Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gi) in Wimbledon
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art, combat sport, and self-defence system built on technical precision and leverage. The core principle is that a smaller, weaker person can control and submit a larger opponent through good mechanics.
At True Virtues, our Gi classes follow the original methods of the art, combining close attention to technique with the values of Bushido.
Who These Classes Are For
Our Gi sessions are titled "Fundamental Jiu Jitsu," but do not let that mislead you. They are open to all experience levels. The fundamentals are what separate a beginner from an expert. Not a stepping stone to get through, but the thing itself.
If you are new, you will learn the essential positions, escapes, and submissions in a structured environment with partners who are there to help you improve. If you have trained before, you will work on the mechanical details that make those same techniques effective against genuinely resistant opponents. Both groups are doing the same thing, just at different levels.
What to Expect in a Gi Sesion
Training in the Gi, the traditional uniform, adds grip and friction that makes the game slower and more technical. It is often described as chess compared to checkers.
A typical session covers detailed instruction on a specific position or sequence, positional drilling with a partner under light resistance, and live rolling where you apply what you have learned against a resisting opponent at whatever intensity suits your level.
Why Train at True Virtues
Mike Buckman-Cowling is a 1st Degree Black Belt with a verified lineage back to the Gracie family, the founders of the art. That lineage matters because it means you are learning techniques that have not been watered down or reinvented. The academy attracts students from across SW19 because of the quality of instruction and a culture where higher belts are expected to help newer students improve, not dominate them.
We train at the Wimbledon YMCA with brand new facilities, including male and female changing rooms, lockers, and showers.
Class Times
At True Virtues we offer the following Gi times at the Wimbledon YMCA, Studio 2:
- Tuesday: 18:45 to 20:15 (Fundamental Gi)
- Saturday: 12:00 to 13:30 (Fundamental Gi)
- Saturday: 13:30 to 14:00 (Open Mat)
Do I Need a Gi for My First Class
No. For your £10 trial, sports gear is fine. A t-shirt and shorts or leggings will do. We offer academy Gi's for purchase when you are ready, and we welcome clean uniforms from any other brand or school.