One of the first questions everyone asks when thinking about starting martial arts is: how much does it cost? It’s a fair question — and one that deserves an honest answer.
In this article, I’ll explain how pricing models work at martial arts gyms and clubs in Lisbon, what’s included (and what isn’t), and what you should ask before committing.
The most common pricing models
In Lisbon, martial arts gyms and clubs use essentially four pricing models:
1. Per-modality payment
The most traditional model. You pay a monthly fee that gives access to one specific modality — for example, Jiu-Jitsu 3x per week. If you want to add another, you pay more. At most clubs, prices range from €50 to €80 per modality.
Advantage: Works if you only want to train one thing. Disadvantage: Gets expensive quickly if you want to diversify. Two modalities can cost €100–€150/month.
2. All-inclusive (access to everything)
A fixed price that gives you access to all modalities, all classes, no limits. This is the model we use at Be Water and that more and more gyms are adopting.
Advantage: Total freedom. Train what you want, when you want, without adding up costs. Disadvantage: May seem more expensive if you only use one modality — but in practice, almost everyone ends up trying more than one.
3. Drop-in (pay per class)
Pay per session, no monthly commitment. Useful if you’re visiting or want to try before committing. Prices in Lisbon range from €10 to €20 per class.
Advantage: Zero commitment. Disadvantage: If you train regularly, it’s much more expensive than a membership.
4. Class packs
Buy a block of classes (usually 5 or 10) at a discount compared to drop-in prices. A middle ground between drop-in and membership.
What’s included (and what isn’t)
This is where comparison gets interesting. The membership price is only part of the equation. Before signing up anywhere, ask:
Equipment: Do you need to buy a gi for Jiu-Jitsu? Gloves for Boxing or Muay Thai? Some clubs include equipment, others don’t. A quality gi costs €60–€100; boxing gloves €30–€60. It’s an upfront cost to factor in.
Lock-in contracts: Is there a minimum commitment? 3, 6 or 12 months? Many gyms offer lower prices in exchange for lock-in — which can be a problem if you don’t enjoy it or your life changes.
Registration fees: Is there a sign-up fee? Some academies charge €30–€50 upfront.
Facility access: Does the membership give you access to the gym outside of classes? Can you go train on your own?
Insurance: Included or paid separately?
Sessions per week: Does the “basic” membership give access to 2x or 3x per week? Is unlimited access extra?
What I recommend asking
Before choosing where to train, ask these questions:
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“Can I try a free class?” — Most good clubs offer a trial class. If they don’t, be wary.
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“Is there a lock-in contract?” — If you’re starting out, avoid long contracts. You need freedom to figure out if that space is right for you.
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“Which modalities are included?” — Check whether you pay per modality or have access to everything.
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“Who are the coaches?” — Price isn’t everything. Coaching quality makes all the difference — especially in martial arts, where learning incorrectly can lead to injuries.
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“What’s the class size?” — A class with 30 people and one coach is very different from one with 10–15 people and individual attention.
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“Can I use the space outside of classes?” — If you want to supplement training with independent work, this matters.
The Be Water model
At Be Water Lisboa, we use the all-inclusive model with no lock-in contracts. In practice:
- 2x/week plan: €64.90/month — ideal for getting started
- 3x/week plan: €79.90/month — the most popular
- Unlimited plan: €94.90/month — for those who want to train every day
All plans include access to every modality — functional training, Jiu-Jitsu (GI and No-Gi), Muay Thai, Boxing and Open Gym. You don’t pay extra to add modalities. And there’s no lock-in: you can cancel whenever you want.
If you don’t want a monthly commitment, we offer drop-in at €15, Pack 5 at €70 and Pack 10 at €130.
Included in all plans: access to the lounge and co-working space, free use of the facility during opening hours, and the first class is always free.
The real cost: price vs value
The most important factor isn’t how much you pay — it’s what you get. A €40 membership at a gym where nobody corrects your technique is more expensive than €95 at a space with qualified coaches, small groups and real guidance.
In martial arts specifically, coaching quality is non-negotiable. Learning Jiu-Jitsu from a 6th degree black belt with 25 years of experience isn’t the same as learning from someone with a purple belt who’s been teaching for two years. Learning Muay Thai from a world and European champion isn’t the same as learning from someone who did an online course.
The investment in training is an investment in health, physical capability and mental wellbeing. Choose based on value, not just price.
First step
Book your free trial class on WhatsApp (933 869 791). Come see the space, the coaches and the community. Then decide.
Be Water Lisboa — Av. do Brasil 7, Campo Grande. Monday to Friday 7am–9pm, Saturday 10am–1pm.
— Be Water Team
