Question 1

How do family discounts work at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

Families who train together stay together. At The Kodokan we actively encourage parents, partners and siblings to share the mats, so we offer discounts for multiple members from the same household. When three or more family members join, each person receives a reduced monthly rate; the more people you add, the bigger the saving. For example, a parent and 2 children joining together will pay less per person than if they joined separately. It’s our way of making regular Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practice accessible for the whole family without compromising on the private-club experience.

Family discounts also apply across our tiered packages. Whether you choose the introductory Genesis programme, the Advanced option or the unlimited All Access membership, you’ll receive a scaled reduction based on how many family members sign up. Each family member enjoys full access to their chosen programme, including classes, open mats and member-only events, while paying a lower per-head rate. To get exact pricing for your family, please contact our team and we’ll tailor a package that suits your needs.

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Question 2

Can I freeze or pause my membership?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life sometimes throws unexpected obstacles in your path such as holidays, injuries, work commitments or family matters which can all temporarily pull you away from the mats. The Kodokan offers a flexible membership freeze policy to help you manage those periods without losing your place. You can pause your membership for blocks of one calendar month (up to three months per year) by giving at least seven days’ written notice. Your billing will be suspended for the freeze period and automatically resume on the agreed date, ensuring your place in classes and any promotional eligibility remains intact.

Freezing is available on all tiered packages (Genesis, Advanced and All Access) and for family memberships. If you need to extend a freeze beyond three months for medical reasons, we’ll ask for a doctor’s note and work with you to find a solution. Further details are available in our membership terms.

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Question 3

How much do pay-as-you-go sessions cost at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

While most members benefit from our tiered packages, we recognise that some people want flexibility before committing. For that reason we offer pay-as-you-go sessions. A single class lets you experience our coaching, atmosphere and private-club environment without any long-term commitment. The fee is slightly higher per session than our membership rates, reflecting the premium facilities and world-class instruction.

Pay-as-you-go is ideal for those testing the waters, travelling students looking for a drop-in, or busy professionals whose schedules change from week to week. Simply contact us to book your preferred class and we’ll reserve your place; payment is taken online before arrival. If you decide to join after a few sessions, we’ll apply a portion of your drop-in fees towards your first month’s membership. For current pricing, please see our membership page or email the team.

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Question 4

Do you offer private lessons at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, private coaching is one of the hallmarks of The Kodokan’s personalised approach. Our founder, Jared Nathanson, is a fourth-degree black belt who has developed a conceptual training style designed to “accelerate one’s skill level and fluency in the grappling arts”. Working one-to-one with Jared or one of our senior instructors enables you to refine specific techniques, develop bespoke strategies and get direct feedback on your progress. Private lessons are available to adults and children, whether you’re a complete beginner or an elite competitor.

Private coaching can be booked as a standalone service or added to any membership package. Sessions are typically 60 minutes and can be scheduled during off-peak hours to ensure you have the mat to yourself. Rates vary depending on instructor seniority and package, and we tailor bundles (e.g. five-lesson packs) to suit your goals. To learn more or to arrange a consultation, contact us via the  contact page.

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Question 5

What are the differences between the Genesis, Advanced and All Access packages?

Accepted Answer

Our tiered membership structure is designed to match your experience level and training ambitions. Genesis is our entry-level programme for adults beginning their path in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It emphasises foundations, posture, base and movement so you build a strong technical understanding from day one. The curriculum follows a progressive sequence that introduces fundamental positions, escapes and submissions. Genesis members typically train up to two times per week as they acclimatise to the art.

The Advanced package is aimed at students who want to expand their repertoire. You’ll access all intermediate and advanced classes, including positional sparring, situational drills and more complex submissions. The curriculum covers both gi and no-gi and introduces competition-focused training blocks. Members at this level are encouraged to train up to three times per week.

Our All Access membership provides unlimited training across all programmes and extras. It includes every Genesis and Advanced class, plus invitation-only sessions such as competition team practices, workshops and member-only events. All Access members also receive priority booking for private lessons. Families can mix and match these tiers; for example, a parent might opt for All Access while a child begins in Genesis. For full details and pricing, please visit our memberships page.

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Question 6

How much does Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu membership cost at The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

Membership options start from £80 per month. See the membership page here for full pricing details. Pay-as-you-go sessions are £25 per session for non-members.

Question 7

Do you offer a free trial class?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We welcome you to try a free class. Bring comfortable workout clothing without buttons or zips. The trial is both for you and for us to see if we’re a good fit and can grow together.

Question 8

Are there additional costs such as uniforms, seminars or competitions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Gear and events may have additional costs. Official Kodokan gear can be found at Kodokan Sport.

Question 9

What membership options and payment plans are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible monthly plans, including Genesis membership (£80/month), Advanced membership (£95/month) and All Access membership (£115/month), plus a £35 annual registration. Pay-as-you-go sessions are £25 per session for non-members.

Question 10

Do I need to buy a gi before joining The Kodokan?

Accepted Answer

No. You don’t need a gi on day one, but you are expected to buy one within 30 days of joining. We do not loan gis. Our instructors can recommend affordable, durable gis that meet our standards and will help you choose the right size and fit.

Investing in a quality gi early helps you train comfortably and shows respect for your training partners. Visit our shop or ask us in class for suggestions.

Question 11

How much does a gi cost and what gear do I need?

Accepted Answer

Visit our shop to see the cost of a gi and the gear you need. You can find official gear and pricing at Kodokan Sport.

Frequently asked questions

How do family discounts work at The Kodokan?

Can I freeze or pause my membership?

How much do pay-as-you-go sessions cost at The Kodokan?

Do you offer private lessons at The Kodokan?

What are the differences between the Genesis, Advanced and All Access packages?

How much does Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu membership cost at The Kodokan?

Do you offer a free trial class?

Are there additional costs such as uniforms, seminars or competitions?

What membership options and payment plans are available?

Do I need to buy a gi before joining The Kodokan?

How much does a gi cost and what gear do I need?