Frequently Asked Questions
Go ahead, ask us anything……we’ve got the answers!
Adults
I don't have any experience in martial arts. Can I still join?
Our fundamentals classes were created with new martial artists in mind. Our modern approach to jiu-jitsu and kickboxing teaches the essentials while incorporating new school ideas which allows for a swift learning environment.
Do I need to get in shape before I start training Jiu-Jitsu or Kickboxing?
No! Come as you are. Saying “I need to get in shape before training jiu-jitsu or kickboxing” is like saying “I need to get smart before I start going to school.”
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a sport, self-defense system, and a fitness program. It has proven to be the most practical and effective self-defense system in the world. It relies on leverage and technique, rather than strength and size. This allows you to defend yourself against much bigger, stronger attackers. As a result, BJJ is a great sport for everyone.
It is one of the fastest growing martial arts, due (in part) to its great success in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and Mixed Martial Arts in general. BJJ focuses on grappling and ground fighting with the goal of getting into a position to force an attacker or opponent to submit or give up.
BJJ is also an intense, aerobic and anaerobic workout so your overall health and fitness will improve, including your flexibility, strength, cardiovascular fitness, ability to burn fat, and muscular endurance.
What is Muay Thai / Kickboxing?
Muay Thai or literally thai boxing is a stand-up striking martial art that uses various clinching techniques. It is also characterized by the use of fists, elbows, knees and shins. Kickboxing comes in many forms and can have different styles depending on the country where it originates from. Our instructors are very knowledgeable in all forms and bring Academy a wealth of striking knowledge.
Q. Do I have to compete?
No. The majority of people who learn and train jiu-jitsu and kickboxing do not compete. Of course, competition can be a reason to set goals and a great way to challenge and test yourself. We encourage anyone who wants to compete to do so, but there is no expectation or requirement to do it. Come learn, get in shape, and enjoy the sport. You can decide later if you’d like to compete.
Am I too old to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Kickboxing?
NO. Anyone, at any age, can do jiu-jitsu, muay thai or kickboxing. Go at your own pace and push yourself to the limit. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Are Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing safe?
Jiu-jitsu and kickboxing are a safe sport, and safety is a core principle at Academy Martial Arts. Our mat etiquette, curriculum design, practice process, and instruction methods all ensure safety first.
Kids
How old does my child have to be to start at Academy?
We recommend that children start at 5 years of age. However, since no two kids are the same, and there can be significant differences in coordination and maturity, we’d like to have your child come try an evaluation class and find out if they’re ready for the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience.
Does my child have to compete?
No, we only encourage competition for kids who are interested in seeking an extra challenge. For most kids the regular curriculum will be plenty to keep them challenged and growing.
My child is already very energetic. I'm afraid the training will encourage aggression, is this true?
Training at Academy will provide an outlet for children in which to channel aggression and excess energy. Our children’s programs focus on developing behavioral and attitudinal aspects inherent with martial arts, such as respect, confidence, discipline and self-control. By providing a fun and safe atmosphere for kids, we can foster a healthy environment in which they can learn and develop not only self-defense skills but life skills as well. They learn Jiu-Jitsu as a tool for personal growth and development, not as a weapon to cause harm. Once ready, they will be sparring daily in class, often with children who are bigger and more experienced than they are. Not winning every match will teach them humility and respect. Kids learn to treat others, as they want to be treated. Often, kids who were violent before they joined our program, changed and became non-violent. However, we do teach them to take action, whenever physically threatened by anyone, anywhere, anytime.
Q. Will my child have a hard time if he/she isn’t athletic?
Often children who don’t find success in team sports come to Martial Arts, and they love it! That’s because with Martial Arts you go at your own pace. Team sports may actually harm the self-esteem of children who aren’t very athletic. When they don’t perform well, other kids can be pretty mean, which can really affect their self-esteem. But with Martial Arts, they can’t let anyone down. Our students are never asked to do things beyond their capacity. Some kids learn quicker than others, but those who advance quickly are not valued more than the kids who advance slowly. Everyone is greatly encouraged, regardless of his or her athletic level and praised for achieving things they couldn’t before.
Q. What does "Jiu-Jitsu" mean?
Jiu-Jitsu translates to “the gentle art”; it is referred to as such because the art utilizes leverage and balance rather than force and strength. Also, the finishing submissions are viewed as a more humane alternative to striking.
How Do I Get Started?
Chat with us!
Call us at 562-291-6699 to talk
about your goals in martial arts.
Book Appointment
Setup an appointment to come in
for your trial class. We’ll provide a uniform.
1st Session!
Get in! Get down!
Fall in love with Jiu-Jitsu and Academy!
Questions?
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