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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

At The Kodokan we teach principle‑driven Jiu‑Jitsu that emphasises efficiency, leverage and sound mechanics over brute strength. Our curriculum builds from the ground up: you will learn how to maintain strong posture, balance and frames, escape from bad positions and use fundamental movements such as hip-escapes and bridging in relative situations rather than memorising endless techniques. We also view grappling like learning a language, where you need immersion to become fluent. That’s why we incorporate controlled live sparring (rolling) into every class. Under the supervision of experienced coaches, you get to test techniques against fully resisting partners, develop timing and awareness and learn to stay calm under pressure. Safety and mutual respect are paramount, so rounds are scaled to your experience level and training partners are carefully matched. Our goal is to cultivate resilient, well‑rounded practitioners who can adapt to any opponent. By combining technical drills, conceptual instruction and regular live training, you gain a deeper understanding of Jiu‑Jitsu and accelerate your progress. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Gi (kimono) training teaches you how to control an opponent using grips on their lapels, sleeves and trousers. The presence of a uniform encourages a more technical, methodical pace where you can build a strong foundation in posture, balance and leverage. Learning to use the gi helps you develop open guard retention, collar chokes and grip fighting skills that translate to self‑defence and sport Jiu‑Jitsu. No‑gi classes are practised in rash guards and shorts, so there are no collars or sleeves to hold onto. Without the friction of a gi, positions change quickly and you must rely on body locks, under hooks and head control to dominate. No‑gi training emphasises athleticism, timing and transitions between wrestling and submission grappling. Many students enjoy the faster pace and focus on leg entanglements, pressure passing and escaping slippery situations. Both forms share the same core principles of base, posture and pressure. Training in both gi and no‑gi makes you a more adaptable grappler because you learn to apply techniques with and without grips. Start your journey with The Kodokan today.

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu belt system serves as both a roadmap and a motivational tool. For children up to age 15, the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation recognises a series of coloured belts: white, grey/white, solid grey, grey/black, yellow/white, solid yellow, yellow/black, orange/white, solid orange, orange/black, green/white, solid green and green/black. Each belt contains five levels: the belt itself plus four stripes, which may be awarded for time on the mat, behaviour, technical knowledge and competition participation. When a child turns 16 they transition into the adult ranking system; white belts remain white, while higher-ranked youngsters may move to blue.. Adults progress through white, blue, purple, brown and black belts. Minimum time requirements generally apply in most cases. In addition to time, promotions we consider technical proficiency, conceptual understanding, attitude and contribution to the community. Kids are encouraged to compete in at least four tournaments per belt to gain experience, confidence and sportsmanship. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a bit like learning a new language: the more regularly you immerse yourself, the faster you become fluent. In the early stages we recommend attending as much as possible so that techniques can be absorbed and retained between sessions. Consistency builds muscle memory and confidence; sporadic training tends to reset your progress, much as leaving long gaps between language lessons leads to forgetting vocabulary. As your experience grows, you may reduce your training frequency to three or more sessions per week, mixing technique classes, positional sparring and open mats. The key is to balance immersion with recovery. Articles on longevity in BJJ stress the importance of training smarter, not harder; mindfully avoid injury, tap early, give yourself time to recover and keep it fun. High-quality rest, good nutrition and cross-training (e.g., strength or mobility work) will keep you on the mats for years to come. If you’re unsure how often to train, speak to your instructor – they’ll help tailor a schedule based on your goals, lifestyle and belt level. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

At The Kodokan, we group children not by age, but by their focus and how they learn best. Some children thrive when lessons are playful and movement-driven, while others excel when given structured drills and clear technical goals. To honour both learning styles, we created two formats: Stars and Stripes. Stars classes focus on building confidence, coordination, and attention through engaging drills that make learning fun. The emphasis is on enjoyment, movement quality, and developing the ability to focus in a lively, supportive environment. Stripes classes are designed for kids ready for a more structured learning approach. Here, students follow a clear curriculum tied to belt and stripe progress, with technical instruction, measured feedback, and the introduction of live sparring in a way that matches their readiness. This system ensures every child progresses in a way that suits their focus and learning style. Children may move between Stars and Stripes as they develop, so they always get the right balance of challenge and support for their stage. Start your journey with The Kodokan today.

No. At The Kodokan, we don’t run in-house competitions or mini absolutes. Instead, we encourage our students to step onto the mats against athletes from other teams. Testing yourself against unfamiliar styles and strategies is one of the best ways to grow in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Competing externally builds true resilience and confidence because you’re facing people you’ve never trained with before. It also ensures your skills are measured in a wider pool, preparing you for the challenges of real tournaments. Our instructors guide and support every step of the way, helping you translate what you learn in class into performance against new opponents. This approach keeps your training fresh, pushes you outside your comfort zone, and ultimately accelerates your progress on the mats. Start your journey with The Kodokan today.

The Kodokan’s competitive spirit has attracted dedicated athletes who train and compete at the highest levels. Our competition team regularly competes at major tournaments such as the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) and NAGA (North American Grappling Association) and has produced medallists on national and international stages. Competing demands technical mastery and mental toughness; our athletes showcase these qualities by refining their technique, strategy and determination. Team practices are led by senior coaches and include tournament simulations, situational sparring and game-plan development. Whether you want to test yourself at local white-belt divisions or challenge seasoned black belts on prestigious mats, our coaches guide you through each step. Recreational members are welcome at competition training sessions, too; the experience can accelerate your growth even if you never enter a bracket. For news about upcoming competitions and highlights from past events, check our blog. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Competition experience is an important part of a child’s Jiu-Jitsu education. We encourage our junior members to compete in at least four tournaments per belt level. Each tournament provides valuable feedback on how techniques hold up under pressure, exposes children to different styles and helps them develop resilience and sportsmanship. Losses offer lessons you can’t always get from training and analysing what went wrong and adapting is crucial for growth. We only recommend well-organised and age-appropriate events. Coaches accompany our teams to ensure matches are stopped when necessary and that children understand the rules. Participation is never forced, but regular competition prepares juniors for senior belt requirements and builds confidence. Parents can find more about our youth competition policy by speaking to our youth programme coordinator. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Absolutely. We believe in constant learning and community building. We sometimes host seminars with world-class instructors covering topics like leg locks, guard retention, self-defence and mental training. We also run technical workshops focusing on specific positions. These events are open exclusively to members, and All Access subscribers usually receive free or discounted entry. Although rare, we also sometimes partner with guest academies and open a seminar to the wider community, but places are limited to preserve the intimate atmosphere. In addition, we also schedule member's only open mats where members can roll, drill and socialise in a relaxed setting. Open mats are a great chance to train with teammates outside your regular class schedule and try techniques on different body types. We also hold social events, barbecues and film nights to strengthen our community. Upcoming dates can be found on the members’ calendar. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Competing isn’t about medals or bragging rights. It’s a powerful tool to fast‑track your growth. Testing yourself against opponents of different sizes and styles highlights what you’re doing well and what needs work, creating a feedback loop that accelerates technical refinement. Stepping onto the mat under tournament pressure also builds mental resilience. Learning to manage nerves, make decisions under scrutiny and adapt mid‑match strengthens your ability to perform in stressful situations. Losses become lessons; analysing mistakes, adjusting your strategy and returning to training with renewed focus are all part of the process. Competition also deepens your connection to the Jiu‑Jitsu community. You meet practitioners from other academies, share experiences and support each other. Setting tangible goals, whether it’s winning a match or simply doing your best, boosts confidence and keeps you motivated to improve. Competition isn’t compulsory at The Kodokan, but many members choose to compete at least once per belt to experience these benefits. Talk to your coach about whether it’s for you. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

Yes. We have beginner-specific classes designed to introduce new students to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Yes, we do! Our Kodokan Kids program teaches discipline, confidence, and practical skills in a safe and supportive environment. It's a great way for children to develop both physically and mentally.

We provide advanced training for experienced students, including competition preparation and specialised drills.

We offer structured gi classes for adults and children aged 5‑12. All classes are listed on our schedule page. We don’t run separate no‑gi classes; instead, some sessions mix gi and no‑gi training. Official Kodokan gear can be found at Kodokan Sport.

Absolutely! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes technique and leverage over size or strength, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Every black belt started as a beginner. Our fundamental classes introduce you to basic positions like guard, mount, escapes, and submissions. The Kodokan community is welcoming, and you'll be paired with experienced partners who help you learn at your own pace. If you've never stepped onto a mat before, this is the perfect place to start.

For your first class, wear comfortable, clean gym clothing with no buttons, zippers or pockets. Compression tops and leggings are ideal because loose garments can catch fingers or tear. Bring flip‑flops to wear off the mats, and ensure your nails are trimmed and you practise good hygiene. We do not loan gis to first‑time students. Once you decide to join, we’ll help you choose the right gi and gear from our shop.

We don’t run separate no‑gi classes, but some sessions mix gi and no‑gi training. Occasionally, no‑gi is the main focus; however, we don’t schedule a dedicated no‑gi program.

Protective gear such as mouthguards is optional but recommended. A mouthguard can protect your teeth during sparring, and knee pads or ear guards may provide additional comfort. Feel free to ask our coaches if you’re unsure.

At The Kodokan, we don’t bow in or out of the mat space. Instead, we show respect through punctuality, cleanliness, and following the instructor’s guidance. This approach fosters a respectful and disciplined training environment.

BJJ is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The training can be adjusted to accommodate different abilities and goals.

A gi (uniform) will be required for future training, but is not necessary for the first class. It is recommended to bring a water bottle and a towel to class.

No, prior martial arts experience is not required to start BJJ. Beginners are welcome and will be trained from the ground up.

The Kodokan in London is more than a place to train. It is a private members’ club dedicated to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, offering an experience unlike anywhere else. Membership here means world-class instruction delivered by highly skilled coaches, led by our head instructor and supported by a team who live the art every day. The Kodokan has earned its reputation as one of the leading BJJ schools worldwide, attracting students who want the highest standards of training and environment. Our programs welcome complete beginners through to seasoned competitors. Whether you’re stepping on the mats for the first time or preparing for the next big tournament, there is a clear path for you to progress. Every session places strong emphasis on live training, considered to be the heart of Jiu-Jitsu, where techniques are tested and refined in realistic situations. The Kodokan is also home to a respected competition team with a proven track record on the podium at major events. At the same time, we remain fully inclusive: our dedicated classes for kids and women ensure that everyone can access the benefits of Jiu-Jitsu in a safe and supportive space. As a private members’ club, The Kodokan provides more than instruction. Members enjoy access to first-class facilities, specialist equipment, and exclusive events and workshops designed to accelerate growth on and off the mats.

Yes, BJJ can be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels. We offer beginner classes specifically designed for people new to the sport.

No, you don't need to be in shape to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The training itself will help you improve your fitness level.

It depends on the injury. Speak to our head coach to modify your training to accommodate certain injuries.

It is best to consult with your doctor and the instructor before starting or continuing BJJ training while pregnant. Some modifications may be necessary to accommodate the changes in your body.

It is best to consult with your doctor and the instructor before starting or continuing BJJ training if you have a medical condition. Some modifications may be necessary to accommodate your condition.

No, prior martial arts experience is not required to start BJJ. Many practitioners come from different backgrounds and the basics will be taught in the beginner classes.

Sparring, also known as "rolling," is a regular part of BJJ training. It allows practitioners to apply the techniques they have learned in a live situation and is essential for improving one's skills. However, some schools may have a different approach, and you can always ask the instructor about the sparring schedule.

Progression in BJJ is based on consistent training, demonstration of knowledge, and the ability to perform techniques effectively. Promotions are typically awarded by the school's instructor or head coach.

The Kodokan offers training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Known for its authenticity, The Kodokan provides a traditional environment to learn this art. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which evolved from Judo, focuses on ground grappling and submissions. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential.

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Yes. Verified student reviews are available on our website and Google profile.

Yes. Many parents provide testimonials highlighting the safety, discipline, and growth their children experience at The Kodokan.

Yes. We showcase both written testimonials and occasional video highlights to reflect real experiences.

Our community is supportive, disciplined and welcoming. We foster a family-oriented environment where everyone feels included and encouraged to grow.

Yes. Our blog shares regular insights on training, mindset, community, and health.

Yes. You’ll find beginner-friendly articles and guides on our blog designed to help new students feel comfortable.

Yes. All content reflects the experience and voice of The Kodokan coaching team.

Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu is a full‑body workout that improves the body's cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and endurance. It teaches practical self-defenses and builds confidence by showing you how technique can overcome size and strength. Training develops mental resilience, sharpens focus and reduces stress. You’ll join a supportive community where friendships grow and you’ll leave each session feeling energized and accomplished. Many members report clearer thinking and a stronger sense of well‑being after just a few months on the mats.

Yes. We sometimes host seminars and workshops, and we support members who wish to compete.

BJJ training is conducted in a controlled environment with skilled instructors and safety measures in place. While any physical activity carries some risk, BJJ is generally considered to be a safe martial art.

Earning a black belt in BJJ typically takes a minimum of 5-6 years, but can take longer depending on the individual's dedication and progress.

While competing in tournaments is not mandatory for belt progression in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it can be a valuable way to test and enhance your skills.

While BJJ can be effective for self-defense, it is also a great way to improve physical fitness, discipline, and confidence. Many students also enjoy the social aspect of training and the sense of community at the Kodokan.

Training in BJJ can provide a variety of benefits, both physically and mentally. Physically, BJJ can help improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, and overall strength. It also helps to increase flexibility, balance, and coordination. BJJ is also a great way to relieve stress and improve mental well-being. It can also help you develop discipline, focus, and self-confidence. Additionally, BJJ is an effective self-defense system and can give you the tools to defend yourself in a real-life scenario. Furthermore, training in BJJ can help to build a sense of community and camaraderie among practitioners, which can be a great source of motivation and support.

BJJ is different from other martial arts in a few key ways. Firstly, it places a greater emphasis on ground fighting and submissions, whereas other martial arts such as Karate and Tae Kwon Do focus more on striking and kicking. BJJ also uses leverage and technique over brute strength, making it accessible to people of all sizes and strength levels. Additionally, BJJ has a strong emphasis on live training, which allows practitioners to practice techniques and strategies in a realistic setting. This is opposed to other martial arts which rely more on forms or katas. Finally, BJJ also has a strong emphasis on sport competition, and it has a large and active competitive community.

The length of time it takes to become proficient in BJJ varies depending on an individual's dedication, talent, and training. Generally, it takes several years of consistent training to achieve a high level of proficiency.

Yes, there is a ranking system in BJJ that is based on a system of colored belts. The ranking system progresses from white belt to blue belt, purple belt, brown belt, and black belt.

Yes, there are many BJJ competitions held throughout the year at the local, regional, and national levels. There are also international competitions such as the IBJJF World Championships.

It is recommended to train BJJ at least twice a week to see progress and improvement. However, the more frequently you train, the faster you will progress in the sport.

BJJ and wrestling are similar in that they both involve grappling and ground fighting. However, BJJ places a greater emphasis on submissions and chokes, while wrestling focuses more on pinning and control.

Both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Judo originated from Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. Judo emphasizes throws and stand-up techniques, whereas BJJ focuses on ground grappling and submission holds.

Yes, there is no age limit for BJJ competitions. Many older practitioners compete at the highest levels of the sport.

BJJ is just one aspect of MMA. MMA is a full-contact combat sport that incorporates striking and grappling techniques from various martial arts such as BJJ, boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling.

Yes, many BJJ practitioners follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and are able to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's important to consult with a nutritionist to make sure you are getting enough protein and other essential nutrients.

Drilling is an important part of BJJ training as it helps practitioners develop muscle memory and improve their technique. Drilling also helps to reinforce the techniques learned in live sparring.

BJJ training teaches practitioners how to control and submit an opponent, which can be useful in real-life self-defense situations. It also teaches awareness, de-escalation, and control of distance.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is built around positional control leading to submission. We spend most of our time on the ground, developing the guard (attacking and defending from the bottom) and moving through a clear positional hierarchy—guard, side control, mount, back control—before finishing with chokes and joint locks. Live sparring (rolling) is a core part of every session. How does that differ from other grappling arts? Wrestling doesn’t use submissions; the goal is takedowns, control and pins. Judo prioritizes throws and stand-up grips; ground work exists but is shorter and pins can win matches. Sambo and catch wrestling include submissions (often lots of leg locks), but their rule sets and scoring emphasize different outcomes, such as throws or pins. BJJ also has both gi and no-gi formats, and rules vary by organization (for example, IBJJF vs. ADCC). Advanced divisions may allow techniques that beginners cannot use. What stays constant in BJJ is the depth of the guard game and the focus on advancing position to finish, rather than winning by pin.

Traditional martial arts such as karate and taekwondo focus on striking and kicking, while BJJ focuses on grappling and ground fighting. BJJ also places a strong emphasis on the use of leverage and technique.

BJJ training typically involves a lot of drilling, live sparring, and competition. Many other forms of martial arts training may not include as much live sparring or competition.

BJJ training is a full-body workout that involves a lot of cardio, strength, and flexibility training. It also includes techniques for self-defense and competition.

BJJ training focuses on grappling and ground fighting techniques, while other forms of self-defense training may focus on striking or weapons use. BJJ also teaches awareness, de-escalation, and control of distance, which can be important in self-defense situations.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) emphasizes practical training methods such as drilling, live sparring, and competition to develop technical skills. Unlike traditional martial arts that focus on forms and katas, BJJ prioritizes real-time practice and technique application. This hands-on approach ensures that students can effectively apply techniques in real-world scenarios.

Yes, BJJ is a competitive sport and there are many tournaments held at local, national, and international levels. However, many practitioners also train for self-defense or fitness, and may not compete.

Yes, BJJ is open to women and men of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. Many women practice BJJ and excel at it.

The belt ranking system in BJJ starts with white, then progresses to blue, purple, brown, and black. There are also stripes on the belts that indicate progress within each belt rank for kids.

The Kodokan is one of the top schools in the world for learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is unique in that it is also a private members club for jiu-jitsu enthusiasts.

Yes, there are weight classes in BJJ competitions. The exact classes vary depending on the tournament and organization, but they typically include categories for men, women, and children.

Yes, BJJ can be practiced at any age. Many older practitioners continue to train and compete well into their senior years.

Like any physical activity, BJJ carries a risk of injury. Common injuries include sprains, strains, and bruises. However, proper warm-up and technique can help minimize the risk of injury.

BJJ schools tend to have a more traditional approach, with a strong emphasis on the technical aspects of the art and the development of the student. Gyms may have a more fitness-oriented approach, with a focus on conditioning and drilling.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a specific style of BJJ developed by the Gracie family in Brazil. It is considered to be a commercial form of BJJ, and many BJJ schools still teach it today.

There are no specific diet or nutrition requirements for BJJ, but it is important to maintain a healthy diet to support your training and recovery. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats is recommended.

BJJ, Sambo and Catch Wrestling all have roots in ground grappling and submission holds, but they have distinct differences in their techniques, philosophies and rules. BJJ tends to focus more on submission holds and leverage, while Sambo has a stronger emphasis on throws and wrestling and Catch Wrestling focuses more on submissions and pins.

Yes, there are many organizations that offer BJJ competitions for athletes with physical disabilities.

Strength and power are important in BJJ, but they are not the only factors that determine success. Technique, leverage, and timing are also important. BJJ is often referred to as "the gentle art," as it allows a smaller, weaker person to successfully defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent.

At The Kodokan, your account security is important to us. All member logins and credentials are managed securely by Wix, our website provider. Wix never stores your password in plain text. Instead, passwords are encrypted and stored using industry-standard cryptographic techniques so that even system administrators cannot read them. When you create or reset your password, it is stored as a one-way hash, which means it cannot be decrypted. All traffic between your browser and our website runs over HTTPS encryption, preventing interception of your details. We also encourage strong password creation and recommend using a unique passphrase that combines letters, numbers, and symbols. You can update your password at any time through your account settings. Neither The Kodokan nor Wix will ever ask you to share your password by email or message. If you ever suspect your account may have been compromised, please contact our support team immediately at sensei@thekodokan.com, and we’ll guide you through resetting your login securely. Start your journey with The Kodokan today

We take your privacy seriously and comply with all applicable UK data protection laws, including the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. The Kodokan only collects the personal information necessary to manage your membership and ensure your safety on the mats. This may include your name, contact details, emergency contact information, and relevant health considerations. All personal data is stored securely on encrypted, password-protected systems and is only accessible to authorised staff. We do not sell your data or share it with third parties for marketing purposes. Payment details are processed securely through our trusted payment provider. The Kodokan does not have access to, or store, your full card number. Limited information may be shared with carefully selected service providers (such as our payment gateway) strictly for billing, administration, or legal compliance. You have full rights over your personal data. This includes the right to access, correct, restrict, or request deletion of your information at any time. To exercise these rights, please contact us at sensei@thekodokan.com. We will respond promptly and in line with our legal obligations. For full details, please see our Privacy Policy or ask a member of the team. Start your journey with The Kodokan today.

Membership cancellations follow clear, fair guidelines. Full details are in our Terms & Conditions.

Refunds are rare but available in specific cases. Please contact our team to discuss your situation.

Yes. We follow strict privacy and data protection rules, outlined in our Privacy Policy.

At The Kodokan, we keep everything transparent. Our policies cover cancellations, refunds, privacy, and terms so you know exactly what to expect.

We take your privacy seriously. Your personal details are only used to manage your training and membership. Full information is available in our Privacy Policy.

Yes. We comply fully with GDPR, which means you are always in control of your personal data and how it is stored, shared, or removed.