Jiu-Jitsu FAQ

If you are new to jiu-jitsu and don’t have your own Gi, we have loaner Gis available for you. After your session we collect the uniform and wash it for your next class!

Absolutely not! Every jiu-jitsu class includes a warm up and some conditioning. You will get in great physical shape doing jiu-jitsu. Trying to reach a certain fitness level before embarking on your jiu-jitsu training is just delaying the time it takes for you to reach proficiency. You are encouraged to learn at your own pace and listen to your body when it comes to sparring. The best way to get in shape for jiu-jitsu is to do jiu-jitsu!

There is no cause for fear if you are conservative while training with new partners. While training, we encourage tapping as quickly as suites you to prevent injury. No one know your limit like you do.

If you are an absolute beginner, we recommend you don’t spar for the first two weeks so that your body can acclimate to the training. If you have pre-existing injuries, let your instructor know and accommodations will be made for you to train effectively and safely.

Here is a checklist to help prevent injury:

1. Learn to fall properly before attempting to do takedowns. It’s ok to practice break falls on the side of the mat while others are doing takedowns if you feel uncomfortable.
2. Avoid getting “stacked” on your neck. Neck injuries are easy to avoid by not holding onto triangles and armbars too long. Also, when you are passing, it’s ok to do stacking style passes, but do them slowly so your partner has time to react, tap, or concede the position.
3. Spar a little each day. Be happy with stepping your game up incrementally.
4. TAP OFTEN. Tap if you are in a submission or even if you are in a position you don’t like. Here at Kioto we always encourage safety.