Hertfordshire, UK

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
in Hemel Hempstead

Q: Where is Icon BJJ Hemel Hempstead?

Gadebridge Community Centre, Rossgate, Gadebridge, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3LG.

Q: Do you run kids classes?

Yes. The kids class runs every Tuesday from 18:40 to 19:30 at Gadebridge Community Centre.

Q: What is the difference between the Gi and NoGi classes?

Gi classes are trained in the traditional BJJ kimono, which adds grip and leverage options to the game. NoGi classes use shorts and a rash guard and are closer to submission grappling and MMA groundwork. Training both develops a more complete game.

Q: Can I try a class before committing?

Yes. Contact us to arrange a free trial. No commitment or membership required for your first session.

Q: Is Icon BJJ Hemel part of a wider network?

Yes. Icon BJJ operates academies across the UK, Portugal, and France under founder Zé Marcello. Your membership and progress are recognised across the whole network.

Gi, NoGi, Kids, and Competition training five days a week. Led by 3rd degree black belt Neto Barbosa at Gadebridge Community Centre.

Book a Free Trial View Timetable

6° Black Belt Founder

3° Black Belt Instructor

1997 World Champion Lineage

5 Classes Per Week

A 3rd degree black belt running one of Hertfordshire's most active BJJ programmes

Icon BJJ Hemel Hempstead is part of the global Icon BJJ network, founded and led by Zé Marcello, a 6th degree black belt whose lineage runs through the Gracie family via Carlson Gracie.

The Hemel academy is led by Neto Barbosa, a 3rd degree black belt under Zé Marcello. With five sessions per week spanning Gi, NoGi, Kids, and a dedicated Competition class, it is one of the most complete programmes in the region. Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or training to compete, there is a class that fits.

Classes are held at Gadebridge Community Centre, a central and accessible venue in the Gadebridge area of Hemel Hempstead.

About Zé Marcello

Lineage

Carlos Gracie Founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Helio Gracie Co-founder
Carlson Gracie Black Belt
Sérgio "Bolão" Souza Black Belt
Zé Marcello 6th Degree Black Belt / Founder, Icon BJJ
Neto Barbosa 3rd Degree Black Belt / Head Instructor, Hemel

Head Instructor

Neto Barbosa

3rd Degree Black Belt under Zé Marcello

Neto Barbosa is a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Zé Marcello, and the head instructor at Icon BJJ Hemel Hempstead. He has been part of the Icon BJJ team for many years, bringing deep technical knowledge and a coaching approach that works for competitors and recreational students alike.

His five-day programme at Gadebridge covers every major format of the sport: traditional Gi training, NoGi grappling, a dedicated Competition session, and a kids class. The variety reflects his commitment to developing well-rounded students at every stage.

📸 Photo and extended bio to be confirmed with Neto before publication.

Class Timetable

Five sessions across four days. Gi, NoGi, Competition, and Kids all covered.

Monday

20:00 – 21:40 Gi Class

Tuesday

18:40 – 19:30 Kids Class

Wednesday

19:30 – 20:30 Competition Class
20:30 – 22:00 Gi Class

Thursday

18:30 – 19:30 Gi Class

Saturday

09:00 – 10:00 NoGi Class

Timetable correct at time of publication. Contact us to confirm the current schedule before attending for the first time.

Serious about competing?

The Wednesday Competition class (19:30 to 20:30) runs weekly and is focused on developing the specific skills, timing, and mental preparation needed for BJJ competition. It sits directly before the regular Gi session, so you can train both in a single evening.

Icon BJJ students compete regularly at national and international level. Your progress at Hemel is connected to a worldwide network of training partners and coaches.

Kids BJJ in Hemel Hempstead

Our Tuesday kids class (18:40 to 19:30) is open to children of all ages and experience levels. Sessions are structured, encouraging, and taught by an experienced black belt.

BJJ helps children develop discipline, confidence, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. It teaches problem-solving through movement in a safe, supervised environment.

Book a Kids Trial

New to BJJ?

What to expect before your first class in Hemel Hempstead.

Do I need any experience to start?

Which class should I start with?

What should I wear to my first class?

Is BJJ suitable for women and older beginners?

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Icon BJJ Hemel Hempstead?

Do you run kids classes?

What is the difference between the Gi and NoGi classes?

Can I try a class before committing?

Is Icon BJJ Hemel part of a wider network?

Find Us

Gadebridge Community Centre
Rossgate
Gadebridge
Hemel Hempstead
HP1 3LG

Phone 07860 215 114 Email zemarcello@me.com

Also serving:

Berkhamsted, Kings Langley, Boxmoor, Apsley, Leverstock Green, St Albans, Watford