Frequently Asked Questions

I have zero martial arts experience. Where do I start?

There are many different ways for you to get started. We recommend any new and curious students to start with registering for some free trial classes or facility tour here. If you are not quite ready to make that step, you are always welcome to simply watch a class first to see if it’s something you’d like to pursue further. 

Am I too old to start training jiu jitsu?

Absolutely not. We have members ranging from 5 to 70 years old of all levels of experience. In fact the owner of our academy started his training at 42 years old, is now 70 and still competing!  

For long term sustained training you will have to train smart which means being in-tune with your body, listening to it’s limitations and adjusting your training as needed. If you have any concerns, our instructors can assist you in modifying your training in a way that works best for you. 

What is the difference between gi and nogi?

Gi refers to the uniform jiu jitsu practitioners wear, more commonly known as a kimono. No-gi, or submission grappling, simply means without the kimono. Although some prefer one over another, to be a complete BJJ player you should be skilled in both. Most students train both styles simultaneously until proficient enough to choose one speciality if they choose to do so.

In gi, you are allowed to grab on to your opponents kimono lapel, sleeves, pants, etc and use those grips to your advantage. These grips on the kimono make it easier to control your opponent and slow down the pace by complicating the situation. You can also use the gi to attack and submit opponents, giving you a lot of options. In gi, certain submissions involving the foot, ankle and heels are restricted. 

In no-gi, you don’t have those grips and opponents can be harder to control, especially when sweaty and slippery. This also increases the pace and requires more athleticism. Since there are less options for submissions, no-gi players usually look for submissions involving the back, foot, ankle and heels. Nogi has been growing in popularity recently and some say it is the future of jiu Jitsu as the faster pace makes for more exciting spectatorship. 

What are the uniform requirements for a gi class?

The only requirement we have for gis is that they must be white, blue or black. Members cannot have patches from other affiliations while it is acceptable for visitors. Most people wear compression shorts and leggings/spats under the pants and a rash guard (or compression top) underneath the jacket. 

What are the uniform requirements for a no-gi class?

For a no-gi class, you’ll want to wear a rash guard or compression top. Short or long sleeves are your preference, but no tank tops! Grappling shorts are a must. Grappling shorts do not have pockets, zippers or any other hard or sharp that can injure your training partners. Compression leggings/spats underneath the shorts are optional. Vale tudo shorts are not acceptable for no-gi classes, but can be worn for Muay thai and mma.

What is the difference between jiu Jitsu and judo?

The most important distinctions between Judo and Jiu Jitsu can be found in the rulesets. The major difference being that Judo concentrates more on the standing aspect using trips and throws to take their opponents to the ground. While jiu jitsu utilizes judo techniques to take opponents to the ground, it doesn’t stop there. Jiu jitsu focuses on ground fighting tactics to dominate and submit opponents while on the ground. In very simplistic terms, Judo focuses on taking the fight to the ground while jiu jitsu focuses more on what to do while on the ground. 

How long does it take to get your black belt in Jiu Jitsu? 

In jiu jitsu, earning your black belt can take upwards of 8-10 years. Keep in mind you don’t need to be a black belt to be able to defend yourself or to be able to enjoy all the other benefits that come along with training jiu jitsu. In fact, learning still doesn’t stop just because you earned your black belt. Jiu jitsu is a complicated game with never ending learning. Practitioners should focus on the journey and enjoy the process.

How long does it take to get your black belt in Judo? 

In Judo it’s likely that you’ll be able to obtain a black belt in 3 to 6 years based on your commitment to the art. The first level of black belt in Japanese is called shodan. It literally means "first level" or "beginning step". Achieving the first dan in black belt is just the beginning of becoming a serious judo athlete, and within the world of judo does not signify that the student is an expert. 

Is OBJJ affiliated?

We are an independent academy with no affiliation and we like it that way. We take a unique and progressive approach that leaves politics and franchising restrictions behind so we can have the freedom to do what works best for us and our students. 

How much do your monthly memberships cost?

We offer many different membership options depending on what program(s) you are interested in, how often you’d like to train and how you’d like to pay, but generally speaking, our memberships range from $140-180 per month. You can pay on a month-to-month basis or receive discounts by signing a six or twelve month contract. Contact us for more specific information. 

How does the fitness area work?

The fitness area is included in most membership options. It is open from 6:30am to 9:00pm on weekdays and has limited weekend hours. Check the schedule for hours.

What age range does the kid’s program accept?

We accept students as young as five years old. Usually kids start to outgrow kid’s classes by 13-16 (depending on their size and experience level) and begin attending the adult fundamental class.