Established 2026
About Us
Our goal is to make sure you feel safe, comfortable, and confident as you train with us.
Our ACADEMY
FIFTH ELEMENT ACADEMY is the premier destination for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in Greenwich, CT. Rooted in the rich traditions of BJJ, our academy provides world-class instruction for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your self-defense skills, compete at a high level, or simply build confidence and discipline, our expert instructors offer a structured, supportive environment to help you achieve your goals.
Beyond BJJ, our academy takes a holistic approach to mixed martial arts and overall wellness. We integrate striking fundamentals, strength and conditioning, and mobility training to develop well-rounded martial artists. Our mission is to foster a strong, disciplined community that values physical and mental resilience, offering a space where members can grow both on and off the mats. Whether you’re looking to train for competition, fitness, or self-improvement, FIFTH ELEMENT ACADEMY is your home for martial arts excellence.
“Finally, AN ACADEMY Culture Where Everyone is Welcome.”
Friendly and Non-Intimidating Space
Whether your goal is to burn fat or gain muscle, increase physical strength, or just maintain your independence by staying active, jiu jitsu will help you achieve your health and fitness goals.
BJJ Programs
Intro
Core
Blue Belt
Advanced
Kids
Make a Change
Real People.
Real ResultS.
We’re not just a martial arts academy, we are a community of friends who are comfortable sharing experiences and helping each other learn. We want to see you succeed.
“No words can do true justice to this awesome coach but I’m going to try it anyway. Do you know when you meet a teacher that is so charismatic and has their self esteem in such good place that the only next thing they do is increase their students self esteem and make them look forward to their next class? That sums up Coach Joao. He’s been a crucial part in my autistic son’s healing and functioning in society. He genuinely loves children and meets all of his students where they are. He is also the one responsible to bring my husband back into jiu-jitsu practicing and the whole family agrees that he is just this natural talented teacher we all want to find in our lives.”
“Our family has been training with Professor Joao for five years now, and each of us couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. Professor Joao is nothing short of an encyclopedia of jiu jitsu knowledge—his depth of expertise is remarkable as is his ability to translate his knowledge to impactfully teach at every level.
He has an incredible way of breaking down complex techniques so that even the youngest students can grasp and apply them.
Our three children (currently ages 7, 8, and 9) have not only developed a strong foundation for technique, but they have also – and perhaps of equal importance- grown in confidence, discipline, and character under his guidance. At the beginning of each class, Professor Joao welcomes each student and parent with a polite greeting and accompanying eye contact and sets the tone for a warm and education-filled session. He is kind, thoughtful, and endlessly motivating, making each class both challenging and inspiring.
For adults, his classes are equally engaging and educational. No matter your experience level, his students learn, grow, and are motivated. We highly recommend training under Professor Joao for anyone looking for jiu jitsu instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment.”
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DISCIPLINE.LEADERSHIP.COMMUNITY
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ACADEMY H0urs
Monday-Friday: 12pm – 9pm
Tuesday-Thursday: 6am – 9pm
Friday: 6am – 8pm
Saturday: 9am – 3pm
Sunday: 10am – 1:30pm