Verified Company
As opposed to responding, looks like LFF had my review taken down. So here’s a polite and AI scrubbed version so as not to offend.
I came here specifically for Sambo while living in London and paid for a month up front. I’ve trained for many years across multiple striking and grappling styles, so I expected at least a basic conversation about experience before being directed into classes.
That never happened. In the intro session, the coach didn’t ask a single question about my background, and the tone throughout felt closed-off and dismissive. When I later spoke with Luiz about attending Sambo, the interaction followed the same pattern: bad assumptions made first, questions asked later (if at all). Instead of simply evaluating my experience, the conversation became more about discouraging me from participating. It was surprising, especially for a gym that advertises itself as welcoming to all levels.
I also want to highlight the overall environment. The atmosphere felt extremely rigid, and the way policies were enforced came across as more aggressive than necessary. Rather than creating a structured training space, it created a sense that the gym operates from a place of aggressive defensiveness. Watching classes confirmed the pattern: technically OK instruction, but a culture that felt more focused on asserting authority than developing students.
I ultimately chose not to return, even though I had already paid. The training itself might be adequate for someone who prefers a very controlled, top-down environment, but for anyone with prior experience (or anyone who values open communication from coaches) it’s worth knowing this dynamic before you sign up.
Hey, L— Hope this one didn’t hurt your feelings.
