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Welcome to 10th Planet Banbury!
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Open 7 days a week!
Welcome to 10th Planet Banbury!
Sign up and get your first week FREE!
Open 7 days a week!
Welcome to 10th Planet Banbury!
Sign up and get your first week FREE!
Open 7 days a week!
How to Find the Right No Gi Jiu Jitsu Gym

How to Find the Right No Gi Jiu Jitsu Gym

Starting your journey in no-gi jiu jitsu is an exciting step towards building strength, discipline, and confidence. However, with so many gyms, finding the right fit for your goals and lifestyle can take time and effort. This guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring you make an informed decision that sets you up for success.

Why Choosing the Right Gym Matters

Selecting the right no-gi jiu jitsu gym is crucial for your progress, safety, and enjoyment of the sport. You don't want to commit years of your life to a gym that doesn't align with your vision. A good gym fosters a positive environment, offers quality instruction, and aligns with your goals, whether training for fitness, self-defence, or competition.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Gym

Quality of Instruction

The expertise and teaching style of the coaches play a vital role in your learning. Look for gyms with experienced instructors who hold credible qualifications or competition accolades.

  • Instructor Background: Research the instructor’s lineage, experience, and achievements in no-gi jiu jitsu.
  • Teaching Style: Attend a trial class to observe how techniques are explained and demonstrated.
  • Approachability: Ensure the coach fosters a respectful and supportive atmosphere.

Class Structure and Variety

A well-structured gym will offer classes tailored to different skill levels and goals.

  • Beginners’ Classes: Check if the gym has specific sessions for beginners to help ease you into training.
  • Advanced Options: Look for advanced classes or sparring opportunities if you’re aiming to compete.
  • Supplementary Sessions: Gyms offering strength and conditioning, mobility, or yoga classes provide a well-rounded experience.

Gym Atmosphere and Community

The vibe of a gym can make or break your experience. Choose a place where you feel welcome and motivated.

  • Supportive Environment: Look for friendly and encouraging teammates.
  • Ego-Free Culture: Avoid gyms with a hyper-competitive or aggressive atmosphere.
  • Inclusivity: A good gym accommodates people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

A clean gym is non-negotiable for your health and safety.

  • Mat Maintenance: Ensure the mats are cleaned daily to prevent the spread of infections.
  • Facilities: Check the condition of changing rooms, showers, and training equipment.
  • Rules: Gyms with clear hygiene policies (e.g., clean uniforms, no training with injuries) are a positive sign.

Class Times and Location

Consistency is key to progress, so the gym’s schedule and location should suit your routine.

  • Convenient Hours: Look for a variety of class times to accommodate work or family commitments.
  • Accessibility: Choose a gym within a reasonable distance to minimise travel barriers.

Cost and Value for Money

While price shouldn’t be the sole factor, it’s essential to understand what you’re paying for.

  • Transparent Pricing: Ensure there are no hidden fees for memberships, grading, or additional classes.
  • Trial Offers: Many gyms provide free trial classes—take advantage of these to evaluate value.
  • Equipment: Some memberships include perks like loaner gear or discounts on uniforms.

Focus on Safety

Safety should be a priority, especially for beginners.

  • Warm-Up Protocols: Good gyms emphasise proper warm-ups to prevent injuries.
  • Injury Management: Coaches should promote safe techniques and stop unsafe sparring practices.
  • Sparring Rules: Look for gyms that balance sparring with technical drilling, especially for new students.

Reputation and Reviews

Word of mouth can provide valuable insight.

  • Online Reviews: Check Google, Facebook, or Trustpilot for honest feedback.
  • Word of Mouth: Ask current students about their experiences.
  • Social Media Presence: Active gyms often share videos and updates that give you a sense of their community.

Questions to Ask During a Trial Class

  • How often do instructors provide individual feedback?
  • Is there a clear path for progression and belt grading?
  • Are classes overcrowded, or is there enough space for training?
  • What’s the coach-to-student ratio?

Red Flags to Avoid

  • Lack of Credentials: Be wary of instructors who can’t verify their experience or lineage.
  • Unsafe Practices: Gyms that encourage excessive sparring for beginners without proper guidance.
  • Hidden Costs: Avoid gyms with unclear pricing structures or surprise fees.

Why Choose 10th Planet Banbury?

At 10th Planet Banbury, we pride ourselves on offering world-class no-gi jiu jitsu instruction in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our team is highly skilled and in active competition. We're committed to helping students of all levels achieve their goals, whether mastering self-defence or competing at the highest level.

With flexible class times, experienced coaches, and a focus on safety and community, we provide the ideal training ground for anyone looking to excel in no-gi jiu-jitsu.

You can sign up to a 1 Week Free Trial before committing, so you get first-hand experience into life at 10pB.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right no-gi jiu jitsu gym is a personal journey, but by considering factors such as instruction quality, class variety, safety, and community, you’ll find a gym that fits your needs. Take your time, attend trial classes, and trust your instincts.

Ready to begin? Contact 10th Planet Banbury to book your first class and experience the benefits of no-gi jiu jitsu for yourself!

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