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BJJ for Beginners in Brooklyn
15 gyms in Brooklyn, New York show real evidence — from their own sites or students' reviews — of being a welcoming place to take your very first BJJ class. That first class is simpler than the nerves suggest: you don't need to be fit or flexible, you won't be thrown into hard rolling, and a patient coach walks beginners through technique with a partner at their own pace. Wear comfortable athletic clothes, bring water, and expect a warm-up, some movement drills, and a few positions and escapes learned slowly — most academies lend a gi so you don't need to buy anything yet. Gyms are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 15 beginner-friendly options in town, it's worth calling ahead, saying it's your first time, and asking which class on the schedule they'd start you with.
1. DiamondHeart Striking and Grappling/PCC
5 ★★★★★ 279 reviews
“Training at Diamond Heart Striking and Grappling has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my 40s. The coaches here are incredible — knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely…” — Matthew
2. Gregor Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 201 reviews
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gregor Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy is truly exceptional! My 11-year-old son and I have both been attending classes here, and the experience has been phenomenal. The…” — Amado
4. Pillar jiujitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 174 reviews
“Pillar Jujitsu offers a top-notch martial arts experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you'll find the quality of instruction and the supportive…” — Uzair
5. Brooklyn Mixed Martial Arts
4.7 ★★★★★ 117 reviews
7. South Brooklyn BJJ @ Darfight
5 ★★★★★ 51 reviews
“I had an amazing time at this BJJ class! The atmosphere is super friendly and welcoming, with a diverse group of people that makes it even better. The coach is very knowledgeable…” — Nutrition
8. 555 Jiu-Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 49 reviews
“In the world of bjj gyms, 555 jiu-jitsu is a rare combination of great high-level instruction, friendly people, and modern and clean facilities. There's a big emphasis on safety…” — Felix
9. Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Bay Ridge
5 ★★★★★ 34 reviews
“I joined jujitsu just wanting to have a hobby but after the first class I was hooked. The environment is great, the people are funny and always have me drained by the end of…” — Kevin
10. Zero Gravity Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
4.9 ★★★★★ 33 reviews
“Excellent, high level instruction from Anthony and Gary. Professors regularly train with students, and they constantly provide helpful feedback and adjustments. They sincerely…” — M.
11. The 47 BJJ Coop
4.7 ★★★★★ 30 reviews
“Incredible bjj instruction. Super welcoming and friendly vibe but also serious about bjj. Great technique and detail; small class size and plenty of rolling. Welcoming and…” — B
12. Calestine Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 21 reviews
“Coach Jon is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and truly invested in helping his students grow. Whether you’re brand new to Jiu Jitsu or have years of experience, you’ll feel…” — Isko
13. JG Monster Jiu-Jitsu Fitness
5 ★★★★★ 16 reviews
“Jeff is someone who breaks down the moves for a beginner and helps them know what they are doing. He truly cares and not just when there with but when we leave too. If something…” — Adam
14. Brooklyn Heights Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 13 reviews
“I arrived in February looking for new hobbies and decided to join Coach Garrett's gym. Since I started, my perception of life has changed completely! It doesn't matter how many…” — Victor
15. Fort Greene Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 4 reviews
“My daughter trains in the kids class and I am taking adult classes. Amazing school with very passionate and knowledgeable instructors for both BJJ and kickboxing. The environment…” — Alex
Booking your first class in Brooklyn: practical notes
- Call ahead and say you're new. Ask which class they'd start a beginner with — many gyms have a fundamentals or all-levels class that's a gentler introduction than the main floor. A good front desk loves this question.
- Ask how rolling works. You won't be made to roll hard as a beginner; find out how and when a gym introduces live rolling so you know exactly what you're signing up for.
- Keep gear simple. Comfortable athletic clothes and water are enough for a first class — most academies here lend a gi, so you can try BJJ before buying anything. See the what-to-wear guide.
- Go at your own pace. Being winded the first time is normal and expected. Take breaks, drink water, and let your fitness build over your first few weeks — nobody expects a beginner to keep up with the regulars.
- Use a free trial. Many gyms offer a free trial class — the cheapest, lowest-pressure way to find the room that fits. See free BJJ trial classes.