Frequently Asked Questions
About Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)
What makes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) special when compared to many other martial arts?
It is one of the very few martial arts that has been proven to be effective in real-life situations. It teaches how to overcome bigger and stronger opponents using techniques that actually work!
I'm a woman, is BJJ a good fit for me?
Absolutely! BJJ has been proven on multiple occasions to be the most effective martial art for women to learn, for practical self-defence.
Is there kicking and/or punching in BJJ?
No. BJJ is a grappling-based martial art that teaches how to deescalate the situation by using techniques that allow for control and escapes, without needing to hurt your opponent.
Do you teach takedowns at your school?
Yes. Everyone in both the Kids/Teens as well as the Adult Programs gets to learn how to take the fight to the ground as well as how to prevent being taken down, using both wrestling and Judo techniques.
Also, everyone at our schools regulary practices the proper ways of how to safely fall on the ground (break-falls), either as a warm-up or before doing any takedown techniques.
What does Gi & No-Gi mean?
Gi is the traditional uniform, which consists of a jacket, pants and a ranked belt.
No-Gi is when you wear regular exercise clothes such as a rashguard/t-shirt and shorts, but without a ranked belt.
When it comes to practicing BJJ, the fundamental movements generally are the same for both. However, the amount of techniques and the way they are performed can have different variations.
What are the ranks in BJJ?
The kids/teens ranks (ages 4-15), and their primary colours are: White -> Grey -> Yellow -> Orange -> Green
The adults ranks are (ages 16+) and their primary colours are: White -> Blue -> Purple -> Brown -> Black.
Additionally, each belt colour generally requires 4 stripes to progress to the next one.
The time you spend at each rank will depend on your level of commitment and proficiency in the martial art.
How long are your classes?
Classes are 1 hour for the following programs: Kids, Teens, & Beginners.
Only the All-Levels program is 1.5 hours long.
SAFETY
Do I have to be physically fit to participate?
No. All of our programs are designed to help you ease into every exercise/technique. We will never force you to do anything that you are not comfortable with. Our goal is to only make you stronger and healthier, while making sure that you are having a good time doing so.
I am # of years old, is it too late to start?
Absolutely NOT! BJJ is a very popular martial art that is practiced by people all over the world and by all age groups! It is not unusual to see students at our gym who are as young as 5 years old as well as those who are 50+.
We understand that starting something new can be intimidating at first, but we promise to make you feel comfortable.
I'm worried about injuries, is Jiu Jitsu a good fit for me?
When doing any physical activity, there is always a chance that you might get a few bumps and bruises. At our gym, we always make sure that your safety is our #1 priority, so that serious injuries do not happen.
We also take extra care in keeping everyone safe by providing clear instructions and discouraging any aggressive/uncontrolled training behaviour. You can rest assured that we will do everything we can to make you feel safe.
KIDS & TEEN PROGRAMS
How old does my child need to be to start?
We start teaching children as early as 5 years old.
We also offer two separate programs depending on their age:
Kids (5-9y)
Youth/Teens (10 -14y)
Is it safe for my child to learn BJJ?
Absolutely! We always structure class activities in a way that prioritizes safety while maximizing learning.
Can I watch my kid/kids during their classes?
We love having parents/guardians around, and encourage it. All we ask is that you leave the coaching to us.
PROMOTIONS & GRADINGS
How do you decide when someone is ready for a promotion?
Our general approach is to promote adults and kids based on their knowledge and performance - never on just attendance. With that said, we do factor in any existing learning, physical or other limitations.
I already have a rank in BJJ, will you recognize it?
Absolutely! You worked hard and put in the time. Whatever rank you have been given at another gym, we will honour it.
Do I have to compete at tournaments?
No. As much as we value competition, we understand that most of our students are doing BJJ as a fun activity.
For those students that are interested in testing their skills through competition, we will support them in their training and make sure that they are prepared to do their best.
MEMBERSHIP PLANS
Do you have a fixed monthly/yearly contracts?
No. We strongly believe in having transparent and flexible options. Life can be unpredictable and we understand that. We allow our members to pause, cancel and modify their memberships as needed.
Do you offer any types of discounts?
Yes! Reach out to us to see if you are eligible.
Do I have to buy/wear your gym's branded uniform?
No. Even though we sell our own branded equipment, you are most welcome to purchase your own elsewhere.