BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU
BJJ IS MORE THAN A SPORT—IT’S AN ART!
Jiu Jitsu is more than a sport; it’s an art that can bring discipline and tranquility to its dedicated practitioners.
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructors have dedicated their lives to studying this art and passing their skills on to their students. We could not be prouder to bring this excellent program to our members at Modern Martial Arts NYC.
And the best news? You can start learning BJJ at any age. Younger students can begin training in our kids martial arts classes, which focus on confidence, discipline, and foundational skills.
Are you or child interested in trying a Jiu Jitsu class? Click below to get started.
Find a Location that Suits You!
Upper East Side
220 E 86th St
New York, NY 10028
212.772.3700
Midtown West
780 8th Ave
New York, NY 10036
212.957.4045
What Sets Our BJJ Program Apart
We provide small class sizes so you get individual attention from the instructor, while at the same time connecting you to a network of passionate practitioners. Many members combine BJJ with our kickboxing classes to develop striking and grappling skills.
Whether you're looking for a life-time discipline, you're interested in competing, or you just want a fun and challenging workout to get you in great shape—we have the tools to help you reach your goals.
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It's a Network
Become part of the Modern Martial Arts network which gives you access to train at 2 Manhattan locations
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It's a Workout
Looking to push yourself? Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the best, most challenging total-body workouts you can do
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All Levels Welcome
Open level classes promote a welcoming environment for beginners all the way to seasoned veterans
COME JOIN US FOR 2 TRIAL CLASSES. LET US PROVE TO YOU THAT OUR METHOD WORKS. PERIOD.
When you join our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program, you're not just reserving your spot in a 45-minute class. You're also gaining a supportive community, access to world-class coaches, and the tools necessary for a profound lifestyle change. OSS!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions *
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Yes. Most adults who start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at our Upper East Side and Midtown Manhattan locations have never trained martial arts before. BJJ focuses on technique and leverage rather than strength, making it accessible for beginners of all ages and fitness levels.
Our instructors guide new students step-by-step through the fundamentals so you can learn in a supportive and welcoming environment.
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Not at all. Many students begin Brazilian Jiu Jitsu specifically to improve their fitness.
Adult BJJ classes provide a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, mobility, and coordination over time. You can start at any fitness level and progress at your own pace.
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Yes. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is designed around control, technique, and safety, which makes it one of the most approachable martial arts for adults.
Students learn how to train responsibly, how to apply techniques safely, and how to “tap out” if a submission becomes uncomfortable. Classes are supervised by experienced instructors to ensure a safe training environment.
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A typical beginner BJJ class includes:
Warm-up exercises
Technique instruction and partner drills
Positional training
A cool-down and review of key concepts
Our Upper East Side and Midtown instructors make sure beginners feel welcome and supported from the moment they step on the mat.
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No special equipment is required to begin. When you sign up for a trial, we provide a lightweight trial gi (uniform) for you to use during your introductory classes so you can experience Brazilian Jiu Jitsu the way it’s meant to be practiced.
The trial gi is designed for beginners who are just getting started. If you decide to continue training after your trial, you’ll need to purchase a standard BJJ gi for regular classes.
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Most beginners train 2-3 times per week, which is enough to build skills and see steady progress.
Some students train more frequently once they get comfortable, while others attend casually for fitness and stress relief.
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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers both physical and mental benefits, including:
Improved strength and conditioning
Practical self-defense skills
Increased confidence
Stress relief and mental focus
A strong sense of community
Many students find BJJ becomes both a workout and a rewarding long-term hobby.
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The best way to get started is with a beginner trial class.
Modern Martial Arts offers adult trial packages at our Upper East Side and Midtown Manhattan locations, giving you the opportunity to experience Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, meet the instructors, and see if training is the right fit for you.
JIU JITSU'S BENEFITS: GOING BEYOND THE MAT
There are many benefits to training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; it just depends on what you are looking to gain out of your training. If you're simply looking for a WORKOUT, BJJ will make you get in shape fast, all while having fun and keeping you engaged. In our schools, the workouts are constantly changing but will always make you sweat. This is not the same old gym routine. If you're looking for SELF-DEFENSE, BJJ is considered one of the best self-defense martial arts, providing you with practical, real-life defense skills.
If you are looking to train as a FIGHTER, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes are a great first step. Almost every fighter in the MMA scene today trains with BJJ classes. No matter your goal, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a great hobby to have, and you will be surrounded by like-minded positive people who care about themselves and their health.
What People Are Saying
"I came to Modern Martial Arts a year ago. Being a 2nd degree black belt in Judo, and having “rolled” with many BJJ practitioners, I had a idea of what to expect. I was expecting a contest of egos and big time grinding. What I got was grinding, but without the egos… I was welcomed and respected by all. This is no accident. Santana, the head instructor instills an atmosphere of mutual benefit and respect in all his students."
- Christopher Maksymowicz
"This place is a hidden gem in the NY jiu jitsu scene. Prof Santana has a unique ability to convey the fundamentals of BJJ and build it as a foundation for the students as they progress. If you haven't tried BJJ, I highly recommend that you do. It is a great workout, and cerebral activity. Most importantly, it is a lot of fun.”
- Abidur, Purple Belt