Is BJJ Good Exercise?
Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is excellent exercise.
Training in BJJ builds full-body strength, cardiovascular endurance, mobility, and coordination. Over time, most students get noticeably leaner as they train consistently, because classes combine constant movement, resistance, and problem-solving under fatigue.
BJJ especially strengthens the core, back, hips, legs, and grip. Your arms and shoulders get stronger from controlling frames and grips, your legs and hips develop power and stability from movement and pressure, and your core is constantly engaged for balance and control. These are functional muscles that support real movement, not just gym aesthetics.
In everyday life, this translates to better posture, improved balance, easier lifting and carrying, reduced risk of injury, and more stamina for work, parenting, and daily activities. Many students also notice increased confidence, better stress management, and higher energy levels outside the gym.
What is the Difference between Gi and NoGi?
The main difference between gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the clothing and how grips are used, but the core techniques and principles are the same.
In gi classes, students wear a traditional uniform called a gi. The gi allows you to grip the sleeves, collar, and pants, which slows the pace slightly and emphasizes control, precision, and technical detail. Many students find gi training helps them develop strong fundamentals and patience.
In no-gi classes, students wear athletic shorts and a rash guard instead of a gi. Without fabric grips, the game is faster and more movement based, relying more on body positioning, timing, and underhooks rather than grips on clothing.
Both styles improve strength, conditioning, and skill, and each has unique benefits. At Yemaso, we encourage students to train both gi and no-gi, as they complement each other and help create well rounded grapplers.
I am a Woman: Is BJJ Right for Me?
Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is absolutely right for women.
BJJ is based on leverage, technique, and timing rather than size or strength, which makes it especially effective for women of all body types and athletic backgrounds. Many women start with no prior martial arts experience and quickly build confidence, strength, and skill in a supportive environment.
Training improves real world self defense ability, physical fitness, and mental resilience. Women often notice they become leaner, stronger, and more comfortable asserting boundaries both on and off the mats. Just as importantly, BJJ builds confidence through problem solving and controlled resistance, not intimidation.
At Yemaso, women train alongside men in a respectful, safety focused culture. Training partners are expected to be controlled and professional, and coaches actively ensure a positive experience for everyone. Women are an important and valued part of our community. Additionally, we have launched a Women’s program that is exclusively a female experience!
Is There an Age Limit for BJJ Classes?
There is no strict age limit for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes.
BJJ can be trained at many stages of life because it emphasizes technique, control, and adaptability rather than speed or strength alone. Adults begin training in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, and many find it becomes a sustainable long term practice rather than something that wears their body down.
Classes can be adjusted to match individual ability, fitness level, and physical limitations. Students are always encouraged to train at a pace that supports their health and longevity.
At Yemaso, the focus is on smart training, safety, and consistent progress, making Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu accessible to people across a wide range of ages.
What Happens in an Average BJJ Class?
An average Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class is structured to be safe, effective, and productive for all experience levels.
Classes begin with a thorough warm up designed specifically for BJJ. These warm ups focus on joint mobility, core activation, balance, and movement patterns used in grappling. This helps reduce the risk of injury and prepares the body for training.
Next, the instructor teaches technical techniques step by step. Students drill these movements with a partner to build timing, coordination, and muscle memory. This part of class is essential for long term skill development and mastery.
Classes usually finish with rolling, which is live but controlled sparring where students apply what they have learned. Rolling is always done with an emphasis on safety, communication, and learning rather than winning.
This structure allows students to improve fitness, skill, and confidence while training in a safe and supportive environment.
What is a Gi? Is that the Same as the Kimono?
A gi is the traditional uniform worn in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and it is closely related to the kimono.
The term “gi” comes from Japanese martial arts and refers to a durable training uniform made of a jacket, pants, and belt. While people sometimes use the word kimono casually, in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu the correct term is gi. The design is similar in spirit but modified to be thicker and stronger to handle gripping and grappling.
Training in a gi allows students to use grips on the sleeves, collar, and pants, which adds an extra layer of technique and control to the art. Gi training helps develop strong fundamentals, patience, and precision, and it plays a major role in traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practice.
What do I Bring to my First Class?
For your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, you only need a few simple things.
Bring comfortable athletic clothing, a water bottle, and a positive mindset. If you are attending a gi class and do not yet own a gi, regular workout clothes are fine for your first visit, and the staff can guide you on next steps afterward. For no gi classes, athletic shorts without pockets or zippers and a fitted t shirt or rash guard work well.
Personal hygiene is important in close contact training, so arrive clean with trimmed nails and minimal jewelry. Showing up a few minutes early is also helpful so you can meet the instructor, ask questions, and get settled.
Most importantly, bring an open mind and a willingness to learn. Everything else will be explained once you arrive.
What should I Wear to NoGi Class?
For no gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, wear athletic clothing that is comfortable, secure, and safe for close contact training.
A fitted rash guard or athletic t shirt is recommended for your upper body. For the bottom, wear athletic shorts without pockets, zippers, or hard seams. Compression shorts or leggings can be worn underneath if you prefer. Bare feet are standard on the mats.
Clothing should stay in place during movement and not have anything that could scratch or catch on a training partner. If you are unsure about what to wear, the coaches and staff at Yemaso are always happy to help guide you.
I have Zero Experience in any Sports Including Combat Sports/Martial Arts, can I Train at Yemaso BJJ?
Yes, absolutely.
You do not need any prior experience in sports, combat sports, or martial arts to train at Yemaso Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Many of our students start with no athletic background at all. Classes are structured to teach fundamentals from the ground up in a clear, supportive way.
Coaches focus on proper movement, safety, and understanding rather than expecting you to already know what to do. Training partners are encouraged to be patient and helpful, especially with beginners.
If you are willing to show up, learn, and stay consistent, you will fit in just fine at Yemaso.
What is the Pricing for the Programs?
Our program pricing is listed publicly and available for anyone to view.
We believe in transparency and respect for people’s time. Unlike some gyms that require in person visits before sharing prices, often under the guise of avoiding “price comparisons,” we choose to be upfront. That approach is typically a sales tactic, not a necessity, and it does not align with our values.
By listing pricing openly, you can decide whether Yemaso is a good fit for you without pressure, awkward conversations, or sales tactics. Our focus is on providing high quality instruction, a strong community, and a professional training environment, not on convincing someone to sign up before they have the information they need.
You can view all current pricing and program options directly on our website.
Do You Need to Be in Shape to Train BJJ?
No, most of our members came in after a long hiatus from any type of exercise. BJJ will get you in shape.
Many people start BJJ specifically because they want to get healthier, leaner, or more active. Classes are designed so beginners can move at a manageable pace while gradually building conditioning, strength, and confidence over time. You do not need to “prepare” your body before starting, training is what gets you in shape.
As you train consistently, you will naturally build endurance, improve mobility, and develop functional strength. Most students are surprised by how quickly everyday activities feel easier, from climbing stairs to carrying groceries or keeping up with work and family responsibilities.
At Yemaso, coaches focus on safe progression and long term development, so students of all fitness levels can train comfortably and sustainably.
Do I Need to Setup an Appointment?
No, please come fifteen minutes before any adult class to speak with the instructor regarding training and to get a look at the facilities.