Question 1

What is jiu jitsu?

Accepted Answer

Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on ground fighting and grappling techniques. It emphasizes leverage and technique to overcome opponents, making it suitable for self-defense and sport competitions.

Question 2

What do I wear to my first jiu jitsu class?

Accepted Answer

For your first jiu jitsu class, it's recommended to wear comfortable form fitting clothing such as a t-shirt and shorts or leggings. Avoid clothing with zippers or pockets to prevent injuries. Additionally, make sure to remove any jewelry and tie back long hair for safety.

Question 3

How does a typical class work?

Accepted Answer

Students will begin by lining up along the wall in rank order to bow in before each class. Usually there will be light dynamic warm up at the beginning of the class.  Then the group will circle up around the instructor who will demonstrate the technique or moves.  After this, the students will pair up to practice the technique. Most classes will also live rolling at the end.  At the end of the class, we once again have everyone line-up to bow out, officially ending class.
At this time students are welcome to leave or stick around to train at their own pace during “open roll”. This time gives students the opportunity to implement techniques they have been learning on a partner who is resisting and trying to counter with their own moves. This format allows you to move at your own speed, sharpen your skills, and get in a great workout!

Question 4

What are the benefits of practicing jiu jitsu?

Accepted Answer

Practicing jiu jitsu offers numerous benefits, including improved physical fitness, enhanced self-defense skills, increased mental resilience, stress relief, and a sense of community and camaraderie among practitioners. Additionally, jiu jitsu promotes discipline, focus, and problem-solving abilities.

Question 5

What are the belts or ranks in jiu jitsu?

Accepted Answer

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the belt system is a key component that signifies a practitioner's level of skill, knowledge, and experience. For adults, the belts are white, blue, purple, brown, and black. White belts represent beginners who are just starting their journey. Blue belts have more experience and a deeper understanding of basic techniques. Purple belts further demonstrate advanced skills and a comprehensive understanding of BJJ principles. Brown belts are often seen as experts who are refining their skills for the final step, which is the black belt. The black belt is a symbol of mastery and a deep commitment to the art. Each belt level requires demonstrating proficiency in various techniques and principles of Jiu-Jitsu.  Cavalo BJJ is proud to support practitioners at all stages of their BJJ journey, providing expert instruction and a supportive community to help you achieve your goals.

Question 6

What does Gi/NoGi mean?

Accepted Answer

The Gi is a uniform that is made of sturdy material designed to stand up to rigorous pulling. It provides grips that allow you to throw or control your opponent on the ground.  At Cavalo BJJ, we require blue, black, or white gis with matching top and bottoms. NoGi focuses on BJJ without the benefit of grips or the Gi. Clothing such as shorts, yoga pants, rash guards or T-shirts are all acceptable (Gi bottoms may also be used).

Question 7

Do I have to compete?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not, we understand that not everyone plans to be a competitor. You will still receive the same high level instruction and attention needed to reach your own individual goals for Jiu-Jitsu. The majority in most BJJ schools are non-competitors, but many still take pride in coming out to support the competition team at local and regional tournaments.

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