Meet Head Coach Bruno Panno
6th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. Over 40 Years of Training. More Than 30 Years of Teaching.
From Rio to Uluwatu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been the foundation of my life since I first stepped onto the mats at the age of eight.
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—I began my journey at the legendary Gracie Academy, where I developed under the guidance of some of the most respected names in the art. I am proud to be a direct student of Masters Royler Gracie and Rolker Gracie, carrying forward a lineage rooted in the philosophy and legacy of Grand Master Hélio Gracie.
Today, I am a 6th Degree Black Belt, with over four decades dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and more than three decades of full-time teaching experience.
For 24 years, I founded and led one of Australia’s most respected Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies, helping build a thriving community and guiding thousands of students—from complete beginners to experienced competitors. Throughout my career, my greatest achievement has never been medals or titles, but watching students transform their lives through Jiu-Jitsu.
Now, I bring that same passion, experience, and commitment to Ulu Jiu Jitsu in Uluwatu, Bali.
More Than Techniques
To me, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is far more than learning submissions or winning competitions.
It is about developing confidence, resilience, discipline, humility, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Every class is an opportunity to become stronger—not only physically, but mentally.
Whether your goal is self-defense, fitness, competition, personal growth, or simply becoming part of an incredible community, my commitment is to provide the highest standard of instruction in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.
A Coaching Philosophy Built Around Every Student
No two students are the same.
Some walk through the door looking for confidence. Others want to compete. Many simply want to improve their health, reduce stress, or challenge themselves in a completely new way.
My role as a coach is to understand your goals and help you achieve them through structured, technical, and personalized instruction.
Every student deserves the same attention, respect, and opportunity to grow—regardless of age or experience.
Train with Confidence
At Ulu Jiu Jitsu, you’ll train in an environment where tradition meets modern coaching. Our academy welcomes:
- Complete beginners
- Experienced practitioners
- Kids and teenagers
- Women seeking practical self-defense
- Surfers looking to improve mobility, balance, and body awareness
- Travellers and expats who want to continue their training while enjoying Bali
No matter where you’re starting from, you’ll be welcomed as part of our team from your very first class.
When you train at Ulu Jiu Jitsu, you’re learning directly from a coach with over 40 years of experience, more than 30 years dedicated to teaching, and a direct connection to one of the most respected lineages in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
My mission is simple: to build not only exceptional Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, but stronger, healthier, and more confident people.
I look forward to welcoming you to our academy.
See you on the mats.
Get in Touch
Book a free trial, ask about private coaching, or enquire about hosting a Jiu Jitsu camp in Bali.
Prefer WhatsApp? Message us on +62 822 6609 2406
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first class at Ulu Jiu Jitsu in Uluwatu.
Not at all. Most of our students start with no previous martial arts experience. Our beginner-friendly classes are designed to help you learn at your own pace in a safe and welcoming environment.
For your trial class, simply wear comfortable sportswear such as a T-shirt or rash guard and shorts without zippers or pockets. If you decide to join, we’ll help you choose the right Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uniform (Gi).
Yes! We offer a complimentary trial class so you can experience our coaching, meet the team, and see if Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is right for you.
No. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is suitable for all fitness levels. Many students improve their fitness through training, regardless of their starting point.
Safety is our top priority. Classes are structured to ensure students learn proper techniques while training in a respectful and controlled environment.
Our Kids Program welcomes children from different age groups. Classes are designed to build confidence, discipline, coordination, respect, and anti-bullying skills in a fun and safe environment.
Yes. We offer dedicated Women’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense classes designed to help women develop practical self-defense skills, confidence, and fitness in a supportive environment.
Absolutely! We welcome travellers from around the world. Whether you’re visiting Bali for a few days or several weeks, you’re welcome to join our classes.
Yes. Private lessons are available for individuals, couples, families, and small groups. These sessions are tailored to your goals and schedule.
We recommend booking your first class in advance so we can welcome you properly and ensure the best experience. Regular students can easily reserve their classes.
We are located inside Ulu Active, in Uluwatu, Bali, just minutes from some of the island’s most famous beaches, including Bingin, Padang Padang, Dreamland, and Uluwatu.
Yes. Free parking is available for both motorbikes and cars.
Yes. Students have access to changing facilities and amenities available at Ulu Active.
Definitely. Many surfers train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to improve balance, body awareness, mobility, flexibility, coordination, endurance, and mental resilience.
Getting started is easy. Contact us via WhatsApp or the form on this site, book your free trial class, arrive 10–15 minutes early, and step onto the mats for your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. We look forward to welcoming you to the Ulu Jiu Jitsu family.