Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts school serving Tucson, AZ.
About Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts school serving Tucson and surrounding Southern Arizona communities. The academy describes itself as family-focused, welcoming both competitors and casual practitioners to the mat. Its approach centers on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a way to develop discipline, confidence, and practical skills, while also helping students relieve stress, work through challenges, and grow beyond training. The school's people-first philosophy is reflected in its emphasis on supporting both the athlete and the individual.
The academy opened in Tucson in August 2025 with a mission to strengthen the community through Jiu-Jitsu. Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu aims to provide a space where students learn from dedicated role models who support them on and off the mat. While the school fosters a close, family-like atmosphere, it also places a strong emphasis on improvement and competition. Consistency, community, and competitive success are described as central parts of the academy's identity as it grows.
Programs are available for children and adults at different experience levels. The kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is divided into classes for ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 and older, with fundamental and advanced training options. Children may also be invited to join a competition class. For adults, the academy offers a beginner course in a group setting, fundamental classes for students of all levels, and intermediate and advanced No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu lessons. The programming is intended to give beginners and hobbyists a place to train while also providing opportunities for students who want to compete.
Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also offers a free community Judo program led by an experienced Japanese Sensei. The class focuses on practical self-defense, traditional martial arts principles, and improving stand-up skills. Training is presented as supportive and rooted in discipline, respect, and growth, whether students are new to Judo or are working to refine existing skills. Beyond regular classes, the academy highlights seminars, open mats, and community events as part of its effort to encourage consistency and longevity in training.
The instructional team includes black belts Junior Alvim and Josh Smith, along with brown belts Bryant Merafuentes and Lohana Macedo. According to the academy, its instructors and coaches bring different perspectives to Jiu-Jitsu, with some having trained and competed for much of their lives and others discovering the art later. That range of experience is intended to help the team relate to students at different stages of their own journeys. The academy also offers special considerations for siblings, families of four or more, military members, and first responders.
Au Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is located in southeast Tucson and serves Tucson, Sahuarita, Vail, and Corona de Tucson. The academy invites prospective students to begin with two free Jiu-Jitsu classes, providing an opportunity to experience the training and community before deciding how to proceed. Visitors can review the class schedule to find an appropriate session, with classes held Monday through Saturday.