Up Top Martial Arts Academy
Ages 4–6
Little Champs BJJ
Our youngest grapplers learn balance, focus, and confidence through age-appropriate BJJ fundamentals — in a fun, safe environment designed specifically for little ones ages 4–6.
Programs for ages 4 through adult. No experience needed — all levels welcome.
Every student. Every goal. Every belt. We're here every step of the way.
Up Top Martial Arts Academy is Wayne, NJ's premier center for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling, with programs for ages 4 through adult in a welcoming, community-driven environment. Head instructor Yanni Hronakis — a 2nd Degree Black Belt through the Renzo Gracie lineage — trains alongside his students seven days a week, competing at every level to push both himself and his team to new heights.
Owner & Head Instructor · 2nd Degree BJJ Black Belt
Yanni Hronakis holds a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Jamie Cruz — one of the first American Black Belts under Renzo Gracie — and a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, with additional training in Muay Thai Kickboxing. He began martial arts at age 8, started assisting classes at 16, and has been competing alongside his students ever since, regularly appearing on tournament podiums across New Jersey and beyond. You'll find him on the mats every single day, whether coaching, drilling, or rolling with students of all ages and levels.
We don't just teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — we build better people.
Students earn every belt by demonstrating real technique — we don't hand out ranks. With a 5.0-star Google rating, our standards speak for themselves.
From young kids to adults, complete beginners to returning martial artists — everyone feels at home at Up Top Martial Arts Academy. This is a family, not just a gym.
Parents and students report improvements in focus, confidence, and discipline within the first 30–60 days. Our structured curriculum ensures every student progresses at every level.
Something for everyone — from toddlers to adults, beginners to competitors.
Our youngest grapplers learn balance, focus, and confidence through age-appropriate BJJ fundamentals — in a fun, safe environment designed specifically for little ones ages 4–6.
Split into age-appropriate groups, our Kids BJJ classes build technique, discipline, and competitive drive — with a strong emphasis on safety, self-defense, and having fun on the mats.
Whether your goal is competition, fitness, self-defense, or just a better way to stay active — Up Top's adult program covers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi submission grappling, and real-world techniques proven effective for all body types.
Three easy steps to your first class — no experience required.
Click the button below or call us at (973) 692-1991 to reserve your free intro session at a time that works for you.
Arrive in comfortable workout clothes. We'll give you a tour, introduce you to the team, and guide you through your first class.
If you love it — and you will — we'll find the perfect program and membership that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
No commitment. No experience needed. Just show up.
Rated 5.0 from 104+ reviews on Google
"I highly recommend UT for kids Jiu Jitsu. My son is a very shy 4 year old and I was very surprised when we walked in, met the owner, tried a class and was told by my son that he enjoyed it very much. My son is very happy when I say it's "Jiu Jitsu day". Yanni is very patient, knowledgeable, great with the kids and commands the room with great control."
via Google
"We love Up Top Martial Arts Academy! My six year old has been attending for two years and continues to learn discipline, build confidence and practice the art of BJJ. Yanni is an exceptional teacher who is patient yet firm when necessary. My son loves going!"
via Google
"One of the best JiuJitsu schools in the area. Yanni has made a great community and is a great instructor. His students are welcoming and talented. I'd recommend for anyone trying martial arts."
via Google
"Yanni is an excellent instructor, and the training partners are incredibly helpful, which makes the entire experience much easier. Great place to train."
via Google
"I got into BJJ late in life at 45. Time and time again I was told by instructors and students about Yanni's technical expertise. It's a great place with a great group of men and women to train with. I've been there for over 2 years now and love it. Great workout and even better stress reliever. No contract lock down — when you have a great product, you don't need to force a contract on someone."
via Google
Take the first step toward the best version of yourself. Book your free trial or get our full pricing and schedule sent directly to you.