FAQ

1. What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. It promotes the concept that a smaller opponent can submit a stronger opponent by using superior leverage, grip, and positioning. The sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu does not include punching, kicking, or striking—this is why it’s called “the gentle art”. This is also what makes it possible to practice techniques against each other.

BJJ is the most effective and the fastest growing martial art in the world. It’s also a great way to stay in shape, make new friends, build self-confidence, and gain a deep understanding of the workings of the human body.

 

2. What should I bring to class?

You'll be breaking out a sweat!

  • water
  • No Gi: athletic shorts or gi pants & rashguard or t-shirt
  • Gi: bring a gi / martial arts kimono. A Jiu Jitsu gi is tighter fitting and more durable than many other martial arts gis, but it is fine to use any type of gi to begin
  • a towel if you would like to shower afterwards

 

3. Do I need any protective equipment?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a grappling art, but sometimes accidents do happen, and the occasional elbow or knee may make contact. It is a good idea to wear a mouth guard. Some people also like to wear lightweight knee pads.

 

 4. I have never trained jiu jitsu before, should I contact you first, and which class should I take?

You can send us a message via website, social media or yarmouthbjj@gmail.com if you like, but you are also welcome to just show up! Please arrive 10 minutes before class starts to have any questions you may have answered. 

First class is always free and Intro Class is recommended for a first timer. Intro to BJJ focuses on the very basic techniques, movements, and positions of BJJ. It gives you a solid foundation that you can later build on with more advanced techniques. 

We are always excited to introduce people to the sport.

 

5. What are your classes like? 

Our classes start with a brief warm-up before we move on to the lesson for the day (drilling). This may be a series of techniques or an in-depth exploration of a few moves. We finish class off with positional rolling or free rolling / sparring, where you have the opportunity to practice and defend these techniques in a more organic environment. 

 

6. Where can I buy training gear?

We will have some gear at the gym for sale, but also you can purchase from anywhere online. www.finessebrand.ca is a local company that provides most of what you need and there are tons of other options online. You can wear any color gi, and other logos is definitely ok.

Here is some BJJ etiquette that is essential for maintaining a safe, respectful, and positive training environment.

1.Respect Your Training Partners.

Treat your training partners with respect and courtesy at all times. Avoid using excessive force or aggression during training and always tap when caught in a submission to prevent injury. Be mindful of who you are training with, if someone is much smaller or less experienced, there is never any need to go as hard as we can, or use our strength/weight. If a smaller person beats us with technique, then that is great, don't try to overcome technique with strength and recklessness. Inappropriate comments will not be tolerated at anytime in the gym, and especially on the mats during training. Because of the close proximity BJJ can put you in with another, comments about "Cuddling" or acts of sexual nature will not be tolerated whatsoever.

2. Personal Hygiene.

Maintain good personal hygiene by showering before class if needed and wearing clean, properly fitting go or training attire. Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed to prevent injury to yourself and others.

3. Punctuality.

Try your best to arrive on time and during instruction try not to be disruptive. If you are late, just quietly join on in.

4. Keep the mats clean.

Try to avoid bringing food, drinks or footwear onto the training mats. Cleanse and cover any open wounds or skin infections before participating in class to prevent the spread of infection. Depending on the severity or contagiousness of the wound and/or infection, you should not attend until it is healed.

5. Help your training partners.

Be willing to help your training partners learn and improve by offering constructive feedback and encouragement. Remember that everyone is at different skill levels, and we all have something to learn from one another.

6. Control your ego.

Leave your ego at the door and focus on learning and improving rather than trying to "win" every round. BJJ is a journey of constant learning and growth, and humility is an essential virtue on the mats.

7. Stay positive.

Maintain a positive attitude and be supportive of your fellow teammates. BJJ can be challenging at times, but a positive mindset and supportive training environment can make all the difference in your progress and enjoyment of the sport.

By following these etiquette guidelines, you'll contribute to a positive and enjoyable training experience for yourself and your training partners.