FAQ
You’re curious to learn self defence, and you’re keen get started at Higher Jiu Jitsu.
Perhaps you’re unsure of the process. We’re here to help you.
This guide will seek to answer your most pressing questions about our training.
If there are any questions that aren’t addressed please feel free to contact us.
How fit do I have to be?
We take pride in being an academy that allows for people of all levels to get started with jiu jitsu. We focus on the basic movements, and these are available to everybody. So come in as you are. You’ll be welcomed.
Am I too old?
No. It doesn’t matter how old you are. If you are curious, you will be accomodated.
Do you have to be strong?
The fundamental premise of jiu jitsu is that it can be used for a weaker opponent to survive against a stronger attacker. To do this you use your skeleton. If you have a skeleton, you are welcome to jiu jitsu.
Are women welcome?
Yes! Women are actively encouraged to take up the practice of self defence. We actively participate in women’s self defence programs, and do everything possible to spread the benefits to those who need it most.
How can I get started?
Click to our Gracie Jiu Jitsu page, fill out the Free Trial form and we’ll be in contact and organise a time and date that suits you.
What are the next steps?
Upon signing up for the trial, I will call you and organise a date that you can come in and join in on the fun. I will also send you an online digital waiver form that you will need to sign prior to training with us.
Does it matter if I haven’t trained before?
Not one bit. Whether you’re a beginner to the art, or a seasoned veteran, with a good attitude you will always be welcome.
What do I wear for my first class?
A fitted t-shirt or rash guard, is ideal, and pocketless shorts are preferable for your first class. If you have a jiu jitsu kimono (known as a ‘gi’) feel free to wear that.
Do you welcome students from other academies?
Sure we do. We’re focused on community, not competition. So everyone is welcome to our classes.
I have a gi but there are other club patches on them. Is this OK?
This is no problem. More colours for the room!
How do memberships work?
We offer two different types of memberships to suit your training availability. They are paid monthly or fortnightly depending on your preferences. They can be frozen at any time. And there are no lock in commitments. We aim to make your experience with us as seamless and easy as possible.
Can I come on a casual basis?
We offer a free trial class of the Higher Jiu Jitsu Experience. From then on, the jiu jitsu journey is most optimal with regular commitment. So the short answer is no. You can always give us a call.
How long does it take to grade?
This will depend on a number of factors. We pride ourselves on living the life of the martial artist. The values of honour, and integrity are critical. The most important determinants of your progress are character, time spent on the mats, and knowledge of the syllabus.
What syllabus do we work with?
We are Sydney’s Pedro Sauer Jiu Jitsu Association representative. We follow the original Helio Gracie Jiu Jitsu self defence curriculum as demonstrated by Master Pedro Sauer. You can find this in our online learning platform.
What will I learn?
The first priority in Gracie Jiu Jitsu is learning self defence. You will practice a number of different techniques from many different positions. You will also learn how to control resisting opponents on the ground, and work on applying submissions effectively.
Will it be a fight?
Your first month of training will not include live sparring. This is your chance to get up to speed with technique and intentions of training without needing to feel like you’re in a fight.
Beyond the first month, we like to ‘keep it playful’. This means we practice in a way that does not look to harm others, and where learning, instead of winning, remains the priority.
What if I am currently injured?
Considering the gentle nature of our training, there is a possibility you can train around the injury. It’s best to chat with the instructor in advance.
And if the injury means you cannot participate, you can also sit and observe the class too. Learning by watching and listening to the action unfold is also effective.
Are you accredited?
All of our instructors are fully accredited with the MAA, with certificates III & IV in Fitness, First aid, and WWC checks. John has over 12 years of experience in the art. He is also a Steve Maxwell certified KB instructor, and a Precision Nutrition Level 2 Super Coach.
What is ProCoach?
It is the fruit of our collaboration with Precision Nutrition. It’s purpose is to provide the world’s most effective and successful nutrition and health coaching program. It has helped over 70,000 people achieve their health objectives.
Can we work together with the health program and not jiu jitsu?
Of course. Many of our clients reap the benefits of ProCoach without doing jiu jitsu. If you prefer being active in other ways, you can feel free to do that too. You are always encouraged to find what works best for you.
If there are any questions that aren’t addressed please feel free to contact us.
Get In Touch for a Free Trial