Information about The Kodokan

Commonwealth Buildings, Unit 1C Woolwich Church St
SE18 5NS, London
+447834230066

Opening hours

  • sunday: 10h-17h
  • monday: 7h-21h
  • tuesday: 9h-21h
  • wednesday: 7h-17h
  • thursday: 9h-21h
  • friday: 7h-18:30
  • saturday: (closed)
The Kodokan is one of London's best kept secrets and mixes the intensity of a true fight club with the unique feeling of a private members club.

Our comment from FitFit UK about The Kodokan:

The Kodokan in London is a premier academy for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that offers a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for students of all skill levels. The academy is praised for its fantastic coaching provided by Jared, whose expertise ensures that each lesson is engaging and tailored to individual needs, allowing students to develop their own unique grappling style.

Many users highlight the strong sense of community, where members feel like family and support each other through their training journeys. From the first trial class, newcomers are greeted with warmth and encouragement, making it an ideal place for those beginning their martial arts journey.

The club's culture is reinforced by Alexia, who manages the academy operations seamlessly, ensuring everything runs smoothly while fostering a friendly environment. Students appreciate the diverse classes available—catering to different age groups and skill levels—which enhance the overall experience. Furthermore, the emphasis on proper technique combined with a fun training atmosphere allows everyone to grow not just in skill but in confidence as well.

Notably, the training sessions incorporate a healthy balance between sparring and drilling techniques, which keeps the classes dynamic and engaging. Many have reported significant personal growth, including increased fitness, resilience, and self-discipline.

While a few have mentioned that training can be quite intense, most view this as a valuable part of the learning process that contributes to their overall development.

In summary, the Kodokan is not just a gym; it's a place where individuals can transform their lives through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, surrounded by a community that's dedicated to growth and improvement. Whether you are a total beginner or a seasoned practitioner, The Kodokan is highly recommended for anyone looking to train in a positive and professional setting.

The Kodokan: Opinions

5/5 (73 Opinions)
Adrian Iacob 1 month ago

Fantastic experience: It has been 1year since a started at The kodokan Academy and a i can say that it was the best decision I've ever made to start this sport ,thank you guys ,thank you Kodokan

Pete Abson 2 months ago

Fantastic experience: I can’t recommend Kodokan highly enough! My daughters absolutely love training here! The atmosphere is incredibly positive — supportive, respectful, and focused on helping each student grow not just in skill, but in confidence too! Jared is a fantastic coach — super supportive, professional and the teaching is second to none. The balance of discipline with fun, make sure the kids are learning proper technique while also enjoying themselves. Jared and Alexia have created a family-like environment, which is always welcoming, and they genuinely care about each student’s progress and wellbeing, which has made such a difference for my kids, growing in skill, strength, resilience, and self-belief since starting here. For anyone looking for a top-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school in South East London, look no further!

Luke Warren 3 months ago

Fantastic experience: Absolutely the best BJJ gym I've trained at, every time I turn up there's always a positive atmosphere and everyone there will make you feel welcome and have your progression in their best interests. Couldn't recommend enough no matter what skill level you may be!

Max Bullinga 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training at the Kodokan for about six months now. Before that, I tried a trial class at another gym in London, but something about the atmosphere felt off — it didn’t click. So I kept looking. That’s when I found Kodokan online and decided to give it a shot. From the start, the application process stood out — professional, intentional, and trustworthy. I had to wait a few weeks for my trial because the owners were on holiday, but more importantly, they’re selective about who joins. They care deeply about maintaining the culture and community of the gym — and that says a lot. After just a few sessions, I felt completely at home. Kodokan isn’t just a gym; it’s a family. Training here reignited my passion for the sport in a way I didn’t expect. The gym is led by two exceptional professionals. Alexia brings a level of support and organisation that keeps everything running smoothly, and coach Jared lives and breathes Jiu Jitsu — his dedication is mastery. I couldn’t be happier to be part of this place. Os.

E D Rusu 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: Our son loves to attend Alexia's and Jared classes. This is a special place for us all and we couldn't be happier to have met these warm and amazing people who's eyes actually lit up once we open their door and step in. Thank you.

Loumtouri Tsela 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: Very nice place ,my son loves it and always is so happy when we going for his lessons

Marina Lutova 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: Very warm and friendly atmosphere , amazing beautiful place, professional coach, my son just love it

Baseer Ahmed 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: My experience in kodokan has been phenomenal, the environment is very comforting, the people there make you feel at home and overall a great place to be if you want to pursue your future in jiu jitsu

Jose Fernandez 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: Choosing Kodokan Academy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Starting jiu-jitsu later in life has helped me stay young — physically active, mentally sharp, and emotionally grounded. It’s challenged me in ways I never expected, helping me build confidence, resilience, and a deeper sense of calm. But more than anything, it’s the sense of family at Kodokan that makes it so special. The support, encouragement, and genuine care from everyone there creates a space where you truly belong. I feel both proud and privileged to be woven into such an inspiring and uplifting community. This journey is a precious gift, made richer by the incredible people who walk beside me every step of the way.

Carlos Fontoira 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: After trying to find a place to train BJJ for a while, found Kodokan, went for a trial and never looked back. Great culture, really friendly, everyone helps to each other to improve and makes you feel really welcomed which is amazing when you start your BJJ Journey at 36yo.

Paris Miserlis 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: Great experience for our kids in Kodokan Jiu Jitsu school!! We started our twin boys at 5 y.o and found a very welcoming and calm environment. Alexia made everything so easy and always welcomes us with a smile at the -academy. Jared made it clear that he is not only about the martial art but also working to develop mental strength and teaching values and discipline! Our boys have had an amazing journey in the past months and their level of confidence has grown immensely! Highly recommended for all kinds of characters - kids and adults!

Christian Achilli 4 months ago

Fantastic experience: It is a great club to learn BJJ. I have been with them for almost 4 years now and I have progressed in my BJJ journey thanks to professor Jared and all the great people I met there.

Simone Robinson 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Our son has been going here for a year now and it has helped him with his confidence. He really enjoys it. Jared and Alexis are friendly, welcoming and very professional.

Matt C 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Kodokan is a welcoming club where complete beginners to seasoned veterans come together under the tutorship of head coach Jared. The club wouldn’t be the same without Jared’s partner and club administrator, Alexia, who, aside from the daily runnings of the club, is the social glue bringing the team together. The training is intense with each session focusing on a specific concept whilst moving into free sparing towards the end. In the early days expect exhaustion and plenty of tapping. Finger ache, blisters, bumps and scrapes are to be expected. It’s worth it though, the training brings a group of genuinely nice people from all backgrounds together for the common goal of self and team development. When you start consistently hitting a move and getting rewarded with taps the satisfaction levels are immense. The lessons are first rate and Jared will adapt his style based on the class and individual understanding. The roles are safe with senior practitioners more than happy to share experience and tips to help improve your game. I have been training now for three years and first started out, after years of gym grinding at the spritely age of 36. Your never to old to give it a go; pick up the phone, arrange an introductory class with Alexia and we’ll see you on the mats!

Rob Montague 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Kodokan is an excellent club with excellent management. Jared is a master, and the level of expertise and instruction is unparalleled. I’ve been training here for a year now, and I’m constantly impressed with the quality of the training and how well supported I am. The club is a community and you always feel part of something special.

Jake Hartz 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: I joined the kodokan around a year ago and have found it a fantastic place to train. With coach Jared's detailed and tailored instruction, the friendly environment and the consistently challenging classes it has quickly become a key part of my life. For anyone considering a trial class I would definitely reccomend you to come and try it out.

Gary Dollner 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: I cannot speak highly enough of Jared and his team at Kodokan. My son Spencer has flourished in so many aspects of his life since attending. The spirit fostered at this club is a tribute to their dedication.

Emily 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Jared and Alexia have built a really fantastic and welcoming club. It is really inclusive where all team members support and encourage each other to train hard and fight hard! The training is challenging, but always in a really great way which just pushes you to achieve. There's also a women's class which is taught by the wonderful Elena which is great fun and really helps offer specific insight into techniques which are more compatible. It's so much fun, I just wish I had found about it sooner!

kahim ahmed 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Great place to go great enviroment

Richard Hartzenberg 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: I joined Kodokan after a long break from training jiu jitsu, the instruction is really a cut above the the other places I've trained, Jarad teaches virtually every class, with excellent continuity and an interest in individual students development. The classes are split roughly 70/30 between rolling and drilling, so lots of rolling and unsurprisingly all of the students are very proficient in live practice. It's a great gym that I would highly recommend to anyone that really wants to learn Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Riccardo Golin 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Hands down (unless you’re tapping), Kodokan Woolwich is THE place to train! I walked into Kodokan looking for confidence in self-defense, but I found so much more. Alexia may not teach Jiu-Jitsu, but she’s the heart of the gym running the show behind the scenes and, more importantly, making you feel at home from day one. She has this superpower of radiating warmth that makes you feel comfortable, at ease, and truly part of the Kodokan family. Then came Jared, the main instructor, owner, and, as I quickly realised, an incredible mentor. After just two weeks of training, I told him I wanted to compete as soon as possible. Instead of just throwing me into the fire, he calmly guided me, convincing me to wait four months before my first competition. That patience and wisdom? Priceless. He doesn’t just teach Jiu-Jitsu, he’s someone you can talk to about anything, and over time, he’s become a true friend. Fast forward a little over a year, and now I’m striving to compete as often as I can, aiming to become a fierce, high-level competitor. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, self-defense skills, or a serious competitive challenge, Kodokan is the place to be. With kids’ classes, adult Gi and No-Gi, and dedicated women’s classes, they’ve got you covered! ⭐ Would give 10/5 stars if I could OSS!

Steven Panesar 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Kodokan is the best place to train for BJJ. I’ve been here for just over a year and I can’t imagine my life without it. Everyone is so welcoming and supportive. If your ever unsure, nobody would hesitate to come and help you out.

Jay-Jay Junior 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love training here! I travel 40 mins from Kent- London to train in KODOKAN for the past 6 years ,all the coaches are really helpful and nice and it's really motivating to train with high level athletes!

Spencer Dollner 7 months ago

Fantastic experience: The KODOKAN is the best place to train BJJ without a doubt. Walking through the doors and training here has been the best decision of my life! I love my KODOKAN family and I am so proud to train at the premier BJJ members club in London.

T M 8 months ago

Fantastic experience: This is an amazing club. Jared provides top quality tuition and Alexia has created a truly unique and inclusive environment. The training is hard from the first second to the last of each session and none of us would have it any other way!

Anatoli Tinkov 8 months ago

Fantastic experience: Kodokan is a really balanced club, very friendly atmosphere, every member is ready to offer you a healthy fight on the mat or if you need help to pull you up, the training is aimed at the development of each one and does not simply follow a template structure. For me it was very interesting how it is possible regardless of the rank of the different competitors how everyone develops their skills proportionally, but probably this is the magic of a good coach! I am grateful that I can be part of Kodokan and that I can touch this magic!!!

Deep khadka 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: Amazing training with amazing people.

Aidan O'Sullivan 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: I attended The Kodokan for just under 1 year while living in South East London and I couldn’t have loved it more. I joined with no prior Martial Arts experience but was immediately made to feel welcome by Jared & Alexia, as well as the other club members. The training is absolutely world class (the number of team members who compete and finish on the podium is quite impressive!) and the facilities are top notch, a great place to start or continue your jiu jitsu journey!

Mantas Rackauskas 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: Best JiuJitsu Academy in London!!! Top Class Training. Top quality facilities. Everyone is like a family and it really is welcoming for all levels!!! And with so many classes everyday you will always find the one that suits you!! Honestly thanks to Jared and Alexia for running the best Bjj Academy in London

Tony Hibbert 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: The best BJJ gym I’ve been to. Fantastic dojo with two rooms, a great community, fantastic staff and a world class coach in Jared who is a true sensei in every sense of the word. Early morning and lunchtime sessions too for people who like a flexible schedule to work around. If you want a high quality gym with great people, a packed timetable and very reasonable price plans for SE London then you literally can’t do better than Kodokan

Louie North 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: I signed up as someone with no experience in any martial art, and am thrilled at the education I’m getting from such a friendly and welcoming team. Jared is clearly really knowledgeable and has been practicing virtually all of his life. There’s a great mix of all abilities and belt levels at the club and the atmosphere is always overwhelmingly positive. I would definitely recommend signing up to anyone looking to improve their fitness, self-discipline and general well-being!

Joe Hartley 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: I simply cannot recommend the Kodokan Academy of Brazilian jiu jitsu enough. Put simply this place is fantastic for beginners and veterans alike. This is the place to go if you are looking for the highest levels of bjj instruction around and you can even customise your training schedule with mornings, afternoons and evening sessions available. Ive been a member for a while now and I’ve honestly made some friends who are not only true savages on the mats but do their best to learn together and help one another. This place is where a hobby will become an addiction which will then become your superpower. If you are looking for a place for your children to learn a discipline then I speak from experience. My 6 year old daughter has the bug also and loves this club just as much as everyone else. Come and join the family! Oss

Jake Hart 2 years ago

Fantastic experience: I've visited a few BJJ gyms and this one by far has the best atmosphere, everyone is super friendly and willing to help you out.

Christian Tate 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Visited this school during September as was working in Woolwich. Was Massively impressed with the Quality of instruction & the family like ethos that's shown when you arrive. Will most definitely be returning when I return back to work in London. Bless you all. X

Meri Kidby 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Amazing club, my son who has been training martial arts before never experienced nothing like it!!! Jared is a great teacher and he taught him some life skills in fighting, he is very knowledgeable in applying jiu jitsu to his students. My son learned a lot about human anatomy. Club has such strong sense of unity and works on positive self esteem.Jared's side kick- friendly Alexia is very good in communicating everything we need. Club has a very spiritual feel about it.

Thomas Dowie 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: I love this club! Jared is really engaging, easily approachable and really good at breaking the moves down into bite sized chunks that are easily digestible by all levels! Please do come along the sense of community in the club is second to none!

Ifan Burgos-Davies 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: A great Jiu Jitsu school to train at which caters to all levels, run by the very welcoming Jared (head coach) and Alexia. Jared is very knowledgeable about the subject, but most importantly, takes the time to break down techniques and concepts so that they are much easier to understand. He is also more than happy to help you with with techniques where you might be struggling. The environment is very friendly yet still competitive (I have had my fair share of tough rolls)! I strongly recommend to sign up to the free trial lesson and give it a go!

James Sapsford 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere to train BJJ. From white belt to black belt every member of the club treats everyone with respect and looks after each other to create a safe environment to train. What sets this club apart from the others though is the coach and how the lessons are taught. It’s common in most clubs nowadays to have a string of different instructors teaching random techniques followed by free training but at Kodokan there is a schedule that makes sure all students have an understanding of the positions being taught as well as positional training designed to allow everyone to fully understand the techniques being taught. The main coach Jared has a huge wealth of experience and sincerely cares about each and every person’s progression in Ju Jitsu. He knows exactly what’s needed for each person to improve and no one is left behind. Could not recommend this club enough wether you’re a seasoned pro looking for extra training or someone interested in the martial arts

Diyel Osomo 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Best training experience ever!

Elpida Atmatzidou 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: I started by BJJ journey at Kodokan about 4 months ago. From the first session I felt part of the team. Joining was probaly the best decision I made in 2021! So what are you waiting for? Get that free trial and join us at the mats :)

Usman Syed 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: I joined Kodokan BJJ Academy as a complete beginner with no prior martial arts experience whatsoever. I am so glad to have picked Kodokan to start my BJJ journey after few trial classes which is definitely something more than an academy. So, how has my experience been at Kodokan? See my breakdown below. - Academy Administration: Coach Jared is a great teacher and has a wealth of knowledge which is evident in his teaching methods during the class and training sessions. Alexia does an incredible job in organising and welcoming the students and helping them settle in. They are both extremely personable and responsive and make the students feel like part of the family. My key callout is how Alexia and Coach Jared went above and beyond during lockdown period to keep the students engaged organising online classes, setting up individual coaching sessions and arranging separate small group training sessions to keep our BJJ journey going while gyms were closed. - Coach Jared: In my trial classes, I couldn't help but notice how deeply knowledgeable Coach Jared is. His in-class BJJ techniques demos along with the ability to explain technicalities in an articulate fashion and to be able to answer students' questions in a calm and easy-to-understand way is something that really stood out for me. In addition to that, he is very personable and has a great ability to adapt his coaching style to suit your personality and goals. - Culture: The culture of any academy/organization is hugely important in establishing if you vibe or not. Coach Jared and Alexia both do a great job of creating a positive culture and encouraging the students to be part of the Kodokan clan. The academy's motto "Never Venture. Never Win" taken from Sun Tzu's The Art of War is truly evident in the training sessions and Coach Jared's addresses in the assemblies. - Training Partners and Skillsets: Although the academy is still relatively young, it's fantastic to see students from all sorts of backgrounds (mixed gender to encourage diversity) coming to train and with varying skillsets. It's great to train and practice BJJ in a safe environment and learn from high ranking students as well as from junior members. - Tournaments: During my time here, I have noticed a key factor in training sessions and classes is to prepare for competitions. The intensity of the classes increases as the tournament dates approach closer which is a great motivator and gives an opportunity to the students to challenge themselves and offer their best. Coach Jared is really good at encouraging students to bring the best out of them. - Feedback: One thing I really admire about Alexia and Coach Jared is their openness to feedback. They really do take into consideration what students are saying and how to improve things. One prime example of this is how Kodokan has now additional classes over the weekend to offer options to those who are unable to make certain days during weekdays. In conclusion, whether you are a beginner or an experienced BJJ practitioner, Kodokan is a great place to learn and improve your BJJ skills. 5 STARS & HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Jozef Marlow 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: I started at the Kodokan at the beginning of 2022. I'm glad I did. I've been looking for an activity to balance out my work week. Very friendly welcome and vast range of skill levels to ensure a proper workout. As a beginner Im encouraged by the support and camaraderie from the coach and other team mates. Would recommend the Kodokan as a great place to begin or continue your BJJ journey.

Aisling Clery 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Kodokan is an amazing place to learn Jiu-Jitsu! Jared (coach) and Alexia have instilled a great ethos in the club whereby everyone makes an effort to get to know one another which creates a really relaxed and welcoming environment. I was pretty nervous on my first session as I have never done any sort of contact sport before and being female I wasn't sure how comfortable I would be. Delighted to say I was put at ease straight away. I still have plenty to learn skill wise but at the very least I get a full body workout at each session! Can't recommend it enough!

Basil 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Not just a Club, a way of life! I've been training with Kodokan for just over four years, since I was 14yrs and it has been the best 4yrs of my life. It has shaped and developed me to be the person that I am today. Kodokan feels like a second family to me and has been a positive influence on my life. The quality of training is at the highest level, yet it still feels achievable because of the warm and welcoming Club atmosphere. The constant support in and out of the Club sessions has enabled me to develop my practice to a competitive level. If you want to begin your BJJ journey or expand your pre-existing BJJ knowledge, see you on a Kodokan mat soon!

Jon R 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Been training with Jared and the team for nearly a year now, there is a truly fun vibe until the class starts and then it's all business, you can expect to be pushed mentally, physically and emotionally but these challenges will help you grow and develop within yourself and within the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I lost nearly 2 stone of weight within 6 months of training 2-3x a week and it hugely helped my cardio and strength. For those unaware of, the best way I can describe it is a martial art where you look to control your opponent and submit them. There is no striking. I would recommend the sport and Kodokan to anyone interested, Jared is a former Bronze Medalist in the elite world championships, his family based in California run a high level gym so it's safe to say BJJ runs in his blood. The core group is very diverse, all shapes and sizes and extremely welcoming to new comers. Thanks for reading, hope to see you on the Mats Jon R

Ciaran Cleary 3 years ago

Fantastic experience: Very welcoming atmosphere, definitely worth trying out if you are thinking about it! Inviting and friendly to absolute beginners (like me)up to seasoned practitioners. The beginners classes provide a great mix of people from novice level to experienced people to learn from and work with. Classes are mixed gender age etc

Jan Chu 4 years ago

Fantastic experience: I have been at the school for about a month now, the atmosphere is very friendly and the instructions have been top notch. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to learn bjj.

SpicySupreme 4 years ago

Fantastic experience: I have been with the Kodokan for 2 months+ now. This is my first BJJ gym. During my first session, i was greeted by every member present and i felt very welcome, despite me being a little nervous, i massively enjoyed my first time there, and was eager to continue! Jared the coach is incredibly knowledgeable, and is clearly very skilled in the ways of BJJ. He adapts his teaching methods in order for everybody to be able to absorb the lessons and build a better BJJ understanding for themselves. The fellow students are all nice and supportive, and I've felt like this is a great atmosphere for new students who really want to learn the sport. I would encourage anybody reading this review to give Kodokan a try, and i highly suspect that you wouldn't regret it. We will all welcome you and help you learn with us this incredible martial art.

Jonathan Pankhurst 5 years ago

Fantastic experience: London’s best kept secret. I was gutted to have to leave this team due to relocating. The gym is like a furnace, forging BJJ warriors! The knowledge, dedication and out right quality of coaching here is second to non. This is evident in how well the competition guys do in tournaments. This club definitely strikes the balance between a no nonsense ‘grind’ attitude and family environment, meaning that everyone is extremely friendly and welcoming. I would recommend Kodokan to anyone no matter what level you are and whether you want to compete, learn self defence or simply have a more enjoyable workout.

Abirami Nagamoorthy 5 years ago

Fantastic experience: I am a Mathematician and lets just say that being active was never in my to do list growing up. I have always wanted to try martial arts but have never had the confidence and the motivation to proceed with my desire. Kodokan has absolutely changed my way of thinking. The coach is inspiring not only with the BJJ training but also never fails to share his words of wisdom throughout the sessions to inspire you to be the best in whatever you do. Everyone in the class is super supportive and humble. Going from a shy girl to sparing with 6-foot men is something I have never thought of achieving. Everyone should give BJJ ago, specially in an encouraging environment such as Kodokan!

Lily Cheung 5 years ago

Fantastic experience: I’ve been a member of the London Kodokan Academy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for 18 months now. l’ve had the best tuition taught by Professor Jared Nathanson and every session has been a challenging experience.

Ja A 5 years ago

Fantastic experience: Fantastic club. Great atmosphere, fun and friendly. Instructor Jared Nathanson has a brilliant teaching philosophy and style that is second to none. Every lesson is about learning and homing your skill set. He wants the very best from his students and it shows in how he conducts himself. I highly recommend this club for anyone who has either previous martial arts experience or is completely new to the world of BJJ. You will enjoy and learn more about yourself.

Jordan 6 years ago

Fantastic experience: Such fond memories of this place. I still remember alot of the techniques that Jared taught me. Hope you guys are well :)

PROFESSOR SARUE LUIZ SOUSA 6 years ago

Fantastic experience: Best place to training, no words to describe the vibe around this place, just love it ... If you really want to do a Bjj ... no better place to be.

David Foord 6 years ago

Fantastic experience: This gem of an academy in South East London offers high quality Jiu-jitsu training in a fun and friendly environment. The coach Jared shares his deep knowledge of the sport in an adaptive and supportive way to best enable growth in his students. I joined the academy in the new year - already having some experience of bjj - with a mind to focus and start properly developing my grappling ability. The Kodokan has a strong emphasis on sparring while also offering excellent technical details to drill. I've found the balance ideal as the sparring experience builds my awareness without being overwhelmed by techniques to process. You will be encouraged to work hard, and you will learn a lot. My experience with the Kodokan has been warm and welcoming. There's a great community spirit; suggestions and advice from team mates helps everyone to improve together. I can't help but recommend training here.

Edmund Dean (Eddie) 6 years ago

Fantastic experience: The Kodokan is such an amazing environment to train surrounded by great people constantly striving to get better and better those around them. I had wanted to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a while when I found Kodokan. I emailed in, came for a trial session on a Monday and loved it so much I signed up for a full membership on the Tuesday. Since then it has become such an important part of my life and that is all down to the kindness, professionalism and inclusiveness of the Kodokan family. I would whole heartedly recommend that anyone try BJJ and there is no better place to start your journey than the Kodokan. "If you know the way broadly, you will see it in everything" - Miyamoto Musashi

Christopher Morgan 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: Out of all the schools I have trained at this has been the friendliest and most tailored to the individual. I have trained with Kodokan for over a year and have progressed the most here, as Jared moulds techniques to how your body moves. Very positive vibe, everyone looks after each other, no macho rubbish! Super encouraging.

Tom P 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: KODOKAN and its leader Jared are the quintessential and encyclopedia BJJ. Osu

Luke Geoghegan 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: I have been training at the Kodokan for the past 4 months and I can honestly say that my time spent here has changed my life. Aside from the excellent facilities, world-class coaching and welcoming atmosphere, training at the Kodokan has challenged me to develop both physically and cognitively in a previously alien environment. Being a combat sport, BJJ is excellent for those looking to develop functional fitness and confidence in self-defense. Jared’s style of teaching is actively engaging and tailored to the individual ensuring that each member of the team develops a unique “game” and doesn’t rely on repetitive drilled movements. The lessons I have learnt from Jiu-jitsu have had a profound effect on both my personal and professional life and I would whole-heartedly recommend training at the Kodokan to anyone.

Sarah Toone 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: This review is written by my son Basil who attends training: Friendly, welcoming club. It’s challenging and fun and the class members are super respectful, supportive and encouraging. I feel like part of a special team. I appreciate the unique style of teaching – the majority of the time we spar with pause points for learning and practicing particular techniques. It's an energetic and dynamic environment. Although we’re taught as a group Jared gives us personalised tips and helps us develop as individuals. My fitness has increased greatly as well as my confidence and self belief – I’m going to enter my first tournament next month and feel ready! Honored to be part of the Kodokan clan - this club rocks!

Lois Hellstrom 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: When I started training at the Kodokan Academy some four months ago, I had no idea what to expect, as BJJ was completely new to me. And I'm not gonna lie, the first couple of sessions I kinda felt like a fish out of sea, and I remember thinking "Jeez, what have I gotten myself into??". But Jared's exceptional coaching skills, mixed with his extensive knowledge had me progress way faster than I could've ever imagined. In fact, I found the classes to be so rewarding that what was supposed to be 1-2 times of training a week quickly became a steady three - and if I could go more I would! I can't compare with another school, but I do know great teaching when I see it, and apart from top quality training - the classes ticks all the other boxes too; lots of fun, disciplined, lovely people and generally just good vibes! So, if you're looking for somewhere to get the most out of the time and money that you put in - whether you're a beginner or not - I'd say that the Kodokan Academy is definitely, 100% the place to be. Hope to see you on the mats!

Daniel Parsons 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: A very friendly and welcoming place to learn how to defend yourself. Banging tunes, clean mats and a good black belt teacher. Best club in SE London.

Niall McGowan 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: Great training atmosphere, whether you want to learn BJJ or eventually compete this gym offers both options. Superb coaching from a great lineage makes this gym one of the best in London!

Goran Jankovic 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: I have started to train 6 month ago and have really enjoyed my learning experience. If you want to learn fast and from the best in team spirit atmosphere you should join Kodokan Academy.

Fazlur Abba 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: For a long time I have been hearing about BJJ and how effective it is as a self-defence art and how fun it was to practice, so I have been whiling to try it for a long time but couldn’t find a club that I could reach, until I found the Kodokan (Academy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu)! I am near 40 years old and I have been living a mostly sedentary/inactive lifestyle for the last 20 years, I felt quite unfit and filled with pains resulting from my lifestyle so I was a bit apprehensive of joining a martial arts club, I called and emailed the club asking some questions and expressing some of my concerns, Alexia responded promptly, she was very welcoming and made me feel more comfortable about taking my first free class. Once I tried BJJ at the Kodokan I was amazed by it, the club is amazing, the people in it more so and Jared is a remarkable instructor with a deep understanding for the art, his experience and rank is within the highest you can find in the UK; he is constantly making sure that the mechanics of the technics are understood and you are guaranteed a Spartan physical and mental workout while you learn and train at the same time. Every time I leave a training session I have exhausted my body, my brain is itching for more and I feel as relaxed as I have been for many years, couldn’t recommend this club more! It’s the highlight of my week.

James McGowan 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: Great place to learn BJJ, from beginners to black belts, great coaching and atmosphere! Pop down you have got nothing to lose!

Klaus Maday 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: Amazing trainer for bjj in London. top guy

Avis Wallace 7 years ago

Positive experience: Super brazilian jiu jitsu training for my children here in london thanks so much

Elena Stamatova 7 years ago

Fantastic experience: Hi there, if you're reading this you're probably thinking you should come roll with us. And you know what, you really should‼️ You'd ask why....Here's why: ➡️Jared's approach is different from everyone else's. He puts time into developing your own style, he literally stitches Jiu Jitsu around you. ➡️The atmosphere is amazing, I'll put it this way we do fight with each other, but everyone is very friendly and respectful. ‍♀️How do I know all of this? Long story short - I used to be the only girl rolling with the guys for a long time at present the first female blue belt under Jared Nathanson...Can't wait to see you on the mats

Markus D 8 years ago

Fantastic experience: Great teacher and training environment!

Bela Hanratty 8 years ago

Fantastic experience: Jared is a superb, thoughtful teacher. He doesn't just plough through moves and techniques but teaches his students how to think about the sport from the ground up so that they can think from themselves and aren't dependent on rote recall.

Joe Thornton 8 years ago

Fantastic experience: I've taken some classes with Jared at a different academy (LFF). Fantastic teacher.

Michele Roson 8 years ago

Fantastic experience: Since i started training with Jared I became very passionate about Brazilian jiu jitsu. Despite being a Personal Trainer myself, through his guidance I've learned, and I'm still learning, how to improve my strengths and work on my weaknesses, and I see improvements every week. Nice and friendly environment, and great class with great people every time, perfect for improve and challenge yourself and your skills!

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