jiu jitsu for beginners

  • Real self-defence built on leverage, technique & control

  • Beginner-friendly coaching; patient, clear, safe

  • Supportive community that wants you to SUCCEED


ICON JIU JITSU BELFAST

Boucher Road • Belfast

Why Start Jiu Jitsu?

Group of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners in gis and belts posing for a photo in a training facility with a sign that reads 'ICON' on the wall.

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

Two male Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners in gis practicing a technique on a mat in a gym, with other practitioners training in the background.

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.

Two Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners practicing on a mat, with four more practitioners lying or sitting in the background, one of whom is being attended to by an instructor.

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 at icon

i never looked back!

–Rob mcconchie, Current Member

Take your 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.

  • 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.

Begin Your Jiu Jitsu Journey