Real Jiu-Jitsu for Real Situations

Adult Beginner-Friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Fort Lauderdale

A clear path to developing real skill, confidence, and composure – built on a lineage of authentic instruction and grounded in practical application

why adults choose Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu

Teaching since 2007
Helio Gracie lineage of instruction (highest quality in the world)
Beginner-Friendly Classes
Structured 26-Lesson Fundamentals Program
Safe & Supportive Environment
Real Self-Defense Training

Challenge

Push Beyond Routine & Comfort Zones

Skill Development

Learn Practical Techniques With Purpose

Progress

Structured Training For Long-Term Improvement

Meet Professor Bruce Belfield

Over 30 Years Teaching Youth and Adults
Over 2000+ Students Trained
Former Police Officer and SWAT Team Member
Black Belts in Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Karate
Trained directly by Gracie family members: Royce, Rickson, Relson, Royler, and Rorion Gracie
Trained numerous local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as well as military special forces units.

Mission Statement:

Professor Belfield’s mission is to teach the traditional art of self-defense Jiu-Jitsu in a way that is enjoyable and easy for a beginner to learn so that everyone, regardless of age or physical condition, can have the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves as well as the discipline and growth that comes with training Jiu-Jitsu in the right way.

Who This Program Is For

Designed for Adults Who Want More Than Exercise

Learn Real Self-Defense

Develop practical skills that can be applied when it matters most

Build Genuine Confidence

Confidence earned through competence and preparation

Improve Focus and Discipline

Train in a structured environment that develops composure and selfcontrol

Our Approach

Jiu-Jitsu As It Was Intended

A Safe Training Environment

Our goal is to help adults learn effectively without unnecessary risk. Classes are structured, controlled, and designed for long-term progress.

Beginner Curriculum

A structured path to real skill

Our beginner Fundamentals curriculum is a 26-lesson course designed to take a beginner step-by-step towards developing a strong self-defense foundation. We cover defense against common street aggression scenarios, defense against an assailant with a weapon, striking, takedowns, and ground grappling. Each lesson has clear learning objectives and requires no experience.

Your First Session Is Private

Your first visit begins with a one-on-one introductory session designed to help you start comfortably and confidently.

Advanced Curriculum

Already Have Experience?

Whether you’re returning after time away or looking for a more traditional approach to Jiu-Jitsu, Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu offers advanced training classes beyond the beginner curriculum.

Students with previous experience can continue developing:

Our goal is not simply collecting techniques, but developing a complete understanding of Jiu-Jitsu through structured, progressive training.

Trusted By Fort Lauderdale Families

See what other parents and adults say about our school

Adult Program Reviews

Christopher Sparacino

I can’t say enough good things about this school. Great instruction, safe and welcoming environment, and lots of classes to choose from. Bruce Belfield is a highly skilled instructor. Bruce takes time to observe students learning styles and break down techniques in a way they can understand. I feel fortunate to have such a high quality school so close to my home.

AJ Mazzetto

After being over 10 years having moved from Brazil without training, I stumbled across FTLJJ and let me tell you Bruce and Katerina are wonderful! Their classes are every day of week, including Saturdays for adults, at convenient times. Very clean environment and I couldn’t express in words how grateful I am to Mestre Bruce. Sometimes I even arrive early to watch the kid’s class, it’s amazing to say the least the amount of skill and knowledge being passed on to the future generation. Also, a big shout out to Ali and Aaron, they do an amazing job helping out with the classes. OSS!

Eumar Assis

I have trained in different Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools in the USA and Brazil. Undoubtedly, this is the best traditional self-defense Jiu-Jitsu academy I’ve trained! The best Jiu-Jitsu school in Fort Lauderdale & Broward county!

Master Bruce Belfield is a really gifted instructor and a true martial artist, with background in different martial arts, who has practiced since childhood. Not only is he exceptionally technical, he is there to support his students in achieving the best version of themselves and becoming better human beings through Jiu-Jitsu. Bruce is one of the few instructors I’ve had who runs the academy not just as a mere business, but an environment where people can develop themselves.

Matt Cable

Bruce is one of the best teachers I’ve ever seen, especially with kids.

I’ve been a Black Belt since 2008 and have taught many adult classes but kids take something special and Bruce has it. My daughter goes to him and she really enjoys it. He has a vast knowledge of all things Martial Arts related, and how these things apply in a real life self defense situation. His school is the best around for both adults and kids.

Jose Landivar

I’ve been a student for nearly a year and BJJ has changed my life and personal character. Bruce is one of the best instructors out there and the support staff is extremely welcoming, encouraging, and friendly. I like that the school allows you to learn at your own pace and I consider it to be a great fit for the working professional who is interested in taking up a martial art later in life or is just interested in basic self-defense techniques. I also think the school does a great job instructing students on how to practice BJJ safely (i.e avoiding injuries) while also being true to fundamental principles. I highly recommend!

Ali Rashid

We are very lucky to have top quality authentic Jiu Jitsu and self defense instruction right here in Fort Lauderdale. Bruce Belfield’s school is clean and well structured, and the instruction is top quality. Everyone progresses by putting the time in. The other students are nice, respectful, and overall great people to be around. You have to come see it for yourself to see how good we have it 🙂

Felix Granados

After training many years in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, it is awesome to find a school that not only trains Gracie Jiu Jitsu but also has a great instructor with real world experience in applying the techniques. Bruce Belfield has had many years of applying these techniques in not only law enforcement but also in self defense situations. This school has a welcoming environment for both kids and adults focusing on not only the moves but the philosophy that the Gracie Family and the Valente Brothers have spent their entire lives establishing. I am truly blessed to have a school of this quality so close to home.

A must for anyone wanting to learn Helio Gracie Jiu Jitsu. See you in class!

Tony Davis

Bruce is a highly trained and experienced martial artist and fantastic teacher. His experience in law enforcement makes a huge difference in his teaching, he really understands and can communicate the big picture of self defense. Great school.

Dmitry Lyalin

FLJJ is where I started my BJJ journey. This is a fantastic studio, Bruce and all the supporting instructors are truly skilled and easy to learn from. The students are wonderful to practice with, they really made my start with BJJ a positive experience. I’ve been here for two months now and highly recommend this studio.

p.s. they also have amazing kids classes, so this is not just for adults

Greg Kormendi

I could hardly write anything that would do justice for what this academy has given to me. I was joining a martial arts school and what I got was a new family. I am honored to be part of this organization and to study under Bruce Belfield who is truly a master of his craft. The level of his mental clarity and purity of technique is up there with a very few. If only 10% of his knowledge rubs off on you, you’ll be much more prepared not only in a physical confrontation but taking on any challenge life throws in front of you. Jiu-Jitsu is a very powerful discipline that will change your life for sure as it crawls under your skin and goes with you everywhere you go. It’s like having a superpower, and Bruce can translate it so well that is easily digestible even for the absolute beginner. So if you want to better your life, maybe loose weight (I lost 30 lbs), become healthier physically and gain mental strength, or whatever motivation you have, level you’re on, do yourself a favor and come see what you’re missing out on! You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Frequently Asked Questions

Adults:

Do I need any experience?

No. The program is designed specifically for beginners. Your first private session introduces everything you need — we meet you exactly where you are.

Do I need to be in shape?

No. The focus is on skill development, not conditioning. Your fitness will improve naturally as you train — many students are surprised how quickly.

Am I too old to start?

No. Training is structured so you can build safely at your own pace. We have students ranging from their late teens to their 60s and beyond.

What happens in the first session?

Your first session is a private one-on-one lesson with your instructor. We introduce foundational concepts, discuss your goals, and make sure you begin with the right foundation. It’s focused, straightforward, and designed to help you start strong. You should wear some comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts, or sweatpants.

Is training safe?

Yes. Safety and control are emphasized at every level. Our traditional approach prioritizes technique and composure over force, which is one of the reasons jiu-jitsu is considered one of the safest martial arts to train

How often should I train?

Most beginners start with 2–3 sessions per week. After your intro session, we’ll help you choose a training schedule that fits your life and your goals.

What if I’m nervous about trying a class?

That’s completely normal. Most new students feel a little nervous before their first class. Our community is welcoming, supportive, and focused on helping beginners succeed.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Take The First Step Toward Greater Confidence & Growth

Whether you’re interested in our Youth Martial Arts Program for your child or Adult Martial Arts classes for yourself, we’re here to help you find the right starting point.

Call us at (954) 802-9831 or complete the form below to schedule your introductory lesson and discover which program is right for you.

Adult Program