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Durham's most established grappling academy — training members across County Durham since 2019.
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At 5th Element Jiu Jitsu Academy we offer structured, high-quality training in a blend of Grappling mixing together
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling and Judo — for kids, adults and competitors at every level. Whether you're a complete beginner or a parent researching the right environment for your child, this is where you start.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling & Judo Classes
Why Adults Join?
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​Curious about martial arts but never tried.
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Want to get fitter but find the gym boring.
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Looking for something that challenging.
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No age cap, all adults are welcome.
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A real community of motivated individuals.
"Started as an unfit 50+ year old. Now nearly one year in I've dropped over 20 lbs, I'm fitter, and I've made lots of new friends." — Steven, joined aged 50+
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling & Judo Classes
Why Kids Join?
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​To build genuine confidence & resilience.
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Training in a safe & structured environment.
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Wanting to try something new & fresh.
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Want to something challenging in their life.
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Less screen time & more action.
"Both of my kids train here. It's a place they look forward to going each week and it's been amazing to see how much they've grown through the training." — Jon, family of members
What Makes Us Different
We blend Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling and Judo — taking the most effective techniques from each — delivered through a structured curriculum by qualified, DBS checked coaches.
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The result is a programme that's technically serious, genuinely welcoming, and built for the long term — whether your goal is fitness, confidence, competition, or all three.
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"Great vibes, amazing standard of coaching, and accessible for anyone — whether you're looking to compete, get fitter, or just pick up a new hobby." — Mani, member
Questions You're Probably Asking
Fitness comes from training, not before it. Nobody expects anything from you on day one except showing up.
As with any contact sport, minor bumps are part of the journey. Grappling is widely regarded as one of the safer martial arts disciplines — no striking, techniques applied progressively, and partners stop immediately upon submission. Every class is supervised by a minimum of two qualified coaches, and the safety of every training partner is central to how we train.
We have members who started in their 40s and 50s who now train multiple times a week and love it. Jiu Jitsu rewards patience and intelligence over raw athleticism.
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"I joined at 55, not sure if I'd be fit enough or able to learn something new. The coaching staff and members are absolutely brilliant. Anyone who thinks they're too old — please give it a go." — John, joined aged 55
No. The culture here is studious, friendly and inclusive — and it's the thing our members mention most.
All coaches are DBS checked. Every class has at least two coaches on the mat. Our Bronze programme — where every child starts — is age-appropriate and confidence-first before intensity ever increases.
Yes. Get in touch before your trial and we'll make sure everything is set up properly.
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"I brought someone who has autism to train. Reece welcomed him open armed and it is a joy to see." — Ken, member
That's exactly who Bronze is built for. Every child started exactly where yours would.
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"My 13 year old has been attending for a month. It's a funny age to start somewhere new when you don't know anyone — but the classes are really welcoming." — Vicky, parent
No specialist kit needed for your trial. Wear a t-shirt and shorts or joggers — no zips or pockets. We'll provide everything else on the day. Once you join we'll guide you through what to get and when.
1. Book online Takes two minutes. You'll receive a confirmation with everything you need before you arrive, including your waiver to complete online ahead of your session.
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2. Arrive Come a few minutes early. You'll be welcomed in, shown around, and have a chance to ask any questions before the session starts. The atmosphere is relaxed — nobody is going to make you feel like the new person.
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3. The session Our beginner classes are structured differently to most martial arts gyms. Rather than a single technique repeated for an hour, every session covers three distinct areas — standing work, guard work, and pins — giving you a complete picture of grappling from your very first class.
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Techniques and light sparring games are woven throughout, so you're always applying what you've just learned rather than drilling in isolation. It keeps the session engaging and means you leave having actually experienced grappling, not just watched it.
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As a trial student you'll follow along with the group, with a coach close by to guide you through each section. When it comes to partner work, you'll be paired with an experienced member who knows how to work with someone new — it's relaxed, low intensity, and nothing to worry about.
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One of the things our members notice quickly is the mix of experience levels in the room. Training alongside people at different stages means you're constantly learning from different bodies, different approaches, and different levels of understanding — something you simply can't get training only with other beginners.
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4. After the session Your coach will check in, answer any questions, and if you'd like to continue, walk you through how to get started. No pressure — just an honest conversation about whether it's the right fit.
Which Programme?
Adults (ages 14+)
All new starters begin in our Foundations or All Levels classes — both designed specifically for beginners. Most members spend their first 3–6 months here before progressing naturally.
Kids (ages 4-14)
All children start in Bronze, grouped by age — 4–5 years, Under 10s, Under 14s. It's fun, friendly, and focused on confidence and movement before anything else. Progression to Silver and Gold happens naturally over time
Not sure which is right?
Book a trial and tell us about yourself or your child when you arrive. We'll point you in the right direction — no pressure, no hard sell.
