Finding Your Gym (The Truth Nobody Tells You)

Choosing from 30 gyms seems overwhelming, but here's the secret - visit three, and you'll know. Every gym in Kent offers free trials, so use them. Don't just pick the closest one. That extra 10-minute drive to a gym where you vibe with the crew is worth it every time.

Here's what actually matters: Can you make the class times work with your life? Do people actually smile and chat after class, or does everyone bolt? Is the instructor still actively training, or did they peak in 2003? Are there people your size, age, and intensity level to roll with?

The Gi vs No-Gi Debate (Kent Edition)

Kent leans traditional - about 70% gi training across the county. But that's changing fast. Sevenoaks (40 Licks) and Canterbury (Silverbacks) are pushing the no-gi revolution hard. If you're under 25, you probably want more no-gi. Over 35? The gi game might suit you - it's more technical, slightly slower-paced, easier on the knees.

Pro tip: Train both. Gi sharpens your defense (can't slip out of everything), no-gi makes your attacks sharper (no grips to stall with). Most Kent gyms offer both now anyway.

What Kent BJJ Actually Costs (The Full Breakdown)

Let's talk money properly:

• Unlimited membership: £70-120/month (most gyms around £80)
• Twice a week: £50-70/month
• Kids classes: £40-60/month (usually includes a free gi)
• Drop-in rate: £15-20 (for when you're visiting)
• Private lessons: £40-80/hour (worth it occasionally)

Hidden costs? Your first gi (£80-150), tape for your fingers (£5/month), occasional seminars (£30-50), and that açaí addiction you'll develop (£6 a bowl). Budget £150 for your first month all-in, then £80-100 monthly after that.

Competition Scene (If That's Your Thing)

Kent punches above its weight competitively. The Carlson Gracie teams regularly bring back medals from Europeans and British Opens. Ascend's competition team is growing fast. Even smaller gyms like Swale send squads to local comps.

Don't want to compete? No drama - maybe 20% of people compete regularly. But consider trying one local comp. Kent Open, Southern Championships, or the London Opens are beginner-friendly. Nothing makes you better faster than competition prep.

Kids BJJ in Kent (Parent's Guide)

If you're looking for kids classes, Kent's sorted. Most gyms split it sensibly:

• Tiny Champions (4-7): Basically organized chaos with some BJJ movements
• Kids (8-12): Proper technique, anti-bullying focus, confidence building
• Teens (13-16): Adult techniques, competition prep if they want it

Best kids programs? Carlson Gracie Ashford runs an excellent kids setup. Swale BJJ is super family-friendly. Several gyms do family classes on Saturdays where you can train alongside your kids.

Women in Kent BJJ

Ladies, Kent BJJ is increasingly your space too. Eight gyms now run women-only sessions, but honestly, mixed classes are totally fine. Most gyms have a solid female presence now - gone are the days of being the only woman on the mats. 40 Licks has female instructors, Silverbacks has a strong women's competition team, and pretty much everywhere has a zero-tolerance policy on creeps.