Jiu Jitsu designed for men in their prime. Build functional strength, sharpen your mind, and join a brotherhood of like-minded men right here in Belfast.
Active Members
Years Running
Age Range
Egos Allowed
You've spent decades building a career, raising a family, and looking after everyone else. Now it's time to invest in yourself. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn't about fighting — it's about solving problems with your body, finding flow, and building the kind of fitness that actually matters in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.
At Belfast Rolling Academy, we've built a training environment specifically for men who want a real challenge without the machismo. Our coaching staff understand the needs of the older athlete — smart training, proper warm-ups, and technique over brute force.
Whether you've never been on a mat or you're a seasoned grappler, we've got a class that meets you where you are.
Perfect for complete beginners. Learn core positions, basic submissions, and proper movement patterns in a supportive, pressure-free environment. We'll have you rolling safely within weeks.
Our flagship open mat session where all belts train together. Structured drilling followed by live sparring. Higher belts guide newer members — it's how the best academies in the world train.
Dedicated class exclusively for the over-40s crew. Longer warm-ups, joint-friendly techniques, and training intensity you control. Because longevity on the mat matters more than winning rounds.
Classes run in the evenings and Saturday mornings to fit around your work and family commitments.
| Day | Time | Class | Level | Coach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 7:00 – 8:15 PM | Fundamentals | Beginner | Coach Ciaran |
| Tuesday | 8:00 – 9:30 PM | All Levels Rolling | All Levels | Coach Declan |
| Wednesday | 7:00 – 8:15 PM | Fundamentals | Beginner | Coach Ciaran |
| Wednesday | 8:30 – 9:30 PM | Advanced Techniques | Blue Belt+ | Coach Declan |
| Thursday | 8:00 – 9:30 PM | All Levels Rolling | All Levels | Coach Ciaran |
| Friday | 7:00 – 8:15 PM | Fundamentals | Beginner | Coach Declan |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 11:30 AM | Over 40s Session | All Levels | Both Coaches |
Real stories from real men who started their Jiu Jitsu journey with us in Belfast.
I walked in at 47 with dodgy knees and zero experience. Eighteen months later I've lost two stone, my back doesn't ache in the mornings, and I genuinely look forward to training. Best decision I've made in years.
I used to just go to the gym and lift. It was boring and lonely. BJJ has given me a social life, a challenge, and a hobby I'm actually passionate about. The craic in this club is class — feels like a team, not just a gym.
My doctor told me to do something about my stress levels. I never expected it to be grappling on a mat with fellas my age. My wife says I'm a different person. I sleep better, think clearer, and I've finally got something that's just for me.
No joining fees, no contracts, no hidden costs. Cancel anytime with 30 days notice.
A glimpse inside our academy — where hard work meets good craic.
Everything you want to know before stepping on the mat for the first time.
Absolutely. Most of our members started in exactly that position. We don't expect you to be fit to start — you get fit by starting. Our Fundamentals class is specifically designed for absolute beginners, and we scale every exercise to your current ability. Within a few weeks, you'll be amazed at the difference.
Our coaches are experienced in working with men who have pre-existing niggles. We always recommend speaking to your GP first, but many of our members train around injuries successfully. We teach you how to tap early, communicate with training partners, and modify techniques. The Over 40s session on Saturday is particularly focused on joint-friendly training.
Just bring a towel, a water bottle, and wear comfortable athletic clothing (shorts and a t-shirt or rash guard). We have loaner gis available for your first session. Flip-flops or slides for walking off the mat are handy but not essential. Trim your nails, remove jewellery, and come with an open mind.
Not at all. We've deliberately built a culture where ego gets left at the door. Our members are accountants, plumbers, teachers, IT consultants, and small business owners — regular blokes having a laugh while learning something brilliant. Higher belts are expected to help newer members, and we have a zero tolerance policy for anyone training unsafely.
We're based in a purpose-built training facility on the Boucher Road, South Belfast. There's plenty of free parking, and we're a short walk from Boucher Road Bus Stop (Metro services 9A and 9B). The academy is on the ground floor with full changing rooms and shower facilities.
Fill in the form below and we'll book you into a Fundamentals class. Your first session is completely free with no obligation. Arrive 15 minutes early, and Coach Ciaran or Coach Declan will meet you, show you around, and make sure you're comfortable before class starts. No hard sell — just come, try it, and decide for yourself.
Drop us a message and we'll get you booked into your first Fundamentals class. No experience, no fitness level, and no gi required. Just show up ready to learn.
Unit 14, Boucher Business Park
Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6HR
Mon–Fri: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM