Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Basingstoke

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Basingstoke

Welcome to our BJJ class, Your journey starts here


At Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy we are so much more than just a martial arts club; we are a community dedicated helping each and every one of our members grow and develop through their practice the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Our BJJ club is just outside Basingstoke town centre in Armstrong Road, we are in a full time professional Martial Arts facility dedicated to helping people looking to transform their lives, both on and off the mats through their practice of Martial Arts.

Discover Brazilian Jiu Jitsu


The Gentle Art of BJJ is a Martial Art and Combat sport focussing on groundwork and submission holds.

It focuses on the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger and even stronger opponent using correctly applied body mechanics and the understanding the principles of leverage and proper technique. BJJ is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that enhances strength, flexibility, and confidence.

What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?


BJJ originated in Brazil in the early 20th century , with it’s roots tracing back to Japanese Judo and traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese Judo teacher, emigrated to Brazil in 1914 and began teaching Judo, then known as Kano Jiu-Jitsu, to Carlos Gracie. Carlos and his more famous brother Helio Gracie adapted the techniques to focus more on groundwork and leverage to allow a much smaller person to defeat a larger, heavier and stronger opponent. This adaptation resulted in the development of what is now known as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The Gracie family have played a pivotal role in popularizing BJJ, not only in Brazil but around the world. The creation of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 1993 by Rorion Gracie and others was instrumental in demonstrating the effectiveness of BJJ in mixed martial arts (MMA), bringing it into the global spotlight and helping to ensure it’s continued popularity today and into the art that we teach in Basingstoke.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a Martial Arts is grappling or ‘wrestling’ based where the central theme is learning to apply the principles of controlling a non compliant opponent to make them submit. Due to the fact that controlling an opponent is usually easier on the ground rather than standing, many of the techniques of our Basingstoke Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) club are focussed around the skill of throwing an opponent and then ‘wrestling’ for a position from which the opponent has to submit.

To control and pacify someone of greater size, strength, and even aggression from someone smaller and with less strength is a key part of BJJ. This is achievable by utilising superior postion, grip and leverage, upon your training partner. 

Training safely in BJJ


Training safely at our Basingstoke Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) club involves several key practices to keep safe and to ensure a positive experience whilst training and as importantly longevity in the sport. Classes begin with a thorough warm-up and a cool-down routine to prepare your body for exercise and to aid recovery post class.

Wear appropriate clothing such as a properly fitted gi  (or uniform) plus rash guards and shorts, and use a mouthguard for protection.

Maintain personal and mat hygiene is key for such a close range activity. Showering before and after training, keep your nails trimmed and clean. We in turn, make sure that the mats are washed after every class.

Focus on learning and practicing techniques correctly under our qualified instructors, rather than learning from Youtube. When you ‘roll’ together, engage in a controlled exchanged with an emphasis on technique and be respectful of your current partners skill level. Communicate clearly with training partners, tapping early to avoid injuries and informing them and coaches of any pre-existing conditions and listen to your body,

Creating a positive, safe and productive training environment is the responsibility for all of us.

BJJ Club in Basingstoke

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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Should I get fit first?


Practicing BJJ at our club in Basingstoke will improve your physical fitness, including strength, flexibility, and cardio endurance. Moreover, it sharpens the mind by developing problem-solving skills, discipline, and perseverance.

As you progress in your Brazilian Ju Jitsu training, you will find your fitness increases and you will gain effective results. In our club, members work at a pace and level that is appropriate for them, you can go as hard or as easy or as you want to.

Is BJJ good for self-defence?


Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is highly effective for self-defense due to its focus on realistic combat scenarios and practical techniques. It emphasizes ground fighting, which is crucial since many real-life self defence can end up on the ground. BJJ teaches how to use leverage and technique to overcome larger, stronger opponents, making it ideal for individuals of all sizes. The art focuses on control and submission, enabling practitioners to restrain attackers without causing serious harm.

Regular sparring sessions simulate real combat, building confidence and proficiency in applying techniques under pressure. BJJ also stresses the importance of escapes and defenses, ensuring practitioners can survive and evade dangerous situations. Additionally, the training develops mental toughness and calmness under pressure, alongside improving overall fitness, strength, and endurance, all of which are vital for effective self-defense.

I’m not very sporty. Does that matter?


Absolutely, you can still practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) even if you’re not particularly athletic or experienced in sports. BJJ is designed to be accessible to people of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels. Here are some reasons why BJJ can be suitable for you:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers a structured, gradual learning process where you start with the fundamentals and progressively advance to more complex techniques. This allows you to build your skills and fitness at your own pace.

Brazilian Ju Jitsu at our club in Basingstoke offers a path to personal growth, fitness, and self-defense skills. It’s a martial art that adapts to your pace and abilities, ensuring a rewarding experience for everyone.

I’ve never done Brazilian Jiu Jitsu before. Can I still join in?


Absolutely. we welcome and encourage beginners for all ages, sizes and fitness levels.

Our BJJ classes are designed to accommodate everyone, whether you have a background in martial arts or are stepping onto the mats for the very first time. Here’s what you can expect as a newcomer:

That’s great, you are like the majority of people coming to try BJJ. We love teaching beginners in our our Basingstoke. The hardest part is the first action and stepping into our Academy to try a free taster class.

Our coaches are there with you, every step of the way to help you develop your skills and knowledge and help you progress in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

The hardest part is stepping through the door. Open the door to your future and come and try a free BJJ lesson at our club in Basingstoke.

Contact us for more more information

Roberto Almedia Brazilian Judu in Basingstoke

What our clients think

format_quoteI have seen Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy grow and develop significantly over the last 3 years.  The club have deservedly gained ‘Clubmark’ accreditation and won Borough and county sports club of the year titles.  These accolades highlight the clubs’ commitment to ensuring a safe, effective environment for members.  Shin Gi Tai’s programmes are well received by residents and make an excellent contribution to increasing participation rates locally. format_quote
Susan Parker – Sports Development Officer, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council 

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