What is "Brazilian Jiu Jitsu"? 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that utilizes leverage, joint manipulation, and the weight of an opponent against them. It is practiced in our gym in the competitive style, i.e. no weapons involved. A “gi”, or kimono, is used in classes and training. Jiu Jitsu is traditionally a Japanese martial art, however, you will see more references to it as BJJ, or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Alternatively, it is a way to see friends who learn how to choke each other and have a great time doing it.

What is "No Gi Jiu Jitsu"?

No Gi is simply....jiu jitsu with no gi. It is jiu jitsu adapted for competition and combat without the traditional gi (or kimono).

What is "Wrestling"?

Think high school or college wrestling, not WWE. It's what you'd see in the Olympics. Our competition style is heavily influenced and built upon by the sport of wrestling. Wrestling is a series of takedowns and position dominance. The movements are very explosive. If you’ve ever wanted to get into superior shape, this will get you there while improving your grappling game.

What gear do I need for these sessions? What do I wear?​

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Gi & Ranked Belt. Comfortable, athletic clothing can be worn underneath.

No Gi - Comfortable, athletic clothing. The tighter the better for grappling. Spats, shorts, rash guards, etc.

Wrestling - Comfortable, athletic clothing. Wrestling shoes are not required but can be worn if preferred.

What can I expect from my first class?​

Fun! Excitement! Confusion! Abrupt humbleness! A lust for more! So! Many! Emotions! 

Please feel free to introduce yourself to the instructor and let them know it is your first class. No reason to be nervous, you're in good hands! Our gym is a tight family, so other students will naturally have training partners, but never be afraid to ask to partner up. Jiu jitsu classes are followed by a period of time to roll with teammates.

Are all classes beginner-friendly?

Whatever your reasons to start are, there’s a place for you in class. Our classes are structured to benefit everyone from first time practitioners to professional athletes.​

Am I too old to start?

Nope! Our classes not only benefit competitors, but people looking for everyday self-defense or a fun hobby. We engineer safe training practices to mitigate unnecessary injuries and keep students on the mat learning. Many martial artists train for decades of their life.

What is "Rolling”?

"Rolling" is a live practice training of ground fighting. After learning and drilling techniques in jiu jitsu, students will then have the option of staying after to “roll” with one partner at a time. During this live practice, partners attempt to utilize what they have just learned or any other techniques they may know to submit their partners.

What does "Open Mat" mean?

Open mats are for active members only. Open mats are scheduled and sometimes created by gym members. This is a way for people with varying schedules to still practice and roll with a variety of teammates. These sessions can be gi or no gi.​

What is the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu belt system and why is it significant?

All martial arts are essentially codified systems of combatives. Hierarchy is needed in order to practice, prove, and progress oneself inside a certain system. All beginners start as a white belt. After that, it’s up to you to train and dedicate yourself accordingly. Belt progression is determined and awarded by your head instructor. Rankings are also used as a barometer for competition. Belts are not worn in no gi jiu jitsu.

Am I supposed to help mop after I take class?

Always help where help is needed! We sweep and mop between every class and we pride ourselves on our clean mats. ​Respectful training is clean and hygienic training. Please participate in any capacity as a sign of respect for your fellow teammates' health and towards the gym we all utilize.

Do I need to be in good shape before I try this?

Half of our gym can’t fit into their rash guards after the holidays, so don’t sweat it. There is no better time to start being in “better shape” than now. Pushing off physical exertion because you aren’t in shape is just one more day you won’t be in shape. Start now. You'll thank yourself later.

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