Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students practising guard passes on the mats at Billingshurst MMA Nova Forca
West Sussex · Local BJJ

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Billingshurst

Learn real grappling skills at Billingshurst Mixed Martial Arts Nova Forca — the home of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in West Sussex. Beginner-friendly adult and kids classes, expert coaching, and your first session completely free.

Adult & kids BJJ · Billingshurst

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and who is it for?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a ground-based grappling martial art that uses leverage, positional control and submissions instead of strikes, so a smaller person can defend against a larger, stronger opponent. We teach gi and no-gi BJJ to adults and children from age 6 in Billingshurst, West Sussex, and your first class is free.

Disciplines
Gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Ages
Kids 6-12 · Adults 14+
Class times
Mon, Wed & Sat adults · Mon, Wed & Sat kids
Level
Beginner-friendly, all levels welcome
First class
Free, no experience or kit needed

How BJJ classes work at our Billingshurst gym

Our Billingshurst gym offers structured Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes in both the gi (traditional kimono) and no-gi formats, so students develop a well-rounded ground game. Sessions begin with a thorough warm-up and movement drill, move into technical instruction where the coach breaks down a specific position or submission, and finish with controlled live sparring (rolling) where you can pressure-test what you have learned in a safe, supportive environment. Every class is scaled to the people on the mat, so newcomers never feel thrown in at the deep end.

Adults train on Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, with gi, no-gi and all-levels sessions plus a Friday open mat. Kids BJJ runs three times a week for ages 6-12. If you are comparing disciplines, our kickboxing classes in Billingshurst cover the striking side of martial arts, and many members train both.

What are the benefits of training BJJ?

The benefits of training BJJ go far beyond self-defence. Regular practice builds genuine full-body fitness, improves mobility and body awareness, and develops the kind of mental resilience that carries over into everyday life. Many of our members started with no martial arts background at all — they simply wanted to get fitter, learn something real, and join a community without egos. Because rolling is problem-solving against a resisting partner, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is often described as "physical chess": it keeps the mind engaged as much as the body.

For anyone also working on strength or body composition, one-to-one personal training in Billingshurst can accelerate progress with a structured gym and nutrition plan alongside your BJJ.

Is BJJ good for self-defence?

Yes. Most real-world altercations end up in a clinch or on the ground, which is exactly where BJJ excels. You learn how to escape from underneath a larger attacker, control them from dominant positions, and apply a submission only if you need to. That gives you a controlled, scalable response rather than an all-or-nothing one — one of the reasons BJJ is used by police and military units worldwide.

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Billingshurst

For children, our kids BJJ programme in Billingshurst focuses on coordination, confidence, and anti-bullying skills in a positive, disciplined setting. Younger students learn how to fall safely, escape from uncomfortable positions, and stay calm under pressure — all while burning energy and having fun. Parents across Billingshurst, Horsham, Pulborough, and the surrounding villages trust our DBS-checked coaching team to deliver sessions that are both structured and genuinely enjoyable.

Where is the gym and how do I start?

We are conveniently located on the Billingshurst Industrial Estate, an easy drive from Horsham, Pulborough, Wisborough Green, and Petworth, with on-site parking and full changing facilities. Whether your goal is self-defence, fitness, competition, or simply trying something new, you will find a welcoming mat waiting for you. Your first class is always free — just turn up a few minutes early, or use the contact form to let us know you are coming.

All Ages & Levels

Adult and kids classes, from absolute beginner to advanced competitor.

Real Self-Defence

Practical leverage-based grappling that works for every body type.

West Sussex Location

On the Billingshurst Industrial Estate, easy from Horsham and Pulborough.

BJJ at a glance

  • Adult BJJ (Gi) — Monday & Wednesday evenings
  • Adult No-Gi BJJ — Wednesday evenings
  • Kids BJJ (ages 6-12) — Monday, Wednesday & Saturday
  • All-levels open mat — Friday evenings
  • First class free, join any time of year
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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: your questions answered

Straight answers on starting BJJ, fitness, gi versus no-gi, kids classes and cost.

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a ground-based grappling martial art that uses leverage, positional control and submissions instead of strikes. Its core principle is that a smaller, weaker person can defend against a larger, stronger opponent through technique.

Is BJJ suitable for complete beginners in Billingshurst?

Yes. Our BJJ classes teach the fundamentals step by step, and live sparring is introduced gradually. Most people on the mat started as complete beginners, and your first class is free.

Do I need to be fit to start BJJ?

No. You build fitness through training, and there is no fitness test or minimum standard. Start with two sessions a week and your cardio and strength will improve quickly.

What is the difference between gi and no-gi BJJ?

Gi classes use the traditional jacket and belt and allow grips on the fabric. No-gi classes use a rash guard and shorts, are faster paced and closer to MMA grappling. We teach both so your game is well rounded.

What age can children start BJJ?

Our kids BJJ programme is for ages 6-12, and teenagers from 14 train in the adult classes. Sessions focus on coordination, confidence and safe, controlled grappling.

How often should a beginner train BJJ?

Two sessions a week is enough to make steady progress while allowing your body to recover. Build up gradually rather than training every day in your first month.

How much does BJJ cost in Billingshurst?

Adult membership is £65 a month for unlimited classes, or £12 for a single drop-in. Your first class is free, and there is no contract or joining fee.

BMBillingshurst MMA

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing for kids and adults in the heart of Billingshurst, West Sussex. Build confidence, fitness, and self-defence skills in a welcoming community.

Quick Links

Visit Us

Unit 4, Billingshurst Industrial Estate,
Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9DX
01403 000 000
info@billingshurstmma.co.uk

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Kickboxing · Kids & Adults · West Sussex