The 10 best self-defence classes in Leeds

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for toddlers, children, teens, adults and families are taught at Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds BJJ on Street Lane. Complete beginners are welcome, and the academy uses a structured global curriculum with step-by-step instruction and safe techniques.

Adult memberships allow unlimited sessions, while children can choose how many classes to attend each week. The academy also offers women’s classes, private training and age-specific children’s groups from age three. Its wider facilities include private gym access, ice bath access and online access. New students can book a free trial before deciding whether the training suits them.

BJJ, MMA, kickboxing and grappling classes at Immortal Martial Arts Leeds accommodate complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners. The gym offers both Gi and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, alongside mixed martial arts, wrestling and submission grappling.

No-Gi sessions focus on grappling without the judo suit, while Gi BJJ centres on ground fighting and submission holds. MMA training combines striking, grappling and cage wrestling. Classes are framed around fitness, confidence, self-defence and practical skill development, with coaching for different levels. Children’s sessions are also supported by the club’s wider training offer. A free trial class is available for people who want to experience the gym before joining. Gi and No-Gi BJJ gives members two distinct Brazilian Jiu Jitsu formats to explore.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Leeds teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for sport and self-defence to adults and children, including complete beginners with no previous experience. Adult beginners can start Gracie Combatives 2.0 at any time, learning 36 core techniques through structured one-hour lessons covering standing and ground self-defence.

Children’s classes use the Gracie Bullyproof programme, which teaches verbal assertiveness and non-violent, leverage-based control holds. Women’s self-defence, the Master Cycle and training through Gracie University extend the programme beyond introductory classes. Students can study online between sessions, and a two-week free trial allows newcomers to experience the classes before choosing a payment option.

Elemental Kickboxing Leeds runs adult, children’s and ladies’ classes combining kickboxing with freestyle martial arts and aerobic conditioning. The academy welcomes people stepping onto the mat for the first time as well as those working towards their next belt.

Classes follow a structured syllabus and can include light sparring when participants are ready, without pressure to spar before they feel comfortable. Sessions suit different experience levels, and the minimum teaching age is six. Members can pay monthly or use the pay-as-you-go app, while the first four sessions cost £20. The academy also has a refurbished therapy room for practitioners to hire.

Karate, Kung Fu, Jiu Jitsu and self-defence classes give students at Kaizen Martial Arts Academy several ways to train in Pudsey, West Leeds. The academy welcomes beginners and experienced students, with sessions for juniors, adults and students aged over 13. Training covers practical self-defence, grappling, ground-based techniques, sparring and traditional martial arts skills.

The timetable includes junior, adult and squad sessions, alongside Sunday and Wednesday classes for over-13s. Jiu Jitsu training focuses on escapes, submissions and positional control, while self-defence sessions address situational awareness and staying calm under pressure. Initial lessons cost £6, followed by unlimited lessons for £34 per calendar month. Membership includes an annual licence, grading book, uniform and belt.

Families, children and adults can train together at Leeds North AEGIS Martial Arts Academy, with classes combining boxing, karate and kickboxing. The programme covers all ages and abilities, including beginners, and links martial arts training with fitness, self-defence and confidence.

Children’s classes are designed around personal development and leadership as well as physical skills, while adults can use sessions as an alternative to a conventional gym routine. Parents can join toddlers on the mat, and students are encouraged to attend once or twice a week with flexible days. A free trial class is available for families.