FAQ's of Adult Jiu-Jitsu
What does "Jiu-Jitsu" mean?Jiu-Jitsu translates to "the gentle art"; it is referred to as such because it utilizes leverage and balance rather than force and strength. Also, the finishing submissions are viewed as a more humane alternative to striking.
What is the difference between Classical or Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
There are numerous differences. The main one is that Brazilian Jiu-Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) focuses more on ground grappling while Classical Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes standing grappling and striking. All types of Jiu-Jitsu are based on submitting your opponent; however, BJJ is the only form of Jiu-Jitsu that heavily emphasizes positional strategy and control before doing so.
This strategy will allow you to be completely dominant, safe, and calm to apply a finishing hold. Another fundamental difference is that in BJJ, students will have the chance to practice and drill moves while their partner resists 100%.
Is Jiu-Jitsu all grappling and wrestling?
The Jiu-Jitsu we teach includes standing techniques, takedowns, and ground fighting techniques. It is a fact that nearly all real fights end up on the ground. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu always prepares its practitioners for a physically superior opponent who is much bigger and stronger. On the ground, leverage can be used to even out the playing field, allowing you to control and submit even the most prominent foes.
We teach all facets of Jiu-Jitsu, including defense against stand-up aggression and ground fighting strategies. So you will be learning how to deal with an individual from the beginning.
Why do Jiu-Jitsu practitioners wear a uniform (gi)?
The uniform is a vital learning tool for your success. It teaches you proper grips and provides additional comfort while training. Fighting with the gi requires a high level of precision and attention to detail, two essential tools for efficient Jiu-Jitsu. In addition, the gi creates a lot of friction between you, your opponent, and the ground, helping your stamina and overall conditioning.
I'm not in the best shape. Can I still take a Jiu-Jitsu Class?
Of course! Our beginner classes are an excellent way to get into shape. Not only will you learn the essential skills of self-defense, but you will also focus on muscle strengthening, endurance, cardio, and flexibility.
What is the belt system in Jiu-Jitsu?
Belts in BJJ include white, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, and black. Each successive belt represents an increased mastery of the art.
How long does it take to obtain a black belt?
This varies for each individual and their level of commitment; however, it usually takes between 8 and 15 years.
Is Jiu-Jitsu effective against other styles of martial arts?
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu has consistently proved its supremacy in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitions. Evidence of this can be found in the videos "Gracie in Action I & II," a documentary in which the Gracie Family took on and defeated all challengers for over 70 years without losing one single fight.
What are some of the physical benefits of training Jiu-Jitsu?
BJJ will improve conditioning, strength, coordination, flexibility, reflexes, and overall motor-skills.
Is Jiu-Jitsu beneficial for women?
Jiu-Jitsu is excellent for rape prevention and other forms of self-defense necessary for women since most attacks occur on the ground. Strategic grips and proper application of leverage and body weight distribution will allow women to escape from attackers standing or on the ground.
How are classes structured?
Class includes several plyometric exercises and movements to help improve conditioning, coordination, flexibility, and strength. This period will be followed by the technique of the week demonstrated by the instructor, which is drilled for the remainder of the class.
A 30-minute sparring session for the intermediate and advanced students is held immediately after each class (intermediate/advanced classes).
I have a hectic schedule; how many classes per week do you offer?
To accommodate your hectic schedule, each of our Jiu-Jitsu programs (Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced) run several times per week in the morning and evening hours, allowing you to customize a training schedule that suits your needs. Besides our instructional program, we also provide "open mat" times for those who want to come in and work out independently. We also offer private lessons, which can be scheduled at several time slots throughout the day.
I have never done martial arts before, and I feel a little apprehensive. How easy is it to get started?
Most people feel some anxiety about starting a martial arts program, hence why we created our Beginners' 12-week program. Individual attention is a feature in every class, allowing all students to progress quickly and confidently towards the more advanced programs. This system will make sure you familiarize yourself with the Academy's culture, its instructors and help you feel comfortable with the material you will be learning.
Do I have to enter competitions?
Competition is always completely optional. Our school has produced many local, national, and international champions. However, many of our students enjoy the training and its benefits without ever participating in any competition. Accomplished competitors themselves, Professors Crosley Gracie and Ryan Murphy understand the difference between training for a competition and training for self-defense in Jiu-Jitsu. Our school provides a positive environment for students with a great approach to personal excellence pursuit and realistic self-defense.
I don't have much time; what is the commitment required to progress at an average pace?
Just 60 minutes, twice a week, will produce exceptional results. We want to make sure you don't have to give up all your free time to benefit from our programs. If the class schedule conflicts with work hours, individual lessons are always an excellent alternative to speed up your learning process.
How much does a membership cost?
We have various programs and flexible payment plans for your convenience. Without understanding your specific needs, it is difficult to recommend a program and pinpoint an exact price; however, feel free to speak to one of our representatives, and we'll work with you to make them fit into your budget.
Are there any additional training fees, such as equipment, testing fees, etc.?
The only additional costs will be for your equipment and your belts when you're ready to move up in rank. These are not "testing fees," as we do not charge for testing for new belt ranks. Students are evaluated weekly and considered for promotion without doing any tests, except for Black Belt.
Why do you require a 12-month agreement?
We want to ensure you give yourself a real chance to see how many benefits you will get from the training. One or two months of practice won't provide new students the results in conditioning, skill, and other physical and mental attributes that a minimum of a full year will. The longer you train, the more benefits you will experience, and the better at self-defense you will be. We guarantee that with consistent training from the get-go, Jiu-Jitsu training will become something you will not be able to live without!
I'm not sure if I want to commit to a minimum of 12 months, any suggestions?
Well, if you aren't sure if you'll like Jiu-Jitsu or not, then we recommend you book an appointment for a class observation; that way, you'll see first-hand how we run our program. If you'd like to proceed in getting on the mat for an actual trial class, ask a staff member about completing a membership application. Once approved, we'll get you booked and you can decide for yourself if it’s something you wish to commit to or not.
