jiu jitsu for beginners
Real self-defence built on leverage, technique & control
Beginner-friendly coaching; patient, clear, safe
Supportive community that wants you to win
Why Start Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just another workout. It’s one of the most effective martial arts in the world. Built on leverage, technique, and control, BJJ gives you the ability to protect and defend yourself against bigger, stronger opponents. It’s a system of movement, problem-solving, and resilience. Unlike striking-based martial arts, Jiu Jitsu focuses on grappling, submissions, and ground control, the situations where most real encounters end up. You will learn to build real confidence, and unlock a new level of physical and mental fitness. Join a trial session at ICON, based in Belfast. You don’t need experience, strength, or even flexibility to start. You just need to show up.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Typical schedule includes:
Early morning classes (Gi & No-Gi)
Midday fundamentals & competition training
Evening classes (Beginner → Advanced)
Kids & Youth programmes
Competition-focused sessions
-
Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact forwe’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
-
At Icon BJJ Belfast, we’ve built a culture that puts learning and respect before ego.
That means:
No cliques, no intimidation — just a welcoming environment from day one
Coaches who are present, engaged, and invested in your progress
Structured classes designed to help you improve every session
A team atmosphere where everyone helps each other get better
We combine high-level coaching with a down-to-earth culture, so whether you’re stepping on the mats for the first time or preparing to compete, you’ll feel supported and challenged in equal measure.
-
You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
-
We offer flexible membership options to suit different training goals, including both monthly and annual plans.
To get full details on pricing and availability, simply get in touch via our contact form or email — we’ll guide you through the options and answer any questions.
-
Nothing complicated — just:
Comfortable gym clothes (t-shirt and shorts)
A water bottle
A change of clothes
When you join, we’ll provide you with a free Gi, so you’re fully set up from day one.
Try your first class
Self-Defence Practical, effective techniques from day one. Confidence Train calm under pressure, on and off the mats. Fitness with Purpose Strength, endurance, mobility, no treadmill monotony. Community A respectful, ego-free team in Belfast that holds you accountable.
What to expect in your first class
Walking into something new can feel intimidating. We get it. That’s why our beginner sessions are designed to be welcoming, beginner friendly & safe and supportive. You’ll jump in with a small crew of other first-timers and get hands-on straight away. We’ll show you your first position, why control matters more than strength, and give you a taste of how Jiu Jitsu actually works in real life. Safe, simple, and way more fun than you think.
Everyone is a beginner once... “I’m not fit enough.” ”I’ll look silly.” “It’s too intense.”
At ICON, we’ve heard them all and we’ve proven them wrong.
World-class coaches that remembers their own first class (no intimidation, no egos)
Beginner-only intro so you’re never out of your depth Free Gi for your session Hands-on fundamentals: positions, why control beats strength, and how BJJ works in real life
I was nervous starting my journey at 43 but i definitely havent looked back!
–Marty Briggs, Current Member
Take you training to the next level
-
![Man in a white Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi with black belt standing in martial arts training room.]()
David Terry
Head Coach
I am a BJJ black belt and I have trained with the Icon Team under Zé Marcello for over 17 years. I loved the culture of the global Icon team as soon as I joined and it was exciting to be able to open my own Icon school and carry on our culture of no ego training, welcoming so many new starters to the sport. -
![A man in a black martial arts gi standing at a martial arts tournament with a yellow and black banner in the background.]()
Dave Hill
Deputy Head Coach / Wrestling Coach
I began training in MMA and Wrestling in 2005, leading to me winning 3 national MMA titles; fighting on Tuff N Uff in Las Vegas and competing at the professional level.Each year I like to go and travel round the world to train at and experience different gyms.
-
![Martial arts instructor practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a young student on a mat, other children training in the background.]()
Tony McMorrow
Childrens Programme Director
Being a qualified Youth/Community worker for over 25 years with extensive expertise working with kids with disabilities, complex needs like ADHD, ASD , anger problems and running projects focusing on a group work setting, it was natural for me to get involved with the kids programmes at Icon. -
![Man in a white Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi with black belt standing against a plain wall.]()
Zé Marcello
Icon Founder
Zé Marcello (sixth degree black belt) went from training on wooden floors in Brazil to creating a jiu-jitsu association with more than 140 affiliates.Icon Jiu Jitsu team founder and head coach, now living permanently in England.
