Jiu jitu Ivanhoe Melbourne Vic
We have classes in both Japanese Jiu jitsu and Brazilian Jiu jitsu (BJJ) near Ivanhoe in Melbourne
The Japanese Jiu jitsu schools we study have a long history stretching back to the days of the Samurai in ancient Japan. They all contain striking, locks, chokes, throws and pressure point based martial arts techniques as well as a wide range of Samurai weapons training.
It is a complete martial art and the main style we study. BJJ is a modern sports Jiu jitsu system that is based on Japanese Jiu jitsu but with a focus primarily on ground techniques. It's is more of a specialist system with a strong focus on competition.
For Melbourne students you can train in either or both at our dojo however for self defence we strongly recommend Japanese Jiu jitsu as your primary area of study because it is more complete with striking and 90% stand up and effective against multiple attackers and weapons (knifes in particular) where as BJJ is 90% ground work and is unconcerned about knives, multiple attackers and weapons in general.
Japanese Jiu jitsu's strong focus on knife defence training is absolutely essential for anyone living near Abbotsford in Melbourne Australia that is serious about self defence, I always say that if you're not learning knife defence then you're not learning self defence.
Knife crime is a very real problem in Melbourne and several of our students have had to disarm people that were threatening them with knives in real life and not one has been cut. All were able to either disarm and escape or restrain and control the other people depending on the situation.
The Japanese Jiu jitsu schools we study have a long history stretching back to the days of the Samurai in ancient Japan. They all contain striking, locks, chokes, throws and pressure point based martial arts techniques as well as a wide range of Samurai weapons training.
It is a complete martial art and the main style we study. BJJ is a modern sports Jiu jitsu system that is based on Japanese Jiu jitsu but with a focus primarily on ground techniques. It's is more of a specialist system with a strong focus on competition.
For Melbourne students you can train in either or both at our dojo however for self defence we strongly recommend Japanese Jiu jitsu as your primary area of study because it is more complete with striking and 90% stand up and effective against multiple attackers and weapons (knifes in particular) where as BJJ is 90% ground work and is unconcerned about knives, multiple attackers and weapons in general.
Japanese Jiu jitsu's strong focus on knife defence training is absolutely essential for anyone living near Abbotsford in Melbourne Australia that is serious about self defence, I always say that if you're not learning knife defence then you're not learning self defence.
Knife crime is a very real problem in Melbourne and several of our students have had to disarm people that were threatening them with knives in real life and not one has been cut. All were able to either disarm and escape or restrain and control the other people depending on the situation.
Adults Japanese Jiujitsu Timetable 15+
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A typical self defence exercise might be... The opponent grabs your shirt with their left hand and punches to your face with the right hand.
You might block the punch with your right arm, kick to their groin with your right foot and then apply an armbar to take them down into a controlling position.
There are hundreds and hundreds of these very effective self defence examples, some are simple like that one and some are more complex as your skill level increases. We practice against all sorts of attacks, kicks punches, chokes, throws etc ... and combinations of all of them. This is not a mixture of different martial arts, that all have different ways of moving the body, that require you to attend several different classes each week a couple of times each. It is one martial art that does many different things all from a consistent way of moving.
Keep it simple with one way of moving and apply all of your techniques from that way of movement.
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Excellent professional environment with highly experienced teachers who also make it fun to learn. Coming from martial arts background, I highly rate this place in comparison. I have learnt a great deal in such short time and I feel confident in using the technics. All staff are friendly & helpful while you learn something new every time. HIGHLY recommended for all ages.
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐We’ve had nothing but positive experiences here! The staff and trainers are outstanding, caring, highly skilled in and professional. Everyone is treated with respect, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. I would recommend this school for help with structure, fitness, discipline, moral support and good fun.
You might block the punch with your right arm, kick to their groin with your right foot and then apply an armbar to take them down into a controlling position.
There are hundreds and hundreds of these very effective self defence examples, some are simple like that one and some are more complex as your skill level increases. We practice against all sorts of attacks, kicks punches, chokes, throws etc ... and combinations of all of them. This is not a mixture of different martial arts, that all have different ways of moving the body, that require you to attend several different classes each week a couple of times each. It is one martial art that does many different things all from a consistent way of moving.
Keep it simple with one way of moving and apply all of your techniques from that way of movement.
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Excellent professional environment with highly experienced teachers who also make it fun to learn. Coming from martial arts background, I highly rate this place in comparison. I have learnt a great deal in such short time and I feel confident in using the technics. All staff are friendly & helpful while you learn something new every time. HIGHLY recommended for all ages.
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐We’ve had nothing but positive experiences here! The staff and trainers are outstanding, caring, highly skilled in and professional. Everyone is treated with respect, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. I would recommend this school for help with structure, fitness, discipline, moral support and good fun.
Junior Adults - Teens ages 11 to 14
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Our Teens programme is very popular with about 80 students currently training across the 13 classes we run each week for this age group. The focus is firmly on self defence and technical skills as well as developing friendships outside of their normal school friendship group
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My movement, coordination, awareness of self and others and overall fitness and confidence has improved dramatically thanks to this school, and I also made a bunch of great friends through these classes. This school has without a doubt changed my life significantly for the better so I highly rate and recommend this school
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My daughter Olivia loves it here, and her confidence has really grown. She’s learning to defend herself, the staff are incredible; the timetable provides great flexibility. We are so pleased with our decision to get her involved!
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My movement, coordination, awareness of self and others and overall fitness and confidence has improved dramatically thanks to this school, and I also made a bunch of great friends through these classes. This school has without a doubt changed my life significantly for the better so I highly rate and recommend this school
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My daughter Olivia loves it here, and her confidence has really grown. She’s learning to defend herself, the staff are incredible; the timetable provides great flexibility. We are so pleased with our decision to get her involved!
Children's Jiu Jitsu Lessons ages 8 - 10
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Our Jiu-Jitsu program is located in Thornbury, a short drive from Ivanhoe, for kids aged 5 -7 (10 classes) & 8-10 (17 classes) is designed to develop confidence, discipline, and real-world self-defense skills while improving gross motor coordination. With so many class times outside school hours, families can easily fit training into their schedule—kids can even attend back-to-back sessions for extra practice!
🔹 Learn practical self-defense & anti-bullying techniques
🔹 Boost confidence, teamwork & discipline through martial arts
🔹 Curriculum designed to improve focus, coordination & life skills
Our Character Development Program, developed by an education expert (PHD edu) and reviewed by psychologists, teachers, and parents, helps children grow both on and off the mats. Topics include teamwork, friendship, self-control, and listening skills—essential tools for personal growth.
🔹 Learn practical self-defense & anti-bullying techniques
🔹 Boost confidence, teamwork & discipline through martial arts
🔹 Curriculum designed to improve focus, coordination & life skills
Our Character Development Program, developed by an education expert (PHD edu) and reviewed by psychologists, teachers, and parents, helps children grow both on and off the mats. Topics include teamwork, friendship, self-control, and listening skills—essential tools for personal growth.
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐My son has been a member since he was 5 - he's now almost 11 and still loving it. I don't think he'll stop either which is great. As a parent I'm very grateful for my son to have good adult influences outside of school and family and Thornbury Martial Arts provides just that - physical training, self defence skills, fun & games and good adult influences in a safe environment.
I can't recommend it enough, what the sensei's do for kids is phenomenal!
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our daughter Isabelle has been a student for 5 years now. Enrolling her at this school has been hands down the best thing we as parents have done for our daughter. It is our sincere hope and intention to keep our daughter here for the long haul.
I can't recommend it enough, what the sensei's do for kids is phenomenal!
Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our daughter Isabelle has been a student for 5 years now. Enrolling her at this school has been hands down the best thing we as parents have done for our daughter. It is our sincere hope and intention to keep our daughter here for the long haul.
Children's Jiu Jitsu Classes ages 5 - 7
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Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - My 7 year old son has been attending Jiu jitsu classes here for almost 2 years and we’ve seen his confidence and discipline grow significantly. All sensei's are knowledgeable and patient making sure each student learns at their own pace while still being challenged - Good mix of technique and games during each lesson. The environment is supportive and fun, and has a strong focus on respect and character development.
Experience Authentic Jiu-Jitsu Near Ivanhoe
Our Adults, Teens, and Children's Jiu-Jitsu near Ivanhoe are designed to fit easily into your busy lifestyle with an incredibly flexible timetable. There are no locked-in days, giving you the freedom to train across a large number of classes whenever it suits you each week. This flexibility makes it easier to stay consistent, develop your skills, and be fully prepared when grading time comes around. Whether you're balancing work, school, or family life, you can train at your own pace and stay on track toward your goals.
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Why Adults Choose Our Jiu-Jitsu Classes
🔹 Learn real-world self-defense – proven techniques that work 🔹 Stay fit, focused & stress-free – train your body and mind 🔹 Join a supportive community – make friends & grow together 🔹 Train at your convenience – flexible class times that work for you 🔹 No egos, just progress – a welcoming space for all skill levels |
Why Parents Trust Us for Their Kids’ Training
🔹 25+ years of experience – proven results in teaching kids & teens 🔹 Age-appropriate self-defense – skills for safety & confidence 🔹 Your child’s success matters – personal growth beyond the dojo 🔹 Flexible scheduling – classes designed to fit your busy life 🔹 Kids Life Skills Program – developed by Dr. W. Guest, PhD Edu |
Meet Our Team Of Expert Instructors
Our highly experienced and certified instructors bring many decades of Jiu jitsu training and teaching experience. They are dedicated to helping students of all ages and abilities unlock their potential, build confidence, and develop real self-defense skills. Our instructors are 100% committed to YOUR success - Train with the best today!
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🔹Craig Guest – School Owner Shihan (Master Instructor) 35 Years Japanese Jiu Jitsu (JJJ) 35 Years Weapons Training 30+ Years Teaching Experience 19 Training Trips To Japan since 1993 Over 500 classes training directly under the Japanese Masters in Japan 🔹Ged Wirawan – 25 years of JJJ – Expert teaching Kids, Teens & Adults Programs 🔹Daniel Bacon – 20 years JJJ & 12 years BJJ – Ground Fighting & Jujutsu Specialist 🔹Elisa Spina – 20 years JJJ – Kids & Teens Programs Specialist 🔹James Mackintosh – 15 years JJJ – Adults Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Kyusho Specialist 🔹Mila Whannell – 15 years JJJ – Kids & Teens Programs Specialist 🔹Sophie Kyriakou – 12 Years JJJ – Adults Japanese Jiu jitsu Specialist |
Japanese Jiu jitsu Training... Let's start with a free trial
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Let's keep it simple, start your Jiu jitsu journey right here at 272 Dundas St Thornbury with a free trial class, experience our training firsthand, meet the other Students and Instructors and just get a feel for our school culture.
After that class has finished, you have the option to continue with an extended trial for only 19.95 Your extended trial includes: 🔹Three additional 90 minute classes - To deepen your skills 🔹A brand-new martial arts uniform - Yours to keep, absolutely free. To be clear that's only 19.95 in total, not per class, and the uniform is free. This makes it really easy for you to explore our program while also giving you time to see what Japanese Jiu Jitsu is all about and if it's right for you. For you to enjoy and benefit from your training several things need to be right: 🔹The martial art should make sense to you. 🔹The class schedule should have plenty of available training times . 🔹The instructors should teach in a way that helps you learn effectively. 🔹Most importantly, you should feel safe with your training partners. |
Let's get you started on your Japanese jiu jitsu journey, either fill in our enquiry form below or 📞 call us on 94951929 now and we can arrange a time for your first free class
Transform Your Confidence with Jiu Jitsu
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