Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts-based self-defense system and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting. People who train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu come from all walks of life, in all sizes, and in a vast range of physical condition. While some people do make Brazilian Jui-Jitsu their life calling, many more train on a regular basis for exercise, stress relief, and just plain fun.
About Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an adaptation of Kodokan Judo ground fighting (newaza) created by Carlos Gracie, Hélio Gracie, and Luiz Franca. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is known for its techniques that use leverage, which allows a smaller person to defend themselves against a larger, stronger adversary.
While there are some stand up techniques, most of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu curriculum consists of chokes, holds, and joint locks. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training skills can be used for sport grappling tournaments (both gi and no-gi), mixed martial arts (MMA) competition, or self-defense. It’s important to understand that no everyone who trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competes, and if they’re smart and lucky, they’ll never have to use what they’ve learned in self-defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I'm not sure if training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is be right for me. Can I try out a class before I join?
A: YES! You can attend a full week of our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for FREE before formally joining our martial arts school.
Q: I don't have a Gi. Do I need to buy one before I can attend a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
A: No. We can lend you a Gi during your trial week of classes.
Q: What should I expect in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
A: The first part of class consists of a warm-up to get your heart rate. Our warm-ups include running, movement drills, and stretching. After the warm-up, the technique being taught is demonstrated by the instructor, then practiced by students who are paired with a training partner. The third part of our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class is the "rolling", the grappling term for sparring in live matches. In your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, you instructor will pair you up with someone more experienced who will guide you through the sparring process.
Q: I'm a woman, and I’m inspired by women competing in the UFC. I am concerned about being treated poorly by male training partners. Should I be?
A: No. We have a very high ratio of women compared to other Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools in Phoenix. Additionally, all of our instructors emphasize technique over strength, as well as everyone’s responsibility to maintain a safe training environment.
Q: I'm not sure I’m in good enough shape to keep up with the class. How good does my physical condition need to be before I start taking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes?
A: A specific physical condition is not required to start training. Your cardio, strength, and endurance will improve with the regular training. Our instructors encourage our students to pace themselves throughout the class and respect that you know your physical limits.
Q: What are the rules in class?
A: These are some general rules to follow in our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes:
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Keep your Gi clean
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Keep yourself properly groomed (i.e. showered, nails trimmed, teeth flossed and brushed)
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No shoes on the mat
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Check your ego at the door. There will always be opponents who are better than you.
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Pay attention while your instructor is teaching
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Q. How do I arrange a trial class?
A. Check our class schedule, and simply arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork. You can also call or text us at (480) 438-4389 if you have questions.