BJJ is one of the most effective self-defense arts there is. It teaches the use of leverage over strength. Women will rarely be the stronger person in an altercation and since most fights go to the ground, having training in grappling can give you a significant defense advantage that could save your life.

There is no athletic or physical shape prerequisite. We understand that all individuals start their journey from different starting points working towards the same goal. Our academy is home to individuals trying to lose weight or get in shape, new mothers, large families, individuals with previous injuries or bad life experiences etc. … The most important factor is just starting, and focusing on your goals.

When you first start we encourage you to train with women or whomever you feel comfortable with. Once you’ve gained some experience it is highly recommended to branch out into classes where you may train with or alongside men for a more realistic experience to life situations.

Shorts or leggings, some women wear a T-shirt or a sports bra on hot days. Whatever you are comfortable with. Just note Gis can be thick and hot to wear.

The most effective way to minimize risk is to go at your own pace. Most often the injuries we see are people who go too hard before they are ready. Our academy is built on a culture of control, so training partners are always looking out for one another. Nevertheless, injuries can happen but are almost always minor. You can talk to coaches about remedies or prevention methods as little things occur. We have all been there and experienced those and are experts in them.

Rolling (grappling sparring) is always a matter of consent. While we encourage individuals to roll with as many others as possible, it ultimately is your choice. Refusing a roll with someone for whatever reason is always your right.

Currently Our women’s class is once a week with an optional Sunday Women’s only Open mat on Sunday. Ultimately, the goal of women’s only is to get women comfortable in the environment and with the martial art to eventually move into co-ed classes which can be participated in as many times per week as desired. We recommend 3x per week for proficiency.

If you ever have an issue or are made to feel uncomfortable we definitely encourage you to speak to a coach or the owner (Rick) about your experience to help solve the issue.

While knowledge and instructor accolades are the most often listed values you should consider, we believe that ultimately trust in your coaches and the gym is by far the most important consideration. It doesn’t matter how good the teacher is or the class if you don’t feel comfortable or trust that your coach has your best interest at heart.

There isnt a fool proof hairstyle for grappling but we always recommend hair be tied back to avoid being pulled or damaged.

Shorts and a tighter t-shirt or a rash guard is recommended, avoid anything with pockets as partners’ fingers can be caught and damaged in them.

Like any sport with contact, fingernails can cause a lot of harm to your training partners as well as your own fingers, We ask that nails be trimmed low to avoid cutting teammates or breaking them off.