Dublin offers a lively selection of Brazilian-inspired places to get fit, have fun, and dive into culture. Whether you’re into Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, Capoeira, or samba and zouk dance, there’s something for every level.
Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu Gyms
Here are some top BJJ academies with authentic Brazilian roots:
- JSBJJ (Jorge Santos BJJ)
Founded by Brazilian world medalist Jorge Santos (Black Belt, 4th degree). Classes from beginner to advanced—tailored and character-building in a friendly environment https://www.mari-ribeiro.com/ - Jungle BJJ (Smithfield / Liberties)
Led by Brazilian black belts Peter Mamaev and Silvia Scomparin. Offers foundation programmes, sparring, kids classes, and competitive training.
https://www.junglebjjdublin.com/ - Republic of Jiu‑Jitsu (Dublin 2)
Founded by Abnel Rodrigues (3rd‑degree black belt from Bahia), offering gi/no‑gi classes, youth sessions, and a strong community ethos. Please note that due to a fire, they are temporarily holding classes at Trinity Sports Centre
https://www.republicofjiujitsu.ie/ - Royal Grappling Academy (Marcelo Garcia lineage)
Premier academy with morning classes, kids programs, and competition prep.
https://rga.ie/ - SBG Ireland (MMA & BJJ HQ)
John Kavanagh’s 16,000 sq ft MMA facility offers gi and no‑gi BJJ along with MMA/training features like an octagon and sauna.
https://www.sbgireland.com/ - 10th Planet Dublin (Gaelic Street)
Focused on Eddie Bravo’s no‑gi BJJ system: rolling, positional sparring, open mats, and a structured six-week beginners’ course
https://www.10thplanetdublin.com/ .
Capoeira: Martial Art, Dance & Culture
Capoeira in Dublin brings rhythm, agility, and Afro‑Brazilian heritage together:
- Capoeira Ireland / Mundo Capoeira (since 2001)
Multiple Dublin locations (Synge Street, Toberbunny, Clontarf, Docklands). Professor Bruno and Professor Mamáozinho offer weekly classes for adults and kids. Great for coordination, fitness, and fun.
https://www.capoeiraireland.com/ - Dublin School of Capoeira (CECAB via Mamáozinho)
Monday (Docklands) & Saturday (Clontarf). Focuses on strength, movement, breathwork, and community building.
https://dublinschoolcapoeira.wordpress.com/
Samba & Afro‑Brazilian Dance Classes
Bring some Carnival into your life with samba and Afro‑Brazilian dancing:
- Mari Ribeiro Co. (Temple Bar)
Inclusive, empowering Brazilian dance classes in Curved Street. Welcomes all shapes, ages, abilitie.
https://www.mari-ribeiro.com/ - MaSamba Samba School (Bow Lane West, Dublin 8)
Community-based collective promoting samba music, dance, and Afro‑Brazilian heritage.
https://www.masamba.com/ - Rio Soul Samba & Samba Dance Brazil
Workshops, cultural events, dance for weddings/corporates, led by founder Van Frot and team.
https://www.instagram.com/riosoulsamba - Brazilian Zouk (Zouk Ireland Família)
Passionate dance community hosting classes, parties & events—perfect for social dancers instagram.com.
Choosing What’s Right for You
| Interest | Best Options | Why |
| Self‑defence & grappling | JSBJJ, Jungle BJJ, Republic of Jiu‑Jitsu, Royal Grappling, SBG | Authentic Brazilian instructors, structured programmes |
| Rhythmic dance + fitness | Mari Ribeiro Co., MaSamba, Rio Soul Samba, Zouk Ireland | Inclusive, cultural, social |
| Martial arts with flair | Capoeira Ireland, Dublin School of Capoeira | Combines movement, music, acrobatics & cultural enrichment |
Tips for Getting Started
- Try a taster or beginner course first: Most places offer intro sessions or 6-week courses.
- Check age groups: Many BJJ and capoeira schools welcome all ages; kids classes often available.
- Time & location: Dublin traffic matters! Pick a gym near home or work for ease.
- Focus on vibe: Visit a class, feel the community energy—it’s often as important as the training.
Dublin’s Brazilian fitness scene is more than workouts—it’s culture, community, and growth. Whether you’re rolling in gis, dancing samba, or flowing in capoeira, each offers a uniquely joyful way to get fit, meet new people, and embrace Brazilian spirit. Ready to begin? Choose your path, take that first class, and let the rhythm move you!
Let me know if you’d like help scheduling your first samba workshop, capoeira trial, or BJJ class!
