FAQs
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art with roots in traditional Jiu Jitsu and Judo. BJJ was formed when Mitsuyo Maeda, a student of Jigoro Kano, taught Judo to Carlos Gracie Sr. Carlos Gracie and his brother, Helio, adapted Judo to be more advantageous to smaller martial artists by pioneering the use of the “guard” as a series of dominant attacking positions. Today’s BJJ resembles a mix of wrestling and Judo with an emphasis on sweeps (knockdowns), pressure, and submissions (joint locks and chokes).
Am I too old to start? Do I need to get “in shape” first?
Getting started in BJJ only requires one thing - determination to take the first step, and it’s never too late to start!
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a great form of exercise that will improve your fitness level by challening your strength, cardio, and mental capacity to solve problems and make quick decisions. BJJ is famous for being an art that can be practiced well into a person’s elder years - we have students over age 65 and Helio Gracie himself practiced into his 90’s!
What equipment do I need? Is there a uniform?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is practiced in one of two forms - with and without the Gi. A Gi (sometimes called a kimono), is the uniform worn by Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners that includes a jacket, pants, and belt. Our Gi classes also require students to wear a rashguard (close-fitting compression shirt) underneath the Gi jacket.
No-Gi training requires only a rashguard and grappling shorts (shorts without pockets).
Our Muay Thai classes require grappling shorts, an athletic shirt, shin guards, and 16oz boxing gloves.
At the Foundry, our pro shop has all the gear you need to get started and in our team colors to make sure you look and feel sharp on the mats!
Are there gym rules or etiquette to follow?
How do I get started?
We ask all students to adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed to a reasonable amount so they are not a danger to other partners.
2. Appropriate clothing must be worn during the session. No hoodies or apparel that has zippers or buttons.
3. Your body must be free from jewelry including watches, bracelets and piercings during the session.
4. No shoes to be worn on the mats at anytime during the session and bare feet should never touch the gym floor and then the mats, in order to prevent cross-contamination.
5. Never train under the influence of any substances or displaying symptoms of illness or infection. Never train with any uncovered open wounds or stitches.
6. Keep all food and beverages off of the mat area.
7. All students are expected to be treated with respect by instructors and other practitioners regardless of race, creed, religious beliefs, political affiliation, gender or sexual orientation.
8. Students should maintain proper hygiene and bathing rituals to keep themselves and others free of any skin-borne infections.
9. Have fun!
Click the link below to schedule your free trial!
Can my kids learn Jiu Jitsu?
Of course! Our kids classes welcome all children ages 6 or older - use the link below to schedule a free trial!