Cotswold Combat

Reviews

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  Alex Hill

  Connor and the team @ Cotswold Combat have built something genuinely good here. It’s welcoming and professional without being intimidating, and what strikes you quickly is that everyone is pursuing their own version of the sport, whether that’s self defence, fitness, or competition. That ethos carries through to the members themselves, which tells you everything about the culture from the top down. Make no mistake, the workouts are tough. The coaching across gi, no-gi, and wrestling and regular sparring is expert level, and members are here to train hard. There’s a lot to take in - learning the techniques, concepts, and sparring can feel like picking up a new language - but the instructors are patient and adapt concepts well across mixed ability classes to make sure everyone is actually learning, not just going through the motions. Gaining real proficiency in this sport takes years, but the culture here is genuinely conducive to that growth. If you’re starting out, I really recommend the six week intro course.

  Instructors Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 5 months ago
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  andrew barrington

  I recently joined the club in the last 4 months. The introductory course was pitched at the right level, and ensured a solid foundation of knowledge before joining the main classes during the week. There is a great atmosphere within all of the classes. It’s great how you can typically be teamed up with someone from a higher level. People are great, and are keen to help you get the right technique. Definitely recommend joining. Connor, Adam and all the other instructors are patient and supportive in their teaching each session.

  Instructors Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 6 months ago
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  Amber Dymond

  Training Jiu Jitsu at Cotswold Combat has been an incredibly rewarding experience. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable team. The atmosphere is both focused and relaxed — the ideal environment for learning and progressing, whether you're completely new to the sport or looking to take your skills further. The coaching is outstanding. The instructors explain techniques clearly, with a strong emphasis on both the fundamentals and more advanced concepts. There’s a great balance between drilling, positional work, and live sparring, which really helps to build both confidence and understanding over time. While I’ve not yet competed, there’s plenty of guidance and support available for those who want to take that step — but there’s absolutely no pressure. I feel completely supported in following my own path, and it’s clear that every individual’s Jiu Jitsu journey is respected and valued here. If you’re thinking about giving Jiu Jitsu a go, or you’re looking for a new place to train in the Cotswolds, I couldn’t recommend Cotswold Combat more highly.

  Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

  Posted 1 year ago
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  Oliver Rogers

  Really impressive club. Small groups, quality instructors, and a genuinely positive ethos. Connor and the team are fully invested in developing their members, whether that be for competition or simply for improving their BJJ. Their focus is also very pragmatic and they teach practical BJJ that is useful and effective. 10/10 - would highly recommend.

  Instructors Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 1 year ago
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  David Winson

  Our 14 year-old has tried several martial arts and really loves ju-jitsu at Cotswold Combat. Connor is a super friendly and welcoming, highly skilled coach. Not just another class - the sessions are a highlight of our son's week.

  Instructors Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 2 years ago
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  Jon Close

  My 12 year old son has been training at Cotswold Combat for the last 4 months and he absolutely loves it. Connor is very patient and accommodating with any particular needs a child of any age may have (for instance, mine has a sensory processing disorder around clothing) which marks him out as head and shoulders above the rest in terms of the care and respect he shows to his students. In turn, they really look up to him and want to learn to be the best they can be. Connor instils much confidence and the gym itself produces great talent on a regional and national level. The gym may be small but this is a centre of real excellent for BJJ. I thoroughly recommend Connor and Cotswold Combat. So, ditch the McDojo (there are plenty around these days) and learn from a caring and hugely talented team. You/your child will not regret it, trust me!

  Posted 2 years ago
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  Ollie Holt

  Fantastic place. Very welcoming club & perfect for beginners. Connor is a brilliant coach who really cares about the development of every member of the club. Connor's a true professional and runs a tight ship! The club is always kept clean & is a great environment to train in. I joined as a complete beginner to BJJ and really like Connor's no-nonsense style of training. Very technique focused is all about understanding the basics! I've met a great bunch of people here and made some lasting connections. Would strongly recommend the beginners course for anyone looking to try it out!

  Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

  Posted 3 years ago
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  Jordan Wright

  Connor is a fantastic coach and the school is incredibly professional. I’ve been training with Connor for a number of years, and I can’t say enough good things about his knowledge and understanding of the sport. Cotswold Combat is a very welcoming and friendly school, with fantastic students and a first class environment. I’d 100% recommend to anyone wanting to get involved in the sport.

  Instructors Atmosphere

  Posted 6 years ago