Start Your MMA Journey in Manchester
Learn the fundamentals of striking, wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a structured programme created specifically for complete beginners.
- No experience needed
- Structured six-week programme
- Professional MMA coaching
The right way to start MMA
Thinking about starting MMA in Manchester but not sure where to begin? This programme was created specifically for adults with little or no previous experience.
You do not need to already be fit, strong or confident. Our coaches introduce striking, wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through a clear system that builds your skills progressively over six weeks.
You will train alongside other beginners in a safe, supportive and ego-free environment. You will not be thrown into an advanced class or expected to work everything out for yourself.
Why Start Your MMA Journey at SBG Manchester?
Choosing where to begin MMA training matters. At SBG Manchester, we provide a clear beginner pathway taught by an experienced coaching team in a professional, supportive environment.
Built for Beginners
You will train with other people who are also starting their MMA journey. No previous martial arts experience is expected.
Structured Progression
Each week builds on the last, allowing you to develop striking, wrestling and grappling skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Experienced Coaches
Learn from coaches with extensive experience across MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling and striking.
Professional Facility
Train in a purpose-built martial arts academy located minutes from Manchester Piccadilly station.
Support Without Ego
You will be challenged, but never thrown into chaos. Safety, control and intelligent coaching come first.
A Path Beyond the Course
After completing the programme, you can continue into our regular MMA, BJJ, wrestling and striking classes.
Manchester’s Original MMA Academy
We have been coaching martial arts in Manchester since 1999, helping complete beginners, dedicated hobbyists and competitive athletes develop strong foundations.
1999
Whether your goal is fitness, confidence, self-defence or eventually competing, your foundation matters. That is exactly what this programme is designed to build.
Course FAQsWhat is MMA?
Mixed Martial Arts combines striking, wrestling and grappling into one complete combat sport. It teaches you how to move confidently and apply effective techniques at every range.
Striking
Learn how to strike effectively while maintaining your balance, movement and defensive awareness.
- Boxing fundamentals
- Kicks and knees
- Footwork and defence
Wrestling
Develop the ability to control distance, work safely in the clinch and bring the action to the ground.
- Clinch control
- Takedowns
- Takedown defence
Grappling
Learn how to control positions, escape safely and apply the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
- Positional control
- Escapes and transitions
- Submission fundamentals
You learn one step at a time
MMA may look intense when you watch experienced athletes compete, but beginners do not start there. You will learn each range individually before gradually connecting the skills together under the guidance of your coaches.
- 1 Learn
- 2 Practise
- 3 Combine
Beginners MMA Programme Details
A complete six-week introduction to Mixed Martial Arts, created for adults with little or no previous experience.
What the programme includes
- Programme Length
- Six weeks of progressive MMA training.
- Weekly Training
- Two coached sessions are available every week.
- Experience Level
- Complete beginners and adults with limited experience.
- Minimum Age
- This is an adult programme for those aged 18 and over.
- Skills Covered
- Striking, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA fundamentals.
- Future Progression
- Continue into our regular classes after completing the course.
Training Times
Course dates are announced approximately every six to eight weeks. Register your interest below to be notified when the next course opens.
We recommend attending both sessions each week to receive the maximum benefit from the programme.
Places are limited and payment must be completed online when booking your place.
Be First to Know When Booking Opens
Our current Beginners MMA programme is unavailable, but new courses normally begin every six to eight weeks.
Join the waiting list and we will contact you before the next programme is released, giving you the best opportunity to secure a place.
- Priority notification before booking opens
- No obligation to book
- Only relevant course updates—no spam
Places are limited for every programme intake. Registering your interest does not require payment and does not commit you to joining.
Beginners MMA Waiting List
Beginners MMA Frequently Asked Questions
Starting MMA can feel like a big step. Here are straightforward answers to the questions we hear most often from complete beginners.
Do I need previous experience to start MMA?
No. The programme is designed specifically for adults with little or no previous martial arts experience. Everything is introduced step by step, beginning with the fundamental movements, positions and techniques.
Do I need to be fit before joining?
No. Your fitness will develop naturally as you train. The sessions are progressive, and you will work at an appropriate pace while your confidence, conditioning and technical ability improve.
Is MMA training safe for complete beginners?
MMA is a physical activity, but safety and control are central to the programme. You will learn through coached drills before progressing to more demanding training. Live practice is introduced gradually and supervised.
What equipment will I need?
Wear comfortable sports clothing without zips or metal fastenings. The programme price includes a pair of MMA gloves. We will explain any additional equipment you may need as your training progresses.
When and how often will I train?
Course sessions run on Tuesday at 8:30pm and Sunday at 12:00pm. We recommend attending both sessions each week to get the greatest benefit.
What if I cannot attend every session?
Missing an occasional session does not mean you cannot complete the course. However, the programme builds progressively, so regular attendance will help you gain the most from the six weeks.
How much does the programme cost?
The complete six-week programme costs £150. This includes two available training sessions each week and your MMA gloves.
When does the next course begin?
New courses generally begin every six to eight weeks. When booking is closed, use the registration form on this page to express your interest. We will notify you when the next dates are released.
What happens after I complete the programme?
You can continue into our regular MMA classes or combine MMA with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling or striking. Our coaches will help you choose the most suitable next step.
Finding SBG Manchester
We are located on Sheffield Street in Manchester city centre, approximately five minutes on foot from Manchester Piccadilly Station.
Five Minutes From Piccadilly
Manchester Piccadilly railway station is approximately five minutes away on foot. Nearby tram stops also provide easy access from across Greater Manchester.
Convenient Local Parking
Pay-and-display parking is available directly outside the gym, with a large public car park opposite for additional spaces at busier times.
External Bicycle Parking
Bicycles can be secured to the railings outside the building. Please remember that bicycles are left there at the owner’s risk.
Attending a class? Ask at reception for the parking discount code, which currently reduces the nearby parking charge to £1 per hour.