Questions?

Find answers below to some of the most commonly asked questions


Will I Like It
Will I like it?

We think you will, but you can try out 1 FULL WEEK FOR FREE before signing-up with us.

The only way to be sure is to walk through the door and try it out for yourself. We have multiple programs available so if you want to just learn and have some fun, you won't get thrown into an MMA class with a bunch of fighters. All are classes are separate and specific to the task at hand. If you show up for a scheduled Gi jiu-jitsu class time, you can rest assured that's what we will be doing. We have seen academies that have sporadic schedules where you never quite now what to expect each day. We believe in structure and consistency here.

First Class
First Class?

No preparation is required, we just need you to walk through the door with a willingness to learn and have fun. Shorts or Sweatpants and a T-Shirt are fine when you first start out, basically just something comfortable you can move in and don't mind getting sweaty or stretched out a bit. We recommend bringing something to drink; a water bottle or a sports drink typically.

Each class typically has a warmup involving stretching and movement drills, then a technique portion, and the last part is open sparring, which you can watch or particpate in if you feel comfortable.

What to wear
What do I wear?

Starting out, we have Gi's we lend to new students, but if you're planning on sticking around, you'll need you're own Gi and belt. We also suggest a rash guard for No-Gi classes. These items can be purchased through us, or bought online. Typical Gi uniform colors are White, Black, and Blue.

In Shape
Do I have to be in shape?

No! Sure, it helps to have a general level of fitness and not be overweight, but Kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu classes will do the job faster and more efficiently than walking on a treadmill, lifting weights, and dieting. Your physical condition will improve as a result of warm-ups, drilling, techniques, throwing punches and kicks, and live sparring. Learning a combat sport is way more fun and you're more likely to stick with something you enjoy. Dieting and weight-lifting are important facets to any sport, but those usually come after you've plateaued in one of our classes and want to see progress above and beyond.

Old
Am I too old?

No. The 3 fellas in this picture are 49, 52, and 53 years old. Each one walked through the door eager to learn something new. All three are regulars to both the kickboxing and jiu-jitsu classes, and at 52, Chris Shay competed in his first jiu-jitsu tournament with 4 months of training. So no, you are not to old.

Ladies
Do Women Train?

Absolutely, and they are often better students and faster learners than most of the men. We work very hard to create a team of students and coaches that are supportive and loyal to each other, and an atmosphere where women, men, and kids can all feel comfortable learning and training together.

Belts
What are the Belt Rankings?

Jiu-Jitsu uses a color system to signify the level of knowledge of the student. Each belt earns four stripes which measure progress through a particular rank.

  • White: Beginner
  • Blue: Intermediate
  • Purple: 4-5 years
  • Brown: 8 years
  • Black: 10 yrs minimum
Compete
Do I have to Compete?

No. The majority of people who learn and train jiu jitsu do not compete, and have no desire to do so. Competing costs money, time, and extra training effort. Not everyone has that burning desire to beat other people and that is why we foster an environment that is for everyone. Learn, get in shape, and enjoy the sport. You can always change your mind.