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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to be in shape to study Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Not at all. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu revolutionized martial arts with its fundamentals and techniques. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not about speed, power, or even size. BJJ techniques focus on gaining superior positioning and leverage on your opponent, both of which can be accomplished with minimal use of energy. We have trained people in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu who weighed from 90 lbs to 400 lbs.

Do you need to have previous martial arts experience to join the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
You do not need previous martial arts experience to join the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class. Although a wrestling or grappling background will increase your speed of learning, it is not required and beginners are always welcome. Techniques learned in stand-up styles like Muay Thai, Karate, and Boxing have no bearing on your ability to grapple.

Can you use Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for weight loss?
BJJ training is excellent for weight loss and improved fitness. The warm-up calisthenics, dynamic drills, sparring, burn a lot of calories. When you're sparring (rolling) you are burning roughly 1,000 calories per hour. Warm-up drills burn approximately 500 calories per hour. In addition, BJJ focuses on strength and resistance training, which promote muscle growth. With the correct diet and intensity of practice, grappling exercises can build muscle mass which leads to increased metabolic rates. Jiu-Jitsu will help you reach your goals of long term weight loss and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu safe?
Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is great for beginners because of the safety precautions that prevent injury: warm-up drills, stretching, and the experienced supervision of the instructor. Also, there is little impact from grappling as there are no strikes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our instructor has many years of experience teaching group classes and is well-versed at safety precautions to maintain an injury-free class. At any time when you're sparring (rolling) and feel uncomfortable or endangered, it is always safer to tap.

What do I need to bring to my first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trial class?
Come at least 20 minutes before class starts. Workout shorts and a tee-shirt or tank top are fine for practice, and baggy clothing should be avoided. In No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, practitioners wear rash guards, board shorts, and quick-dry clothing. For No-Gi training, it is better to wear form-fitting quick dry clothing because there is less friction and material for your opponent to grab onto. In Gi training, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi (kimono) should be worn with the appropriate belt. For your first Gi class you are not required to wear a Gi, however we do rent them at the front desk for your convenience.

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu good for self-defense?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an excellent way of handling unarmed assaults. Taking the attacker to the ground or pulling guard on them reduces many advantages of size, strength, and speed. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is also extremely effective in close quarters where there is no space to run or escape. Having the ability to control your opponent and submit him from various positions is extremely effective in real combat situations. The constant emphasis on sparring (rolling) physically and mentally prepares BJJ practitioners for defense against a variety of attacks.

Do you train women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Yes, all our Fighthouse classes are co-educational. Women receive the same exact training and attitude as their male counterparts. We take pride in not only teaching women martial arts, but empowering women with a life skill.

Do you train kids or minors?
It depends on the individual. Minors under the age of 17 need our consent and parental or guardian consent. Generally we do not cater to those under the age of 14 in group classes. However we do for private training so please inquire by either sending us an email at info@fighthouse.com or by calling (212) 807-9202.

What equipment and gear do I need for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Rash guards, MMA shorts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gis, mouth guards, and groin protectors, are worn by practitioners. Additional support such as knee braces, anklets, and so forth are recommended for people with old injuries or joint and ligament problems. This equipment can be purchased at the front desk.

Temporary location: 151 West 26th Street, 6th Floor  |  New York, NY 10001 U.S.A  |  (212) 807-9202
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