FAQs

Our kids class starts at age 8, as we believe that that is when the average child is able to understand the basic concepts of the techniques, as well as when it is appropriate to use them. In some cases, we may accept kids as young as 7 with prior interview.

However, it is never too late to start training! With some modification, anyone can learn the basic techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, regardless of age. Helio Gracie, the founder of the art, was on the mats until he was in his 90s.

Although there is a risk of injury with any contact sport or activity, the most serious injuries are almost univerally preventable by observing safe training practices. Anyone following our Injury Prevention Protocol is unlikely to be seriouly hurt. Small bumps, scrapes, and aches are fairly common, but heal quickly. Consult your doctor before engaging in strenuous activity.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the most effective single martial art for one on one combat, even more so when integrated with Judo. Boxing and other striking arts are excellent, and it is true that most fights start on the feet. However, the vast majority of fights end up on the ground and it is extremely important to be comfortable there. We encourage our students to learn striking, but grappling should take the priority in the beginning. A good grappler can be effective with minimal striking, but it is hard for a striker to be effective with minimal grappling because they always have to worry about being tackled.

The other major benefit of grappling is scalability of force. With striking martial arts, the only way to defeat an aggressive opponent is to beat them until they are injured or unconscious. With grappling, you can choose to control an opponent without harming them if it is more appropriate for the situation.

A black belt takes an average of 8-12 years to obtain with regular training. This can be accelerated with success at high levels of competition.

No! Although martial arts can often be rough, regular sparring can foster a respect for the realities of physical confrontation. When learned in a respectful, structured environment, martial arts decrease the probability of kids getting into unnecessary physical altercations. This is especially true when combined with adequate parental guidance and support.