built on
the mat

Develop skills for self-defense & competition.
about us
Black Belt
Roberto Traven BJJ
Middle Weight Division
IBJJF #554
Instructor / Kids Program
Instructor / Adult Program

20 x IBJJF Gold

7 x IBJJF Silver

5 x IBJJF Bronze

Head Instructor
Black Belt (1st Degree)

Elijah Pizarro

"Youngblood"

Professor Elijah is the owner and head instructor at Primitive Jiu Jitsu Academy. He is an active competitor who has earned multiple titles on the IBJJF circuit and local/regional tournaments. Years of competing at the highest level have shaped his approach to coaching. His instruction is built on proven techniques that hold up under pressure, both in competition and real-world situations.

Professor Elijah is known for clear instruction, attention to detail, and providing a structured system that helps students at every level improve. He fosters a welcoming environment for students of all backgrounds.

Purple Belt
Primitive Jiu Jitsu Academy
Instructor / Kids Program
Jason Steele
Purple Belt
Primitive Jiu Jitsu Academy
Instructor / Kids Program
Instructor / Adult Wrestling
Austin Ray
Blue Belt
Primitive Jiu Jitsu Academy
Instructor / Kids Program
Angelica Ureña
schedule

Weekly Training Times

Every day is an opportunity to get better.
Monday
5:30 PM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
7:00 PM
90-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
Tuesday
7:30 AM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
5:30 PM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
7:00 PM
90-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
Wednesday
7:30 AM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
5:30 PM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
7:00 PM
90-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
Thursday
7:30 AM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
5:30 PM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
7:00 PM
90-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Wrestling
Instructor:
Austin Ray
Friday
5:30 PM
60-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Kids
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
7:00 PM
90-minutes
Jiu Jitsu
Adult
Gi
Instructor:
Elijah Pizarro
Classes / kids program
Ages 5-16 years old

Jiu Jitsu teaches kids how to stay calm, think, and respond under tough pressure

Physical Fitness

Improve strength, coordination, balance, and overall athleticism through activities and structured movement.

Technique

Learn fundamental Jiu Jitsu positions and movements with a focus on control, awareness, and proper execution.

Drilling

Reinforce techniques through repetition, helping students build muscle memory and confidence in their movements.

Situational Rolls

Apply techniques in controlled scenarios that teach problem-solving, awareness, and how to respond under pressure.

Classes / adult program
Ages 16+ years old

Jiu Jitsu turns pressure into something you can manage, not avoid.

Fundamentals

Learn how to protect yourself, escape bad positions, and gain practical Jiu Jitsu skills useful for self-defense and competition.

Situational Rolls

Apply techniques in controlled scenarios that teach problem-solving, awareness, and how to respond under pressure.

Competition Training

If you’re looking to compete, we prepare you with high-level rounds, partner with sister gyms, and world-class coaching built for tournament performance.

Strong Community

You’re not just walking in, working out, and leaving. You train alongside people who want to see you improve and push you to get better.

frequently asked questions

Get on the mat with confidence

Find answers to questions new students have. We're here to help you walk in prepared and ready to get started.
Is Jiu Jitsu good for beginners?
Jiu jitsu is designed for beginners and you don’t need prior experience to start. Every class builds step by step. You’ll be guided through the basics, work with partners at your level, and improve at your own pace.
What should I expect in my first class?
Your first class is straightforward. You’ll warm up, learn a few basic techniques, and get a feel for how everything works. You won’t be thrown into anything overwhelming. Coaches and teammates will guide you the whole time. The goal is to help you understand the basics and leave feeling more comfortable than when you walked in.
What should I wear to Jiu Jitsu class?
If you have a gi, please bring it to class. If not, a t-shirt and athletic shorts without pockets or zippers work just fine for your first class. Keep it simple and comfortable. We will help you get the right gear once you decide to continue, so there’s no need to overthink it before you start.
Can Jiu Jitsu help me lose weight or get in shape?
Jiu jitsu is a full-body workout that builds strength, improves conditioning, and burns calories without feeling repetitive. The more consistent you are, the more results you’ll see. Most people notice better energy, improved fitness, and weight loss over time.
Is Jiu Jitsu dangerous?
Jiu jitsu is a contact sport, but it’s trained in a controlled and respectful environment. Techniques are practiced with partners who are there to help. You’re also taught how to stay safe, including when to tap and reset. Injuries are uncommon when you train smart, communicate, and go at a pace that fits your experience.
M
Mohammad Ibrihim
Elijah is a world class competitor and instructor. He’s not only a killer on the mats but he’s one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. He keeps his facility clean and he’s  very welcoming to people of all levels. He’s great with kids as well! If you’re in the area you should definitely train with him. Highly recommended!
A
Alaina Holeman
I had the opportunity to participate in a 3-month free trial they offered for women as an introduction to Jiu-Jitsu, and I’m so glad I walked through the door. Elijah and Angie have been incredibly supportive—constantly encouraging us to push past our limits while making sure the environment remains safe and welcoming.

I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a solid introduction to the sport, as well as to experienced fighters wanting to connect with others in the Lawrenceville area who share a passion for Jiu-Jitsu.
J
Jessica Yi
I started my Jiu-Jitsu journey here at Primitive, and they were amazing at helping me take that first step into a new sport. The community here is very supportive. The growing women’s program is welcoming and inclusive, and Professor Elijah always keeps us engaged and working towards improvement.

Just show up.

Consistency on the mat builds confidence you can carry into everyday life.

Our Sponsors

We are supported by partners who value the character & discipline Jiu Jitsu builds.