A new Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy has opened at the Old Iron Works building in Maldon, helping members of all ages improve their physical and mental health.

Gracie Barra Maldon teaches a form of self-defence martial art founded in Brazil in 1925. The sport involves wrestling, throws, submissions, and other methods used effectively against an opponent who may be bigger or stronger. There are nearly 1,000 Gracie Barra schools worldwide, the latest of which opened in Maldon two months ago.

Last Sunday (March 19), 53 Maldon and Chelmsford students, half of which were children, took on other Gracie Barra academies at the CompNet UK Spring Championships in Watford. The team took home 18 gold medals.

Beth Carroll, Programme Director at Gracie Barra Chelmsford and Maldon, told Nub News: "Our aim is to introduce the local community to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu."

The gym offers a 16-week curriculum for children, featuring an ongoing anti-bullying campaign. Adult classes are divided into two categories.

Beth explained: "We have a 'GB1' class for beginners - where you can just come on in without any prior knowledge - and the more advanced 'GB2' class for students who have been training with us for longer than six to eight months."

The gym is located on the first floor of the Old Iron Works building in Fullbridge, Maldon. (Photo: Gracie Barra Maldon)

For those thinking of taking up the martial art, Gracie Barra Maldon offers free trial sessions.

Beth added: "You can come on down and have session on us – just to see what we're all about. You don't know until you try it.

"It's just brilliant, especially the incredible team spirit. There's no pressure, just give it a go and see what you think!

"We love this sport because we know how good it is for the soul."

The Gracie Barra gym in Chelmsford boasts 330 members. It is owned by Rob Simpson, who was awarded his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) black belt by world champion Braulio Estima. Rob also owns the Maldon gym.

To learn more about Gracie Barra Maldon, visit the website.

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