Not Just a Martial Art, a Way of Life.

Axis Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was founded in Tokyo, Japan by Rickson Gracie black belt Takamasa Watanabe. Axis strives to maintain a high level of technique and camaraderie at all its clubs throughout the world, and is internationally known for its high standards of instruction and technicality.

Our mission is to serve the community by providing families and individuals a supportive environment that promotes a positive and healthy way of living to help you improve as a person and reach your true potential.

We believe that jiu jitsu is not just a martial art, it’s a way of life.

Not Just a Martial Art, a Way of Life.

Axis BJJ was founded in Tokyo, Japan by Rickson Gracie black belt Takamasa Watanabe. Axis strives to maintain a high level of technique and camaraderie at all its clubs throughout the world, and is internationally known for its high standards of instruction and technicality.

Our mission is to serve the community by providing families and individuals a supportive environment that promotes a positive and healthy way of living to help you improve as a person and reach your true potential.

We believe that jiu jitsu is not just a martial art, it’s a way of life.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes.

We offer a multitude of fun and motivating BJJ classes where everyone is welcome to train at their own pace, in a friendly environment focused on personal development and good sportsmanship. You may also book a Private Lesson with one of our instructors (available to members and non-members).

Subscribe to our Newsletter.

What are you waiting for?

Come down and try it for yourself, you won’t regret it!

“Fantastic environment with a great team! Always large numbers of training partners on the mat at all levels, at all locations. Recommend anyone interested in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to go check it out ??” – Phil

“Great coaching, amazing facility, and a welcoming environment. Highly recommend.” – Christiaan
“Awesome teachers. My son enjoys every lesson.” – Hiroko

“New to Jiu Jitsu, was nervous about joining up but have found these guys really friendly and welcoming. Strong emphasis on looking after one another on the mat to avoid injuries. Highly recommend.” – Nick

“Since joining, every aspect of life has improved for me. Outstanding wealth of knowledge at each and every students disposal… can’t rate Axis highly enough.” – Dermot

“Axis provides a state of the art facility, with impeccable professionalism and a positive environment for training jiu jitsu at all levels.” – Michael
Great traveler-friendly gym. Fantastic coaches and super nice rolls with the guys. Everyone was helpful and welcoming, look no further!” – Fernando
Best BJJ gym in all of Christchurch. Fun and energetic team, excellent instructors.” – Hisashi
“Started 3 months ago, new to BJJ and loving Axis. The instructors are very helpful and the community is encouraging, welcoming and willing to pass on knowledge and techniques. Great atmosphere with plenty of teammates to roll with” – Chris
“Friendly and supportive environment. Love the women’s class, Luna is a total inspiration with the patience of a saint – 5 stars isn’t enough! Highly recommend.” – Laura

A Beginners Guide to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu

Here's a guide to FAQs about starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes at Axis BJJ.

Private Lessons Now Available

Book a private lesson to increase your Jiu Jitsu game.

Covid-19 Update: May 26 2020

We are pleased to announce all Adults & Kids classes at HQ will be returning to normal from next Tuesday 2nd June.

Training at Axis at Alert Level 2

We will be running open mat / drilling sessions during the week for a maximum of 10 people per session at Axis HQ.

We took some time to ask our members why they train and what keeps them coming back. Jiu jitsu requires training partners and we are honoured to have such a great community of members.

Here are their stories:

Ezra Fa'alogo

"BJJ offers you a guaranteed avenue of self improvement, that you can apply to other parts in your life.”

Zacariah Bell

"A way for me to learn every time I step on the mat.”

Maddi Wilson

"I have been asked “What keeps you coming back to BJJ?” And my answer is “Why wouldn’t I come back to this?”

Cam Steer

"The physical and mental benefits of this sport will keep you coming back for more."

Tane Clement

"It's the only sport I’ve ever seen that doesn’t have an optimal build. No matter what size you are there’s someone out there who is a beast with the exact same build. The only difference is they started BJJ sooner."

Dan Sainsbury

"If you are even slightly considering turning up and giving it a go just do it. You wont regret it. Promise."

Hassan Bukhari

"Jiu Jitsu has changed my life in many ways, whether that’s friends, physically feeling strong & confident or just learning something new."

Natasha Thornton

"I keep coming back as I’m always learning lots of new skills and have made lots of good friends."

Ross

"After a training session the day won’t seem too daunting for you. Its the best stress and anxiety relief you can do."

Shafiqah Ilyana

"As an introvert, I do find it a little bit hard to engage myself in a new environment, but I felt right in place since day one."

Ana Bremer

"I think there's something a bit primal about the sport, the buzz you get from a good roll is hard to beat."

Heydan Bucknell

"Nothing comes close to the feeling of oneness and the state of flow achieved while rolling with another JJ practitioner."