In‑depth Look at Amsterdam's BJJ Academies

10th Planet Jiu‑Jitsu Amsterdam

10th Planet is part of the global 10th Planet network created by Eddie Bravo, a legendary grappler who became famous for his innovative no‑gi system. The Amsterdam affiliate emphasizes evolving grappling techniques, particularly for submission‑focused mixed‑martial‑arts. Because the curriculum is no‑gi, you train in rashguards and shorts rather than a traditional kimono. The gym offers free trial classes and is located at H.J.E. Wenckebachweg 6V5 in Amsterdam Oost.

Why train here? If you want to focus on modern, no‑gi Jiu‑Jitsu or complement your MMA training, 10th Planet delivers a structured program under the guidance of instructors certified by Eddie Bravo. Experienced grapplers visiting Amsterdam often drop in to test their leg‑lock defense and rubber‑guard tactics.

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu Academy Amsterdam (BJJAA)

Founded in 2014, BJJAA positions itself as Amsterdam's premier Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu academy. The school prides itself on a modern and welcoming environment, offering classes for beginners through competitors. Unique programs include:

Located at Amstelvlietstraat 161, BJJAA blends high‑level instruction with a community vibe. If you're looking for a comprehensive program that caters to families and recreational practitioners, this is a great option.

Focus Jiu Jitsu Amsterdam

Focus Jiu Jitsu aims to be more than just a gym. It emphasizes respect, teamwork and an ego‑free environment where everyone improves together. The academy offers BJJ, wrestling and kickboxing, so students can develop both grappling and striking skills. A dedicated kids' program builds resilience and teamwork. Flexible memberships include daily classes with month‑to‑month cancellation.

The coaching staff boasts impressive credentials: black belt instructors Karel Weima and Stefan Uittenboogaard (IBJJF European and World Championship silver medalist) and wrestling coach Joris, who also coaches the Dutch National Judo team. Their new facility in Amsterdam Oost features a spacious 100 m² mat area with natural light and amenities like changing rooms and showers.

If you value a supportive team culture and cross‑training opportunities, Focus is worth exploring.

Gracie Jiu‑Jitsu Amsterdam

Gracie Jiu‑Jitsu Amsterdam is the only Certified Gracie Training Center in the Netherlands. The school follows the Gracie Combatives® curriculum, a structured self‑defence program taught by Gracie‑certified instructors. Students gain access to the Gracie University online curriculum and free training privileges at satellite CTCs worldwide.

The academy promotes a supportive community and offers a free 10‑day trial that includes instruction in fundamental self‑defence techniques. Reviews praise instructor Adrian for making classes fun and easy to follow while welcoming new and regular students alike.

Located in De Pijp (Van Ostadestraat 155), Gracie Amsterdam is ideal for practitioners who want a structured curriculum and a global network.

Carlson Gracie Amsterdam

Carlson Gracie Amsterdam holds the distinction of being the first Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu academy in the city. Founded by Marcos Flexa in 2002, the school started as informal training sessions in Amsterdam parks and grew into a full‑time academy. Flexa earned his black belt directly from Master Carlson Gracie and has dedicated himself to sharing that lineage with students from around the world. The academy is now located in Haarlem/Amsterdam West and welcomes students at all levels.

Training here provides a link to BJJ history. The school hosts seminars with black belts affiliated with the Carlson Gracie team and offers both gi and no‑gi classes. If you appreciate traditional BJJ pedagogy and want to connect with one of the sport's founding lineages, Carlson Gracie Amsterdam is a must‑visit.

Eastbound Gym (Amsterdam Oost)

Eastbound Gym is not purely a BJJ school—it also offers kickboxing, boxing, yoga and fitness—but its BJJ/grappling program is robust. The gym explains that BJJ revolves around technique and strategy rather than brute strength. Even smaller practitioners can gain the upper hand through smart movements, making the art accessible to people of all ages. Training sessions are intense yet safe, guided by experienced instructors so beginners and advanced grapplers receive professional instruction.

Eastbound also emphasises a friendly, family‑like community—over 6,000 members have trained there, and the team values making everyone feel part of the “Eastbound fam”. If you're looking for a gym that balances grappling with cross‑training and a lively social atmosphere, Eastbound is a good choice.

Fight IQ (MMA & No‑Gi)

Fight IQ describes itself as “Smart Martial Arts” and offers classes in MMA, kickboxing, wrestling and no‑gi BJJ. Its coaching roster boasts more than 20 years of MMA experience. Founder Donavan Panayiotis is an accomplished Hit Fighting Championship fighter; kickboxing coach Ricardo Nibte has over 30 years of experience, and the kids' MMA program helps children build self‑confidence through technical training. Reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere and note that most classes are taught in English, making the gym friendly for international students.

While Fight IQ isn't solely a BJJ academy, its emphasis on wrestling and no‑gi grappling makes it a strong option for athletes seeking a comprehensive mixed‑martial‑arts foundation.

Team Agua

Team Agua operates in multiple cities—Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Den Haag—and offers Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, grappling and MMA classes. The club prides itself on providing a diverse and inclusive environment where martial‑arts enthusiasts of all levels can develop their skills. The site explains that BJJ is the core of the club and traces its roots to early‑20th‑century Brazil. If you travel frequently within the Netherlands or want a networked gym with classes in several cities, Team Agua may suit your needs.

Honourable mention: Tatsujin Dojo

Although not exclusively focused on BJJ, Tatsujin Dojo deserves a mention because of its renowned founder and comprehensive training environment. The dojo was founded in 1995 by Martijn de Jong, known as one of Europe's MMA pioneers. He built the gym to train complete fighters with a focus on technique, discipline and personal growth. Tatsujin means “The Gym of the Specialist”; its logo symbolises strength, focus and positivity. Classes cover striking, grappling, conditioning and mindset, and the professional yet approachable atmosphere welcomes athletes of all levels. Located in multiple cities including Amsterdam, Tatsujin offers BJJ alongside other disciplines and is ideal for those seeking an all‑round martial‑arts program.

Tips for choosing a BJJ gym in Amsterdam

Conclusion

Amsterdam offers a rich selection of Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu academies—from modern no‑gi systems to traditional Gracie lineage schools. Each gym in this guide has unique strengths, whether it's 10th Planet's innovative approach, BJJAA's inclusive programs for women and children, or Gracie Amsterdam's certified curriculum and global network.

Ultimately, the best gym is the one whose training philosophy, coaches and community align with your goals. Take advantage of free trial classes, talk to instructors and students, and trust your instincts. With the right environment, your BJJ journey in Amsterdam will be both challenging and rewarding.