Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms in Greater London
Explore London's world-class BJJ scene with 63 academies spanning every borough. From legendary lineage schools to cutting-edge competition teams, discover your perfect training home in the UK's martial arts capital.
BJJ in Greater London
Greater London stands as the undisputed capital of British Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, home to an extraordinary 63 world-class academies that collectively represent every major lineage, competition philosophy, and training approach in the sport. From Roger Gracie Academy's legendary pedigree in West London to the cutting-edge competition factories of East London's grappling renaissance, the capital offers unparalleled depth and diversity. With 55 gyms offering Gi training and 46 providing No-Gi classes, London's BJJ ecosystem rivals major hubs like Los Angeles, São Paulo, and Tokyo in both quantity and quality of instruction.
The London BJJ landscape is defined by its exceptional concentration of black belt instructors, international champions, and visiting professors from around the globe. The city's competitive scene is fierce—London teams regularly dominate British championships and produce UFC-level grapplers. Yet this competitive intensity coexists with a welcoming beginner culture, as 43 gyms run dedicated kids programs and 14 offer women's only sessions. The diversity extends beyond demographics: you'll find traditional Gracie Barra lineage schools, 10th Planet no-gi specialists, Daisy Fresh-inspired competition rooms, and hybrid academies blending judo, wrestling, and sambo into comprehensive grappling programs.
What makes London's BJJ scene truly special is its interconnected community spirit despite the city's size. Regular open mats, cross-training culture, and visiting black belt seminars create a network effect where knowledge flows freely between academies. The capital's family-oriented gyms (particularly strong in outer boroughs) have cultivated multi-generational training, with parents and children progressing through belts together. London's multicultural character enriches the mats—you'll roll with city bankers, NHS doctors, construction workers, artists, and visiting grapplers from every continent, creating an unmatched cultural exchange that transcends the sport itself.
London's comprehensive transport network makes BJJ remarkably accessible across all 32 boroughs. Zone 1 academies cater to City workers with early morning and lunchtime classes, while suburban gyms offer free parking and family-friendly schedules. The concentration of gyms—from Croydon's southern reaches to Enfield's northern boundaries, Hillingdon's western suburbs to Greenwich's riverside locations—ensures most Londoners live within 20 minutes of multiple high-quality options. This density creates healthy competition that keeps prices reasonable (relative to London standards) and quality exceptionally high.
All 63 BJJ Gyms in Greater London
From beginner-friendly fundamentals to elite competition training—find your perfect gym
Fightzone London
Fightzone London offers over 150 classes per week across multiple martial arts disciplines. We provide a comprehensive training environment for practitioners of all levels, focusing on skill development, fitness, and community.
London Fight Factory
Our experienced coaches and friendly students are committed to helping new members. Training with us guarantees a significant enhancement in your martial arts knowledge and physical fitness, potentially elevating you to the best shape of your life.
London Grapple
We're the leading London BJJ gym based in Deptford, South East London, specialising in Submission Grappling, MMA, Wrestling and Muay Thai. Whether you're a beginner stepping onto the mat for the first time or an experienced athlete, we've got you covered with 60+ classes a week tailored to all skill levels.
Mill Hill BJJ
Mill Hill BJJ is a Combat and Conditioning Academy in North London offering comprehensive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for adults and children from age 4, with a complete training programme for beginners and experienced practitioners.
Diesel Gym London
Diesel Gym London is a comprehensive martial arts training facility offering multiple disciplines including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, and Wrestling. The gym provides a welcoming, supportive environment for martial artists of all levels, from beginners to competitive athletes.
Canary Wharf Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
The Canary Wharf Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club focuses on providing you the best possible experience, by learning through a carefully crafted methodology in a safe and fun environment.
Grapplers Den Balham
Grapplers Den is South London's home of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, located in the heart of Balham. We are a trusted affiliate of the Mauricio Gomes Legacy Team, with direct lineage to Roger Gracie. Our goal is to help you grow, on and off the mats, through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, building confidence, discipline, and resilience for people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds.
Roger Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy HQ
Roger Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is London's premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training facility, offering high-quality instruction from world-class black belt instructors in a supportive and welcoming environment.
AEON BJJ
An academy established to cultivate and nurture recreational, amateur and professional athletes on their quest for excellence in all areas of life. At AEON, everyone is equal; we are only as strong as each other. Regardless of the level, regardless of the age and regardless of the social status, we will always rely on each other for growth.
The Gauntlet Fight Academy
The Gauntlet Fight Academy started as a small martial arts program with just 3 white belt students and one passionate coach, Neto Nunes. Now, it has grown into an established family-run business with the biggest mat space in West London, offering 7 different martial arts disciplines and creating a community that transforms lives through sport.
Fight City Gym - Elephant Park
Whether you're a complete beginner looking to get fitter or a seasoned athlete preparing to compete, if world-class MMA training is what you want, you've come to the right place. Our newest gym boasts an impressive 5500sq ft space that is designed to push you to your limits with top of the line facilities and experienced coaches on hand to provide dedicated support.
Grand Union Jiu Jitsu at Gymbox
Welcome to our community where we cultivate strength, resilience, and positivity. Grand Union London has a partnership with Gymbox, offering BJJ classes in the center of London.
Grapple Zone Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and GZ Clinic
An affiliate of the world renowned CheckMat BJJ, we are a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Grappling club based near Waterloo, London. We specialise in learning and understanding the game of Jiu Jitsu in order to practice the art that we love in an efficient and safe manner.
Cantagalo JiuJitsu London
We are a friendly Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) academy that welcomes everyone regardless of fitness or BJJ journey. Our key motto is 'EACH ONE TEACH ONE', focusing on support, kindness, and unity.
Alliance Jiu Jitsu London
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not just a sport, it's a lifestyle, and we want to share it with you. We aim to make it easy for you to get started with jiu jitsu so that you can get the most out of every class.
Wave Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Wave Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers a structured 4-week introductory program designed to help new students start their BJJ journey, with classes focusing on fundamental techniques and positions like mount, closed guard, side control, and back control.
BJJ ART UK - BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU
BJJ ART Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are committed to providing effective Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a supportive environment that brings out the best in our students. All of our classes are taught in a no ego, relaxed training environment. We are a family who treats everyone as family members.
Los Banditos Submission Grappling Club
We offer dedicated beginners classes with a structured course that introduces fundamental techniques in a safe, supportive environment. Learn at your own pace with experienced instructors who focus on proper form and technique.
BJJ House Academy
We offer high-quality Jiu Jitsu training to people of all ages and abilities - providing a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to learn and grow. Today, BJJ HOUSE is a thriving Jiu Jitsu academy with experienced instructors and a diverse student body.
Kodokan Academy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - BJJ School London
The Kodokan is not a fight gym. It feels more like a private club where you're welcomed the moment you walk in. No one expects you to have it all figured out. Every black belt once walked in for their very first class in just the same way.
Apex Jiu-Jitsu
Apex Jiu Jitsu is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym that provides a supportive and inclusive environment for people of all skill levels to learn and improve their grappling skills. The gym's experienced and knowledgeable instructors offer a variety of classes and training programs tailored to the needs and goals of each student, whether they are interested in competition, self-defense, or simply getting in shape.
Grange Jiu Jitsu
We are a grappling gym based out of Grange Primary School in South Ealing, West London. Open 6 days a week, Grange Jiu Jitsu offers Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to everyone of all skill levels and interest in the sport.
The Pit Gym & Mma
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
Putney Jiu Jitsu - 5* BJJ Gym in South West London
Putney BJJ was founded in 2020 with the intention of creating a small, focused space to train, coach, and improve Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athletes, from novice to advanced. We believe that small classes and personalised coaching lead to faster progression and a stronger, more supportive community.
PURE JIUJITSU
PURE JIUJITSU was founded in 2019 with the goal of delivering world class Brazilian jiu-jitsu in a state of the art facility. Whether your goal is to get fit, gain confidence through self defence, compete or improve your skills for MMA, PURE JIUJITSU can accommodate.
Carlson Gracie London
Carlson Gracie London was founded in 2001 and we have been teaching BJJ in Hammersmith, W6 for over ten years. There are over a hundred UK black belts under our lineage and many of them are still teaching and training at our BJJ club in West London.
Team-Underground MMA
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu London
10th planet jiu-jitsu acknowledges the necessity of experimentation, the process of change and the recognition of value in all styles of grappling. With this in mind, 10th planet avoids stagnation and continuously evolves with a sport that is constantly changing at a rapid rate.
Equilibrium Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
BJJ philosophy is based on the notion that a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a bigger, stronger and heavier opponent. By combining both leverage and weight distribution we can take the fight to the ground, apply joint locks and chokeholds to defeat or restrain the opponent.
HampsteadBJJ
Hampstead BJJ is the home of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing in Hampstead, North London. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned fighter, we offer brand new facilities and some of the best instructors in the UK. We provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere focused on helping you learn and develop to become the best you can be.
MCEC Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
Jisso Academy - Roger Gracie Queens Park
At Jisso, we understand the power of jiu-jitsu to transform people on and off the mats. Through training this unique martial art, our students are able to develop their skills, their bodies, and their minds.
Battlezone - (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu,Boxing,Muay Thai)
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
Fight City Gym - Moorgate
Whether you're a complete beginner looking to get fitter or a seasoned athlete preparing to compete, if world-class MMA training is what you want, you've come to the right place.
Luciano Cristovam BJJ Academy
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for everyone. Professionally run world class Brazilian jiujitsu academy offering classes for all levels in a fun, safe environment.
Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu London
Carpe Diem BJJ is a boutique Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym in central London. Offering classes 7-days a week, we provide a professional service in a clean and safe environment, where we welcome all people.
The London Jiu Jitsu Centre
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) was made famous by the Gracie family as they dominated the early UFC and MMA contests. It is one of the most powerful, real-life fighting systems that you can learn on this planet. BJJ will provide you with an amazing work out, self defence skills and the option to compete in sporting matches.
BUDDHABOX x BALANCE BRAZILIAN JIUJITSU ACADEMY
BALANCE BJJ has been a growing ambition in Paxton's mind for the last few years. He identified a need for a BJJ Academy with a difference. One with the highest standard of quality and commitment running through. An academy aimed at a clientele that desires a high level of teaching, with exceptional facilities and a relaxed and healthy ethos.
Consistency Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
With our 'studio' approach you can expect a higher level of attention to detail and professionalism. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, our training program is here to help you achieve your goals, both on and off the mat.
Submission School Dojo
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
Carlson Gracie Team Clapham BJJ Academy
Our martial arts academy provides a supportive environment where students can build strength, self-defense capabilities, and overall confidence through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training.
Inglorious Grapplers
Inglorious Grapplers focus on embodying the idea of training with everyone in order to reach our full potential. We are a group of practitioners that are free from traditional politics. We strive ourselves on our versatile adaptation to all grappling arts, taking what is useful and adjusting it to fit each of our individual styles.
EK BJJ - Eddie Kone Academy of Jiu-Jitsu
Our Gracie Jiu-Jitsu proprietary training program is our beginner program for adults. By joining this program, you will learn the core fundamental techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in a safe, cooperative, & Friendly environment.
Valour Jiu-Jitsu HQ
Valour Jiu-Jitsu is a community-first martial arts academy in London, delivering expert-led Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 10 years. We offer structured programmes for kids, adults and complete beginners — focused on building skill, boosting fitness, and helping you progress with purpose on and off the mats, all in a disciplined and welcoming environment.
Jiu-Jitsu Social
We are a friendly and inclusive BJJ school a stone's throw from Royal Oak Station, in West London. Our mission is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where students of all levels can learn, grow, and connect through a shared passion for Brazilian Jiujitsu.
London Combat MMA Academy
LondonCombat MMA Academy has the sole purpose of delivering the best Mixed Martial Arts tuition and the best MMA environment. We teach TUKKONG MOOSOOL which involve the most effective techniques of Kyuktooki, Joint Locks, Grappling and Weapons Techniques.
Guild Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Martial Arts Programs along with Strength and Conditioning, Reformer Pilates, Yoga and Mobility. Our Training areas are supported by spacious Male and Female Changing areas with Multiple Showers and Toilets and a Cafe with seating areas for you to relax/work before and after your Session.
Will BJJ Team
Will BJJ Team is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school dedicated to providing inclusive, supportive martial arts training for all levels, from beginners to advanced students. The gym focuses on personal growth, technical excellence, and creating a welcoming community through martial arts.
33 Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training in Greater London
London Fight Academy
London Fight Academy offers a diverse range of martial arts classes where like-minded individuals push each other to grow, thrive, and evolve through MMA training.
The London Wing Chun Academy
The London Wing Chun Academy is an exclusive and completely unique martial arts and self defence training centre offering BJJ, MMA, Kickboxing & Wing Chun classes for all abilities from beginners to advanced. The Academy provides students the opportunity to improve their fitness, mindset and self defence abilities in a safe and friendly learning environment.
uncommon Jiu Jitsu
Uncommon Jiu-Jitsu was founded in 2021 by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Jack Grattan. Based in the beautiful Uncommon building in Holborn, our club provides a welcoming and beginner-friendly syllabus for those looking to learn a new skill, get fit, and grow in confidence.
Gorilla Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
90% of the students who start training at Gorilla Brazillian Jiu Jitsu join as complete beginners and develop into competitors. We are a Brazillian Jiu Jitsu school which offers Child and Adult classes. Our Coaches are expert Jiu Jitsu practitioners, who are fully insured, CRB checked, and first aid trained.
Myriad Jiu Jitsu
Myriad was born from our passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and our belief that the benefits of BJJ can be accessed by everyone. We pursue an equitable learning environment, where we will do our best to meet our students' individual needs.
Origin Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Team N22
Origin BJJ promotes an inclusive, supportive and welcoming atmosphere where we will help you progress through your training and towards reaching your goals. Everyone is welcome from complete beginners to more advanced practitioners.
MMA Kabashi
We are a very friendly bunch of people, keeping our technical training safe with huge benefits to you in terms of health and fitness. MMA is the most comprehensive fighting style, combining elements of multiple martial arts.
Hillingdon BJJ
Our goal is to provide an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to learn and improve. We are proud of our supportive community and believe that the right atmosphere and guidance we can help people achieve their goals, whether that's to improve your fitness, compete or learn a new skill.
Wrestling for Jiu Jitsu
Wrestling For Jiu Jitsu offers specialized wrestling and Brazilian jiu jitsu training, focusing on individual skill development and technique improvement for grapplers of all experience levels.
Flavio - Jiu Jitsu Coach
Welcome to SE16 BJJ, where Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is embraced as a martial art for everyone—regardless of body type, gender, or age. Founded by Coach Flavio Oliveira, our academy is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where all individuals can discover the transformative power of BJJ.
Revival MMA & Fitness
Welcome to Revival Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness Harrow. We are a full time Martial Arts and Fitness centre in the heart of Hatch End, Pinner who provide the highest quality Martial Arts training. Our highly skilled and qualified coaches have over a decade of experience in the martial arts and fitness industry.
Militia Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
We believe that confidence, discipline and strength are the core of an outstanding Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & grappling club. We are dedicated to providing exceptional standards of practice through our facilities and instructors.
Trident Mma
At Trident MMA, we believe that the warrior spirit is about strengthening both body and mind, empowering you to shape the life you want. We offer a variety of martial arts classes in Waltham Abbey, specialising in striking, grappling, and weapons defence.
Rogue Jiu Jitsu
Rogue Jiu Jitsu, formally known as BJJ Hertfordshire provide Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in the Hoddesdon area for beginners, intermediates and advanced practitioners. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or BJJ is a grappling based martial art that teaches firstly how to effectively control an opponent and secondly, how to submit an opponent using joint locks and/or strangle holds.
Popular BJJ Areas in Greater London
London's BJJ scene is best understood through its geographic clusters, each with distinct character. From the prestigious West End academies to East London's emerging competition powerhouses, every area offers unique training opportunities.
Central & West London (Zones 1-2)
The historic heart of London BJJ, featuring legendary academies like Roger Gracie and Carlson Gracie Team. These gyms attract international students, City professionals, and visiting black belts. Expect premium facilities, world-class instruction, and a cosmopolitan training culture. The concentration of talent means you'll regularly roll with brown and black belts, accelerating your progression through constant exposure to high-level technique.
East London & Shoreditch
London's fastest-growing BJJ hub, driven by the area's creative and tech industries. East London academies blend cutting-edge competition training with inclusive beginner programs. The scene here is younger, more experimental, and heavily influenced by modern No-Gi and MMA integration. Gyms like London Fight Factory and Carlson Gracie East epitomize the area's competitive yet welcoming ethos.
North London (Islington to Enfield)
North London's BJJ scene perfectly balances competition focus with community accessibility. From Islington's urban academies to Enfield's suburban clubs, this area excels in family programs and structured fundamentals classes. The strong judo heritage in North London influences many academies' takedown and gripping instruction, producing well-rounded grapplers who excel in both Gi and No-Gi contexts.
South London (Croydon to Greenwich)
South London's sprawling geography hosts diverse academies from Croydon's competition-focused gyms to Greenwich's riverside training spaces. This area is known for producing tough, technical grapplers who compete regularly. The slightly lower cost of living translates to more spacious facilities and better value memberships, making South London attractive for serious students building long-term training habits.
West & Southwest London (Richmond to Wimbledon)
West and Southwest London's affluent communities support premium BJJ facilities with exceptional equipment, cleanliness, and amenities. These gyms excel in kids programs, women's classes, and professional instruction for beginners. The demographic skews slightly older and includes many families training together. Expect structured curriculums, excellent customer service, and some of London's best gym facilities in areas like Richmond, Kingston, and Wimbledon.
BJJ Pricing in Greater London
BJJ training in London reflects the capital's premium cost of living, with memberships ranging from £80-180/month depending on location, facilities, and program access. However, the exceptional quality of instruction, facility standards, and training partners provides genuine value. London's competitive gym market means even premium academies offer flexible payment options, student discounts, and family packages to remain accessible.
Budget Friendly
Budget-conscious options (£80-110/month) exist primarily in outer London boroughs and include community-focused clubs in areas like Croydon, Enfield, and Bexley. These gyms offer 2-3 classes per week or off-peak memberships, perfect for beginners or recreational practitioners. Don't mistake lower prices for lower quality—many excellent instructors operate in outer boroughs with lower overhead costs.
Mid Range
Mid-range memberships (£110-140/month) represent London's sweet spot, offering unlimited training at well-equipped facilities across most boroughs. This tier includes respected academies with experienced black belt instructors, comprehensive class schedules covering Gi, No-Gi, and fundamentals, plus open mats and regular seminars. Most Londoners will find their ideal gym in this bracket, which balances quality with accessibility.
Premium
Premium memberships (£140-180/month) grant access to London's elite academies in Zone 1 and affluent West London. Expect world-champion instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, extensive class schedules (often 20+ classes weekly), strength and conditioning programs, competition teams, and networking with high-performing training partners. These gyms justify premium pricing through exceptional instruction, facility standards, and the career-accelerating connections formed on the mats.
Pricing Advice
When evaluating London gyms, consider total commute time—a cheaper gym 45 minutes away becomes expensive in time and consistency lost. Factor in class schedules that actually fit your life; an unlimited membership is poor value if you can only attend twice weekly. Take advantage of free trials at 3-4 gyms before committing. London's BJJ scene is remarkably mobile—instructors and students regularly visit different gyms for open mats, so even smaller academies punch above their weight through community connections. Many gyms offer corporate discounts for City workers; always ask before paying full price.
Note: Prices reflect standard unlimited memberships in 2025. Most London gyms offer student rates (typically 10-20% off), family packages (significant savings for multiple members), and corporate discounts. Zone 1 gyms often provide shower facilities and premium amenities justifying higher costs. Outer borough gyms frequently include free parking, a significant value addition in London.
Starting Your BJJ Journey in London
London's BJJ scene welcomes thousands of new students annually, from nervous first-timers to relocating experienced grapplers. With 63 academies spanning every borough, the choice can feel overwhelming—but this diversity ensures you'll find your perfect training home. London instructors excel at teaching beginners; the capital's competitive instructor market means gyms invest heavily in structured fundamentals programs that retain and develop new students into lifelong practitioners.
What to Expect
- A genuinely welcoming atmosphere—London gyms compete for students, so expect friendly instructors and helpful training partners who remember being beginners
- Structured fundamentals classes breaking down basic positions methodically—most London gyms run dedicated beginner tracks separate from advanced training
- Diverse training partners from every background, age, and fitness level—London's multicultural character creates uniquely inclusive mats
- Patient instruction on both technique and gym culture—London instructors understand many students are completely new to martial arts
- Optional progression to sparring when you're ready—no one forces beginners to roll; you'll naturally want to once fundamentals click
What to Bring
- Comfortable athletic clothing for your first class—t-shirt and shorts/leggings without zips or pockets (most gyms loan gis for trials)
- Water bottle and small towel—London gyms stay warm, and grappling is surprisingly cardiovascular
- Open mind about physicality—BJJ involves close contact in a respectful, martial context that quickly feels natural
- Realistic expectations about progression—London's high level means you'll tap constantly as a beginner, which paradoxically accelerates learning
- Commitment to consistency over intensity—training twice weekly for six months beats heroic daily attendance for three weeks
Choosing Your Gym
- Visit 3-5 gyms across different areas before committing—London's diversity demands comparison shopping to find your ideal culture
- Prioritize commute time ruthlessly—the 'best' gym means nothing if you only attend sporadically due to travel time
- Observe a class before taking your trial—watch instructor communication style, gym cleanliness, and whether students seem to enjoy training
- Ask about beginner retention and progression—good gyms eagerly discuss how they develop white belts into competent blue belts
- Consider schedule flexibility for your lifestyle—shift workers, parents, and students need very different class schedules
- Trust your gut on gym culture—you'll spend years here; choose an academy where you'd enjoy a post-training coffee with teammates
Cost Information
Budget £110-140 monthly for unlimited training at a quality London academy, plus £60-120 for your first gi (many gyms sell basics at cost to new students). Add £20-40 monthly for laundry costs, replacement rashguards, and occasional privates or seminars. Total first-year investment: approximately £1,500-2,000 for life-changing physical fitness, self-defense skills, stress relief, and an incredibly supportive community. Compare this to London gym memberships (£40-80/month with no instruction or community) and the value becomes clear—BJJ is simultaneously exercise class, martial arts instruction, and social club wrapped into one.
London offers something no other UK city can match: the depth of talent, diversity of academies, and interconnected community that transforms BJJ from hobby into lifestyle. The capital's grapplers are spoiled for choice—world champions teaching daily classes, open mats every night of the week, competitions every month, and training partners from every nation on earth. Starting BJJ in London means joining a global community with deep local roots. The hardest part is showing up for class one—everything else follows naturally. Choose a gym, book a trial, and step onto the mats. Your London BJJ journey begins with a single uncomfortable, exhausting, absolutely transformative first class. The rest is just showing up consistently and letting time do its work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about BJJ in Greater London
How many BJJ gyms are in London?
Greater London has 63 BJJ and martial arts academies, making it the UK's largest and most diverse Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu hub. These gyms span all 32 boroughs from Zone 1 central academies to suburban training facilities, offering every style from traditional Gracie lineage to modern competition-focused No-Gi.
Are London BJJ gyms beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. London's competitive gym market means academies invest heavily in welcoming and retaining beginners. Most of the 63 gyms run structured fundamentals classes specifically for white belts, offer free trial sessions, and pair new students with patient training partners. London instructors understand many students have zero martial arts background and excel at making BJJ accessible to complete beginners.
What types of BJJ training are available in London?
London offers comprehensive training with 55 gyms providing Gi BJJ, 46 offering No-Gi grappling, 43 running kids programs, and 14 with women's only sessions. Many academies also teach MMA, wrestling, judo, and Muay Thai, creating well-rounded grapplers. You'll find everything from traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to 10th Planet no-gi systems, competition-focused teams to hobbyist-friendly community clubs.
How much does BJJ cost in London?
London BJJ memberships typically range from £80-180/month depending on location and facilities. Zone 1 and West London academies charge £140-180/month for premium instruction and amenities. Mid-range gyms (£110-140/month) offer excellent value with unlimited training across most boroughs. Outer borough clubs provide budget options (£80-110/month) without sacrificing quality. Most gyms offer student discounts, family packages, and corporate rates.
Which London areas have the most BJJ gyms?
Central & West London (Zone 1-2) has the highest concentration with 18 gyms, including legendary academies like Roger Gracie. South London offers 13 gyms with excellent value. East London's emerging scene boasts 12 competition-focused academies. North London provides 11 family-friendly gyms. West & Southwest London features 9 premium facilities. Every borough has multiple high-quality options within reasonable commuting distance.
Are there kids BJJ classes in London?
Yes! 43 of London's 63 gyms run dedicated children's programs, reflecting the capital's strong family training culture. London kids' BJJ typically starts from age 4-5 with age-specific curriculum through teens. Many families train together at gyms with simultaneous adult/kids classes. The quality of kids instruction in London is exceptional, with many youth instructors holding teaching qualifications beyond martial arts expertise.
Do I need to be fit before starting BJJ in London?
Absolutely not. BJJ will develop your fitness—you don't need existing fitness to start. London instructors routinely work with complete beginners at every fitness level, from sedentary office workers to elite athletes. Classes scale to your current capacity, and you'll naturally build cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility through consistent training. Many Londoners start BJJ specifically to escape boring gym routines, finding the engagement of learning technique makes fitness a byproduct rather than a chore.
How do I choose a BJJ gym in London?
Start by identifying 3-5 gyms with reasonable commutes (under 30 minutes). Book free trials at each, arriving early to observe a class before participating. Evaluate instructor communication, gym cleanliness, student friendliness, and whether the culture suits your personality. Ask about beginner retention and progression paths. Consider schedule flexibility for your lifestyle—the best gym is one you'll actually attend consistently. Trust your gut; you'll spend years here, so choose an academy that feels like community, not just a service. London's diversity guarantees you'll find your perfect fit.
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