Everyone starts somewhere. At Samurai Fitness, beginners are not just welcome — they are exactly who we built this for.
These are the most common reasons people hesitate. Here's the honest truth about each one.
You don't need to arrive fit. BJJ is the workout. People of all fitness levels walk through the door and build their conditioning over time on the mat itself. Coach Chris has trained people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who had never exercised seriously before.
BJJ has one of the best safety records in contact sport. Training partners can tap out at any time, and at Samurai Fitness beginners are always paired carefully and coached on safety before rolling. The risk is far lower than sports like rugby or football.
BJJ is one of the few martial arts that rewards experience, patience and technique. Many practitioners start their journey in their 30's, 40's and 50's and go on to earn Black Belts.
Flexibility is not a prerequisite. Most techniques do not require extraordinary flexibility. You will develop mobility naturally over time as your body adapts to training. Come as you are — your body will follow.
BJJ is often called the "Gentle Art" for a reason. The emphasis is on technique, control, and leverage — not brute force. Classes at Samurai Fitness are welcoming and ego-free. Aggression is not part of the culture here.
The BJJ community is built around shared struggle on the mat. Everyone was a white belt once — including the coach. Samurai Fitness has deliberately cultivated an inclusive, community-first culture where newcomers are warmly welcomed.
There's no mystery, no surprises. Here's exactly what a first session at Samurai Fitness looks like from the moment you walk in.
The whole class is built around you feeling comfortable and learning something real. You'll leave having actually practised jiu jitsu — not just watched it.
Book Your Free TrialArrive a few minutes early. Coach Chris will greet you personally, show you around, and answer any questions before the session starts.
Every class starts with a structured warm-up covering movement patterns, joint mobility, and BJJ-specific body awareness drills. Nothing extreme — designed to prepare your body for the session.
Coach Chris demonstrates and explains 2–3 techniques. You'll drill each one with a partner repeatedly to build muscle memory. He'll come round to correct and refine your form individually.
You'll apply the techniques from a specific position — practising with resistance so you start to understand how jiu jitsu actually flows in a live situation.
If you feel ready, you can take part in live rolling at the end of class. There is absolutely no pressure to do this on your first visit — just watch and get comfortable first.
The session closes with a cool-down stretch and group chat. A great time to ask questions, meet training partners, and understand what you just learned.
Chris Last spent 24 years as a Royal Marine Commando before channelling his focus and discipline into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He holds a Brown Belt under the Chamberlain Brothers at the Roger Gracie Academy Bristol, one of the most respected BJJ lineages in the UK.
As a qualified PT, Fitness Instructor, Coach & Mentor, Chris brings a structured, patient approach to teaching beginners. His military background gives him an exceptional ability to break down complex techniques into clear, repeatable steps — and his community-first philosophy ensures that every new student feels genuinely welcome.
He has trained in the USA, Thailand, and Brazil, and remains an active member of the Roger Gracie Academy Bristol coaching team.
The Studio, Yatton · North Somerset
Long term friend, training partner and pillar of the communities we have had the pleasure to be involved in together. Samurai Fitness members couldn't be in better hands.
Top man on and off the mats. Solid, respectful and friendly, with a wealth of experience in martial arts and fitness.
If you are in the area, you have the opportunity to learn Jiu Jitsu from a phenomenal instructor who is the epitome of what a Royal Marine is. Couldn't recommend Chris enough!
Chris has always had a positive impact on me. Top coach — highly recommend to anyone in the area.
Top coach with a wealth of experience and knowledge. I highly recommend Chris to anyone wanting to improve their Jiu Jitsu game or simply start their Jiu Jitsu journey. His commitment and passion for the sport are evident during every session, this has created a great atmosphere within his academy which has seen rapid growth and success.
Chris has created a welcoming environment at Samurai Fitness and caters to all levels and abilities. His teaching style allows for easy learning and understanding and pressure testing the techniques really solidifies what you've been taught.
Chris always brings enthusiasm, passion and knowledge to the mat and as a female, I've felt very supported in training with him.
Can't wait to come and train! Everyone will be in very safe hands.
Samurai Fitness is fantastic! Chris who runs it is patient and supportive and the atmosphere is constructive and very welcoming, with a mix of abilities attending every week.
What an enjoyable class! The class is run by Chris Last who is a top bloke and incredible teacher. The class is methodical and breaks BJJ concepts down into an easy to digest manner. The class is made up of similar minded people who are always respectful to one another, motivated and eager to learn. A great addition to The Studio Yatton and I would recommend to anyone interested. The atmosphere is more than welcoming.
Can't think of a better coach!
I started at Samurai Fitness BJJ with no previous experience, and from day one Chris and the rest of the class made me feel very welcome. Everyone has been incredibly patient, supportive and helpful. Chris explains and demonstrates each technique clearly and is happy to walk me through step by step if needed. A great place to learn and build confidence. I highly recommend Samurai Fitness BJJ to anyone looking to start rolling.
Chris is an experienced and well-rounded coach. Check it out if you're in the area!
The gym looks incredible! What a great opportunity to get to train with a great coach like Chris. Very informative, with attention to small details that will make big improvements to your BJJ game.
Many years of amazing coaching. Anyone considering training here should know Chris is a genuine down to earth and humble guy. I'm sure his students will be very happy.
Knowledgeable, skilful and a friendly BJJ coach and practitioner. Any of his classes will make you want to go back. Exciting times for Yatton!
Chris is such an exemplar and role model for BJJ and general life. Embodying knowledge, discipline, skill and leadership. A huge asset to anyone in the area, no matter what your experience levels are in BJJ — anytime working with Chris Last is time well spent.
Top coach and all-round legend! Anyone training with you is in good hands. North Somerset is lucky to have you — can't recommend enough!
Former Royal Marine Chris Last brings grit and motivation to every session. It's a mindset!
Awesome coach and teammate. Always there to help, on and off the mats. A true example on how to be both a fighter and good man.
Chris is a great coach with a wealth of knowledge in combat sports, competing in many martial arts disciplines. A great coach, training partner and team mate.
What a great club! Chris is an excellent competitor and instructor. His breakdown of jiu jitsu moves gives him an in-depth technical understanding.