FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first class. Don't see yours?Just ask us.
Getting Started
Do I need experience to start?
No. Most of our members started as complete beginners. Our fundamentals classes are built for day-one students.
What age can kids start?
Most kids start between ages 5 and 7, but we welcome beginners up to age 13.
Am I too old to start?
No. Our adult members range from their 20s into their 50s and beyond. Jiu-jitsu relies on leverage and timing, not strength or speed.
Do I need to get in shape first?
No. Jiu-jitsu gets you in shape; you don't need to be in shape to start. Waiting to get fit first is the most common reason people never start.
What happens during my first class?
You arrive 10–15 minutes early, meet the coach, get a tour, and join a beginner-friendly class. You'll drill technique at your pace. No sparring on day one unless you want to.
Cost & Membership
How much does it cost?
Adults: $175/month for unlimited classes (BJJ Gi + No-Gi, wrestling, striking). Kids: $140/month for up to 5 days a week. No contracts, no initiation fees.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. One free trial class for kids and adults. No card required. Book yours on our start-here page. Book yours →
Are there contracts?
No. Memberships are month-to-month.
Do you offer family plans?
Contact us about family plans for multiple family members.
What to Wear & Bring
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable athletic clothes you can move and sweat in — a t-shirt and shorts or leggings. No gi needed for your free trial. Remove jewelry and trim your nails.
Do I need a gi?
Not to start. Athletic clothes work for your free trial. When you enroll, we'll help you get the right gi. We also offer No-Gi classes.
Training
What's the difference between Gi and No-Gi?
Gi is the traditional kimono — grips, lapels, and a slower, more technical game. No-Gi uses rash guards and shorts — faster pace, wrestling-based, and modern submissions. Many members train both.
How often should beginners train?
Two to three times per week is the sweet spot for progress without burnout. You can start with once a week and build up.
How long is a typical class?
Most adult classes run 60–90 minutes. Kids classes are 45 minutes.
How does the belt system work?
Adults progress through white, blue, purple, brown, and black belts. Stripes are earned through consistent training and demonstrated improvement. Promotions happen when coaches feel you're ready — there is no fixed timeline.
Kids
Is jiu-jitsu safe for kids?
Yes. Kids classes focus on technique, coordination and games — not hard sparring. Coaching is closely supervised.
Will jiu-jitsu make my child aggressive?
The opposite. Jiu-jitsu channels energy constructively and teaches respect, control, and when not to use what they know.
Does my child have to compete?
Never. Competition is available but completely optional. Most kids train for fun, fitness and confidence.
Can parents watch class?
Yes. We have a viewing area and we encourage parents to watch, especially in the first few weeks.
Logistics
Where are you located?
540 New Brunswick Ave, Fords, NJ 08863. In Woodbridge Township, easy to reach from Edison, Perth Amboy, Iselin and surrounding areas.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available on New Brunswick Ave near the academy.
What are your hours?
Mon–Wed 5–9 PM, Thu 12–9:30 PM, Fri 10 AM–8 PM, Sat 9 AM–1 PM, Sun 10 AM–12 PM. See the full schedule for class times.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Contact us for availability and pricing.
Do you teach self-defense?
Yes. Practical self-defense is built into every program. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts for real-world self-defense.