FAQs
General Questions About Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
What is BJJ?
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BJJ is a grappling martial art built on leverage, angles, pressure, strategic positioning, and precise timing. These principles allow practitioners to apply chokeholds and joint locks with control and efficiency, rather than relying solely on strength or size.
Do I need to have a background in martial arts to start training BJJ?
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No, we welcome students of all levels, from beginners to advanced students. Come as you are, even if this will be your first time on the mats.
What are gi and no-gi classes?
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Gi classes include a gi (BJJ kimono). No-gi classes require a rash guard and shorts/leggings with no zippers, buttons, or pockets.
How does the belt rank system work?
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Belts are required for gi classes. Promotions are earned through demonstrated technique, sparring ability, training commitment, and positive conduct on and off the mats. Typically, 4 stripes are acquired at the current belt level before promotion to the next belt rank. Belts are earned in the following order:
Kids: White, grey, yellow, orange, and green. Kids belts include sublevels within each belt rank
Teens age 16+ and adults: White, blue, purple, brown, and black
Getting Started
Do you offer a free trial class?
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Yes, we offer a free 1-week trial period. During your trial period, you are welcome to attend as many classes that is convenient for you. Contact us for details and to fill out a trial form.
Can I train without competing in tournaments?
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Absolutely! Everyone at Armor Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is on their own personal journey. We welcome students who just want to learn a new skill, get a good workout, and build self-confidence. We also have students who regularly compete, but the decision to compete is completely up to you.
What are the age groups for classes?
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Our kids classes start as young as 4 years old. The adult classes includes teens age 14+ and adults of all ages.
What do I need to wear or bring to my trial classes?
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For no-gi classes, please wear clothing you are comfortable working out in. However, clothing should not have any zippers, buttons, or pockets. For adult gi classes, we supply a loaner gi. For kids gi classes, no gi is required during the trial period.
Where can I park?
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Parking is available in the rear parking lot that is accessed through the Guilford Commons, to the left of Michael’s Arts & Crafts. Limited parking is available in the front parking lot. Please be mindful of spaces specifically marked reserved.
What type of gi is required?
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Students are welcome to wear any gi that best fits their needs. We encourage students to have a minimum of two gis and ask that only clean gis be worn to each class.
Clothing and Equipment
How much do your memberships cost?
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Memberships are month-to-month and provide unlimited access to all classes that you are eligible to attend. Stop by for a free trial week and we’ll go over our current pricing options.
Memberships
What clothing should be worn for no-gi classes?
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For the safety of all students, loose-fitting clothing and clothing with zippers, buttons, or pockets are not allowed during no-gi classes. The attire for no-gi classes consists of shorts or spats (leggings) and a rash guard.
What other equipment do I need?
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Mouthguards and water bottles are recommended.
How do I maintain a safe training environment?
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To maintain a safe and clean training environment for all students, everyone must wear clean clothing (gi and no-gi) at each class.
Students must keep their fingernails and toenails trimmed and maintain personal hygiene. All open cuts must be bandaged securely. Do not train if you have a skin infection, even if it is covered.
Remove all jewelry and watches before training. Those with long hair are encouraged to keep it securely tied back.
No shoes are allowed on the mat. Bring a pair of flip-flops to wear off the mats. Please review the mat rules in front of our mat room.