Question 1

Do you hold member-only workshops and special events at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Throughout the year, The Kodokan organises member-only workshops that dive deeper into specific positions, transitions and strategies. These smaller sessions are taught by our founder or resident black belts and offer a level of detail beyond our regular classes.

We also host social events to build camaraderie. All upcoming workshops and gatherings are posted on our members’ calendar and announced in class.

These events are exclusive to our community to maintain the club atmosphere and ensure quality instruction, but we occasionally open certain events to the wider Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu community. Attendance is often included in All Access memberships.

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Question 2

Can parents attend classes or only trial class viewing at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

Parents are more than welcome to watch their child's introductory session so you can see our teaching approach and make sure it’s the right fit. After the trial class, however, we operate as a private training environment. To maintain focus and create an immersive space for learning, we ask parents to drop children off and pick them up after class rather than stay on the mats or in the training hall.

If you ever have questions or concerns about your child’s progress, our coaches are available before or after class to chat. We also host periodic open sessions where parents can observe classes and see their child’s development. Your support from the sidelines is invaluable, and by trusting our process you give your child the independence to thrive.

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Question 3

What is your accessibility policy at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

The Kodokan is housed in a century-old building, and our training spaces are located up a flight of stairs. We currently do not have a lift or ramp, so we unfortunately cannot accommodate members who require wheelchair access or who cannot safely climb stairs.

We welcome people of all abilities and will always make reasonable adjustments where we can. However, due to the building’s structural constraints and safety regulations, you must be able to walk up and down stairs without assistance to train with us. We continue to explore options for improving accessibility in the long term.

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Question 4

Is there parking and cycle storage at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

We do indeed have parking on site at The Kodokan. We have a number of on-site spaces for instructors and team members. Keep in mind that street parking is not permitted though when coming to visit us

If you prefer to cycle, there are places to tie up your bike at the front of the academy. Bring your own lock and make sure your bike is safely secured before training. Many members choose to cycle or walk, which helps reduce congestion and supports our neighbourhood.

For parents doing school drop-offs, a quick drop-off zone allows you to escort your child to class, but we ask that you do not leave vehicles unattended. We encourage carpooling and use of the bus wherever possible.

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Question 5

What exclusive member benefits does The Kodokan offer?

Accepted Answer

At The Kodokan, membership is far more than a pass to train. You join a private club environment with state-of-the-art mats, and a club culture that's second to none. Numbers are carefully capped so classes stay personal and you always have space to roll.

Your membership also unlocks special perks beyond training sessions. You can unwind in our on-site recovery area, use dedicated changing facilities and relax in the member-only lounge. We host  social gatherings, film nights and seasonal events to bring the community together.

Members enjoy exclusive seminars, workshops and open mats led by Jared Nathanson and other visiting experts. We constantly reinvest in the academy to offer the best facilities and equipment. If you’re seeking a supportive home where you can grow on and off the mats, our membership delivers.

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Question 6

Where is The Kodokan located?

Accepted Answer

The Kodokan is based in the heart of Woolwich, London. Our academy is easy to reach by public transport and has nearby parking options for those who drive. Visit our  location page for full directions and guidance.

Question 7

Is parking available nearby?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have limited parking close to the academy, along with convenient nearby options. We recommend arriving a few minutes early if you’re driving so you can find a spot without stress. See our Location Page for details.

Question 8

Do you have changing facilities?

Accepted Answer

We provide a clean, comfortable open plan changing space and storage for your belongings. Many members choose to arrive in their gear ready to train, and our facilities make it easy to transition straight onto the mats.

Question 9

How do you ensure safety and hygiene during training?

Accepted Answer

We take safety seriously. Our mats are cleaned and disinfected after every class. Students are asked to maintain personal hygiene, keep nails trimmed, and follow our safety guidelines to ensure a clean and safe training environment.

Question 10

Where is The Kodokan located and how do I get there?

Accepted Answer

We’re based in Woolwich, London at Unit 1C – Commonwealth Buildings, Woolwich Church Street, London SE18 5NS. The gym is a short walk from Woolwich Arsenal station on the DLR and Elizabeth line, and several bus routes stop nearby at the Warspite Road exit.
There’s on‑site parking and a space to tie up bikes.

Question 11

Is there parking available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, on-site parking is available at The Kodokan. We have dedicated spaces for members and visitors.

Question 12

How important is hygiene in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Accepted Answer

Hygiene is very important in BJJ, as the close contact nature of the sport can easily spread germs and infections. It's important to keep the training area clean and to shower and wash your gi immediately after every session. It's also necessary to clip and clean your nails, and maintain good personal hygiene.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you hold member-only workshops and special events at The Kodokan?

Can parents attend classes or only trial class viewing at The Kodokan?

What is your accessibility policy at The Kodokan?

Is there parking and cycle storage at The Kodokan?

What exclusive member benefits does The Kodokan offer?

Where is The Kodokan located?

Is parking available nearby?

Do you have changing facilities?

How do you ensure safety and hygiene during training?

Where is The Kodokan located and how do I get there?

Is there parking available?

How important is hygiene in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?