Traditional Ju Jitsu in Stoke-on-Trent
Practical self-defence for adults & juniors. Friendly beginners welcome
- Beginner Friendly
- Fully Insured / BMABA
- Grades Verifiable (LSGR)
Adults
Monday
8pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday
8pm - 9:30pm
Children (5+)
Monday
6:30pm - 8pm
Wednesday
6:30pm - 8pm
Only £5 a Session
2 Free Sessions
Join us for 2 free sessions for the full Ju Jitsu experience
Pay As You Go
No long term contract, pay on arrival
St Michael’s Church
ST6 6JT
Throws and Takedowns
Off-balancing (kuzushi), trips, hip/shoulder throws
Safe set-ups and controlled landings
Escapes & Breakfalls
Falling safely (ukemi), getting back up
Escapes from grabs, holds, and common pins
Traditional Weapons
Bo & Jo staff basics (handling, strikes, blocks, movement)
Knife awareness & defence (avoidance, distance, control, escape)
Striking & Atemi
Palm strikes, punches, elbows, knees, low kicks
Timing, distance, and creating an escape window
Joint Locks & Control
Wrist, elbow, shoulder controls
Restraint options and safe “tap” culture
Groundwork & Transitions
Positional control and getting to safety
Locks/holds where appropriate, plus stand-up resets
Getting Started
What to expect from your first lessons
1
Warm-up & Mobility – Light mobility, joint prep, and get the body ready. We’ll show you the basics as we go with no pressure to keep up.
2
Fundamentals & Breakfalls – Learn safe falling (ukemi) and the core stances, grips, and positioning that everything builds on. This is where confidence starts.
3
Coached technique – The main part of the class focuses on a technique or group of techniques then builds it step-by-step. We explore how and why it works, then practise it with realistic context so it feels practical.
4
Optional grappling rounds – There’s always the chance to do some grappling at the end. Partners start back-to-back, turn to face each other, then work for short rounds. It’s a safe way to test timing, balance and technique.
What to bring to your first session
Wear: T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms/shorts
Bring: Water bottle
Jewellery: Please remove for safety
Arrive: 10 minutes early
Fitness: You don’t need to be fit to start. We build fitness naturally as you train, and you can work at your own pace.
Join The Club
Drop into any lesson and try your first two sessions free.
If you’d like to chat first, contact us using the form below or email us with any questions.
Meet your Sensei
Sensei Richard Stecko MBE - Traditional Ju Jitsu in Stoke-on-Trent
Richard is Stoke-on-Trent born and raised, and has trained in Ju Jitsu from his early years — starting locally before continuing his development at the Ju Jitsu Academy in Biddulph.
He served over 16 years in the Royal Navy and was awarded an MBE for his services to the Type 45 Propulsion Systems.
Richard earned his black belt in 2003, achieved 2nd Dan (2008) and 3rd Dan (2012), and has also taught Ju Jitsu within the Royal Navy.
Today, he teaches that same hard-earned, practical approach in a safe and friendly environment, giving back to the martial art and the local community.
- Local roots: trained in Stoke-on-Trent
- Experience: Black Belt 2003, 2nd Dan (2008), 3rd Dan (2012)
- Service: 16+ years Royal Navy, awarded MBE
- Lineage: trained under Sensei Billy Frickleton, Phil Blackburn, and later Shihan Martin Rogers (8th Dan)
Book Your 2 Free Sessions Now
REGISTERED & LICENCED
