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Welcome to Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu

Taking care of your mind, body, and spirit.

Familiarise yourself with our school and courses by signing up for a free evaluation class now.

Get in touch today!

Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu stands out as the sole institution in the United Kingdom dedicated to teaching the esteemed
Valente Brother's Fighting foundations™

Upcoming Classes

Fighting Foundations

Juniors

Womens Self-defence

2 weeks free training

Besides our regular schedule, we also frequently host visiting teachers and speakers.

Jiu-Jitsu is for anyone. Anyone who wants to learn, can. 
There is no male or female difference, it is something that increases the physical potential of anyone

Grand Master Helio Gracie

Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu offers self-defense programs inspired by Christopher's experience with the Valente brothers.

Get equipped to handle real-life violence in South Yorkshire, including Sheffield, Dronfield, and Chesterfield.

Improve your physical and mental strength with our courses. Connect mind and body through Jiu-Jitsu training with us today!

Jiu-Jitsu will teach you: Striking, Throwing, Grappling, Self-Defence, and Philosophy.

Learn all five elements and become the best you can be!

Learn more about our school and philosophy around Jiu-Jitsu

Experience
Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu

Whether you are a curious beginner or a seasoned practitioner, our online showcase is designed to give you a glimpse of what sets Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu apart.

Come and see for yourself how our school operates, the bond shared by our community, and the dedication we have to the art of Jiu-Jitsu.

Free evaluation session

At Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu, we offer a valuable opportunity for individuals interested in martial arts to participate in a free evaluation session.

This session serves as a perfect introduction to our training programs, allowing participants to experience our teaching methods and facilities firsthand.

Our experienced instructors will assess your skills, answer any questions you may have, and provide personalised recommendations based on your goals and fitness level.

Whether you are a beginner looking to start your martial arts journey or a seasoned practitioner seeking a new training environment, our free evaluation session is designed to help you make an informed decision.

Join us for this no-obligation session and take the first step towards improving your well-being through the practice of Jiu-Jitsu.

There is no losing in Jiu-Jitsu, you either win or you learn
— Carlos Gracie Sr

Testimonials

  • Carl Griffiths, Dylans Father, Chesterfield

    We found Sheffield Self Defence and read all about its history, and how its style came to be in the UK. I was very impressed with Christopher’s knowledge and his passion for the history and the martial art.

    We had a free evaluation class and small demonstration where Chris involved Dylan straight away and showed us what Dylan would be learning.

    We also learned about the founder of the particular style, Grand Master Helio Gracie who himself was smaller than his peers and siblings yet overcame this and even embraced it in developing his techniques, so this seemed perfect for Dylan.

    Having now taken part in over 20 classes, we have seen a marked increase in Dylan’s self-confidence. He comes home and shows us the new moves he has learned and is taking real pride in learning something new and exciting. The lessons are fun and not too strict yet they are teaching him real Discipline and Respect.

    I can not recommend Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu enough being the only recognised teacher of this specific style in the UK they are already one of a kind.

  • Jamie Farrar

    I have been going to Sheffield Self-defence Jiu-Jitsu for over seven months now, and I feel I have learned a lot in that time!

    I thought I knew most of the moves when I was taking the kids class, but then Christopher asked me to take private classes and I learnt a lot more.

    Some of the moves I learnt at first, I never thought I could do, but actually they quite easy, and well broken down.

    Christopher makes all the moves easier by breaking all of the moves down into small steps.

    Sheffield Self-defence Jiu-jitsu has made me feel more confident as a person, because when I first started going, I wasn’t sure whether I was going to enjoy it, because I thought you had to be flexible to be good at Jiu-Jitsu but actually you don’t.

    Now, I want to try other things out even if at first I don’t think I will be good at it.

  • Karen (Jamie Farrar's Mother)

    Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu has certainly given Jamie a great deal more confidence day to day, which was a definite plus when she made the move from primary school to secondary last September.

    Jamie’s new school, Outwood Academy, is much larger and she was put into much bigger classes with students she didn’t know.

    I feel Jamie coped really well with this change, and how she did so owed a lot to the confidence she has gained from doing Jiu-Jitsu.

    Christopher Charalambous, is a good role model and runs his class in such a way that Jamie feels good, even when she is being ask to do something which is difficult or challenging.

    Jamie always enjoys her class and I feel what she is leaning fun is a great attribute of Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu and Chris’s teaching style.

  • Father of Leo Ward, Sheffield

    Leo, my son, who is 6 and a half has been attending Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu every week for almost a year now.

    It has a clear impact on him even at this early stage in his life, he is always excited to go to Christopher’s classes and it is impressive to see some of the moves that Leo has learned and how natural. He can carry out these moves even when we are at home play-fighting together.

    Christopher is passionate about what he is teaching, he is truly committed to his students and not only ensures that they are learning a valuable skill, but that they are enjoying doing so at the same time.

    Christopher is someone who is looked up to by his students and he is a great role model for the younger generation

  • Ninlil Sophia Mcgee, Atlanta USA

    I was introduced to Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu by Christopher and decided to take a class. After taking a few classes, I have found that I enjoy this style of martial arts. I love how Jiu-Jitsu allows a small girl like me the ability to defend myself against a much bigger attacker; it’s not about strength but leverage.

    This has made me feel much safer, especially since I live by myself and travel so much. So for women, I think this is a MUST LEARN!!!

    The instructor Christopher is a very nice, patient, and well-educated guy. He makes me feel very comfortable, as I was very nervous about having male teachers.

    Chesterfield Jiu-Jitsu has also helped grow my relationship with my fiancee, as we do the couples classes together which is a great way for us to do something together that we both enjoy.

    I am very happy with everything I have learned at Sheffield Self-Defence and plan to be a long-time student of theirs. Thank you so much, Christopher!

  • Leonidas Dracos, Barnsley South Yorkshire

    Leonidas has been taking one-to-one intuition classes with Christopher at Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu for over two years now.

    Each class brings new challenges and has helped to build Leonidas confidence.

    Christopher is an amazing teacher and I highly recommend anyone serious about self defence to visit their school.

  • Robert and Susan Madison, Bolsover

    After Robert decided he wanted to do a Martial Art to help him feel more confident, he found Christopher and Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu on the Internet.

    We have now taken ten lessons together and we are amazed at how quickly we are progressing.

    Neither of us are very big, nor strong, but can appreciate how the principles of leverage rather than strength achieve the desired results.

    We are both in our early 60s and as Christopher Charalambous so rightly observed, I am loving a newfound ability to throw a man! should I ever seriously need to defend myself, I feel confident that I could do so, and Robert has found new confidence.

    Thank you Christopher, you and your patience are very much appreciated.

  • Simon Knighton, Clay Cross

    Self Defence/Martial arts school with a BIG difference!

    Very friendly atmosphere, welcoming instructors and fellow pupils.

    There is no ego or macho attitude at all within the school which is refreshingly different.

    The instructors are very patient and have a real passion for what they teach which shines through, all they want is for you to enjoy the class, and learn the moves so you feel safe on the street.

    My wife and two boys come as well and enjoy it as much as I do at Sheffield Jiu-jitsu! Making it a great family pastime.

  • John (Max Else Father), Chesterfield

    Sheffield self-defence Jiu-Jitsu has provided my five-year-old son with a most engaging introduction to this style of self-defence/Art.

    The relaxed environment and professional instruction provided by his instructor, Christopher is excellent.

    I always attend my sons’ classes which are very welcoming and friendly, my boy learns new skills each week and has tremendous fun at the same time.

    The school and staff receive my warmest praise and thanks for providing this great service. My son looks forward to attending every session and I highly recommend Sheffield self-defence Jiu-Jitsu.

    A fantastic school, a fantastic opportunity!

  • Rob Colby, Chesterfield

    Sheffield Self-defence Jiu-Jitsu is a great way to learn to defend yourself, get fit, ease the stress of everyday life, and have plenty of fun. You will be hard-pressed to beat the great atmosphere and teaching techniques at Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu.

    Christopher is a fantastic instructor making the whole learning experience really enjoyable.</p>

    There is no pressure at this club and Christopher is always on hand to help to explain in more detail if there is a particular area that you are unsure of.

    Fellow students at Sheffield Self-Defence Jiu-Jitsu are also great people who all want to learn and have fun. I would have no hesitation in recommending this club if you are thinking of taking up martial arts.

  • Joao Valente, Miami USA

    I came from Valente Brothers headquarters in Miami to visit Chris and Sheffield Self-Defence Jiu-Jitsu. Had a great experience taking classes from him.

    Great teacher with great students. Would recommend anyone that lives in England, to go train with him!

  • Cheri Southam, Chesterfield

    Both my daughter and I love training with Christopher at Sheffield Jiu-Jitsu Self-Defence.

    I have never felt as calm and capable elsewhere as I do here.

    As both a Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast and as a larger lady looking to lose weight I find myself very comfortable at both the class and private sessions.

    I would highly recommend joining.

  • Brian Fearn, Sheffield Yorkshire

    My lack of co-ordination and athletic ability is rather high, yet Chris has the ability to break down the moves he teaches to the most basic parts so that even I can gain an understanding of what is required... a most patient and kind teacher and very respectful and very polite at the age of 46 when I thought such things were beyond me, he has given me his time and a great deal of self-belief and self-confidence which I previously did not have...like my favourite teacher from my school days, he motivates me to try my best... if he can do it for me he can definitely do it for you whatever your situation or physical ability I urge you to try lessons with him, its something that you will not regret.

  • Russell Marvin, Barlborough Derbyshire

    My son has been going to Christopher Charalambous for over three years now, Christopher Charalambous is very passionate about the art of Jiu-jitsu.

    He is very good at breaking the moves down so people can understand, and for people to be able to carry out the moves.

    This is real Gracie Jiu-jitsu, I’ve been that impressed, I’ve now started to take my daughter as well as my son to learn as he is a great instructor.

    Over the years my son has been to a few places to learn jujitsu but I can say this is the best, it’s the real thing for real-life situations.

    I would highly recommend Christopher/Sheffield Self Defence Jiu-jitsu.

  • Maria Teresa Rojas Gomez, Spain

    I’ve been training at Sheffield Self-Defence for eight months now, each class brings new challenges but in an enjoyable way.

    I have a full-time job so I was a little worried about injuries, but after a few classes, I realised that the instructor, Christopher, held a very safe but realistic training program.

    Being a part of this organisation gave me the opportunity to meet the legend Royce Gracie; and train with Helio Gracie Professors, Pedro Valente, Gui Valente & Joaquim Valente.

  • Doulla Dracos, Barnsley

    My son has been training with Chris for over five years now since he was four years old and he has grown in confidence and has a life skill.

    My son enjoys his classes and loves learning and improving.

    Jiu-jitsu has given both me and my son the confidence to know that he can defend himself if he is ever put in a difficult situation in the real world.

    Thank you Chris!

  • Jordan Parsisson, Chesterfield

    Absolutely fantastic.

    Self-defence in a structured, safe, comfortable environment.

    Chris is an excellent instructor who will break things down and take you through the movements step by step making the learning process much more enjoyable!

    Highly recommend!

  • Dominic Bagley, Eckington Chesterfield

    Fantastic self-defence tuition in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you will quickly learn in the friendly but professionally structured classes that this martial art was adapted for use by those lacking in physical superiority making it ideal for children, more mature students or those that simply lack the physique for other disciplines.

    A common translation of Jiu Jitsu is simply “the gentle art”, and you will find that the use of leverage and technique is always favoured over strength or aggression meaning that anyone can give it a try.

    After 20 classes I’m hooked and look forward to every session, having never practiced a martial art before I find the classes very accessible, well-paced, and rewarding.

  • Kayleigh Chapman, Chesterfield

    Fantastic self-defence class.

    My son has learnt some fantastic stuff.

    Would highly recommended!

  • Łukasz Dzięgelewski, Leeds

    Professional skilled instructor, very high standard of hygiene, and friendly atmosphere.

    Private classes are a good option for busy people like me. I can book them in the early mornings, afternoons, and evenings.

    Highly recommended.

  • Gareth Rees, Belper Derbyshire

    I have started private sessions with Chris.

    Really professional and courteous man with a real passion for teaching what he loves.

    He always puts you first and always gives 100% to your development even if you’re training at 10:00pm!

    I am still training at Chesterfield Jiu-jitsu and I intend on doing so for a long time!

  • Louis Tunnicliffe

    Excellent teaching and friendly atmosphere, would recommend!