FAQ

What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)?

Brazilian jiu jitsu is a sport, self-defense system, and a fitness program. It has proven to be one of the most practical and effective self-defense system in the world. It relies on leverage, technique and timing, rather than strength and size. This allows you to defend yourself against much bigger, stronger attackers. As a result, BJJ is a great sport for everyone – including women and kids.

It is one of the fastest growing martial arts, due (in part) to its great success in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and Mixed Martial Arts in general. BJJ focuses on grappling and ground fighting with the goal of getting into a position to force an attacker or opponent to submit or give up.

BJJ is also an intense, aerobic and anaerobic workout so your overall health and fitness will improve, including your flexibility, strength, cardiovascular fitness, ability to burn fat, and muscular endurance.

 

What should I wear to class?

If you are just trying this out for the first time we recommend wearing:

  • Athletic shorts or "board shorts"
  • Compression shirt, rashguard or tighter fitting t-shirts
  • For Males we recommend getting an jock strap and cup
  • For Females we reccomend wearing a sports bra
  • Do not wear clothing with zippers or other hard materials that can damage the mat
  • Keep longer hair tied back
  • Avoid wearing any jewlery

Once you plan on attending regularly, you will also need to purchase a gi and belt.  These are available at the gym for purchase and also available online.

 

Do I need to get in shape in order to come train?

Whether you are in shape or not you will work a lot of muscles in class that are not used to being worked.  The first month will leave you sore for a few days after each class as the muscles adapt.  The only real preparation for the classes is the classes themselves.  The warm ups and drills at the beginning of each class is useful outside of class to help your body adapt more quickly to some of the new movements. After each class you will adapt more.  Be sure to work at a sustainable pace and within your limits; these limits will grow as you train consistently.

 

What gear will I need for Kickboxing?

We do have some gear in the gym for kickboxing but encourage members to get their own gear after they start training.

We recommend having the following gear:

Mouth Guard

Boxing Gloves for Sparring:

130 lbs - 160 lbs - 14oz gloves

160 lbs - 200 lbs - 16oz gloves

Over 200 lbs - 18 oz gloves

We recommend Windy Sparring Gloves but there are other great brands.  Like most things you get what you pay for.

180" Hand Wraps

Bag Gloves

Shin Guards

Head Gear