Got Questions? We've Got Answers.
Everything you need to know before your first class.
Getting Started
Do I need experience to start?
Not at all. Most of our students are brand new when they first walk in. Our fundamentals classes are designed specifically for beginners.
What should I wear to my first class?
T-shirt and shorts or leggings. No zippers, no pockets, no jewelry. We'll talk about gis and gear after you've tried a class. No pressure to buy anything.
Do I need to be in shape?
No. Jiu-Jitsu will get you in shape. Come as you are.
Will I get hurt?
Jiu-jitsu is a combat sport, so things can get rough. That said, we train safely and respectfully. The most important person in the room is your training partner. White belts are friends, not food. We take care of each other on the mat.
I'm over 30 / 40 / 50. Am I too old?
Not even close. We have members from 18 to 60+. Jiu-jitsu is the one martial art that's built for all ages and body types.
How do I book my first class?
Click 'Book Your Free Class' anywhere on the site. Pick a fundamentals class that fits your schedule. Show up 10 minutes early. That's it.
Is the first class really free?
Yes. No credit card, no commitment. Just show up and train.
Classes & Training
What's the difference between Gi and No-Gi?
Gi classes use the traditional uniform (like a heavy jacket and pants) which adds grips and techniques. No-Gi uses rash guards and shorts. Faster pace, more wrestling-influenced. We teach both.
What is Day 1 No-Gi Basics?
A 30-minute intro class specifically for brand-new white belts in their first 3 months. It's the easiest on-ramp we offer.
How many classes per week should I attend?
Start with 2-3 classes per week. As your body adapts, you can train more. Listen to your body.
Do you have classes every day?
Yes, 7 days a week. 4-5 classes daily Monday through Friday, plus open mats on Saturday and Sunday.
What's Open Mat?
Unstructured rolling time. No instruction, just live training with whoever shows up. We run the Southeast's best Open Mats on Saturday (3 hours) and Sunday (2 hours). Previous experience required.
Membership & Pricing
How much does it cost?
We have two main plans: Twice a Week ($150/mo) and Unlimited ($180/mo). No contracts, no hidden fees. Cancel anytime by emailing us.
Are there contracts?
No. Month-to-month. Cancel anytime. Email us and you're done.
Do I need to buy a gi or uniform?
Not right away. Try classes first. If you stick with it, we'll help you pick the right gear. No mandatory gym-branded purchases.
Kids Program
What ages do you accept for kids?
Lil' Pups: ages 4-6. Bulldogs: ages 7-12.
Is it safe for my child?
Absolutely. Our kids program is structured, supervised, and focused on technique, discipline, and fun. Coaches keep things controlled.
Can I watch my child's class?
Yes. We have a viewing area with a TV showing another angle. Parents are always welcome.
My child has never done a sport. Is that okay?
Perfect, actually. Most of our kids start with zero sports background. Jiu-Jitsu meets them where they are.
Visiting & Drop-ins
I train at another gym. Can I drop in?
Yes. Hit our Open Mat page for weekend drop-in details. Previous experience required.
I'm visiting Charlotte. Can I train?
Absolutely, we love visitors. Fill out the waiver on our Open Mat page and shoot us an email to let us know you're coming in. We make new friends every week, you'll fit right in.
About CJJA
What does 'unaffiliated' mean?
We're not part of any Jiu-Jitsu association or team. No politics, no mandatory loyalty. You can train anywhere, compete for anyone, and still be welcome here.
How many instructors do you have?
24 coaches, including multiple IBJJF World Champions. World-class instruction every class, every day.
Where are you located?
2508 N Davidson Street in the NoDa neighborhood of Charlotte, NC.