depth, experience, and humility to every class.
brazilian jiu jitsu at Grapplers den Academy
Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the traditional form of the art, trained in the Gi (kimono).
Using grips on the jacket and sleeves, you learn how to control, break balance, and apply technique with precision, not strength. The Gi slows things down, allowing you to develop real understanding, strong fundamentals, and attention to detail that carries across all areas of Jiu-Jitsu.
At Grapplers Den, Gi training focuses on:
- Control before submission
- Proper positioning
- Technical development over strength
If you want to learn Jiu-Jitsu properly and build a strong foundation, start with the Gi.
NoGi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a faster, more dynamic form of grappling, trained without the traditional uniform.
With no grips on clothing, control comes from positioning, movement, timing, and pressure.
The pace is quicker, forcing you to react, adjust, and stay connected at all times, developing a more fluid, athletic style closely linked to wrestling and MMA.
At Grapplers Den, NoGi training focuses on:
- Movement and control under pressure
- Efficient transitions and fast reactions
- Composure in dynamic situations
If you want a fast-paced, high-energy style of training that builds real control and adaptability, NoGi is essential.