Byers Green JuJitsu Club, located in Spennymoor, is a martial arts school that has been running for over 20 years. The club aims to appeal to all individuals by combining traditional martial arts practises with modern techniques.
The club is run by Sensei A. Sheldon, who ensures that the classes maintain the correct Japanese etiquette and values while also creating an enjoyable and inclusive atmosphere. Assisting Sensei Sheldon are his son Aran Sheldon, who holds a 2nd Degree Black-Belt (Nidan) in MyoShinRyu and DNBK, and James Maddison and James Wright, both of whom hold a 2nd Degree Black-Belt (Nidan) in MyoShinRyu and DNBK as well as a 5th Degree Black-Belt in TaeKwonDo.
Renshi Andrew Sheldon, the head coach and founder of BGJJC, has over 20 years of experience in martial arts and fight sports. He holds various ranks in different disciplines, including a 2nd Dan Grade in Iaido, a 4th Degree Black-Belt (Yondan) in MyoShinRyu Ju-Jitsu, a 5th Degree Black-Belt in Ju-Jitsu (Godan), and a British Ranking in Full-Contact Karate/Kickboxing. He also possesses the required insurance to teach both Ju-Jitsu and Iaido.
Training sessions take place on Mondays and Thursdays from 7:15pm to 8:15pm for juniors aged 10-16 and from 7:15pm to 8:45pm for seniors. Each session begins with a practise of Japanese etiquette, followed by warm-up exercises and break-falls. The training includes bag and pad work, such as punching, kicking, blocking, stretching, and resistance weights. Additional instruction may cover variations on existing techniques, defence against street weaponry, martial arts weaponry, multiple attackers, sports kickboxing and boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA) practises, and practical self-defence.
The cost for sessions is 3. 00 for juniors and 5. 00 for seniors, with discounted prices for members. Annual insurance and membership are also available for 20.
For the first few sessions, participants are encouraged to wear gym-friendly attire such as a hoody or t-shirt and joggers or shorts. It is mandatory to be barefoot during training, except for medical reasons.
Byers Green JuJitsu Club is affiliated with the United Kingdom Ju-Jitsu Association International, ensuring that the club follows a recognised lineage.
Whether one is interested in trying out martial arts for the first time or looking to enhance their existing skills, Byers Green JuJitsu Club is dedicated to providing a welcoming and diverse training environment for all individuals.