25 Years of the Jiu Jitsu Club
Established in 2001, the Jiu Jitsu Club celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026, marking a quarter-century of competitive success, personal development and community.
Since its formation, the club has established itself as one of the leading university martial arts clubs in the UK, earning recognition htrough national titles, individual sporting honours and a reputation for welcoming students of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Recent Notable Achievements
Recent years have seen the club reach new heights:
- Crowned National Atemi Club champions in 2025
- Recognised as TJJF Club of the Year in 2025
- Hosted National TJJF Summer Ball in 2025
A key part of the club's success has been its inclusive culture. Today, the club boasts its highest-ever proportion of female and non-binary members, who make up the majority of the membership, as well as one of the strongest representations of female senior grades across the national and international foundation.
"I've always wanted to do a martial art, but I never realised what it could give me. Not only has being part of Edinburgh Jiu Jitsu made me feel stronger and more secure in myself, it has brought wonderful people into my life and given me an opportunity to practice skills, engage with people and try incredible physical feats that I never would have dreamed of".
- Madeleine Ferris (Club President 2026/27, Colours Recipient 2025/26)
"All of my memories of the club and the other members are special to me. The members of this club became and remain my closest friends. [...] A key memory for me was the day we had our photographs taken by the Sports Union. I was President of the club at the time; we were the first committee to do it; it was the first time in the club's history that we elected 3 women to the Exec Committee. I still have the photo and it reminds me of what we achieved together".
- Chloe Bruce (Club Member 2015-18)
Photograph of the Jiu Jitsu Club in 2017-18