Effective. Practical. Proven in competition.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts you can learn. No striking, no kicks, just technique, leverage, and control. Perfect for self-defence and fitness.
Book your free classWhen people search for martial arts classes in Exeter, they're often comparing options: karate, taekwondo, kickboxing, MMA, judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here's what makes BJJ different, and why it's become one of the fastest-growing martial arts worldwide.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground fighting, control, and submissions. Unlike striking martial arts (karate, taekwondo, boxing), BJJ teaches you to control and submit opponents using technique rather than strength or striking power.
The core principle: leverage over strength. A smaller, weaker person can defend against or submit a larger, stronger opponent by using proper technique, positioning, and leverage. This makes BJJ one of the most practical martial arts for real-world self-defence.
Striking arts (karate, taekwondo, boxing): Teach punches, kicks, and strikes. Great for fitness and discipline, but require athleticism and can be risky to train full-contact. BJJ focuses on control and submissions, making it safer to train at full intensity.
Judo: BJJ's closest relative. Judo emphasizes throws and takedowns; BJJ focuses on ground fighting after the takedown. Many high-level BJJ practitioners (including our head coach Luke Costello, a judo black belt) train both.
MMA (Mixed Martial Arts): Combines striking, wrestling, and BJJ. BJJ is a foundational component of MMA. Most UFC champions have strong BJJ backgrounds. If you're interested in MMA, BJJ is an excellent starting point.
At Costello BJJ, you're learning from Luke Costello, an IBJJF World Champion, 4x European Champion, and ADCC World Championship competitor. Luke is a black belt under Hall of Famer Braulio Estima and also holds a judo black belt, bringing a unique depth of grappling knowledge.
Our classes are designed for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced grapplers. You'll learn fundamental techniques, positional control, submissions, escapes, and live sparring in a supportive, ego-free environment. Whether your goal is self-defence, fitness, competition, or just trying something new, you'll find a welcoming community here.
Your first class is free. No experience needed, no pressure to sign up. Come see why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become one of the most respected and effective martial arts in the world.
Book your free trial class or visit us at Costello BJJ Exeter in Marsh Barton.
Three sessions a week where all levels train together. Everyone progresses at their own pace in a supportive environment.
Technique training and live rolling. All experience levels train together in a supportive environment. Complete beginners welcome.
Personalised sessions with Luke. Tailored to your goals, whether that's competition prep, specific techniques, or accelerated learning.
| Day | Class | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | No class | |
| Tue | BJJ | 6:30 – 7:30 PM |
| Wed | No class | |
| Thu | BJJ | 6:30 – 7:30 PM |
| Fri | No class | |
| Sat | BJJ | 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM |
| Sun | No class |
All classes take place at Hard Knocks Amateur Boxing Club, Unit 4 Cofton Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8QW
IBJJF World Champion, 4x European Champion, Abu Dhabi World Pro Champion, and ADCC World Championship competitor. Black belt under Braulio Estima. Luke has competed at the highest levels of the sport and brings that depth of knowledge to every class.
Full bio & competition record
Former heavyweight British Judo champion and Judo international. Andy fought pro MMA on Cage Rage and has competed in boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. Project Mayhem MMA has joined forces with Costello BJJ.
Black belt under Professor Luke Costello with over 11 years of dedicated training. IBJJF Paris International Open, Hereford Open, and Surrey Open gold medallist. Mark brings technical precision and competition experience to every class.
BJJ is a grappling-based martial art — no punching or kicking. It focuses on control, leverage, and submissions. Unlike striking arts, you can spar at full intensity safely, which means faster learning and practical skill development.
Not at all. Most people who walk through our door have never done any martial arts before. Our classes are structured so beginners can learn safely alongside more experienced students.
It's one of the most effective martial arts for real-world self-defence. Most altercations end up on the ground, which is exactly where BJJ specialises. You learn to control and neutralise threats without striking.
Absolutely. BJJ fills the grappling gap that most striking arts leave open. Many of our students have backgrounds in boxing, karate, or kickboxing. Adding BJJ makes you a more complete martial artist.
Your first class is completely free. After that, we offer monthly memberships. Get in touch for current pricing.
Two to three times a week is ideal, but even once a week is a great start. Consistency matters more than frequency.
No experience required. No gear needed. Just show up and we'll take care of the rest.