Over 40’s Crew

Rediscover Strength, Confidence, and Community.

At Higher Jiu Jitsu, we believe it’s never too late to start something new, challenge yourself, and unlock your potential. That’s why we’ve created the Over 40’s Crew —a safe, inclusive, and supportive class designed specifically for individuals aged 40 and above.

Why Jiu Jitsu? Why Now?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just a martial art; it’s a journey of self-improvement. For those over 40, it’s a unique way to:

Stay Active: Improve mobility, strength, and flexibility while having fun.
Build Confidence: Learn practical self-defense techniques in a relaxed setting.
Reduce Stress: Engage in mindful movement that strengthens both body and mind.
Join a Community: Train with peers who share your mindset and goals.

What You Can Expect

Beginner-Friendly Classes: No prior experience is needed. Start at your own pace, with guidance every step of the way.
Tailored Training: Techniques and drills designed to meet your physical capabilities and help you progress safely.
Expert Coaching: Learn from experienced coaches who understand how to help older practitioners thrive.
A Welcoming Atmosphere: No egos, no pressure—just a positive environment for growth and connection.

Who Is This Program For?

◈ Individuals over 40 looking to stay fit and active.

◈ Beginners who want to learn a martial art in a safe and structured way.

◈ Those seeking a new hobby or a way to reconnect with themselves and others.

Start Your Journey Today

It’s never too late to begin your Jiu Jitsu journey. With our Over 40’s Program, you’ll discover a new way to move, think, and feel better—on and off the mats.

Christian Garcia

2 weeks ago

Was visiting the area and stopped in and really happy I did! They have early morning classes which was a huge plus and the instruction was also great. John, Robby, and Cam were awesome and super accommodating, couldn’t recommend a gym enough!

Romane

3 weeks ago

Really good classes, you feel confident enough to improve yourself quickly, plus quiet flexible with the pleasure to coming back

niels mian

3 weeks ago

Amazing No-ghi class and very friendly people. I am traveling australia and was welkom to join for a class for FREE

Leonard Barth

3 weeks ago

The atmosphere in this learning environment is truly outstanding and very welcoming to everyone. The professional guidance ensures that the techniques are taught in a calm and clear manner. Everyone receives the necessary personal attention to develop their skills in a pleasant way. It is an excellent place for anyone who wants to work on self-defense in a responsible manner. John was a great trainer.

Mateusz Biernacki

4 weeks ago

Great gym! I visit local gyms whenever I travel and this has been one of the best experiences. Very welcoming, good facilities and solid class with quality rolls after. Highly recommended!

Elize Atmé

2 months ago

As a complete beginner to BJJ, choosing a gym where I'd feel comfortable and safe, while still being pushed and challenged, was of the utmost importance to me. Higher Jiu Jitsu is exactly that. The community, the coaches, and the genuine care shown for each member make this gym a must-join. The support I've received since joining has been out of this world, and it's exactly why I keep coming back.

PEARL PEREZ

2 months ago

The gym has a very nice atmosphere and friendly, welcoming coaches. The place feels positive, professional, and inviting, and the coaches seem genuinely passionate about what they do. Highly recommended!

Amberlee Mugge

2 months ago

I LOVE HIGHER🫶🙌 BJJ is such a fun sport and I am so grateful I am able to train at such an incredible school with supportive coaches and students. Everyone is so welcoming and so eager to learn, which equals a really positive environment. I love love love women’s classes, they’re always my number one highlight of each week. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I 101% recommend trying Higher Jiu Jitsu, you won’t regret it.

Lucas “Ginge” McBurney

2 months ago

Cannot speak highly enough of John and the incredible culture he has cultivated at Higher. Having joined to try something different, completely outside of my comfort zone, and like nothing I had ever tried before; John and everyone on the mats at Higher were so welcoming. John and his team of coaches have an incredible teaching method, taking the time to explain and demonstrate everything needed for the class. The lesson structure starts from the warm-up through to putting everything into practice by the end of class. If you want to be trained by some of the very best, in a supportive environment with no ego or attitude, then Higher is the gym for you. I am so incredibly grateful to be able to call Higher the place I train BJJ.

Joshua Strange

2 months ago

As someone who was always on the fence about trying a martial art, John and his team quickly put those doubts aside. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming, the coaching is fantastic, and there’s a great atmosphere every time I walk through the door. Higher Jiu Jitsu has given me a real sense of purpose and something to look forward to throughout my day. If you’ve ever thought about giving BJJ a go, stop thinking about it and just walk through the door. You won’t regret it.

Alfie Crehan

2 years ago

I was in Sydney for a couple of days for work and turned up to Higher Jiu Jitsu for the 12.30 no gi class on Friday. It’s a class gym - great vibe among the students and the head coach, John is a legend. Highly recommend to anyone.

2 years ago

As a mid-40s enthusiast, I was initially unsure if Jiu Jitsu would be right for me, but after trying the free session, I'm about to start my third week. I’ve been thoroughly impressed by the diverse and welcoming group here, with knowledgeable instructors offering tailored support for all fitness levels. They made it easy for a newcomer like me to feel part of the group right away. I highly recommend Higher Jiu Jitsu to anyone looking for a full-body workout

Sam Pipiras

2 years ago

Incredible team here at Higher Jiu Jitsu. As a beginner, it can be quite intimidating getting started but they have created an environment that fosters learning, camaraderie, and fun competition. Highly recommend to those looking to get started!

Ciarán Heraghty

2 years ago

Excellent space to train, John and his practitioners are top notch.

Alliouche Mérouane

2 years ago

I was visit higher jiu jitsu during my hollyday in sydney! Great club ! Every people are very kind the welcome was warm, the level is very good and they invite me to launch with them, it was great. John the headcoach is very nice. Thanks higher BJJ.

Nino Brown

2 years ago

Learning any martial art is similar to dancing, where at first it’s hard to learn moves and keep the corrrect rhythm , Coach John and the team at Higher Jiu Jitsu really make everyone feel confident and comfortable. I’ve loved learning and evolving , and it’s helped me in all aspects of my life. I can’t reccomend Higher highly enough ( all puns intended! )

Brendan Zou

2 years ago

John and the team were very accommodating while I was visiting Sydney for a few weeks. As I am still relatively new to BJJ, I found the fundamental classes really useful as they were easy to understand and practical during grappling sessions - kudos to the teachers and the rest of the community. Would highly recommend Higher Jiu Jitsu for anyone wanting to learn practical skills in a supportive environment.

Miriam Weipert

2 years ago

Started here having never done any martial arts before, and absolutely love it! The community is amazing and John (the owner) has been incredible. It's a very welcoming environment and perfect for anyone, whether you have done BJJ before or are a newbie. The coaches and members are all fantastic and I'm excited to get properly stuck in and focus on learning BJJ. Thanks guys!

Eugene Murnane

2 years ago

My Kids go to higher Ju Jitsu and they love it. Respect and looking after each other is to the fore at all times. A great example of how a sports club should be run. So much so, that now I have taken it up at the Age of (I'm sure I'm not that old) ......... The fitness, the flexibility and the new skills I've learnt is amazing. This maybe not for you.. BUT it certainly maybe the thing that you are looking for and you just don't know yet. If nothing else, you can always tell your friends that you tried Ju Jitsu......... They will be impressed

Maxwell Dawson

2 years ago

I walked into this gym knowing absolutely nothing about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. John and the other coaches are amazing, they’re super knowledgeable and patient, and they explain things in a way that just makes sense, even if you’re a total beginner like I was. But what really makes this place special is the community. From the very first day, I felt so welcomed and supported by both the coaches and the other students. Everyone here is friendly, and there’s this awesome team vibe where people genuinely want to see you get better. If you’re thinking about trying BJJ or looking for a gym to call home, I can’t recommend this place enough!

Ben Lamb

2 years ago

Great environment and coaching. Plenty of variety in belts and sizes to train with. John is friendly, welcoming and extremely professional. My only knock would be the size of the training space which can feel quite squeezed when the turn out is good.

Annie Kelly

2 years ago

John and his team are dedicated, passionate, and truly unmatched in their commitment to their students. It's incredible to see how much my son has developed and grown, not just in skills but in confidence and discipline as well. We are so grateful for the positive impact they've had on his life. Highly recommend!

정우진

2 years ago

After inquiring on Instagram, I participated in the open mat. Everyone welcomes me so I really enjoy working out. I was worried about visiting a gym while traveling abroad, but they welcomed me so much that my worries were for naught. Higher jiujitsu gym Everyone, have a happy year-end and a happy new year! I hope to see you again someday. After inquiring on Instagram, I participated in the open mat. Everyone welcomes me so I really enjoy working out. I was worried about visiting a gym while traveling abroad, but they welcomed me so much that my worries were for naught. Higher jiujitsu gym Everyone, have a happy year-end and a happy new year! I hope to see you again someday.

Anoshirvan Parvazi

2 years ago

I’ve been a world travelling Bjj competitor for over 14 years and I’ve been to +300 academies all over on all continents. I can definitely say that Higher BJJ and the Professor John hold a HIGH standard of bjj and selfdefence! Their kids program is absolutely packed with happy kids and fantastic teachers and so is their adult program! Thanks for having me guys and I hope to see you again! 🥋🏆🇦🇺

Luis Rodrigues

2 years ago

My experience visiting Higher JJ couldn’t be better! I contacted them through the website and John got back to me very quickly. I was borrowed a kimono by Luke, who was in charge of the class and by the time it was over, I was a sweaty, more knowledgeable and happy guy. The facilities were great too and I wish I had time to go back there again. All the best for you! Luis

Albert Stanciu

2 years ago

Absolutely amazing experience and incredibly professional. John took me and my work team through a jiu Jitsu self defence workshop. Not only was this fun and great team bonding but John’s vast knowledge, experience alongside his simple way of teaching allowed us to learn new techniques and have a great time regardless of our experience. Highly recommend!

Theodore Chuang

2 years ago

The best place I have trained at so far. I have trained at a few different places and what stood out the most was the coaches there. If you are looking to up your skills and learn the art of BJJ, I would highly recommend trying out HJJ.

Lia Lockwood

2 years ago

As a beginner, I was a little apprehensive and didn't know what to expect from BJJ, but I couldn't have asked for a better gym than Higher Jiu Jitsu. Higher has such a positive atmosphere and I appreciate John, Matt and the other instructors as well as everyone who I trained with. Highly recommend!

Josh Proctor

2 years ago

Trained at Higher JuJitsu tonight while travelling. Absolutely brilliant lesson, the professor (John) was great (engaging, knowledgeable and so helpful) and the group was great to train with. Learned a lot will definitely go again

김동욱

2 years ago

I traveled alone in Korea, and it was nice to travel around and see a lot of tourist attractions. However, the Australian Jiu-Jitsu instructors were curious about how to train, so I had the courage to visit on my own and asked if I could do Jiu-Jitsu with them. They welcomed me very warmly and gave me very detailed information, so it was fun. And after the workout, we will all go for a beer together. He invited me to go with him, so we drank, played, and talked about various things. I only have such happy memories. I love you, the people who welcomed me. I went on a trip alone in Korea, and it was nice to see many tourist attractions while walking around. But I was curious about the training methods of Australian jiu-jitsu officials, so I had the courage to visit alone and ask if I could do jiu-jitsu together, and I was glad that they welcomed me and taught me in detail. And I was going to go drink beer after the exercise, but they asked me to go with them, so I drank with them, played with them, and many other things.

지선영

2 years ago

Every time I travel I take a Jiu-Jitsu class in that country and it‘s the best! Everyone was so friendly and the techniques were very helpful. If you like Jiu-Jitsu, I recommend this place.

yo agee

2 years ago

I've been training at higher jiu jitsu for half a year now. I love the culture here, the coach, the other athletes. Everyone is always willing to help, especially when your a white belt noobie like myself. Highly recommend if you've been contemplating doing some sort of martial arts training to come down and try a session at higher jiu jitsu!

Kazunori Kasama

2 years ago

I visited the higher jujitsu during my stay in Sydney. Prof. John really welcomes visitors and the gym mates were so friendly. He emphasized during the spurring to enjoy and play, avoid injuries,not to be serious. So middle aged visitors like me could enjoy the lesson. His lesson was very theoretical and fruitful for me. 100% recommendations, if you are in Sydney.

asami JP

2 years ago

I had great experiences 😆 Teacher and members are so kind!

Blaze Fire

2 years ago

Great facility! Great people! And great Jiujitsu! Highly recommended!

Amelia Hamer

2 years ago

Awesome club!! So friendly and very experienced instructor with an engaging class format.

Andy M

2 years ago

Great vibe. Great technical instructional.

George Belivanis

2 years ago

John and the crew at Higher Jiu-Jitsu are amongst some of the friendliest, and most welcoming people in the martial arts community. John brings an approach to jiu-jitsu centring around mechanics and leverage, rather than strength and size, making it a system suitable for everyone to excel in. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend dropping in for a class, or even better, signing up for yourself and falling in love with jiu-jitsu the way this crew has!

KC Natividad

2 years ago

I highly recommend it to anyone interested in Jiu Jitsu. Give Higher a try and you won’t regret it! It’s a fantastic space with amazing coaches, a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels, and very beginner-friendly.

aaron nida

2 years ago

Higher Jiu Jitsu in Woolloomooloo is an outstanding academy for anyone looking to learn and grow in the art of Jiu Jitsu. Under the expert guidance of John, the head coach, you’ll find a welcoming and professional environment that fosters both skill development and camaraderie. John’s teaching style is exceptional—he’s patient, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to helping each student reach their potential. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, making it an ideal place for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and pick up a new skill, this is the place to do it. Five stars all the way!

근육이말랑

2 years ago

I had an amazing experience at the Jiu-Jitsu gym I visited during my trip to Sydney. It was meaningful to be able to train in a new environment. We shared techniques each other and had fun rolling together. The instructor’s detailed guidance was impressive and left a lasting impression on me.👍 Andy - From Southkorea😍

Rodney Gray

2 years ago

I had an exceptional experience at Higher Jiu Jitsu! I was traveling through Sydney and wanted to get a few rolls in. Sensei John responded back to my email quickly and invited me in. He was friendly, professional and a great instructor. Additionally the other students were welcoming, skilled and the facility was spotless. I’m grateful for their hospitality and hope to make it through in the future. I highly recommend this school.

Ciro Nunes

2 years ago

This is truly one of the best Jiu Jitsu gyms in Sydney. Training under John Smallios and his incredible team is an exceptional experience. Their expertise and dedication to teaching make every session enjoyable and rewarding. The supportive and friendly atmosphere helps everyone grow both in skill and confidence. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your techniques, this gym is a fantastic place to train. Highly recommended!

Stephanie Sharpley

2 years ago

Best in the business for my boys!

Aaron Nicastri

2 years ago

Terrific team with a great culture. John and his coaches are welcoming, friendly and knowledgeable! I love training at Higher Jiu Jitsu whenever I'm in the city.

Martin_M25

2 years ago

Best club that I’ve been to in Sydney so far. Arrived from Melbourne and showed up to class unannounced and was warmly greeted by John. He made an effort to include me while he was in the middle of teaching class and got me a gi as I didn’t bring mine with me. Felt great to be able to walk in and be welcomed like family. He chatted with me before the class, introduced me to everyone on the mat and was treated respectfully by everyone there. During class we went over some techniques and asked questions which he and the rest of the students helped with and truely had a no attitude approach to our learning. Questions were encouraged and learning is fostered. I got some new perspectives on how I should do certain techniques and had learning bolstered by his explanations. Again asking questions throughout was encouraged before and while doing techniques. I also noticed that newbies have a red or yellow stripe on their belts to signify that they’re new and to work easier with them instead of going full force. I haven’t seen this done at other clubs but it’s a great way to ensure that everyone goes at an appropriate pace and effort. The facility was clean, well maintained and decorated to pay homage to memories from the club and the masters of the art. Thank you for having me John and I will be back when I’m in Sydney again.

Jason B

2 years ago

While in Sydney I trained with the crew at Higher. I found it to be more than just a jiu jitsu club. Somewhere you can go & feel welcome, at ease & part of the higher jiu jitsu family from the get go, without dealing with the hassle of inflated egos etc you might find in other gyms. John is building something special here & I hope more people get the chance to experience his teaching & friendly training environment he has created. If I ever pass through Sydney again, I will be back 100%. My only regret is that my work schedule stopped me from being able to attend more classes. Thanks for all of the help & guidance. Legends!!!

Bradley Tomaselli

2 years ago

Dropped in during a first time visit to Australia from the States. I was warmly welcomed by the Professor and team. Thank you for the rolls!

Jesse Verbiski

2 years ago

Super cool club! I visited for the ‘fundamentals gi’ class while visiting from Canada on holiday. The class was very focused and technical but explained in a very simple way. The instruction was very helpful and I have a few “nuggets” to bring back home now :) I really enjoyed training here and would recommend it to anybody looking to try or train Jiu Jitsu in Sydney. Great environment for beginners and experienced alike.

kieran francis

2 years ago

Great coaches and really friendly vibe!

Louis Taylor

3 years ago

Great place, great people really easy to follow along. Highly recommend to anyone living in or passing Sydney and wanting to try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Luke Anthony

3 years ago

Having recently joined Higher Jiu Jitsu I cannot recommend the gym highly enough. John is a fantastic coach. John is extremely warm and friendly and has a fantastic teaching style that makes the core concepts of BJJ easy to pick up. Everyone has been really welcoming to me since joining and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Nicole Pike

3 years ago

I joined Higher about 6 months ago having moved across from the UK. It is such a welcoming environment - John and the rest of the team clearly work really hard to make it a friendly and supportive place to train. The coaching is also excellent so can’t recommend it enough!

Clément abraham

3 years ago

Higher Jiu Jitsu is a fantastic place for learning and development. The coaches are very professional and pedagogical; there are sessions for all levels every day. The practitioners are extremely friendly. This is the first time I've practiced BJJ; before, I was into MMA in France. My English level isn't exceptional, but in sports, that doesn't matter: the explanations are very clear, and people love to share their sport. I think it's the best combat sport that can exist, combining strength, flexibility, and momentum. Regarding the facility, it is very accessible and well-maintained. John, the club manager, is a very kind and attentive person, creating a real dynamic within his dojo. Every time I just wait for the next session, it's really addictive :)

Tania Wood

3 years ago

Higher jiu jitsu is a great place to learn all things jiu jitsu. The best part about Higher is not only the great teachers and experts that regularly come through but for me, the community and people. I am a complete noob and they foster an open and welcoming environment thats about learning and having fun.

Clayton Ferguson

3 years ago

Trained today from out of town (I’m Canadian). First time at this gym, coach John and the other students were very welcoming and helped me get set up with a rental gi and everything I needed. Good technical instruction and lots of help from the coach and other students. Great place to train, I highly recommend for first timers or for higher belts!

Aaron Burrows

3 years ago

The boys over at higher Jiu Jitsu were very accommodating as I was a drop in guest from a different state. They demonstrated nothing but the upmost respect and welcomed me with open arms. I attended the comp class, fundamentals and intermediate. All lessons, the instructor demonstrated structured teaching which was not only easy to understand but also effective. I couldn’t recommend the boys over at higher Jiu Jitsu more.

Winson Tan

3 years ago

A place to harness your jiu-jitsu, self-defence, mental+physical potential. Friendly to beginners, with challenging classes, helpful team mates and caring coaches. Drop-ins by fantastic global coaches are a huge plus. All the things you’d want in a great jits gym. Thank you and kudos, Coach John and team @ Higher JJ

Daniel Matthews

3 years ago

I joined Higher Jiu Jitsu in September shorty after arriving from the U.K. and have really enjoyed my time at the club. The coaching team lead by John Smallios are brilliant teachers and have done very well to create a friendly and supportive culture. There are no big egos and everyone is approachable and keen to impart their knowledge. As I joined the club with no experience of Jiu Jitsu this has been a great environment to start my journey into the world of BJJ and learn the basics. Safe to say I’m hooked and I have little doubt you will be too. Massively recommend Higher Jiu Jitsu to everyone from those interested in taking up the sport to seasoned veterans!

10+ Years Serving Sydney

5.0 ★★★★★ Google Reviews

Pedro Sauer Team Affiliate

Made for First – Timers

Beginner-Friendly Jiu Jitsu in Sydney.

Most people are nervous before their first class. That’s normal. We slow things down, introduce you to the room and make sure you always know what to do next.

You can start at any fitness level

You don’t need to “get fit first.” Training helps you build fitness naturally as you learn.

You’ll be welcomed properly

You’ll be shown around, and classes follow a clear structure so you can learn step by step.

You’ll leave feeling capable

Every class gives you a small win: a new skill, more confidence and proof you can do hard things.

Make an Enquiry

Curious about jiu jitsu? Leave your details below and we’ll be in touch to answer your questions. No pressure, no obligation.

Ready to start? We can also help you arrange your first visit.

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