Frequently Asked Questions

Most martial arts focus on striking. Jiu Jitsu focuses on grappling: controlling an opponent, escaping bad positions, and finishing with joint locks or chokes. Because it relies on leverage and technique rather than speed and power, smaller people can use it effectively against larger ones.

A Gi is the traditional uniform for Jiu Jitsu and Judo: a heavy cotton jacket, pants, and a belt that shows your rank. The fabric gives you grips to work with, which makes training more technical. No Gi classes are trained in a rash guard and shorts instead.

Adults progress through white, blue, purple, brown, and black belts, often earning stripes along the way. Kids have their own belt system with additional colors until they are old enough to move into the adult ranks. Promotions are based on skill, consistency, and time on the mats.

No. Most people get in shape by training, not before. Our fundamentals classes start with the basics, and our coaches adjust the intensity so you can build up at your own pace.

Yes. Safety comes first in every class. You can tap at any time to stop a technique, our coaches supervise all live training, and new students learn the basics before they ever spar.

Comfortable athletic clothes work great: a fitted t-shirt or rash guard and shorts or athletic pants without zippers or pockets. Remove jewelry, trim your nails, and bring a water bottle. We'll talk to you about getting a Gi if you decide to keep training.

Classes start with a warm-up, then move into technique, where you drill moves with a partner. Many classes end with live rounds, called rolling, where you practice against a resisting partner. Beginners are eased into rolling once they are comfortable with the fundamentals.

Yes. We offer Gi Jiu Jitsu for ages 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12, plus week-long Summer Camps and Parents Night Out events. See our Kids Jiu Jitsu page for details.

Your first class is free. Fill out the form on our site or give us a call, and we'll help you pick the right class. Memberships are month to month, with no long-term contract.