Walking into a martial arts gym for the first time is intimidating. You imagine rooms full of elite athletes who'll destroy you. You worry about looking stupid. You wonder if you're too old, too unfit, too... normal.
Gorilla Grapplers in Waterlooville has built its entire reputation on destroying those fears. With 69 Google reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, they're clearly doing something right.
What Is BJJ Anyway?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling martial art. No punching. No kicking. It's about technique, leverage, and submissions — and it's famous for being the great equaliser. Smaller, older, or less athletic people can genuinely compete with bigger opponents.
!Training at Gorilla Grapplers *Classes at Gorilla Grapplers*
Coaches Adam, Brett, Dan and Jamie run the sessions with what members describe as 'clear cut, no BS coaching.' You'll learn. You'll progress. And you won't feel patronised.
The Community Thing
What comes through in every single review is the community. This isn't a gym where you show up, train alone, and leave. People form genuine friendships. They support each other. They come back because they want to, not because they have to.
!Gorilla Grapplers gym *The welcoming environment at Gorilla Grapplers*
Private Lessons Available
If you're serious about accelerating your progress, the coaches offer one-on-one sessions. Multiple reviewers specifically call these out as game-changers.
What's On Offer
- ✓BJJ classes — Multiple skill levels, beginners welcome
- ✓Competition training — For those who want to compete
- ✓Recreational rolling — Just want to train? That's fine too
- ✓Private lessons — One-on-one coaching available
- ✓Friendly atmosphere — Consistently praised in reviews
- ✓All ages and abilities — 'Older blokes' explicitly welcome
The Details
- ✓Location: Waterlooville (new gym recently opened)
- ✓Rating: 5★ from 69 reviews (perfect score)
- ✓Best for: Anyone curious about BJJ, any fitness level
- ✓Coaches: Adam, Brett, Dan, Jamie
- ✓First visit: Just turn up with an open mind
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