Gi BJJ Classes

Are you looking for martial arts near me to master a new skill, get fitter and stronger, and build physical as well as mental stamina?

Located conveniently in Deptford, South East London, our top-rated BJJ gym is easily accessible and ready to welcome you into our family of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners.

Whether you’re a complete beginner taking the first step into martial arts or looking to further your Jiu-Jitsu skills, our friendly and experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.

What is BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), often referred to as “gentle art”, is a martial art and combat sport that originated in Brazil in the early 20th century. It focuses on ground fighting and submission techniques, emphasizing leverage, technique, and strategy rather than relying on physical strength.

BJJ was developed from Judo and traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, but it has evolved into its own distinct martial art with its own set of techniques and principles.

Gi BJJ classes are undertaken in a traditional Gi (kimono) uniform. This grappling style is grip-heavy as both you and your partner can grab one another’s clothing.

The benefits of these grips make for many exciting techniques and submissions that are not possible in the other forms of grappling.

How much does it cost?

Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi BJJ) classes are designed to be engaging and affordable.

We believe in providing high-quality training without breaking the bank, so you can enjoy the benefits of BJJ for just £105 per month (students) or £135 per month (adult).

No joining fee or long-term commitments.

Class Structure

Coaches cover a theme that progresses in each class across the course of a week (e.g. mount attacks). 50% of class time is spent drilling and 50% participating in live sparring. Sparring rounds are 5 minutes each, with a 30-second break to change partners.

Class Types

  • Fundamental - covering the fundamental techniques and movements, this class caters to white and blue belts.

  • Mixed - covering fundamental through to advanced techniques and movements, this class caters to all belt levels.

View the London Grapple timetable.

bjj classes london

Persevere through adversity

Are you looking for ‘martial arts near me’ to improve your overall physical fitness and mental health? Book a free trial class and kickstart your BJJ journey with London Grapple.

People love London Grapple

 FAQs

  • Yes, BJJ is for everyone!

  • BJJ is predominantly a ground-fighting martial art that places a strong emphasis on leveraging pins to apply joint locks and chokeholds to submit (tap out) opponents.

    Our BJJ classes use the traditional uniform known as the gi. In gi BJJ, practitioners use the grips and fabric of the gi to control their opponents, execute techniques, and submit them.

  • BJJ is unique in its effectiveness in allowing a smaller, weaker individual to defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent by effectively using technique and leverage.

  • You don't need to be fit to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). In fact, one of the great things about BJJ is that it can be adapted to people of all ages, body types and fitness levels. It's also a great way to improve your fitness as you train.

  • Yes, new students start as white belts and progress through blue, purple, brown and black belts.

  • The time it takes to earn a black belt can vary widely depending on factors including the individual's dedication, consistency and frequency of training and natural aptitude. However, on average, it often takes around 8 to 15 years of consistent training to achieve a black belt in BJJ. Focus on improvement in the art and the belts will follow.

  • BJJ is highly effective for self-defence, as it teaches techniques for controlling and neutralising opponents, particularly in close combat situations.

  • In your first BJJ class, you can expect to learn basic techniques such as positions, escapes, and submissions, as well as engage in light sparring, known as rolling.

  • You won’t need one for your trial class, but if you want to keep training, you will need a Gi. They are available for various prices, in different colours and materials, we have no requirements of what kind of gi you train in, but make sure you wash it before the first wear so you don’t dye our nice white mats.

  • Consistent practice, attending classes and open mats regularly, and focusing on refining techniques are key to progressing faster in BJJ.

    Our coaches are here to help you improve. If you’d like help outside of classes, our instructors are available for 1-1 coaching.

BJJ Training

Whether you're a seasoned BJJ enthusiast or a newcomer curious about this dynamic martial art, London Grapple videos available on our YouTube channel offer an insightful glimpse into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Here you can see Ffion Davies (IBJJF Gi World Champion & ADCC Gold Medallist) sparring with our Head Coach, Ross Nicholls in a Monday night Gi class.