Clients reviews about Pure Art BJJ Portsmouth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

I joined Pure Art BJJ in January, attending two sessions per week, and it has been an incredible experience. Adam, Jimi, and the entire team are not only professional but also extremely welcoming and engaging. They ensure that training is both effective and safe. After eight months of being a member, I'm amazed at the progress I've made under their guidance. My cardio and overall performance have improved significantly, thanks to their expert coaching. Adam explains techniques with great detail, covering various scenarios while highlighting the pros and cons of each approach. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, Pure Art BJJ offers a safe and friendly environment perfect for anyone interested in starting their BJJ journey or advancing their abilities. ~ Tomasz W

I started coming to PureartBJJ around 4-5 months back, initially as a passing interest but 4 months later I'm still here and very much addicted! There's a very welcoming atmosphere and Adam's way of teaching is beginner-friendly, building up basic movements like tugging your arm away from an attacker up to more complex submissions that are then ironed out with 30-40 minutes of practice sparring. In each class there's a healthy mix of referring back to previous lessons while also acting as a standalone class, so there's never really a feeling of 'falling behind'. Even if you're a slow learner, like myself, each lesson gives one solid move you could use in a real combat situation. I'm glad I started coming along and I'd urge anyone who's interested to do the same - the first lesson's free! ~ George K

My first ever Martial Arts, I’ve now been at Pure Art for about two months. I’m 44 and could do with being in better shape. Adam and the group have been amazingly welcoming. There is no ego or bad attitude, everyone helps, learns, tries, laughs then tries again. Adam’s instruction is first class, he has a really high level of understanding of how to teach these skills. Always an explanation, several demonstrations and then useful tuition as you get stuck in. In the short time, I’ve learned loads, lost some weight and hugely improved my CV. I wasn’t short on confidence but am definitely more assured already. If you are certain you want to do BJJ then Pure Art is a great environment to do it. If you aren’t sure, then I promise you, the atmosphere and coaching at pure art is the best place to explore. ~ samuel O

I truly recommend this club, and Adam as a teacher for beginners. Starting my first class initially felt like a huge leap because I was so apprehensive, but I'm so glad I found the courage to walk through that door. The welcome I received was genuinely warm and inviting. Over the last three months, I've relished this experience far more than I ever anticipated. The techniques are so clear and easy to grasp. Plus, Adam is amazing because he constantly monitors everyone to ensure we're all keeping up and doing okay. If you're ever nervous about starting a new club or any martial arts just remember it's normal to feel like that. Walk through that door!!! :) ~ Samuel R

A good learning atmosphere, with calm, clear instruction. The club is filled with like minded individuals of different abilities, ages and fitness levels. All are approachable and willing to share their experience with newer or less senior members to help them progress. Enjoyable yet a great workout in pursuit of bettering your Jiu Jitsu skills, fitness and confidence. Adam (head instructor) will also adapt techniques for Gi, no Gi and self defence depending on the class that day, making the experience quite well rounded. A friendly atmosphere and a great place to learn with the potential to compete in competition later down the line. Thoroughly enjoyable and well worth it. ~ Michael H

From the moment I first walked through the door of this class I was made to feel welcome. Adam has created a fantastic learning environment in which to safely teach this truly effective martial art. This is a system that has had all the fat trimmed off of it and doesn't contain anything that isn't useful. The class itself is structured and informative and and there is plenty of individual guidance from Adam to help students progress as much as they are capable of, whether they're complete beginners or more experienced in martial arts. He clearly knows his stuff inside out and more importantly, understands how to pass that knowledge on; how to push students for progress whilst respecting their limits. If you're thinking about checking out the class, stop thinking about it. You have nothing to lose (first session is free) and so much to gain! ~ Marjory S

I've been training here for about 2 months and I can say that the atmosphere is amazing, everyone is really friendly and they welcome you very kindly. You never feel left out and Adam does his best to make you feel comfortable but also gives you space to learn by yourself. Adam goes through a technique at the start of the class and explains it from as many angles as needed and also does loads of repetitions to make sure you don't miss important details. We dedicate a lot of time to drilling but also do some sparring at the end to put our skills in practice. There is really good time management, I'm really happy I found this place, definitely recommend. ~ Martim C

I've been training BJJ for several months now. Adam conducts his lessons well, there are always good explanations and demonstrations for the various techniques. He is patient and quick to clarify/assist with any queries you may have. Being in my 40's my experience is that it took a few months for my body to adjust to the vigours of training, but you do get there soon enough and improve each week, you just need to stick with it. If you are on the fence about whether you want to train BJJ, Adam is a great instructor, he provides a safe environment to learn in and there is a good atmosphere, get down and give it a go. I'm sure you'll love it too! ~ Lee D

Couldn’t recommend a better place to start your Jiu Jitsu journey! I’ve been a student under Adam now for just over 5/6 months and I can’t express enough how welcoming and friendly Pure Art BJJ really is, Adam is an incredible coach and is always looking to improve every students game. He’s patient and understanding of every students limits. I think a big worry for beginners that stops them from trying out they’re first BJJ class is if they can keep up or not fitness wise / physical ability however Adam makes it clear that if you need to sit out and have a breather you can do so! Don’t feel like you can’t come to your first class because your unfit. As for the club itself the people are friendly and respectful, it’s a great bunch of guy’s and girls who all try to get the best out of each other. So whether your a beginner or someone with experience Pure Art BJJ is the perfect place to start your journey. ~ George S

Decided a few months ago to give Jiu-Jitsu a try after wanting to do something like this for ages. Looked about at different classes and see I could get a free trial session with Pure Art so came along. Adam is a great teacher really breaks down what you have to do, showing you every step but what made it all the better for me was how friendly all the other people were there. Being 41 and having never done anything like this before it was quite daunting so its great to be in such a friendly atmosphere and have other people who are there trying to help you. Would 100% recommend, great class, great people and definitely worth a try ~ Rich W

With a background in Boxing, Tae Kwon Do and Krav Maga, I had been looking for a legitimate place to learn BJJ in Portsmouth for quite some time. As stated in previous reviews, the classes are well structured and the techniques taught are done so safely and are relevant to all levels of proficiency. Adam is clearly an experienced instructor and competitor with a very methodical and measured approach to teaching. This is evident in the way his students will always take time to slow things down for you if required, as opposed to just using you as a guinea pig for the latest technique! Having been with various clubs over the years, my main concern was being able to Roll/Spar consistently whilst avoiding further injury. Due to BJJ being a ‘technique over brute force’ form of combat, I’ve found this not to be an issue. I cannot recommend this class enough for those considering taking up self defense or a truly effective Martial Art. ~ John H

As a complete beginner to BJJ this class has been perfect for me and Adam's teaching is faultless. It can be quite intimidating starting something new when you don't know anyone but Adam made me feel welcome and the other people who come to the classes are really friendly and good fun to train with. I've only been doing BJJ for 3 months but have progressed really quickly and learnt so much in such a short time, thanks to Adam's brilliant teaching, motivation and encouragement. He teaches in a way that caters to everyone, whether they're beginners or experienced, and the location is great too. ~ Rebekah S

Just rounding up my first month a Pure Art BJJ and I couldn't be happier. BJJ is something I've wanted to try for a while, but constantly put off due to doubts in my own fitness and physical ability but regret not stepping up sooner. I'm pretty out of shape, and haven't done any martial arts before, but the environment at Pure Art is great, super positive and encouraging. Adam is a coach and has made me feel very welcome from the get go, as have all of the other members... and I'm already making some good pals at the club. I couldn't recommend these classes enough! ~ Joe W

No hesitation in awarding 5 stars. I started with Pure Art last year and found a really friendly, supportive group, great teaching, structure, variety and lots of classes to choose from. BJJ is fun, fascinating, safe and addictive and with the venue being easily accessible with lots of mat space and plenty of free parking it’s easy to get involved in. Maybe the greatest compliment I could give is I can find nothing whatsoever to fault! Thoroughly enjoyed starting and look forward to continuing my BJJ journey with Pure Art! ~ Steve D

I've had the pleasure of attending Adam's classes for the past 2 months, and it's been one of the best decisions I've made. The classes are thoughtfully designed to be inclusive, making them suitable for complete beginners. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming, allowing you to thoroughly enjoy your training while acquiring valuable knowledge. I wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone seeking fitness improvement, the opportunity to learn something new, and the chance to become the best version of themselves. 💪 ~ Zaydur R

Pure Art BJJ is an amazing place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming, especially for beginners — everyone is friendly, supportive, and respectful. Adam is a fantastic instructor with a deep knowledge of BJJ and a great way of explaining techniques clearly. He creates a positive and motivating environment that makes you want to keep learning and improving. Highly recommended for anyone looking to start or continue their BJJ journey! ~ Robert

Great teaching, even greater club. I was a little worried of entering a club with too much competitiveness and aggressiveness or in contrast too tame, but this has the perfect balance and mixture of competitiveness, lack of ego and eagerness to teach! This is thanks to Adam's (main coach) discerning eye and ability to teach and to make people into great pupils! Fantastic place, beginner friendly, good price for worth, equal and inclusive treatment. I recommend! ~ Lazzaro D

The club has an extremely friendly atmosphere. Adam, the head coach, finds a fantastic balance between group and individual coaching. You will immediately feel a sense of belonging at this club. Anyone that drills/ rolls with you, whatever level they are at, takes times to help you understand the mechanics of the technique. All members are approachable and respectful which comes from the leadership of Adam. I would encourage anyone to come along - I guarantee you’ll have no regrets. ~ Callum J

Great club for beginners. Jiu-Jitsu is an intimidating technical martial art but Adam does a great job of breaking it down in to basic skills: distance control, punch defense, transition to the ground, avoiding bad positions, guard retention, guard passing, arm bars and chokes. The fellow students are very helpful in providing pointers and feedback. I was definitely tired and a bit sore in the first three weeks.. but my body has adjusted and I learn something useful at every lesson. ~ Andrew T

Having only attended a couple of sessions, I already rate Adam's teaching and club so highly. I was really nervous turning up due to some anxiety issues of my own, but quickly found a really friendly group who want to learn the ins and outs of the art with a fantastic teacher in Adam who is really supportive and really takes his time to sit down with each of you in the group setting to make sure you're comfortable and understand the movements and practices. Couldn't advocate any more. ~ Ben S

Highly recommend! Brazilian jiu- jitsu is an addictive martial art and for me the best place to train is Pure art bjj. Beginning by the way that things are explained to you by mr. Adam Sparrow, the detail and precision he has is insane. He always gives everyone attention no matter the size of the class. Another great thing is the whole "family" we have. Different people with colorful personalities but there is one common thing everyone is friendly and helpful. Do not hesitate try it out!!! ~ Trifon D

As a beginner, with little to no experience in BJJ, Adam helped me to feel confident in my ability to learn the art within the first few moments of the lesson. I’ve been taking 1-2-1 classes with Adam for several months now. I learn something new every time, and always have a good laugh. Adam always teaches using a variety of styles which really helps to cement the new technique or concept in my mind. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in BJJ. ~ Iain C

As someone completely new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, joining Pure Art BJJ has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. Walking into any martial arts gym for the first time can feel intimidating, but the atmosphere here is genuinely welcoming and supportive. Adam has been incredible from day one. He’s patient, clear in his explanations, and always makes sure beginners feel comfortable without ever talking down to us. He breaks down techniques in a way that makes them easy to understand, and he always checks in to make sure everyone—regardless of experience—feels safe and confident during training. What I appreciate most is how the entire gym culture encourages learning at your own pace. There’s no ego, no pressure, and absolutely no feeling that you need to prove yourself. Instead, you’re surrounded by people who help you grow, celebrate your progress, and make training something you genuinely look forward to. If you are thinking about starting BJJ, I can’t recommend Pure Art BJJ enough. It’s a place where you’ll be respected, supported, and pushed to become the strongest version of yourself. ~ Rebecca S

Pure Art BJJ is a great place to train with excellent instruction and an inviting atmosphere! I highly recommend Pure Art BJJ. I’ve been training here for about a year and have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club. I feel I’ve made significant progress under Adam’s guidance. Adam is a highly skilled technical coach but also an excellent teacher who breaks down techniques in a way that’s easy to understand, regardless of experience level. Our syllabus is well-structured and covers a wide range of topics. Classes are always enjoyable and engaging, combining drilling, set sparring, and full rounds. It’s a great training environment, lots of space on the mats and a good mix of students ranging from beginners to advanced competitors. Everyone is friendly and supportive, always willing to help each other progress. BJJ is a physically and mentally demanding sport. Hard work and persistence pays off, seeing small improvements can be incredibly rewarding. Overall, Pure Art BJJ is an excellent place for learning a new set of skills, making new friends, improving your fitness and reducing stress. ~ Jake M

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