Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
GETTING STARTED
I Don’t Own A Gi. Do I Need One To Try A Class?
Not at all. We would love to have you join us for our 3 Class Trial, which includes a FREE uniform.
The trial offer is valid for a 7-day period and is available for students ages 4 and older.
We recommend wearing comfortable athletic clothing underneath your uniform such as:
compression shirt
leggings
athletic shorts
For women, we recommend a sports bra and a non-low-cut athletic top for additional comfort.
Click HERE to sign up today!
What Do I Wear Or Bring To My First Class?
Please arrive 10–15 minutes early so our staff and instructors can welcome you, answer any questions, and help get you checked in.
Most students wear flip flops or slides since shoes are not allowed on the mats.
What Should I Expect During My First Class?
Classes typically begin with a warm-up that may include:
stretching
movement drills
core work
After warm-ups, the instructor will teach the technique of the day and students will partner up to practice and drill the movements.
The final portion of class usually involves “rolling,” which is the grappling equivalent of sparring.
New students will NOT roll on their very first day, but are always welcome to observe. When students are ready, instructors will typically pair them with more experienced training partners to help guide them through the process safely.
What Is A Typical Class Like?
Classes begin with light calisthenics, movement drills, and stretching.
After warm-ups, students drill techniques repeatedly to help develop muscle memory and technical understanding.
Classes then transition into live training (“rolling”), where students apply techniques with resisting training partners in a safe and controlled environment.
This allows students to develop:
timing
reactions
problem solving
technical confidence
TRAINING & SAFETY
Will I Get Hurt?
Like any physical activity, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu carries some risk of injury. However, because we emphasize proper technique, controlled training, and safety, the injury rate is generally lower than many traditional sports such as football, basketball, or track.
Students are encouraged to train at their own pace, especially beginners in our Fundamentals Program.
Will This Be Hard On My Body? Is It Violent?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is physically demanding, especially for students who are new to exercise or martial arts, but training intensity can be adjusted to your individual pace and comfort level.
BJJ is not violent.
Training is structured, technical, and controlled in a safe learning environment.
Do I Have To Be Athletic, Flexible, Or In Shape?
Not at all.
Many people believe they need to “get in shape” before starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but BJJ itself is one of the best ways to improve your conditioning over time.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu develops:
cardio
flexibility
coordination
strength
endurance
…through consistent training.
FITNESS & SELF-DEFENSE
Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Good Exercise?
Absolutely.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides a full-body workout that improves:
core strength
muscular endurance
flexibility
balance
coordination
cardiovascular conditioning
Training also challenges students mentally through problem solving and live reactions during sparring.
I’m A Woman. Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Right For Me?
Absolutely.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an excellent martial art for women because it emphasizes:
leverage
timing
technique
control
rather than relying on size or strength.
BJJ also addresses many realistic self-defense situations, particularly those involving close-range control and ground defense.
Women of all experience levels are welcome in our programs.
Would Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Benefit My Child?
Absolutely.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches children how to use technique and leverage instead of relying on size, strength, or aggression.
Through training, children develop:
confidence
discipline
coordination
balance
focus
self-esteem
work ethic
respect
Classes are taught in a positive, structured, and encouraging environment designed to help children grow both on and off the mats.
EQUIPMENT & TRAINING
What Is A Gi?
A Gi (sometimes referred to as a Kimono) is the traditional uniform worn while training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
It consists of:
jacket/top
pants
belt
The material is specially reinforced to withstand the demands of daily training.
Many practitioners value Gi training because it creates a highly technical style of grappling that emphasizes grips, control, leverage, and precision.
Why Train With The Gi?
Training with the Gi develops technical awareness, grip control, precision, and problem-solving.
Many students view Gi training as an important part of developing strong fundamentals because it slows down exchanges and encourages more technical movement and strategy.
As students progress, they learn how to apply techniques both with and without the Gi.
AGE & EXPERIENCE
I Am Over 40 Years Old. Am I Too Old To Start?
You are never too old to begin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Because BJJ relies heavily on technique and leverage rather than athleticism alone, students of many ages can train successfully while progressing at their own pace.
Train smarter, recover properly, and stay consistent.
I Am Recovering From An Injury. Can I Still Train?
Yes.
As long as your doctor has cleared you for activity, training can often be adjusted around previous injuries or physical limitations.
Please communicate openly with your instructors regarding:
pain
limitations
restrictions
discomfort
so we can help create a safe training experience for you.
CULTURE & ETIQUETTE
What Is The Basic Etiquette During Class?
We believe respect and professionalism are important parts of training.
General academy etiquette includes:
Keep your uniform clean
Respect instructors and teammates
Avoid foul language
Leave your ego at the door
Be on time for class
Ask permission if arriving late
Inform instructors if leaving early
Shake hands or bow before training
Avoid excessive aggression during sparring
No shoes on the mats
Avoid interrupting instruction
Maintain proper hygiene
Wear footwear to the restroom or shower areas
Please also review our full Code of Conduct.
BELT SYSTEM
How Does The Belt Ranking System Work?
For adult students, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu includes five primary belt ranks:
White
Blue
Purple
Brown
Black
Progression between belts typically averages between 2–4 years depending on consistency, development, and experience.
After black belt, students earn degrees based on time and contribution to the art.
Children under the age of 16 follow a separate youth belt system with additional belt colors.