ConsistencY. Technique. CommunitY.

Old Louisville Jiu Jitsu Academy is a new and exciting addition to the Old Louisville community! This local gym, founded by Joseph Thomas, a highly technical brown belt under Jon Thomas, and Yani Nikole, a skilled Yoga for BJJ Instructor, is dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all skill levels to learn and practice the art of jiu-jitsu.

The core values of consistency, technique, and community are at the heart of everything we do, and we can't wait to share our passion for this incredible martial art with the people of Old Louisville. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, we invite you to come and experience the many benefits of jiu-jitsu in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Our academy is more than just a gym, it's a community of like-minded people who come together to learn, grow, and support each other on the mat and off. We are committed to helping each member reach their full potential and achieve their goals. With top-notch instructors and a wide range of classes, Old Louisville Jiu Jitsu Academy is the perfect place to get fit, learn self-defense, and have fun!

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and self-defense system that focuses on technique and leverage to control and submit opponents, making it effective for all ages, sizes, and fitness levels

  • We offer everyone a free trial week. We want to make sure you are excited to train and you enjoy our coaching style. Feel free to come by and check us out.

Yoga

  • I focus on yoga for longevity — simple, sustainable movement practices that help you feel better, move better, and live stronger on and off the mats.

    I studied through Yoga for BJJ and ISSA and have certifications through both programs.

  • Yoga classes are included in all gym memberships, including if your child trains with us. Drop in yoga is a suggested $5 fee.

  • Through Friends of Central Park, we’ve been able to facilitate free yoga classes on Saturdays at 10am during the summer in Central Park.

    2025 Yoga in the Park is June-August. Keep an eye out for any future dates.

Self Defense Workshops

  • Our coaches are available for private self defense workshops and demonstrations.

  • Signed up for jiu-jitsu back in April! My boyfriend and I take these classes together and we LOVE it! It’s a fun way for us to do an activity together and learn new skills! I definitely feel safer in general knowing I’ve learned some great self defense moves in the process! Joe and Yani are great instructors and very friendly and personable, they make sure everyone at the gym feels comfortable and it makes for great camaraderie!

    Kelsey Neuwirth

  • Yoga with Yani is a must add into your schedule once a week. My back has been locked up for over six weeks…today I did a class and my back actually released within the class and I was able to move better than when I got there. The passion from the instructor is there, the vibes are there, now you’ve got to get there!

    Brandi Ramos

  • Amazing facility’s and fantastic instruction and staff. If I could give 10 stars ⭐️ I would.

    Dan Spence

  • 10/10 recommend coming here if you would like to learn self defense in an encouraging and welcoming environment. Amazing instructors and peers.

    Cody Cooper

  • They hosted a Femme Fatale class for free and it was so informative and helpful. Really enjoyed all the tips and tricks and just how relaxed of an environment it was. Left feeling way more confident in myself and my abilities.

    Sarah Laufer

  • Great bjj gym. New mats and perfect location especially for UofL students. Joe is very nice and very good at teaching techniques. The team is still small because the gym only opened recently, but I learned a lot more and a lot faster than in the big gyms.

    Arthur

  • This is one of the more unique places I have trained. From the great location and vibe to the obvious technical expertise, I was very happy to have found Joe and his gym.

    Nick

  • Great spot for bjj. Joe the owner was super kind and accommodating me as a visitor. The gym itself has a cool brick/industrial vibe and is probably the most central to where I was staying in NuLu of any of the other bjj gyms which is a plus. Top notch instruction from Tomas the nogi instructor and I picked up some helpful tips on my nogi leg lock game. Highly recommend this if you’re visiting Louisville!

    Vuthana

  • Took some BJJ lessons with Joe while visiting town. Loved his passion and attention to detail.

    Thanks so much!

    Giorgia