Q: I've never done a martial art before. Is Jiu Jitsu for me?

A: Yes. We have an extensive beginner program. You will work on techniques for your level and practice with your partners.

Q: What is Jiu Jitsu?

A: The Brazilian style of Jiu Jitsu was adapted from the Japanese and given a focus of ground fighting as it applies to arm locks, choke holds, leg locks and controlling your opponent. At North Broadway Jiu Jitsu, we combine the take downs of Judo and wrestling with Jiu Jitsu to develop well rounded grapplers.

Q: What are the general rules of the Jiu Jitsu class?

A: There are only 3 basic rules. #1. Don't talk during class although questions are always welcome. When working on techniques with a partner, a little conversation is necessary to clarify the movements with each other and ask questions about the technique with your partner. This is different than openly talking about events not related to technique class. #2. Ask before you get a drink of water or step off the mat. #3. Defer all questions to the highest ranking belt in the room.


Q: I am in terrible shape. Can I do Jiu Jitsu?

A: Yes. In the Jiu Jitsu class, you can start with fundamental classes. You will work the techniques with a partner. At the end of technique class we spar with our partner in the position we worked that day.

Q: What is the difference between the fundamental and sparring class?

A: In fundamentals class we drill basic techniques and spar for 10 or 15 minutes at the end of class. In sparring class, we only spar for 30 minutes.

Q: Should I come to training if I'm sick?

A: If you are sick, please don't come to class.

Q: Am I required to come to class?

A: No. Once you join the club, you are free to come and go as you please. Some people come every day and some people come once a week. It is totally up to you.

Q: How is the gym atmosphere?

A: We have a great group of guys and everyone has a good attitude. We have several who compete in tournaments. The majority of our people are here to get in great shape and learn Jiu Jitsu and self defense.

Q: Do you give military discounts?

A: No, but we have a program for wounded veterans, Fighting for Warriors. Veterans with physical or emotional wounds can train at our gym for free.

Q: What are the prices?

A: Please call for pricing.

Q: When do I get my next belt?

A: Time, technique and tournaments. You have to spend a certain amount of time in class for each belt, demonstrate certain techniques and show that you can perform against in live sparring or competition.


Q: What are the ages of the kids and teens class?

A: Ages 8-12.

Q: Do I have to move fast to practice all these moves?

A: Most techniques are learned by moving slower, not faster.


Q: How do I refer to Bryan or any instructor?

A: Please call him Bryan. Refer to any other instructors by their first name.

Q: How do I ask for clarification on a movement?

A: If you are having trouble with a movement and your partner can't help you, you can ask for clarification from the instructor. We always defer questions to the person with the highest ranking belt in the room at the time. It is considered bad form to offer instruction or advice with an upper belt in the room. If a student wishes to show a technique, ask the highest ranking member in the room if you may show a specific technique. That being said, when we are partnered up working on techniques, it is ok to ask questions to your partner about the technique. If you still can't figure out the technique, ask the instructor or highest ranking belt in the room.

Q: How do I get better?

A: Come to class as often as you can.


Q: What to wear/bring?

A: On your first day of Jiu Jitsu class you do not need a uniform or Gi. We have gis at the school and will have one for you to borrow or purchase on the first day. Or, you can participate in the Jiu Jitsu class in normal workout gear (shorts, t-shirts or sweats) for your trial period.

Q: Can i do BJJ even if I'm out of shape?

A: Yes, and if you continue on a regular basis, you will get in shape! We have 13 technique classes per week that are just that, technique. There is no warm-up and no sparring. It is strictly 1 hour of learning movements. You can participate in these classes at any fitness level

Q: Is it a good fit for children/women?

A: Yes, Jiu Jitsu is great for women and children. The principles of Jiu Jitsu are based on technique and leverage, not on strength and speed. As you get better with the techniques, you can use them against bigger and stronger opponents.

Q: General hygiene concerns?

A: Due to the intimate nature of Jiu Jitsu, good hygiene is critical. If your uniform is not clean, you will be asked to leave. Also, a person should maintain good personal hygiene.

Q: How does Jiu Jitsu compare to other martial arts?

A: Jiu Jitsu has proven itself to be the most effective ground fighting system in the world. Since the majority of real fights involve grappling and usually go to the ground, Jiu Jitsu is considered by many to be the most effective system of self defense.

Q: How does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu compare to 10th planet Jiu Jitsu and Gracie Jiu Jitsu?

A: They are all forms of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The Gracie family and their affiliates are the only ones that can use the term Gracie Jiu Jitsu. 10th Planet is a system developed by Eddie Bravo. Eddie is a brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt.

Q: How often can I train/should I train?

A: If you are a member at North Broadway, you are free to come to every Jiu Jitsu class on the schedule. You are not required to come to any class, but are welcome at every class. As a new person, I would come to as many technique classes as possible. When you are ready you can come to sparring class. No one is required to spar.

Q: What is the mat/school etiquette?

A: Line up and bow to your instructor before class. Ask the highest belt on the mat before you leave the mat. Keep talking to a minimum during class

Q: How hard/intense should i go?

A: Jiu Jitsu is a game of technique and position, not strength and speed. The more stength and speed you are using, the less Jiu Jitsu.

Q: What moves are illegal/legal'?

A: Illegal moves during sparring include neck cranks, single joint manipulation, slams and heel hooks. As students get more experienced, we will let them incorporate more advanced foot attacks.