Essencia Jiu Jitsu
55 Merritt Blvd, Trumbull, CT 06611, USA
55 Merritt Blvd, Trumbull, CT 06611, USA
Great jiu-jitsu academy! Coach Marcelo and his team not only teach high-level jiu-jitsu but also instill respect, focus, and discipline in their students, especially the kids.
I was recommended to Essencia Jiu Jitsu by a coworker/friend. Let’s just say it’s phenomenal! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely care about each student’s progression. The vibes are amazing and the community is super welcoming. They make you feel apart of the family. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, you’ll find the perfect blend of challenge and support. Highly recommend giving it a try! It’s a privilege to learn under Coach Marcello and his team. They are highly knowledgeable and tailor the classes to both beginners and advance members of the sport. The gym is bright, modern and clean also located in a convenient location with excellent parking.
What a great experience for my 3 year old ! The class teaches so many life skills and is run so well. Cant wait for my youngest to turn 3 so we can sign him up as well !
My son loves learning Jiujitsu with Coach Marcelo and coach Andreas, they are very patient and caring with the young kids, truly warms my heart to see. I am enjoying every minute of watching my boy learn martial arts at Essencia Jiujitsu.
Best Jiu-Jitsu academy! My 4 year just started and is absolutely loving the classes! Marcelo is a great instructor!
My son joined Essencia Jiu-Jitsu last month, he goes to all three kids classes, and he loves it! He likes the Coaches teaching style, Coach Marcello especially , as they're all very patient while working with each kid, but also sometimes allow the higher belts to roll a little harder against the coaches. It's a great jiu-jitsu academy, I'm very happy with having chosen Essencia Jiu-Jitsu Academy, and I look forward to eventually seeing him compete again.
Came to Connecticut for the holidays and I’ve been training at Essencia BJJ for several weeks now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. The facility is top-notch—clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need to improve. The real standout, though, is the head instructor, Professor Marcelo. He has an incredible ability to break down complex techniques into digestible pieces, making them accessible to students of all levels. The team is incredibly welcoming and you can feel the sense of community at this academy. The first day there I already felt like family. If you’re looking for a place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, this academy is the place to be. Highly recommend!
What a beautiful place. The owner/instructor Marcello was amazing. I went with my 15 year old son for a free trial and had a great class. We felt welcomed, comfortable and very safe. Will definitely be joining with school.
If you are thinking of enrolling in a jiujitsu gym, look no further, this is the right gym. 200% recommended
Perfect !
Good structure, clean, organized. The coach has control of the class and convey respect to the children
Quando eu mandei a mensagem para o Marcelo eu estava muito apreensiva de como poderia ser essa experiência para o meu filho, mas eu só tenho a agradecer pelo profissionalismo, pela paciência, pelo pulso firme, educação pelo excelente trabalho da Essência Jiu Jitsu Academy!! Vcs tem minha total gratidão por lidarem tão bem com as crianças ! When I sent the message to Marcelo, I was very apprehensive about how this experience would be for my son. But I can only express my gratitude for the professionalism, patience, discipline, kindness, and excellent work of Essência Jiu Jitsu Academy! You have my complete gratitude for working so well with children!
Essencia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is exactly the kind of martial arts academy that you want to be part of. As a lifelong martial artist, who even had my own school in a different martial discipline, all I can say is; I wish it was half of what Essencia is. Let’s start with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I come from striking arts and when I switched over I was immediately hooked at how amazing and effective BJJ is. I have 4 daughters and I don’t think they can as effectively defend themselves with striking as they can with bjj. In fact I came specifically to Essencia to bring my 6 year old daughter, as well as join the amazing team in the adults class myself. I drive an hour to Essencia. I pass a lot of schools on the way to Essencia for the preferred training environment and atmosphere I want my kids to grow up in and learn from; as well as be part of it myself. As for Professor Marcello, what can you say? He’s a class act. Marcello is a top notch professor and tested not just in competition, but also as a dedicated community servant. He’s out there having to utilize his skills daily. That’s who I want to learn from, and who I want my kids to learn from. Professor Marcello is phenomenal with the kids classes and a great leader to his team. Don’t hesitate! Check out this amazing academy out!
My 5 year old son attends classes. I’ve seen his attitude and respect for others change for the better. Beyond his ability to protect himself, he’s becoming an overall better person.
My 8-year-old has been attending classes at Essencia for a few months now. The coaches are amazing. Always patient and take the time to explain every move step-by-step. They’re encouraging and provide individual attention when needed. The kids are learning discipline and gaining strength and confidence with every class. I look forward to watching my son continue his progression and highly recommend Essencia for anyone seeking learn jiu jitsu!
Training jiu jitsu at a club like Essencia where everyone cares about the right things is a good reason to choose it over any other club.
Professor Lima is an experienced, professional practitioner and instructor of BJJ. I highly recommend you join Essencia Jiu Jitsu for its clean, engaging, fun, and professional environment. You won’t regret it!
Essencia is only the second BJJ gym I've trained at but it will certainly be the last. It is a privilege to learn under Coach Marcello. He is highly knowledgeable and tailors his classes to both beginners and lifelong practitioners of the sport both in the gi and no-gi. Additionally, the gym is bright and clean in a convenient location with excellent parking.
I found this gym through Google. The atmosphere was great, everyone was friendly, and very high level. Great team! Awesome gym!
Visiting from out of town and dropped in for a no gi class. Professor Marcello and the team made me immediately feel at home. Class was so fun and I learned a lot. Next time I’m in town, this will be my go to gym! - love Sam
My children have been loving training at Essência. The gym has excellent facilities, always clean, and everything is new! The instructors are always very attentive, patient, and keep a close eye on all the children, being extremely professional. At Essência, children not only learn about Jiu-Jitsu but also about discipline and respect for others. I highly recommend Essência to everyone.
Head instructor and owner Marcello Lima is a fantastic teacher and martial artist with high ethical values. I own two BJJ schools in CT and know most of the BJJ blackbelt school owners in the state and Marcello is absolutely one of the best.
good times; started jiujitsu few years ago and so grateful I did; I find it beneficial in so many ways which other activities don't come close to being able to provide. I can honestly say if anyone of any age were to experience the instruction, atmosphere, and attitude at Essencia they will "become better than they were yesterday".
"I can't say enough great things about Essencia! My son and I were welcomed with open arms by the friendly and knowledgeable instructors who are not only passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but also deeply committed to teaching and helping every student improve. The atmosphere is supportive and encouraging, making it a perfect place to learn and grow, both mentally and physically. The facilities are top-notch, always clean, and well-maintained. Whether you're a beginner or experienced practitioner, Essencia offers classes that cater to all levels. I've seen tremendous progress in my skills and confidence since joining, thanks to the personalized attention and guidance from the instructors. If you're looking for a place to learn BJJ in a positive and motivating environment, I highly recommend Essencia!"
A wonderful find! Our boys were so excited to be back after loosing their last school. Marcello is a fantastic coach, blending fun with discipline and outlining clear expectations. I would recommend Essencia Jiu Jitsu to anyone who wants their kids or themselves, to have better physical, mental health and agility. Mats and facility is spotless, and the encouraging atmosphere will bring out the best in your kids. 10 stars!
Essencia BJJ, is phenomenal! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely care about each student’s progress. The vibe is super welcoming, and the community feels like a second family. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, you’ll find the perfect blend of challenge and support. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, here there is a place for everyone. Very fun and a good workout. I highly recommend to anyone looking to learn.
Just starting to learn BJJ and becoming exposed to it and couldn’t be more thankful starting at Essencia 🤙
Professor Marcello and Professor Carlos are high level jiu jitsu players and coaches. The academy is a modern space and the pedagogy matches the aesthetic. Professor Marcello takes a modern approach to his instruction, which has rendered positive results in the development of his students. The team here is welcoming of others and purposeful about helping their fellow students learn and grow. Hobbyists and competitors alike will appreciate the instruction and support at Essencia Jiu Jitsu Academy.
Can’t thank the professor at Essencia and the other athletes enough for accepting me in as a respected peer. There isn’t another place where you’ll find this level of training, technique, energy, and respect even as someone relatively new to the sport still such as my self. Highly recommend.
My family has trained at three different academies. Essencia has been the best by leaps and bounds. The facility is beautiful and clean with ample room for training or watching. Professor Marcello has a vast amount of knowledge and explains techniques thoroughly so you understand what to do, why you would do it and what to expect when you attempt a move. Furthermore, Marcello has a strong support group of knowledgeable upper belts who are always friendly and willing to help. If that is not enough, Marcello will also bring in other high ranking practitioners which allows us to see how others teach or to see their preferred techniques. This also allows me to point out to my kids the level of humility and respect the Professor has for the art. Unfortunately, an academy cannot just thrive from a top notch instructor. You need good people to train with and I have not met a better group than the people at Essencia. There is a wide variety of ages and sizes, so everyone has a partner to work with. Following the footsteps of the instructor, they are all friendly and helpful. Being friendly, helpful and humble is a key point to wanting to try this gym. However, the intensity, passion and dedication brought by the entire team will make you stay at this gym. I have been tested physically, always pushing myself harder, not because they are mean or demanding, but because this team or family atmosphere makes you want to be your best self. That is just my perspective from the adult classes. Adult class size depends on the day, but there is always someone watching you to help improve your technique, so it never feels like you are lost in the crowd. The children's classes tend to be smaller as the program is newer. As the kids' class size increases, the personal attention will not decline as proven in the adult classes. Professor Marcello explains things well and does so in a fun atmosphere, often ending class with a game or two. The competitive nature does not drop just because they are kids. My 10 yr old daughter has become a more technical practitioner and prefers Essencia as she is challenged more. Other places can have a mix of students from hard core athletic competitors to kids running around like they are in daycare. Not here. Every day she is constantly challenged by upper belts, but learns to be soft and work with the lower belts. Finally, as a parent, I am able to watch the kids' classes. There are other schools that do not allow this, which is a big turn off for me. My 17 yr old daughter gets to take both the kids and adult classes. This allows her to practice for competition with people her size and skill level and larger, more skilled teammates for self defense purposes. As the school is new, I have not seen many belt promotions yet, but I have seen one round. They were well deserved. My point here is that you earn your belt. Just showing up won't guarantee a promotion. But the way the school is setup, you will want to train to earn the promotion and be more proud when you do achieve that promotion. The last thing I'm going to say about Essencia is Marcello's willingness to listen. I constantly ask him random questions that have nothing to do with his lesson plan and he is always willing to help. I told him about how my daughter lost her last competition. He asked if I had video, which I did, of course. He reviewed the video and at the end of the next kids class, he showed everyone the scenario and how to prevent getting into it, how to escape if you can't prevent, and how to counter if you are able to. Then, it was brought up again in an adult class a day or so later. As a lower rank, that makes me feel like I'm not only learning or my daughter is closing gaps in her game, but we are actually contributing to the entire team. It's a great feeling that we have not experienced anywhere else. So if you are looking to increase your health, learn a new art, build confidence, or up your game for competition, Essencia provides a fun, welcoming atmosphere to do so.
Want to learn jiu-jitsu in a place where you are respected and treated equally, Essência JJ is the academy to go to, for kids and adults. The knowledge of professor Marcello Lima is one of the best around.
Great place to train! Everyone is very welcoming and helpful. It’s beautiful and clean place to train. Instruction is top notch and I’ve learned a lot in just a few short months. Look forward to continuing my Jujitsu Journey at Essencia. Thanks!
I love training here! The professor is very skilled and his teaching style is very effective. The classes are challenging and fun! This academy is family friendly and a very clean environment. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Great atmosphere.
Family friendly and very clean. Great instruction and coaching.
Great place to learn, for adults and children!
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