WELCOME TO VIRTUE BJJ, Southport
Virtue BJJ is an award-winning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages through practical self-defence, anti-bullying strategies, health and fitness, and the development of a strong, positive mindset.
Our programs are led by Professor Thiago Teixeira Pegado, a 2nd Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, under the lineage of Professor Daniel Almeida and Professor Bruno Bastos. With a commitment to excellence and authenticity, our coaching reflects world-class standards and proven methodologies.
Through consistent growth and a strong community focus, Virtue BJJ has expanded beyond its original location, successfully establishing Virtue BJJ Brazil and Virtue BJJ Lennox Head, further extending our mission and impact.
At Virtue BJJ, we provide a structured and supportive environment where students develop discipline, resilience, consistency, respect, and confidence—skills that extend far beyond the mats and into everyday life.
Our dedication to community safety and positive impact has been recognised with the ‘Safer Suburbs’ Award by the Gold Coast City in 2022, highlighting our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and the wider community.
GROWING TOGETHER, ON AND OFF THE MATS...
ANTI-BULLYING
SELF DEFENCE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
CONNECTION
FAMILY
Learn More About Our Program
We offer a full range of classes suited to all ages and skill levels, including women’s only classes, striking classes, breathing classes and the best kids classes in Australia!
BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL CLASSES
We offer 2 free trial classes for both kids and adults. Click the button below to get in touch with us and book your free classes today.
or text Virtue on:
READ THE F.A.Q.
Being new to BJJ comes with a lot of questions! Click below to get the answers to all the common questions we get from beginners and people visiting our gym for the first time…
THE VIRTUE FACILITY
Click play below to see fun BJJ classes in session and get a view of our awesome space!
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A GREAT TRAINING SESSION!
HUGE MAT SPACE
SHOWER
CHANGE ROOMS
RESTROOMS
FREE PARKING
SEATING
BJJ SHOP
KIDS' PLAYROOM
WORLD CLASS BJJ IN THE HEART OF SOUTHPORT!
WHAT OUR MEMBERS ARE SAYING...
Lucy Kuhn
08:33 06 May 25
Ever since I started jiu-jitsu, Virtue quickly became one of my favourite places to be. The professors and coaches are all so supportive, friendly and experienced. I’ve made some amazing friends and connected with so many genuine people. Virtue feels like family to me. I love training here!
Lachie Henderson
21:24 29 Apr 25
Always a great experience. Our whole family trains with the team. Well run, organized and friendly. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to start Jiu Jitsu.
Bilal Elhami
03:19 01 Feb 25
Virtue BJJ welcomed me into there gym, even though a lot of people were training Gi at the time, they catered for me in the Nogi department. Had some really tough rolls and enjoyed the company of the team.
V K
10:26 03 Jan 25
Started training here 2 weeks ago and I’m loving it so much. Coaches and everyone in the gym are extremely helpful and approachable. Highly recommend !!
Francisco Melo
05:46 02 Jan 25
Virtue Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an awesome place to train! The coaches are super knowledgeable and make learning fun, whether you’re just starting out or already experienced. The atmosphere is really friendly and supportive, so you feel right at home from the beginning. The gym is clean, well-equipped, and perfect for anyone looking to improve their BJJ. Highly recommend it to anyone looking to grow in the sport!
Huge thanks to mestre Thiago who gave me the opportunity to train and improve my BJJ! Many thanks from you all at Virtue.
If you have the opportunity to know and train, that’s the place to go! Big OSS 🥋🫶🏾
Huge thanks to mestre Thiago who gave me the opportunity to train and improve my BJJ! Many thanks from you all at Virtue.
If you have the opportunity to know and train, that’s the place to go! Big OSS 🥋🫶🏾
Daniel Nelson
03:24 22 Nov 24
Virtue provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, with staff who are both approachable and professional, and boasts some of the most exceptional teachers on the Gold Coast.
Duke Williams
02:00 04 Jul 24
I’ve trained here a couple times and every time makes me want to come back for more, Thiago and Felipe have amazing skills in coaching and fighting and make the gym have a super welcoming atmosphere. The comp training on Wednesday pushed me more than anywhere else I have trained and there was a deep pool of brown and black belts on the mats training
The facilities are amazing and if you ever find yourself on the gold-coast or passing through definitely make an effort to get in and check it out – absolutely 5 stars
The facilities are amazing and if you ever find yourself on the gold-coast or passing through definitely make an effort to get in and check it out – absolutely 5 stars
Coopr
07:24 08 Mar 24
I have loved this place ever since I stepped foot into it, great vibes, awesome coaches and everyone is super friendly and always up for a chat. Great atmosphere and the place is always super clean and tidy. Love it here!
Liz Torresani
12:56 25 Feb 24
This gym came highly recommended and the moment we arrived we understood why. Amazing facilities, amazing coaches, humble, high level technical training and family friendly. The best environment and not just martial arts, respect, morals and discipline. Life skills. We all now call this our second home. Extremely impressive. We love it.
Cameron Grant
09:34 25 Feb 24
Highly recommended. The best BJJ on the Gold Coast. Amazing professors, coaches, teammates, facilities and classes. Lots of No-Gi which is awesome.
Adam Waterhouse
02:34 21 Feb 24
Can’t say enough about virtue jiu-jitsu it has changed my life and my kids life. The professors and coachs there are kind, professional and so good with the kids. Such a good atmosphere and everyone is there to help. Thanks thiago and the rest of the team.
William Broadbent
03:45 20 Feb 24
Pâmela Bubols
09:41 01 Feb 24
Today I’m here to recommend Virtue for more than one reason. I’ve been a student and part of the BJJ community for some time now, and ever since I got to know Jiu-Jitsu, it’s been a part of my life both on and off the mat. Coming from Brazil, I’ve visited many academies and met various instructors, and upon encountering Virtue, I must confess I was enchanted. Not only with the spacious, clean, and well-organized environment and the warm reception from the Professors and coaches but also with the consistency of the teaching program and the business organization behind it. Even before becoming a student, Virtue had earned my admiration. As a student, I couldn’t be happier—dedicated professors and coaches who are caring with the children and respectful towards adults, an academy for all ages and goals. I’m grateful to Professors Thiago and Felippe for their dedication and energy invested daily in teaching classes, and to Coaches Kaue and Matheus for always being available to give a little more of themselves for our improvement. An incredible team that makes an exceptional academy.
M. S.
20:13 13 Nov 23
Its the perfect bjj gym. Went there to stay fit during vacations and was welcomed there with open arms. Everybody is kind and respectful. The coaches are absolute legends.
It was a nice experience and i learned a lot. 😊✌🏻
It was a nice experience and i learned a lot. 😊✌🏻
Angus Houston
05:19 29 Jun 23
I cannot recommend this gym highly enough. Great coaches/professors, great people, great atmosphere. There are many different types of people all shapes and sizes with different skill sets. This gym is very welcoming and the people are humble and all are willing to share their skills without the tough guy approach. BJJ gives you more than just combat skills, it helps you approach many things in life better. You will feel better physically and mentally. Come do the free trail, you have nothing to lose but alot to gain.
Michael Flanagan
02:00 30 Apr 23
I recently attended a seminar at Virtue Academy in southport. Professor Thiago was warm and welcoming and the knowledge and experience he has to share is incredible.
The space is organised, open, clean and very family friendly. There is an amazing feeling of being part of a family from the moment you step in the door.
The seminar was amazing and I can’t wait to return again soon to train with the fantastic team there! Oss
The space is organised, open, clean and very family friendly. There is an amazing feeling of being part of a family from the moment you step in the door.
The seminar was amazing and I can’t wait to return again soon to train with the fantastic team there! Oss
Thiago Vallim
06:25 10 Mar 23
I rarely leave reviews on Google; however, this place deserves the time. I found the place an incredible environment with opportunities to develop jiu jitsu in all aspects and for everyone, competitors or leisure/ fitness. Highly qualified professors/ coaches, and top level hygiene. I migrated from another gym and this was likely the best thing I’ve done for my jiu jitsu and everything that comes along with it; friendships, physical health, and wellbeing. If you are reading this now, please consider visiting this gym. Thank you.
Ameya Hattangadi
21:39 07 Jan 23
Trained here for a couple of weeks while on holiday in the Gold Coast. Coach Felippe and Thiago are friendly, welcoming, highly skilled and experienced BJJ coaches – this makes for a safe and enjoyable learning experience. The training mat is massive and maintained very well. I’ll definitely drop by again when I’m in the area next. Oss
Ole Christian Hove
06:18 20 Nov 22
Went on a holiday to the Gold Coast and used the opportunity to visit a gym there, from som google search I ended up with Virtue BJJ. The guys there were really welcoming and I felt part of the “family” from the start. Coach Thiago and coach Kauê are on a really high level both in BJJ but also in their ability to teach.
Would definitely recommend this gym!
Thanks guys
– Ole C
Would definitely recommend this gym!
Thanks guys
– Ole C
Erik Glouftsis
05:03 12 Nov 22
I had the pleasure of visiting Virtue Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on the Gold Coast! Thankyou Professor Thiago Teixeira for your hospitality! Virtue is an outstanding BJJ academy with amazing family values, world class instruction, and an extremely friendly atmosphere! I have trained BJJ for 16 years and I would highly recommend this academy to anyone looking to start or continue their journey through this amazing Martial Art!
Dave
23:33 08 Aug 22
Professor Thiago and the coaching staff are amazing. I am only new to Jui Jitsu but from the first moment you walk in you feel welcome and part of the family.
It not only great for me but my kids love it. The kids classes are amazing to watch and the skills and lessons they learn should be mandated for every kid growing up.
It not only great for me but my kids love it. The kids classes are amazing to watch and the skills and lessons they learn should be mandated for every kid growing up.
Grace Rawlinson
07:21 19 Jul 22
My 2 boys absolutely love training at Virtue.The coaches are kind, caring, patient and always willing to help the children with their techniques. They go above and beyond to ensure the children feel comfortable in the environment.
We only wish our boys started earlier. They are blessed to be apart of the Virtue team.
We only wish our boys started earlier. They are blessed to be apart of the Virtue team.
emir kovacevic
13:40 20 Jun 22
Usually I do not leave reviews anywhere but this one is special.
First of all, I would like to say that Iv been training in Virtue for more than 1 year so I gathered enough experience and data to post valid review.
Gym: Gym is cleaned at least 2-3 times a day by Virtue stuff.. Every corner.. even the ones where literally no one walks by is been cleaned and polished.
Virtue gym looks beautiful, have proper mats, and it have enough space. I wont name other gyms, where some of my friends are going for bbj classes, which are really dirty, not looked after and those places are risk of getting some of well known infections.
My first day: My first day in Virtue changed my life.. My first day Iv meet professor Thiago (Owner). His energy, approach and professionalism is what kept me there, and in BJJ in general. To be honest if it was some other gym (iv tried other gyms afterwards just to feel the difference) I think I would quit same day..
He is very passionate, proud of his work and he is amazing teacher. Professor Thiago is giving good example even outside the gym.. He is amazing father, husband, friend fighter (competitor), he had tough life in Brazil, but he remained amazing good heart and inspiring person.
All of these small bits are one big green flag, when it comes to decide where to train, or where to send your kid to train..
Other stuff: Other higher belts stuff at virtue are very professional, passionate and they follow same guidelines, and they have same moral values as professor Thiago which is more than a good thing. All of them are also competing regularly on pretty much every major competition out there. They are willing to help at any time, they are so happy to share the knowledge and they are really Good guys/girls in general! Some of them are already Australian or state champions, but others are on that road too..
Kids program: Kids class usually starts before adult ones, and all i could see in past year is bunch of happy parents and kids.. a lot of kids that are
learning good manner, high quality BJJ and also iv heard bunch of comment such as “My son/daughter become much happier, disciplined and more focused in school..”
I cant say much other than this, since I am 30y old, so I did not attend kids class, but I also know that kids are winning a lot of medals at comps..
Other virtue members: Everyone is really friendly, it is simply because of Virtue domino effect.. It starts from Owner or stuff member (higher belts) which iv already described above. Everyone is making sure that new beginners white belts are safe, welcomed, and guided through first steps of bjj journey as they supposed to be..
Virtue is one big happy family, safe place to train, high quality place to train..
Uniforms: Uniforms and other stuff have amazing design.. They are just right!! Not too shiny, not too boring.. just simple.. clean and very well designed.
Competition: If you decide to compete.. Professors and everyone from virtue will help you a lot!!! it means they will dedicate their time to teach you stuff, to show you moves, to improve your game, to support you before, during and after comps. Iv seen a lot of gyms/friend which are literally alone on comp day.. there is no one to be in their corner, to keep an eye on their stuff, and to support them. Virtue is just opposite.. In my case, my first local competition
I had 2 amazing black belts in my corner shouting, giving me advices, and telling me what to do.. really.. NO WORDS for these moments..
Overall benefits of bjj:
-I stopped smoking after 14 years..
-My anxiety dropped like 200%
-My confidence level increased a lot!!
-I made bunch of friends, and few good ones
-Iv learned some skills, knowledge and philosophy that money cant buy.. you just have to show up there and absorb..
-My bjj gym is place where i know 100% that if I go there at any day/time I will be happy..
-I will just stop here because i wont stop writing until tomorrow..
1. come
2. try
3. thank me later
Virtue
First of all, I would like to say that Iv been training in Virtue for more than 1 year so I gathered enough experience and data to post valid review.
Gym: Gym is cleaned at least 2-3 times a day by Virtue stuff.. Every corner.. even the ones where literally no one walks by is been cleaned and polished.
Virtue gym looks beautiful, have proper mats, and it have enough space. I wont name other gyms, where some of my friends are going for bbj classes, which are really dirty, not looked after and those places are risk of getting some of well known infections.
My first day: My first day in Virtue changed my life.. My first day Iv meet professor Thiago (Owner). His energy, approach and professionalism is what kept me there, and in BJJ in general. To be honest if it was some other gym (iv tried other gyms afterwards just to feel the difference) I think I would quit same day..
He is very passionate, proud of his work and he is amazing teacher. Professor Thiago is giving good example even outside the gym.. He is amazing father, husband, friend fighter (competitor), he had tough life in Brazil, but he remained amazing good heart and inspiring person.
All of these small bits are one big green flag, when it comes to decide where to train, or where to send your kid to train..
Other stuff: Other higher belts stuff at virtue are very professional, passionate and they follow same guidelines, and they have same moral values as professor Thiago which is more than a good thing. All of them are also competing regularly on pretty much every major competition out there. They are willing to help at any time, they are so happy to share the knowledge and they are really Good guys/girls in general! Some of them are already Australian or state champions, but others are on that road too..
Kids program: Kids class usually starts before adult ones, and all i could see in past year is bunch of happy parents and kids.. a lot of kids that are
learning good manner, high quality BJJ and also iv heard bunch of comment such as “My son/daughter become much happier, disciplined and more focused in school..”
I cant say much other than this, since I am 30y old, so I did not attend kids class, but I also know that kids are winning a lot of medals at comps..
Other virtue members: Everyone is really friendly, it is simply because of Virtue domino effect.. It starts from Owner or stuff member (higher belts) which iv already described above. Everyone is making sure that new beginners white belts are safe, welcomed, and guided through first steps of bjj journey as they supposed to be..
Virtue is one big happy family, safe place to train, high quality place to train..
Uniforms: Uniforms and other stuff have amazing design.. They are just right!! Not too shiny, not too boring.. just simple.. clean and very well designed.
Competition: If you decide to compete.. Professors and everyone from virtue will help you a lot!!! it means they will dedicate their time to teach you stuff, to show you moves, to improve your game, to support you before, during and after comps. Iv seen a lot of gyms/friend which are literally alone on comp day.. there is no one to be in their corner, to keep an eye on their stuff, and to support them. Virtue is just opposite.. In my case, my first local competition
I had 2 amazing black belts in my corner shouting, giving me advices, and telling me what to do.. really.. NO WORDS for these moments..
Overall benefits of bjj:
-I stopped smoking after 14 years..
-My anxiety dropped like 200%
-My confidence level increased a lot!!
-I made bunch of friends, and few good ones
-Iv learned some skills, knowledge and philosophy that money cant buy.. you just have to show up there and absorb..
-My bjj gym is place where i know 100% that if I go there at any day/time I will be happy..
-I will just stop here because i wont stop writing until tomorrow..
1. come
2. try
3. thank me later
Virtue
Suscha Young
09:56 26 May 22
After looking at several martial art centres my husband and I both felt that this centre looked and felt the best, the coaches were very inviting and made our son feel welcome. Our son is 8 years old and loves coming to jujitsu he enjoys it so much he counts down the days until he goes, also the anti bullying program is great not only for the child but for all the family.
Martin Adam
06:08 09 May 22
I love training at Virtue. The place is clean, everyone is friendly. The program is structured and classes have just the right level of formality. As an older white belt I train mainly for fitness, not for competition. However, if you are interested in competing Virtue has excellent coaches with competition experience and success at national level.
bae
16:21 05 Apr 22
I arrived in Queensland 2 years ago. The moment i walked through the doors 🚪 I fell in love with this gym straight away. The vibe is so incredible , it’s so clean & such a friendly environment with world class coaching. This gym is suitable for anyone. Family friendly, the athlete & the competitors everyone will benefit 🤙
I love training at virtue thank you for such an amazing and inspiring gym 🙏
I love training at virtue thank you for such an amazing and inspiring gym 🙏
Thalison Soares jiu jitsu
04:08 03 Feb 22
Here to show my strong support for virtue Jiu Jitsu, I always have a great time there, amazing facility, perfect for the family, friendly environment and the coaches are amazing, great to see their passion for the sport.
Che Quaedvlieg
04:54 29 Jan 22
I visited Virtue academy today to attend the Thalison Soares seminar and was immediately impressed by the gym facilities, mat space and cleanliness. Professor Thiago was accomodating and made us feel welcome. His passion to help the bjj community grow is obvious and infectious. Looking forward to attending more events or some open mats there in the future.
Felippe Beltrao Martins
23:09 17 Jan 22
Really good environment, the academy is very tidy and clean, professional professor/coach.
highly recommended.
highly recommended.
Lucy Haiquel
22:27 17 Jan 22
I could not love this gym more! I’m so happy to be part of such an amazing team 🙂
Sam Finlay
03:56 05 Dec 21
Incredible gym run by inspiring people! My family loves training here, highly recommended!
Tom Bryla
10:19 20 Jul 21
Great place to train, friendly and inviting.
Rodrigo Campos
07:06 13 Jul 21
Amazing experience for all ages and levels.
The professors’s knowledge in the field are quite remarkable!
Also , the facility is clean and mat area is big .
I highly recommend Virtue BJJ
The professors’s knowledge in the field are quite remarkable!
Also , the facility is clean and mat area is big .
I highly recommend Virtue BJJ
Ian Ferriche
06:38 13 Jul 21
The cleanest gym I ever saw around Australia. Higher performance professors with passion and dedication to teach all aspects of JiuJitsu, from old school to the newest techniques. Safe, fun and honest environment to have our kids, parents and friends together. This place changed many lives and I’m very fortunate to have it to help me to be a better version of myself and contribute to make the world a better place. Osss
Leer0y Sh0rt
01:46 15 Jun 21
Virtue is full of warm and welcoming instructors and students that make you feel like you’re part of the crew from day one. The gym is super clean, has a very large mat space and top level instructors which have a student first mind set. Don’t just take my word for it, check out he other reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
MEMBERSHIPS & VISITOR PASSES
Click a membership option below that best suits your needs and fill out the form on the next page to sign up and join the growing Virtue Community today…
ADULTS
from
$50
Per week
- 15+ Weekly BJJ Classes
- World Class Facility
- World Class Coaches
- Video Training Library
Work on your health, fitness and confidence by practising the most effective martial art in the world…
KIDS
from
$45
Per week
- 10+ Weekly Classes
- World Class Facility
- World Class Coaches
- Lots Of Fun & Games
- Family Discounts Available
Help your kids to learn important life lessons, meet new friends, gain confidence and most of all, have fun!
VISITOR PASS
FROM
$40
- Multiple Daily BJJ Classes
- Gi + No Gi Classes
- World Class Coaches
- High Level BJJ
BJJ practitioners of all skill levels from any affiliation are welcome to come and train with us, we’d love to see you on the mats!
Frequently asked questions
Everyone is very welcoming and willing to help beginners. Even if you have previous martial arts experience, please treat this as a humble new venture.
Just come with an open mind and be willing to learn and remember that getting started will feel difficult but hugely rewarding once you commit and embrace the BJJ lifestyle, not only form a practical self-defence perspective but also for your physical and mental health.
These benefits come with added benefit of joining a great community of people striving to be 1% better everyday.
First check the timetable to see if the class that you are coming to is Gi or No-Gi.
For Gi class you can borrow a Gi for your 2x free lessons to try things out.
If No-Gi wear board-shorts and a rash vest but make sure your shorts do not have zips as this can damage the mats.
Besides the clothing, you will need a big bottle of water, thongs/sandals and optionally a sweat towel and mouth-guard.
Here is some important etiquette to abide by when joining a class, and also some tips to help your BJJ journey:
- Never wear your shoes or thongs/sandals on the mat. Always take these off before stepping on the mat.
- Always bow your head when entering or exiting the mat to show respect.
- Address the person leading your class as “Professor” if they are a black belt and “Coach” if they are any other belt.
- At the start and end of class line up on the edge of the mat in the order or your belt. So getting started as a white belt you will be at the end of the line at the far left facing the mat.
- Go for a drink break when the coach/professor announces a drink break.
- No profanity on the mat.
- When getting started, do not use all your strength without any technique, try to go lighter and learn from your more experienced partner. This advances your BJJ faster and prevents injury for yourself and your training partner.
- If you are rolling and get in the way of a higher belt rolling, stop fighting and get up and out of the way.
- Always respect the tap. If you hold a submission and your partner taps physically with their hand, foot or verbally, then let go of the submission immediately.
- Breathe. Try to breathe through your nose and control your heartbeat and stay calm. This will let you think about your movements and stop you from gassing out too quickly.
Training BJJ is intense and it will make you fitter and stronger. If you are not already active when starting BJJ, we recommend also doing other types of training to enhance your strength and cardio fitness for BJJ. Many of our coaches are also personal trainers, and they can help you with parallel training for BJJ.
Yes! We have 12 parking spots available but these often fill up quickly before class. There is plenty of metered parking available on the street, which becomes free after 5pm.
