Adult Disciplines
Traditional Jiu JitsuAdult JTX KickboxingBrazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)KenjutsuTai Chi & Qi GongWomen's KickboxingSeishin Mizu Ryu JutsuChildren's Disciplines
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Adult Classes TimetableChildren's Classes TimetableNewsMembershipContact UsShopBook Free TasterBrazilian Jiu Jitsu • Grappling • Ground Work • Self-Defence
World-class grappling and ground work taught in a structured, beginner-friendly environment. Build real skill, fitness, and confidence on the mat.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Exeter
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is one of themost effective and fastest-growing martial arts in the world, focused on groundfighting, submissions, and controlling opponents regardless of size. ExeterMartial Arts is a proud member of the Sidney Silva BJJ association and ourclasses are taught by highly qualified instructors in a structured, welcomingenvironment.
The Art
BJJ is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on taking opponents to the ground and applying submissions — joint locks and chokes — to control or end a confrontation. It emphasises technique and leverage over strength, meaning a smaller person can effectively control a larger, stronger opponent.
Training includes:
BJJ is often described as human chess — endlessly rewarding, intellectually engaging, and physically transformative.
Who It’s For
Adults of all ages and fitness levels in Exeter. You do not need to be fit, flexible, or experienced. People come to BJJ for many reasons:
If you can move, you can train.
Your First Classes
Your early sessions focus on foundations — not being overwhelmed. You’ll cover:
Expert Coaching
Chief Instructor — BJJAGB 7th Dan
Rich is a Level 4 Coach and has over 30 years of experience teaching grappling and self-defence in Exeter. He oversees the BJJ curriculum and ensures every student progresses with correct technique and genuine understanding.
“BJJ rewards patience and curiosity above all else. There’s always something new to learn — that’s what makes it so compelling.”
BJJAGB 3rd Dan — Level 3 Coach
Damien has been training BJJ in Exeter for 15 years and is a BJJAGB Level 3 Coach and 3rd Dan. A Modern Languages Professor at Exeter University, he brings a calm, analytical approach to coaching and is a favourite among students at all levels.
“I love helping students discover what they’re capable of — it’s amazing to watch someone progress from nervous beginner to confident practitioner.”
Why Choose EMA
We don’t just teach techniques — we teach understanding. Here’s what makes EMA the right choice for BJJ in Exeter:
Our aim is to help you become calm, capable, and confident — on and off the mat.
The Results
Students regularly report:
BJJ develops the mindset as much as the technique.
Getting Started
No experience or equipment needed. Just wear comfortable clothing, bring water, and arrive 10–15 minutes early. We’ll handle the rest.
We’ll guide you through everything else.
Free Taster
The best way to experience BJJ in Exeter is to try it. Your free taster class includes:
Take the First Step
Your free taster class at Exeter Martial Arts is waiting — no experience, no equipment, no pressure. Come and find out why BJJ is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.
Common Questions
Exeter Martial Arts runs Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes at our Exeter dojo, with expert coaching for all levels. We welcome complete beginners at every class.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses on ground grappling, positional control and submissions, while our Traditional Jiu Jitsu covers a wider range of self-defence skills including strikes and standing techniques. Many students train both.
Yes. Our Exeter BJJ classes are specifically designed for beginners. Techniques are taught progressively with full coaching support from day one.
No. Rolling is entirely optional and only introduced when a student chooses to progress towards it. There is no pressure at any stage.
Not at all. We have students of all ages and fitness levels training at EMA. Classes are designed to be scaled to your level, and fitness improves naturally as you train.
Nothing for your taster class. Just wear comfortable sports clothing and bring a water bottle. Once you join, we can advise on kit — but there's no need to buy anything upfront.
