Combat Room is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu academy on Taranaki Street in Mount Cook, Wellington. It is led by Professor Vanderson Pires and combines jiu-jitsu with physical conditioning and athletics. The academy coaches for competition and teaches self-defence to adults and children of all genders.
New visitors can take a complimentary drop-in class. Daily options suit people who are in Wellington for only a few days, and personal instruction is available for competition training or specific goals.
Members describe a supportive, welcoming group where training partners help each other improve. Several say the sport is humbling and challenging, and that it helps with fitness and focus. One newer member found the first class intimidating, but the encouragement of friends at the gym helped them come back. Others say the community, both on and off the mats, is what keeps them training.