Lachlan Giles grew up in Australia, where his passion for martial arts took root during his teenage years. Inspired by Jet Li’s action films, he initially pursued kung fu, seeking to emulate the dynamic techniques he admired on screen. However, witnessing Royce Gracie’s groundbreaking jiu-jitsu at the inaugural UFC event shifted Giles’s focus to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He began training under Tyrone Crosse, advancing from white to purple belt. After a knee injury temporarily sidelined him, Giles resumed his journey under John Simon, who would ultimately award him both his brown and black belts.

Scientific Approach to BJJ

Lachlan Giles distinguishes himself not only through his accomplishments on the mats but also through his academic rigor. In 2016, he earned a PhD in Physiotherapy, centering his research on knee injuries, rehabilitation, and training methodologies tailored to BJJ. Giles has published peer-reviewed studies in these areas, making him one of the few non-Brazilian scholars to contribute original research to the sport.

Together with his wife, Livia Giles, he operates a private physiotherapy clinic in Melbourne. Giles’s scientific background directly informs his coaching, as he integrates anatomical and biomechanical principles into his instruction. This evidence-based approach optimizes training methods and places a strong emphasis on injury prevention for his students.

Building a World-Class Program

Giles began his coaching career in 2013 at Renegade MMA before stepping into the role of head coach at Absolute MMA St Kilda. Over more than a decade, he has developed a highly respected jiu-jitsu program, mentoring standout athletes such as Craig Jones and Livia Giles.

Coaching Philosophy

His coaching style is cerebral and conceptual, marked by problem-solving drills, in-depth Q&A sessions, and a systematic approach to troubleshooting positions. Giles’s leadership has been pivotal in elevating Australian BJJ on the global stage, transforming Absolute MMA St Kilda into a hub for elite talent.

At the 2019 ADCC World Championship, Lachlan Giles delivered a historic performance in the absolute division. Competing as a 77kg athlete, he submitted three significantly larger opponents—Kaynan Duarte, Patrick Gaudio, and Mahamed Aly—utilizing expertly executed heel hooks. This remarkable run earned him the absolute bronze medal and the moniker “The Giant Slayer,” showcasing how technical mastery and strategic execution can overcome substantial size and strength disparities.

Analytical Contributions

Renowned for his analytical mindset, Giles has made substantial contributions to BJJ instruction, particularly in leg locks, guard passing (notably his "wedges" framework), and half-guard systems. His systematic and conceptual teaching style is sought after at international seminars, where he breaks down complex positions into actionable concepts.

Peers often refer to Giles as “the professor” for his ability to blend academic rigor with practical problem-solving, making his instructional content highly respected throughout the BJJ community.

Tactical Precision and Skill Development

Giles’s competition style is defined by technical precision and strategic problem-solving, rather than reliance on physical attributes. He advocates prioritizing technical drilling and live sparring over strength and conditioning, emphasizing the opportunity cost of time spent away from skill acquisition. Giles has stated that most of his losses stemmed from technical gaps rather than lack of strength, and he consistently cautions against risky leg lock entries that could jeopardize knee health. His approach to both training and competition is conceptual and detail-oriented, reflecting his scientific mindset.

In 2025, Lachlan Giles returned from retirement to accept a highly anticipated matchup against his idol, Marcelo Garcia, at ONE Fight Night 38 (2025) in Bangkok. Giles described the bout as a meeting of eras and styles, with a focus on testing Garcia against the modern leg-lock game. For his preparation, Giles emphasized cardiovascular training while deliberately avoiding wrestling-based conditioning to minimize injury risk. On December 5, 2025, Giles defeated Garcia and immediately announced his retirement, stating, “I’m getting old.” He confirmed this bout as his final competitive appearance, closing an illustrious career.

Lachlan Giles’s legacy extends well beyond his personal accolades. He has mentored and developed world-class athletes, most notably Craig Jones, and played a pivotal role in establishing Australia as a respected force in international BJJ. Recognized as an ambassador for Australian grappling, Giles exemplifies the integration of scientific principles with high-level sport. Through his coaching, seminars, and instructional content, he continues to shape the evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu both in Australia and worldwide.