FAQs
Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
If we've left anything unanswered for you, please reach out to us!
WHAT IS JIU JITSU?
Jiu Jitsu is a grappling martial art in which we focus on how to control others by using grips and body positioning, with the ultimate goal of ending a match or altercation in "submission" (i.e. tap). Submissions can take the form of joint locks, chokes, or positional control.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY FREE TRIAL?
During your trial week, you'll participate in classes by doing partner drills and be given safe opportunities for sparring. You are welcome to try a variety of classes, within your skill level, use any of the facilities, and ask any questions you might have about Jiu Jitsu or JJC!
IS TRAINING SAFE?
We emphasize a very technical and safe training floor. We manage the intensity by presenting Jiu Jitsu as a problem-solving exercise, which encourages a more thoughtful training pace.
We typically build up to more challenging practices by first laying a foundation of good technique and body mechanics.
WHO TRAINS AT JJC?
We are so lucky at JJC to have loads of super cool folks training with us. We have 5 male black belts and 4 female black belts, a variety of brown and purple belts, and of course beginners!
We fluctuate, but hover around 200 members with roughly 30% identifying as female and non-binary.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
The expectation for your free trial week is any comfortable exercise clothes, like shorts and a T-shirt. After you sign up, you will be asked to wear a Gi (BJJ Kimono) with a T-shirt underneath for Gi specific classes, and No Gi attire for No Gi classes. No Gi typically consists of board shorts/leggings and a rash guard.
IS IT SAFE FOR WOMEN?
Yes! In fact, we are one of the few schools in the area to have multiple female black belts! We emphasize a safe training floor regardless of gender, but if you feel more comfortable partnering with other women, please let us know and we will happily accomodate.
WHAT IS A TYPICAL
CLASS LIKE?
While we offer a variety of classes that are unique to JJC, most classes will split 50% of the time on technical instruction, and 50% of the time on sparring. We also offer free training sessions called "Open Mat" 1-2x daily.
I'M ____, CAN I STILL DO IT?
Jiu Jitsu is truly for anyone who is interested in it. Our aim is to make Jiu Jitsu accessible, so if there's something we can do to help your comfort level, we always encourage students to let us know. We have a zero tolerance policy on hate speech or discrimination of any kind.
WHEN DO WE START ROLLING?
If you're a beginner, you will first start with a mini version of "rolling", which is what we call sparring or resistance training in Jiu Jitsu. There you will be given certain positions and goals to work from based on the lessons of the day. If you come to us with at least a few months of previous experience, you may roll right away.
WHAT IS THE COST BREAKDOWN?
Our cost breakdown for most of our programs is roughly $48 a week, which includes unlimited instructed classes in Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Wrestling, Muay Thai, and Yoga. We also offer access to weight lifting with world class programming. The average attendance at JJC is 6 classes/sessions a week i.e. $8 per class.
WHAT IS THE CANCELATION POLICY?
We have a strict 10 days notice to change/cancel any membership. We offer several different packages to choose from and all the specific policies are transparent on our pricing page. You also have access to all your billing information via our member app.
DO I HAVE TO BE "FIT"?
Jiu Jitsu combined with a healthy diet is a great way to shed extra pounds and get in better shape. You do not need any prior exercise training to start Jiu Jitsu, and there is not recommended fitness level to start. Just start!
IS THE GYM ACCESSIBLE WITH PUBLIC TRANSIT?
We are located close to the 2nd Street stop on the Market Frankford El, as well as several bus lines, making us easily accessible from most areas of the city.
Students can park their electric scooter in our lobby, and there are many spots to lock bikes.
IS THERE PARKING?
Like most city schools, we do not have our own parking lot. There is ample metered parking on the blocks surrounding us. In the evening, there are free spots along 2nd and 3rd Streets, north of Market.
Students can park their electric scooters in our lobby, and there are many spots to lock bikes.
WHERE IS YOUR ENTRANCE?
Sometimes our door can be hard to find if you're coming here for the first time! We are located on the second floor, but have our own entrance located to the left of Insomnia Cookies. The door is slightly set back, blue, and has a silver sign on it.