Clear coaching
Techniques are broken down into manageable steps, with coaches available to answer questions and help you understand the details.
New to grappling?
You don't need any previous experience or a particular level of fitness to start. Our Fundamentals classes are open to everyone and provide a clear, supportive introduction to grappling.
Your starting point
Starting a martial art can feel like a big step, but you won't be expected to arrive knowing what to do. Our Fundamentals classes cover the essential movements, positions and principles that everyone needs—whether it is their first session or they are returning to sharpen the basics.
The class is open to all experience levels, but the coaching is designed to remain accessible to complete beginners. Techniques are explained clearly, partners are chosen thoughtfully and you can progress at a pace that challenges you without becoming overwhelming.
You don't need confidence to begin. Training is where you build it.
Built for learning
We don't currently run a separate beginners-only class. Instead, new members begin in our Fundamentals classes, where beginners and more experienced grapplers work on the core skills that underpin everything else.
Techniques are broken down into manageable steps, with coaches available to answer questions and help you understand the details.
We will pair you with an appropriate training partner so you can practise safely, communicate and learn without unnecessary pressure.
You can begin at your own level. Resistance and intensity are introduced gradually as your understanding, movement and confidence improve.
What you will learn
Learn how to base, fall, frame and move your body effectively on the mat.
Recognise the main grappling positions, what each person is trying to achieve and how to stay safe.
Develop reliable responses from difficult positions and learn how to establish control.
As you become comfortable, practise what you have learned through structured exercises and suitable live training.
Before you arrive
A clean, fitted T-shirt and shorts or tracksuit bottoms are fine. Avoid clothing with zips, metal parts or loose pockets.
We will show you around, introduce you to the coach and answer any questions before training begins.
Keep your nails short, remove jewellery and bring something to drink. You do not need to buy any specialist equipment for your trial.
Let us know about any injuries, concerns or anything else that will help us make your first session comfortable and productive.
Inside a Fundamentals class
Fundamentals classes are open to everyone, but you will never be expected to keep up with somebody else's experience level. The exact format varies, but each session follows a clear learning process.
Prepare your body using movements connected to the lesson.
See the technique clearly, understand its purpose and ask questions.
Practise the skill at a controlled pace with support from the coaches.
Explore what you have learned through structured exercises and appropriate resistance.
Questions answered
We don't currently run a separate beginners-only class. Complete beginners start in our Fundamentals classes, which are open to everyone and focus on the essential skills that all grapplers need. The coach will make sure the session is appropriate for your experience.
No. Start at your current fitness level and build from there. You can take breaks whenever needed and let the coach know how you are feeling.
You may train alongside people with different levels of experience, but everyone works on the same fundamental ideas at an appropriate level. More experienced members are used to training with beginners, and the coach will choose a suitable partner for you.
You won't be thrown into intense sparring. Any live practice will be explained and structured, with a suitable partner and a level of resistance appropriate to your experience.
Most people do. We will introduce you to the coach and pair you with an appropriate training partner, so you will not be left figuring things out alone.
Adults begin at many different ages and fitness levels. Sensible pacing, good communication and consistent training matter far more than where you start.
Both can be suitable for beginners. Gi training uses a jacket and trousers that can be gripped, while No-Gi uses fitted sportswear. If you are unsure which session to book, contact us and we will help you choose.
We will explain the timetable and membership options without pressure. You can ask questions and decide whether Total Grappling feels right for you.
Nothing to prove
Meet the team, learn the essential skills and discover what grappling feels like—with no previous experience and no pressure to already know what you're doing.
Book your free trial