Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club, located in Highbury, Islington, is a martial arts and self-defence school that specialises in teaching Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. The club welcomes individuals of all sizes, weights, and strengths, and offers classes for juniors aged 8-17 as well as adults 18 and over.
Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, with adult classes on Mondays from 7pm to 9pm and junior classes on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7:30pm, followed by adult classes from 7:30pm to 9pm. The cost per session is 8, and for junior classes, there is an additional option to pay 15 per calendar month.
Beginners are always welcome at Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club, and the first session is free, allowing individuals to experience what the club has to offer before committing. To start the free trial class, interested individuals need to complete an online form and then contact the club to confirm their interest.
The club provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers various jiu-jitsu techniques, which can be seen in a video demonstration on their website and YouTube channel. In addition to regular classes, Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club also organises special events and courses, such as a recent groundwork course taught by Sensei Barry Collyer.
Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club was established in 2005 and after 4 years at the Roundhouse, it has recently relocated to the Sotheby Mews Day Centre. With a diverse range of students from different backgrounds and a good gender balance, the club creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for martial arts enthusiasts of all levels.
The club is run by volunteers from the Jiu Jitsu Foundation, and it operates as a not-for-profit organisation. The venue is conveniently located near Arsenal tube station, and it can also be reached by bus along routes 106 and 236 from Finsbury Park or routes 4 and 19 from Highbury & Islington. A map is provided on the club's website for further details.
Japanese Jiu Jitsu, specifically the Shorinji-kan style, is the main focus of instruction at Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club. This modern grappling martial art is derived from the traditional Japanese art of Jujutsu and incorporates striking, joint locks, throws, and submission grappling techniques. The club regularly pressure tests and competes in national events organised by the Jiu Jitsu Foundation.
The syllabus at Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club covers a wide range of techniques, including strikes, locks, throws, and defence against various unarmed attacks and weapons. Participants learn how to effectively strike and lock opponents, as well as defend against wrist grabs, body grabs, punches, kicks, and strangles. The club also provides training for defence against multiple attackers, both armed and unarmed, in standing and prone positions. Ground fighting techniques are also taught to overcome adversaries in close-quarters combat situations.
Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club follows GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) compliance and processes the data provided by participants in accordance with the TJJF Members Privacy Notice. For further information about the club and its detailed history, individuals can visit the Jiu Jitsu Foundation's website.
In summary, Highbury Jiu Jitsu Club offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to learn Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and practical self-defence. With experienced instructors, a comprehensive curriculum, and various training options, the club provides a valuable martial arts experience in London.