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 an email at terabjj@gmail.com if you like, but you are also welcome to just show up! Please arrive 10 minutes before class starts to sign our waiver.  

You can start with a free Fundamentals Class which focuses on the fundamental 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, and our class structure allows instructors to spend more one-on-one time with new students. If you have never tried jiu jitsu before, you can start training at our Fundamentals classes.

 

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 free rolling / sparring, where you have the opportunity to practice and defend these techniques in a more organic environment. Competition Class has a focus on training by upcoming tournament rules. Open Mats are less structured, with a warm up then free rolling.