Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Ricardo Cavalcanti Jiu-Jitsu

Here to answer the most frequent asked questions about our BJJ Program. If you do not find the answers to the question you may have on this page please feel free to contact us.

Q: Do I need a conditioning and strength program before I start my first Jiu Jitsu Class?

A: You do not need to do any conditioning or strength training before your first class. You will gain conditioning and strength while learning in class. Most training you do before hand will help a little, but Jiu Jitsu uses more muscles than most exercise alone do. The training is intense and better than swimming. Don’t wait to take a class because your out of shape. Doing something that you find fun will motivate you to get in shape and be a better you.

Q: I am older and not athletic as I once was. Can I still learn the techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

A: You can learn Jiu Jitsu at any age! In fact, we have students that are 75 plus, have a pace maker, and other health conditions that benefit from Jiu Jitsu. Jiu Jitsu helps with keeping you healthy and challenges you to stay motivated. We recommend all ages join and learn new techniques.

Q: I am afraid to get hurt learning Jiu-Jitsu. What are the chances I do?

A: First rule in the gym is that no one gets hurt. Second rule is don’t forget the first rule. We take safely very seriously and before you start in your first class, we will go over the rules of the gym with you.

In my life of being a Jiu Jitsu teacher I have had close to zero incidents of people getting hurt. A lot depends on how we as professional Jiu Jitsu teachers teach the class and take safety seriously.  It’s also important to note that a way to keep yourself from getting hurt is listening to your instructor and doing the moves correctly.

Q: How many Gi’s do I need to own?

A: The traditional Gi is white and is the number one Gi we recommend you start with. The International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation does authorize the use of black and blue Gi. Most likely you will need black and blue Gi down the road for competition or depending on your instructor.

It is recommended to have enough Gi depending on your washing schedule. If you can afford to wash your Gi every night you can use the same Gi. However, if you wash once a week you may want to consider multiple Gi for each class during the week.

Q: Do I need additional gear other than the Gi to train?

A: You need a rash guard, fight shorts, mouth guard, groin protectors, grappling ear protectors, wrestling knee pads, and should consider gear bags.

Q: How can I tell if I am improving in my classes?

A: In Jiu Jitsu like in life we have obstacles we must face. When you can pass obstacles, you realize that you have learnt the necessary skills. You will also realize by the increase in physical condition, speed, and how well you are able to execute the techniques. Trust me, you will feel the difference and look forward to the next obstacle you will face.

Q: How long does it take to get black belt?

A: Black belt could take you roughly 10 years. You have your white, blue, purple, brown, and black belts. Each belt takes between 16-24 months to achieve. You should not really focus on belts, but instead focus on the techniques and working towards your personal goal.

Q: How do I prepare myself for competition?

A: All training you do in Jiu Jitsu is live training. Once you set foot on the mat you have begun to prepare for competition. To master Jiu Jitsu, daily training is important and finding qualified instructors to show you how the techniques properly.

Q: How do Brazilian Jiu Jitsu differ from other martial arts?

A: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has proven through the years to be the best self defense system. It can be used inside the gym or outside in a street fight. Through your training you will be able to react to real situations and beat your opponents in the match.

Q:  What is the difference between the Japanese style and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

A: Japanese used this form of martial arts for war. The Japanese would use this for military and training also included use of weapons. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is offspring of Japanese form and focuses more ground fighting. However Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more relaxed and moved away from mainly military use.

Q: Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu the same as Mixed Martial Arts?

A: No, the evolution of Gracie Jiu Jitsu has helped grow MMA and is used as a main technique in all of MMA fighting.

Q: How do I get started in Jiu Jitsu?

A: Watch our training videos to your Jiu Jitsu journey. No need to get in shape first. Jump in and start learning. You will gain speed, strength, and lose weight. The hardest part is to just jump in, but I am here to help you with your journey.

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